THURROCK Youth Theatre is putting on two one act comedies on Friday.

The plays The Dating Game, and Erica and Me will be performed at the Thameside Theatre, in Orsett Road, Grays, from 7.30pm.

The dating game, written by 16-year-old Palmer’s College student Alex Lawler, is set in a restaurant where main character Joe has a series of meals with girls set up by a dating agency.

Vic Gray, of Thurrock Youth Theatre, said: “It is not only very amusing, but also gives Alex the opportunity to discuss some quite serious issues which concern young people today.

“He uses characters to express some controversial views but ensures that the innate goodness that shines through the character of Joe creates a positive role model.

“The final scene transfers to the office of the dating agency where he finds his “princess”.

Erica and Me is a play by Alan Robinson.

Its about a man called Simon who wants to impress his boss, decides to invite him and his wife to dinner.

He believes the couple would be more impressed if he were seen to be in a steady relationship and decides to hire Erica from an escort agency. Lies are told and pretences made and, as happens in all the best farces, this leads to misunderstanding, confusion and further attempts at a cover up.

Tickets are £8 each of £6 for concessions, they are available to buy from the Thameside Theatre box office.