CARDIFF'S New Theatre plays host to the world premiere of the 'lost play' by master of witty retorts Noel Coward.

Recently discovered in draft form by actor/director , Christopher Luscombe, Star Quality, a keenly observed comedy, follows the fortunes of a West End production.

Coward throws the spotlight on the theatre world, with its creative temperaments and tantrums, as he traces the progress of a play from its first rehearsal to the hair-raising first night.

The writer treats us to a sharp behind -the-scenes perspective. The classic collection of showbiz characters is played by an impressive cast - Penelope Keith (pictured), Una Stubbs, Russell Boulter, Nick Waring, Peter Cellier, Marjorie Yates, and Fiz Marcus.

The archetypal, temperamental leading lady is played by Ms Keith. Given her best remembered TV credits - The Good Life and To The Manor Born - should be near-perfect casting.

Russell Boulter, of DS Boulton notoriety in TV's The Bill, plays the world-weary director. The evergreen Una Stubbs is a supporting actress with a chip on her shoulder.

The play started life as a short story in 1951. In 1967 Coward reworked the piece for stage but was never to see it performed and it became known as the lost play. Director Christopher Luscombe discovered the play languishing on a shelf. He has brought it to life with a fittingly camp and histrionic edge.

Luscombe began his career on the well-trodden boards of the Cambridge Footlights. His credits are numerous, including extensive theatre work with the RSC and a host of television appearances, including A Dance To The Music Of Time, and The Harry Hill Show.

After touring the regions, the show will be touching down in the West End later in October, so its worth catching it while you can.

In the words of Coward: "We're putting on a play here, not fighting a bloody war." or "Why can't people in the theatre behave like normal people?"

Noel Coward's Star Quality, adapted and directed by Christopher Luscombe, visits the New Theatre, Cardiff, from Monday, October 8, to Saturday, October 13. Evening performances start at 7.30pm, matinees at 3pm. Tickets are priced at £8 and upwards.

The box office number is 02920 878889.