IT was a smash-hit in the West End and now it's coming to a country house near you.

Comedy masterpiece Art will be playing at Samlesbury Hall, near Blackburn, on Wednesday.

Directed by Chariots Of Fire star Nigel Havers, the play takes an original look at the debate over modern art.

When lead character Serge buys a new painting, Marc hates it but Ivan isn't sure.

Their varying standpoints lead them to re-examine the nature of their long-standing friendship.

When Art opened in London it took the West End by storm, winning every major award for best comedy.

Since then it has gone on to become one of the most successful shows in Broadway history and has broken box office records throughout the UK.

Now, for the first time, the international Broadway and West End hit arrives in the beautiful, 14th century surroundings of Samlesbury Hall in an outdoor production.

Art, performed by Charterhouse Theatre Company, takes place at Samlesbury Hall on Wednesday, July 7 at 7.30pm. For tickets, call (01254) 812010.