MEMBERS of the Courtyard's Senior Youth Theatre are busy preparing for their summer production, Kes, which will run from July 26-30.

Based on Barry Hines' A Kestrel for a Knave - which was made into a film by Ken Loach in 1969 - the stage adaptation follows the story of Billy, a boy who is considered unteachable.

Billy seeks solace in a kestrel, which he has trained with help from a library book. His relationship with the bird helps him escape from his difficult relationship with his mother and bullying brother.

Director Estelle van Warmelo picked Kes for its universal resonances, and its educational and institutional themes, which have struck a chord with the cast, many of whom have been busy revising while rehearsing.

Despite part of the show being about the kestrel, Estelle will not focus on that aspect of the piece.

"If I had a feather for every time I've been asked the question, 'how are you going to do the bird?' I'd be able to set up a pillow factory by now," she said.

"This is not a play about a bird but a play about education and the misfit."

Playing the role of Billy will be Joe Corrigan, who has been seen previously in Upstage Theatre Company's production of Cabaret.

Talented young actresses Leoni Linton and Mina Nakamura will be assisting Estelle in directing the piece as well as performing.

For further information about the production, call 0870 1122330.

By Julie Harries