Members of a Swindon theatre company have enticed actor and writer Mark Gatiss, who has appeared in Dr Who, Sherlock and Game of Thrones, to appear in their new drama.

Prime Theatre, formerly Sixth Sense, are marking their 30th anniversary with a new play called 2046, which will be performed in the Swindon Borough Council Chamber.

Mark will be taking the role of the Prime Minister in the futuristic drama. It is set in Swindon 30 years hence, where the world has been stricken by a dreadful flood, and London has been submerged beneath the Thames. Parliament has relocated to Wiltshire and Swindon is now the new capital.

Mark, who came to fame in The League of Gentleman, is currently appearing in a play in London so his part was filmed.

Mark said, “I’m thrilled to be able to take part in 2046. Giving young people a creative voice is more vital than ever in our chaotic world, and Prime Theatre has been doing this for decades. This production will be extra special, being performed in the very council chamber where important decisions are made every day. I am of course, excited to be Prime Minister too...even if it is just for a short time!”

Prime Theatre has 120 members aged from five to 25 years who learn their craft at weekly drama workshops and give regular performances on tour and in schools. The company is supported by the Arts Council and Swindon Borough Council.

The young actors take on the parts of freedom fighters in the play. They are struggling to claim back their country from the bad government that has brought ruin.

Carli Green, 19 is directing the play and was mentored by Sixth Sense founder member Julia Dickenson.

Carli said, “This is my first time directing and it’s been great having a script written specially for the company and the space. I wanted a famous adult actor to play the Prime Minister, someone everybody knows, but still has a real edge. I was over the moon when Mark Gatiss agreed to do it. Meeting him was something I’ll never forget.”

2046 runs from Thursday, October 27 to Saturday October 29 in the Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon. For tickets visit www.wegottickets.com/Prime.TheatreUK or call 01793 614864. - Flicky Harrison