A COMIC fantasy of deceit, double crossing and murder is coming to the Lawrence Batley Theatre.

Ever heard of Film Noir? Well, The Deadline is a comedy twist on the genre. Theatre company Shifting Sands are calling it Clown Noir – not a parody or a spoof, just clown theatre with a dark and comic edge.

The story begins when a postman delivers a parcel. Needing a signature, he knocks. The door opens. He ventures into the dark house. In the gloom he sees a knife – buried in the back of a body slumped over a typewriter.

From here the plot thickens and this wide eyed innocent clown becomes a prime suspect.

Shifting Sands was founded in 1998 to create inventive, accessible and visually spectacular theatre.

They create simple yet dramatic sets and use props, sound and physical comedy to create a magical theatrical experience.

This original piece of theatre is an exciting collaboration with Nottingham-based writer, Andy Barrett, who last year penned The Allotment which was short-listed for the Amnesty International Freedom of Expression Award.

The Deadline is directed by Gerry Flanagan, who has developed a reputation for his inventive, clown theatre and has worked with Theatre de Complicite and the David Glass Ensemble.

It will be showing at the LBT at 7.30pm on February 19 . Tickets cost £10 or £8 for concessions and can be booked through the box office on 01484 430528 or online at: www.lawrencebatleytheatre.co.uk.