Rehearsals for the Torch Theatre's 2007 Summer School are now well underway. Directed by Youth Theatre director, Dave Ainsworth, 10 local 15-18- year-olds are preparing their production of Vinegar Tom, written by Caryl Churchill in the early 1980s. Set in the 17th century, but with a modern 'edge', Vinegar Tom charts the persecution of women in the name of witchcraft and exposes it as no more than a fear of female sexuality. This is not a play about evil, hysteria or possession by the devil, but one about poverty, humiliation and prejudice; themes which are all too relevant in today's world. Exploring for the first time the extent of Christian teaching against women, Caryl Churchill observed the connections between medieval attitudes to witches and continuing attitudes to women in general. The women accused of witchcraft were often those on the edge of society and their 'crimes' existed only in the minds of their persecutors. The young cast have just 10 days of intense rehearsals before venturing outdoors for another four days of technical rehearsal, and two performances in the spectacular setting of Carew Castle. The Torch Summer School has a long tradition of producing work to a very high standard, with the enthusiastic cast supported by experienced theatre professionals to produce an exciting and innovative drama for the public to enjoy. There are two open-air promenade performances at Carew Castle, on Friday, August 31, and Saturday, September 1, at 7.30 pm. Tickets are £7.50 (£4.50 concessions), and available from the Torch Theatre Box Office on 01646 695 267 or by calling in to the Torch's temporary offices at 130 Robert Street (opposite the Welsh Bakery) in Milford Haven.