Theatre-goers and 'Shedders' are in for a treat at this Wednesday as a new play comes to Irvine's Harbour Arts Centre.

The acclaimed solo play Man Shed, which stars Irvine man Ron Emslie, is a sharp-witted and moving production inspired by the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association.

Brought to the audience by Right Lines Productions, the solo theatre show starring Ron is stopping in at Irvine Harbourside following a successful four-week run at the Gilded Balloon during the Edinburgh Fringe.

The poignant performance is a bitter-sweet one-man theatre piece, whidh explores the joy of Men’s Sheds, the pain of loss, and the comfort of friendship.

Ron had his acting debut at the Harbour Arts Centre in the '70s - where he shared the stage with Kirsty Wark.

He has since had a 45-year career in film, TV, radio, theatre and musical theatre.

His TV work includes co-starring in Don’t Forget to Write with George Cole, Bust with Paul Nicholas, Dr Willoughby with Joanna Lumley and The Bill as DCI Grant Morys.

He was a member of the original West End cast of Buddy (starring in over 1,200 performances), also starring in Godspell, and Piaf with Elaine Paige in London’s West End.

Ron has also performed in repertory seasons at many of England’s provincial theatres.

Euan Martin, of Right Lines Productions, said: “We are thrilled to be coming to the Harbour Arts Centre in Irvine – thank you to the arts and culture team there for welcoming us onto their busy theatre schedule.

“This thought-provoking play explores how a man finds his purpose as he grows older, it questions… ‘How you cope when major life events are thrown upon you thick and fast?’, ‘Is it time to retire and escape from the world – as usual at the shed?’ Or is it a time to get out and try something new?’ …‘When the familiar rules no longer apply, is it too late to change the habits of a lifetime?”

And the reviews from the recent Edinburgh Fringe leg of the tour speak for themselves.

Audience member Donald Canavan said: “Perhaps you have an older relative who spends some time alone? Or perhaps you yourself are no stranger to solitude? This beautiful wee monologue on the later phase of life is very real yet heart-warming, and perhaps most importantly- thought provoking.

“It encourages us to awaken to the lives of those others we care about and perhaps even find solace in its humour. Ron Emslie is brilliant.”

Another Fringe fan said: “This show made me laugh and cry. The script is very moving, poignant and sharp witted. A very memorable and brilliant performance. I highly recommend it.”

Actor and theatre director Peter Searlessaidg commented: “Funny, sad, profound and poignant it covers the full gamut of emotions. Not to be missed. If ever a show deserved a wider audience - this is it.”

Councillor Alan Hill, cabinet member for islands and communities, added: “Whether you are already a Men’s Shed member or are simply looking for something a little bit different to experience locally, the Man Shed performance is well-worth catching.

“Accessible with a café next door and plenty of free parking, the Harbour Arts Centre is situated at Irvine Harbourside and is our arts and culture hub for residents and visitors of North Ayrshire. So why not come book your ticket and come and be part of the action?”

For opening hours and further about the Harbour Arts Centre, visit the website: Visitor information – The HAC.

The performance on Wednesday, September 20 begins at 7.30pm (70 mins duration approximately with no interval, Doors open 7pm).

Recommended for age 12+ (the show does however contain very mild swearing and deals with loss, loneliness and mental health issues).