ONCE upon a time Perth playwright John Grimshaw had an idea – to stage a madcap fairytale that adults would enjoy.

The writer and director is presenting Fairytale of Sorts at Limelight Theatre, partly inspired by the films A Knight’s Tale and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

“Fairytale of Sorts harks back to those medieval times, as we join the good folk of Partridgedale and meet with a host of lovable misfit characters,” Grimshaw said.

It’s the second time Grimshaw has mounted the show – but this version has several key differences to the debut production six years ago.

“After that first show, I was encouraged by my publisher to re-write the final third of the play to make it easier to stage,” he said.

“It differs in that several madcap characters from version one have been omitted and their places taken by new madcap characters.

“The final scenes differ greatly from the original but great care has been taken to ensure the new version retains the fun and lunacy of its predecessor.

“I also had a hunch that Limelight Theatre’s ex-pat English theatre community may be receptive to a fun story set in medieval England – proof will be in the telling.”

The main challenge, according to Grimshaw, is for the cast members playing more than one character.

“Some characters are very different, in terms of accents and mannerisms, and some are in quick succession, requiring swift costume changes,” he said.

Performing at a variety of venues, including the Old Mill, Phoenix and Camelot Theatres and Midland Junction and Don Russell Performing Arts Centres, Grimshaw was named best new writer at the 2009 and 2010 Dramafests, the annual state drama festival.

He also staged 14 productions with his own company A lad in sane productions before its closure and has several plays listed with South Australia’s Moore Books and Lazy Bee Scripts in England.

Grimshaw said audiences should expect nothing but pure fun from Fairytale of Sorts.

“It may differ from many plays in that there’s no ‘take-home’ message,” he said. “It’s a play for those who adhere to the old saying laughter is the best medicine.”

Fairytale of Sorts plays at 8pm June 28, 29, 30, July 4, 5, 6 and 7 with a 2pm matinee July 1. Tickets are $21, $18 concession – book at www.limelighttheatre.com.au or on 0499 954 016 between 9am and midday, Monday to Friday.

Limelight Theatre is located on Civic Drive, Wanneroo.