THE persecuted Red Kite will stage a comeback in Hay-on-Wye at a new play to be performed this autumn.

Red Kite/Boda Wennol is being written by Margie Douglas, a professional playwright from Clyro, and will tell the story of the kite's downfall and its painfully slow recovery, as part of Hay's Millennium celebrations.

"The kites were last seen over Hay a century ago. The last pair was shot over Talgarth in 1902 and was taken to Lloyd the painter and taxidermist in Hay.

"The story of the kite's persecution and gradual recovery since then is one full of drama and intrigue. Kites are now returning, but because even now they may be subject to persecution, nesting sites are a closely guarded secret," says Margie.

The play will tell a broader story. Good news for the kite is tempered by the worst crisis farming has ever seen in this country -- Margie sees the kite as a useful metaphor for life in rural Wales in the last 100 years.

"I want to write something that will be relevant to people here, both young and older, but particularly for young people, because what happens now for agriculture and the land, and indeed the kite's future, is in their hands."

Margie will be holding drama and writing workshops at Fairfield and Gwernyfed high schools in the near future.

The play will star as many people as want to take part. Applications for roles as singers, dancers, carpenters, puppet and mask makers, set builders, costume and stage designers, are being invited.

Rehearsals will start from early September, with a minimum four-night run at the end of October, including a matinee at Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon.

Director is Sue Best from Rhayader. To find out more, contact Jane Ricketts Hein on 01497 821212.