MALDON library is set to become a theatre when a new adaptation of Alice in Wonderland comes to town.

Arts Council England has awarded a £51,446 grant for new theatre company, Librarian Theatre, to produce their third nationwide tour.

Alice in the Cuckoo’s Nest will be visiting Maldon, along with Colchester, Basildon and Shenfield.

The show brings Lewis Carroll’s classic story into the setting of a modern day mental institution.

Actor, Tom Cuthbertson, said the show would be family friendly but a big chance from the innocent adventure portrayed in the 1951 film version.

He added: “We’re not shying away from the darker sides of the subject matter, but nor will there be overly explicit content which would exclude younger audience members.

“Hopefully audiences of all ages will take something away from it, and it will help fuel important conversations about mental health.”

Essex County Councillor Susan Barker, cabinet member for libraries, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase Essex Libraries as more than just places to read books.

“I can’t wait to see four of our libraries transformed into theatres.

“Our libraries are increasingly becoming hubs for their communities, places people know they can come for advice and access to services, as well as books, job support, groups and the host of other activities libraries offer.”

The show will come to Maldon Library, in White Horse Lane, on January 17 at 7pm.

Tickets cost £7 or £4 for concessions and can be purchased from librariantheatre.com or from the library itself.