A Hollywood heavyweight has stunned a group of Fringe performers – by sending them a personal message ahead of their run.

Kevin Spacey, who is best known for box office hits American Beauty, LA Confidential and Seven, sent the good luck letter to the 8fold Theatre Company which is performing The Door at The Warren Theatre in Russell Place.

The new group, which is made up of actors based at the National Theatre in London, contacted the multi-Oscar winner in his capacity as artistic director of the Old Vic Theatre, their neighbour in the capital.

In the letter, the Hollywood star said: “Thank you for your letter. I wanted to wish you the very best for your first production with 8Fold Theatre.

“I am basically in the US until the end of October, working on House of Cards.

“I won’t be around except for important dates for the Old Vic and the MCTaggart lecture in August.

“Sounds like you are forging ahead and very motivated, which is a good thing.

“Hope all goes well. Sincerely, K.”

Sue Lloyd, the company’s general manager, said: “He's very gracious in his support.

“He’s such a lovely man – he took the time out to clearly bash something out on his own ribbon typewriter and post it all the way (by Fedex) from New York.”

Tickets are still available for their May 30 to 31 run.

The piece has been shortlisted as one of the Fringe’s Best New Plays by New Writing South.

To book visit brightonfringe.org.