A CROSS country walk, four short plays, four atmospheric locations — Swimbridge is once again pulling out all the stops to give you a magical night of outdoor entertainment. Villagers are donning costumes and makeup to perform rip roaring comedy, drama, mystery and romance in four secret spots around Swimbridge.

All you need to enjoy the Theatre On The Move is comfy shoes, a sense of adventure and a fertile imagination.

"The event evokes an exciting and intimate atmosphere that captures the imagination of the audience," said organiser Julie Whitton. "There is something special about taking an early evening walk around the village, not knowing where you are being taken, and coming back at dusk."

The short plays, written by local writers, will be acted out in contrasting locations around Swimbridge on a guided walk — the fact that these locations are secret until the night of the performance all add to the evening's appeal.

"Last year our audience were spell-bound by the variety of locations and the opportunity to see community outdoor theatre by walking from one play to the next — this year they won't be disappointed," said Julie.

To create a suitable atmosphere the village promises to be subtly lit.

"It's an opportunity from some to visit areas in the village that they haven't visited before as some of the locations are on private land," said Julie. "The guides will inform their audience on interesting historic facts about the village, provided by Swimbridge historian, Mervyn Dalling."

Swimbridge has a reputation for community events — the first Lightquest took place in Swimbridge in 2002 to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee. Since then the community has pulled together to make a whole host of exciting events happen in the village. Theatre On The Move was inspired by Saskia Verton Smith, who moved to the village from her native Holland three years ago, after directing a similar initiative there. Never been known to miss a challenge, the community of Swimbridge enthusiastically got behind the idea.

"Our events always include a cast of hundreds," said Julie. "There is a great performing cast of 20 people but there are many more behind the scenes that help as zone managers, technicians, costume makers, guides, ticket sellers, marketing, filming and lots more. Our motto is: 'If you can make a cup of tea, we need you'. Our community come forward and make it happen. We are also fortunate to have two experienced directors in the village: John Surman and Saskia."

The event takes place on evenings of Tuesday July 14 to Friday July 17, 7.30pm at Jubilee Hall. There will be a maximum audience of 100 people each evening, split into four groups of 25, each led by a guide (a fairly eccentric character). All profits raised go to local charities.

"It is not often you get to see four plays in one evening for only £6.50," said Julie. "This is a unique opportunity for people and families to experience a wide range of theatre, engage with a mixture of emotions and learn about the beautiful village of Swimbridge."

● Tickets: £6.50 adults and £3.50. Box office: Paula Swanson on 01271 830514 or Julie Whitton on 01271 830311, e-mail julie@theyews.freeserve.co.uk. Also at The Jack Russell Inn, Swimbridge, Swimbridge Post Office and Blue Gallery, Joy Street, Barnstaple. To book meals contact the Jack Russell Inn on 01271 830366.