A MAJOR Shakespeare production which is on its way to York has signed up a star turn for its final shows – in the shape of comedian and actor Lenny Henry.

The former Tiswas, Comic Strip and Chef! star will join the 16-strong cast of Northern Broadsides’ production of Love’s Labours Lost on the last day of its run at York Theatre Royal in May.

He will take on the cameo role of Marcade the messenger, a part which is being played by different actors to add an element of surprise as the comedy is toured around the UK during the spring.

Lenny’s appearances in York will be at the 2.30pm and 7.30pm performances on Saturday, May 5, having just finished appearing in A Comedy of Errors at the National Theatre in London.

“I am absolutely thrilled that Lenny is joining us to play the important role of the messenger at York Theatre Royal for our final performances,” said director Barrie Rutter. “It’s such a delight to be working with him again.”

The production of Shakespeare’s ‘battle of the sexes’ comedy will feature young northern actors and song-and-dance scenes, and is a celebration of Halifax-based Northern Broadsides’ 20th anniversary, telling the story of four best friends who take a vow of celibacy.

The role of Marcade is being played by assorted actors who have performed with the company over the last two decades, changing from location to location.

The production has already hit the stage at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough and will switch to the West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds between April 3 and 14, before coming to the Theatre Royal between May 1 and 5.

Tickets for the York production are priced between £10 and £22, with concessions available, and they can be bought from the Theatre Royal box office on 01904 623568 and at yorktheatreroyal.co.uk