The chilling and poignant story of a Dutch Jewish family in hiding from the Nazis for two years during the Second World War, is brought to the stage at the Arc on Friday and Saturday next week.

Hidden in a secret attic above her father’s office, Anne Frank’s only source of pleasure was to record her thoughts, fears and aspirations in a diary.

The play unveils the humour and the tension that such incarceration brings.

The action takes place entirely in the attic and is underscored by specially commissioned music by Roy Page which underpins this snapshot of life during the two-year self-imposed imprisonment.

Published originally in 1952, the diary has since been translated into 67 languages and is one of the most widely read books in the world today.

It has been filmed and the story has inspired countless other writers, both for children and adults.

It was first produced as a play on Broadway in 1955 and went on to win every major theatre award around.

This production is by Platform 8 productions (Zenith Youth Theatre Company) and is directed by Scott Rogers.

The performances are on Friday evening, Saturday afternoon and Saturday evening.

Tickets are £10, concessions £8 and the Arc box office is 0845 299 0476.