A BORDERS writer is bringing her latest five-star play to the region to mark the end of a Scotland-wide tour.

Rona Munro, who is based in Selkirk, is a celebrated writer who has written for the stage, radio, film and TV.

Her works include a recent adaptation of My Name is Lucy Barton for the Bridge Theatre London and Manhattan Theatre Company on Broadway, New York.

Her latest production, James V: Katherine, tells one woman's love story which changed Scotland forever and is part of her series of 'James Plays'.

A Live Borders spokesperson said: "Employing the same vivid historical storytelling of the previous instalments, set during the reigns of Scotland’s generations of Stewart kings. James V: Katherine places a lesser-known female historical figure front and centre in the story, with focussed, raw and beautiful storytelling, directed by Orla O’Loughlin (Enough of Him, What Girls Are Made Of, Mouthpiece).

"Katherine Hamilton is 19. She‘s a respectable young married woman, but she also has a secret love she’s trying to forget. When her brother, Patrick, is executed for preaching ideas forbidden by the church, Katherine is also put on trial for her life. In a packed courtroom, watched by most of Edinburgh and the cynical, young King James V, Katherine fights for survival, using her intelligence and wit.

"This play is based on real historical figures and is a dramatic interpretation of key events at the very start of the Scottish Reformation, events that did happen and did change Scotland forever. It is also a love story."

James V: Katherine has already received four and five-star reviews. The Scotsman called the play a "beautifully-shaped production" delivered with "pace, clarity and energy". And the Financial Times said: "Munro’s James Plays are one of the defining achievements of the last decade in Scottish theatre. This is the best yet."

The lead role of Katherine will be played by Catriona Faint (Dracula: Mina's Reckoning, Enough of Him). She will be joined by Sean Conor (River City, Moorcroft), Benjamin Osugo (A Christmas Carol, The Bookies – Dundee Rep), and Alyth Ross, who makes her professional stage debut.

The play is an up-close and intimate theatre experience.

After touring Scotland, following a premiere at Capital Theatres' The Studio in Edinburgh, the play's run will end at the Melrose Corn Exchange.

James V: Katherine will take to Melrose Corn Exchange on Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1, both at 7pm.

Tickets are £8 and can be bought from the Live Borders website.