THE fortunes and misfortunes of one of literature's most colourful heroines are to be performed in a new, energetic production at venues around Gwent.

According to the full title of Daniel Defoe's 18th century novel, Moll Flanders was "Twelve Year a Whore, five times a Wife (whereof once to her own brother), Twelve Year a Thief, and Eight Year a Transported Felon in Virginia" before she "at last grew Rich, liv'd Honest and died a Penitent".

Inspiring pity and admiration alike from the critics, hers is a memorable tale of an independent woman relying on her wits and beauty in a distinctly chauvinistic society.

Mappa Mundi Theatre Company have devised a moving, irreverent, often bawdy comedy peppered with dark comedy.

Atmospherically staged with an original score, Moll Flanders bears all the Mappa Mundi trademarks that keep audiences coming back for more.

An action-packed, riotous, downright entertaining show that's as irresistible as Moll herself!

Moll Flanders is showing at Blackwood Miners Institute on Wednesday, February 28, the Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, on Saturday, March 3, and the Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale on Thursday, March 15 at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced between £4.50 and £8.50. For bookings, call the box office on 01495 227206 for Blackwood, 01873 850805 for Abergavenny, and 01495 358800 for Ebbw Vale. Suitable for over-12s only.