The story behind the creation of James Bond is being explored in a new show written by a well-known actor. Mark Burgess best known for his character, Gordon Collins, in Brookside has written and is performing in one of the most compelling one-man shows you are likely to see.

He plays James Bond's creator Ian Fleming in The Man with the Golden Pen, which opens at The Studio, in Beckenham, on November 24.

Burgess, who lived in Beckenham as a child, is looking forward to performing this, his second play, at The Studio.

He said he wrote the piece after a friend suggested Fleming might be an unusual choice: "I set about reading all the books, looking at all the films, websites and newspaper articles and just piecing together the whole Ian Fleming/James Bond story."

The first act is set in 1952 as Fleming is putting the finishing touches to the first Bond book, Casino Royale, which was written in the weeks leading up to his wedding.

Burgess's telling of the Fleming story hangs on the idea he created his most famous character as a way of coping with the stress of getting married at the age of 42.

The actor said: "He creates this alter ego, James Bond, so Bond can continue Fleming's bachelor lifestyle.

"He got married late in life and was quite terrified at the prospect. Out of this terror came James Bond."

Style, wit, flair and charm ooze from Burgess' performance as Fleming in this dark and funny play which leaves you in no doubt you are in the presence of a master storyteller.

It was first performed last November when it was seen by members of Fleming's family, the Ian Fleming Foundation and The James Bond International Fan Club. Experts one and all, they all gave it their seal of approval.

Before and after performance martinis will be available in the bar.

Join Burgess who will be there after the show!

q November 24, The Man with the Golden Pen, The Studio, Beckenham Road, Beckenham, bar 7pm, doors 8pm, £8.50/£6.50.

November 20, 2001 15:16