The glint in Conor Delaney’s eye is almost tangible as he optimistically claims in interview his age is "39 and 15 months."

In spite of his questionable mathematics, this charismatic Irish actor is a formidable force onstage and onscreen (Game of Thrones, The Tudors).

He will appear at Epsom Playhouse in the critically acclaimed Stones in His Pockets, directed by Ian McElhinney (Barristan Selmy in Game of Thrones) next month.

We are often forced to decide, when embarking on an evening of entertainment, whether we intend to be moved or amused through tragedy or comedy.

Stones in His Pockets, a tragicomedy by Marie Jones, removes this possible dilemma.

Delaney illustrates: ‘Just like life: some days you laugh, some days you cry.’

The play is touring 60 venues in the UK after being revived following Broadway and worldwide success.

The simple reason, Delaney claims, is that the appeal of a good story is universal.

The storyline follows what happens when a Hollywood film studio descends upon a small village in County Kerry, through the eyes of two aspiring Irish movie extras Jackie (Delaney) and Charley (Stephen Jones).

The duo creates a community of 15 characters between them, from village lads to Hollywood goddesses.

It takes time to digest their strategy but audiences delight in identifying individual characters.

The clash between Hollywood and the local community create entertainment described by The Sunday Times as ‘hilarious and irresistable.’

McElhinney not only brings his valuable actor’s insight to his direction of the play, but he was the show’s original director on Broadway.

Delaney describes him as a lovely presence, and chuckles over the danger of being overawed by the ‘rock’n’roll’ of working with A-listers such as Sean Bean.

Though passionate about television work, he relishes the challenge of theatre.

‘You just can’t beat the live audience,’ he says, ‘it keeps you on your toes.’

Above all, Delaney says, Stones in His Pockets will offer you an opportunity to embrace storytelling in its purest form.

There is a strong possibility you will giggle but a dry eye is not guaranteed.

Stones in His Pockets; Epsom Playhouse; October 6 tickets from £20; visit www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk or call the box office 01372 742555/742227.