MARK Skinner is used to a spot of drama.

Time spent as a criminal lawyer in London no doubt prepared him for future performances on a different stage.

Although, it wasn't until appearing in Dennis Potter's Blue Remembered Hills in 1998 for the Brewery Players, that his ambition to act was fulfilled.

Prior to Potter's play, he tells me he tried his hand on a Brewery Arts Centre acting course run by television and theatre actress Sarah Thurstan: "She really inspired me," he said.

Following his debut three years ago Mark has become a regular player - appearing in award-winning playwright Martin McDonagh's The Cripple of Inishmaan and Jeremy Craddock's Jam, among others.

Now he is to star in the theatre group's latest, Richard Sheridan's The Rivals, from Wednesday, January 31 to Saturday, February 3 (7.30pm) at the Kendal arts centre.

In Sheridan's 18th century comedy of manners surrounded by Mrs Malaprop's well-loved musings, Mark plays the quick-thinking Captain Jack Absolute: "He's a bit like a compere or MC, causing a lot of trouble and trying his best to make it right.

"He tries to woo Lydia, who wants somebody straight out of a romantic novel.

Jack enjoys getting one over on people.

He likes a challenge and always falls on his feet."

After studying at the law college in Guildford, and a few years in the courtroom, Mark was offered a partnership.

First though he decided to take time out travelling.

And a 12-month sojourn drifted into three years cycling 25,000 miles around the world, partly with his partner.

On his return he turned to broadcasting as a journalist with BBC Radio Leicester.

But with his adrenalin still pumping after his global exploits, things didn't move quick enough at the Beeb and he moved to South Lakeland in 1988, training as a trainer for Brathay.

A couple of years down the line he moved to Impact, another development and training company.

Managing the Thailand operation came first, rising to the dizzy heights of his present role as general manager for European operations.

Hooked on acting, the 44-year-old said: "Using the creative process I run rampant.

At work my creative side has to be more controlled."

To book tickets for The Rivals, call the Brewery box office on 01539-725133.