SERIAL womaniser and liar Alfie will be familiar to some as the title character of the film that turned Michael Caine into a household name.

Carefree, charming and utterly without remorse, Alfie would probably be identified by some as a psychopath today, but his superficial charm makes him an extremely watchable, yet dangerous, anti-hero.

It is for this reason that Bill Naughton’s original play, based on the novel of the same name, is Castaway Community Theatre’s summer show.

Directed by Lindsay Blumfield, the play presents a tale of narcissism and self-regard that continues to resonate in a society where women in their millions have hashtagged #metoo.

The women in the play - fun-loving Siddie (Denise Williams), motherly Gilda (Sarah Oakes), stoical Lily (Katrina Williams), luxuriant Ruby (Lynne Casey), independent Annie (Anna Beyer) and the no-nonsense doctor (Jacqui Kenton) are strong, and learn to build on their own resilience and courage. Alfie may be charming, but his power to disarm cannot last.

The role of Alfie is shared between Darren O’Connell and Tim-Brendler-Spaeth.

Of the play, Lindsay said: “Castaway Community Theatre has always relished a challenge and this play certainly provides this. We have a talented and committed cast who have totally engaged with the play.

“The rehearsal process proved to be a challenge, as the more you read the work, the more levels you find with the characters.

“The striking thing is the play is so relevant now in the 21st century, with the issues it raises about gender and society, it certainly sends out powerful messages.

“I hope the audiences may be able to go on the journey back in time and feel the powerful emotions the play may evoke.

“This has been an interesting process and the company has put a lot of commitment and hard work into it.”

Alfie is on at Aberystwyth Arts Centre this Friday and Saturday, 24 and 25 August, at 7.45pm. There is also a matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm.

For more of what’s on in your area, see this week’s Cambrian News, on sale tomorrow