ROLL up roll up to see the Last of The Red Hot Lovers, on at the Palace Theatre now until this Saturday, February 24.

The production, presented by the renowned Little Theatre Company which celebrates its 70th year this month, opened in The Dixon Studio at the theatre in London Road, Westcliff, last night.

The story is set around middle-aged and married, overworked and out-of-touch, Barney Cashman (Jamie Redgate) who wants to join the 1960's sexual revolution before life passes him by. He therefore arranges three seductions at his mother's empty apartment.

The first, Elaine (Lianne Larthe), proves to be a foul-mouthed bundle of neuroses, the second, Bobbi (Louisa Strachan), a 20-something actress who's too kooky by half, and the third is Jeanette (Sarah Pettican), a gloomy depressed housewife who happens to be married to Barney's best friend.

Is Barney about to realise that the grass isn't always greener?

The show is being directed by Julian Cottee, 28 from Shoeburyness, in his directorial debut for the company.

Julian describes the production as “a classic Neil Simon play which it has a lot of laughs driven by dynamic and likeable characters.”

He added: “I’ve found this particular play to be quite different to Neil Simon’s others, as although he makes use of his usual comedic toolbox there is also quite an important story and social commentary being told. The best thing about this show is the performances given by the cast. The characters each undertake journeys of self-discovery within each Act and, in Barney’s case, throughout the entire show and the cast do a great job at conveying the changes in attitudes and behaviours within this condensed timeframe. There are also laughs-a-plenty to be had watching Barney’s attempt to seduce the ladies.”

All tickets for the show are £15 including booking fee, available from southendtheatres.org.uk, or 01702 351135.

Little Theatre Company has performed over 150 productions.

Its next - The Full Monty - will take place on the main stage at The Palace Theatre from May 16 - 18 2018.