A TRAGIC-COMIC play on the life of controversial French film maker Jean Vigo will be premiered in the North-East this week.

Sunderland University's Concerts on Campus season continues tomorrow with the staging of Vigo, by Hexham-based theatre company Three Over Eden, at the Bede Theatre, Ryhope Road, Sunderland, at 7.30pm.

The play tells the story of the 1930s film director, who died of tuberculosis, aged 29, but who is regarded as one of the 20th Century's greatest talents.

Vigo reveals that despite being taunted by the ghost of his murdered father, the Frenchman's optimism triumphs against the odds.

Jean Vigo is played by Leslie Simpson, who had a lead role alongside John Pertwee in the acclaimed British horror movie, Dog Soldiers.

The play is touring the North-East this month and next, along with a season of Jean Vigo's films, following the opening night at Sunderland.

Tickets cost £7, £5 (concessions) and £3 (students) and are available from Ingrid Fairfax, on 0191-515 3593, or at the door on the night.