Hold on to your head as a new play written by a Swindon historian on the French Revolution unfolds tonight.

Liberte is written by Chris Scott, a local historian and lecturer at Swindon's New College.

This is the first production by The Phoenix Theatre Company and takes place tonight and tomorrow at 7.30pm in the Phoenix Theatre, New College.

The director is Matthew Clift who is the head of drama at New College.

Matthew said: "The play travels through the years of the revolution in France in the 18th Century.

"Most of the action, singing and dancing takes place in the back streets of a run down Paris, where you see the contrast of the Haves and Have Nots.

"It is Les Miserables with teeth.

Historical figures such as Louis XVl, Marie Antoinette, Robespierre and Danton are played by New College students as part of their performing arts course.

Tickets to see Liberte are £3 or £5 for two. The ticket hotline is (01793) 732861 or they are available on the door.