Colchester's Mercury Theatre company has been celebrating after its production of Uncle Vanya was named one of the top shows of the year in a national newspaper.

The theatre formed its own company earlier this year and has since received praise from both local and national reviewers.

Now the Independent has listed the production as one of the theatrical highlights of the year, alongside Trevor Nunn's production of Summerfolk at the Royal National Theatre.

In his article praising the show, David Benedict of the Independent wrote how theatres which had their own companies were able to create a greater depth and were able to stimulate actors and audiences alike.

And he said this was nowhere more apparent than in the Mercury's production of Uncle Vanya.

Dee Evans, Mercury chief executive, said she was delighted to hear the company had gained national acclaim.

She added: "1999 has been an exceptional year for the Mercury Theatre and this news is a great way to see in the new year."

"The company will be returning after Christmas with three brand new productions starting with Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit."

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