"Whoa lady! What, you no eat today?" So says the friendly Tuto as he dishes out from the sweet trolley, mistaking Stephanie's silent sobs for nodding acquiescence. Typical Ayckbourn, turning life's sorrows into something to laugh at.
Both Friday and Saturday at Bridgnorth Community Hall were packed and although the audiences laughed at different things the two nights, both went away buzzing. People made a point of stopping to express their appreciation - "excellent", "I've seen four plays this month and this wipes spots off the others", "slick". My reply? "Tell your friends". It is especially nice to receive praise from fellow thesps, from Broseley, Wellington and further afield.
Perhaps the nicest comment was on how well we all work together. As a self confessed prima donna, amongst several others, I can only think that it is because each individual has taken full responsibility for their own bit. This production has needed massive input from lots of people, for, though it is a simple set and a simple play on the face of it, there are numerous costume changes and changes of table settings. It was organised like a military campaign behind the scenes. Add to that the need to get everything brought to the venue and set up in 2 hours: the scenery, props, lighting, seating staging as well as the bar and front of house and one can see how much teamwork is needed. Amazingly, we were dismantled and out in under 45 minutes, but perhaps the dash for the pub can explain that. Q and I took a little longer tying down the trailer and checking the electrics, so missed a well deserved pint.
Judging from comments from performers and audience the effort is well worth the end result. Lucky Bridgnorth! It is Ditton Priors turn on Friday 4th, followed by Chelmarsh Parish Hall on Saturday 5th.
Some tickets still available from the box office, our friendly local estate agent Phipps and Pritchard 01746 767488.
Monday 30 November 2009
Monday 19 October 2009
October oddments
"Can't Pay Won't Pay" by Dario Fo performed by the Define Theatre Company at The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster
Translated from Spanish into English, transported from Spain to somewhere in the north of England and updated from the 1970's and the Unions by throwing in a rant about bankers.
Oh dear. Should have stayed at home and watched “The Simpsons”.
October meetingI missed the October meeting, but hear that the Mortimer one act went down well as did a couple of amusing playlets by Linda Povey and a Noel Coward recitation.
Meanwhile, down in Cornwall, yours truly was enjoying Newquay's am dram offering at the Lane Theatre - “Girl's Night Out”. It was well done, with super songs and good singing. The theatre was nicely converted from a village hall, although there was a smell of damp about the place, as one might expect in a building used only intermittently.
The charity stall is booked for Bridgnorth High Street for the afternoon of 19th December, 12noon onwards, so, members, start getting creative and prepare to bake.
“Time of my Life” (27th, 28th Nov and 4th 5th Dec) is coming on apace. The set is painted thanks to a set of folk who came armed with paintbrushes and enthusiasm on Saturday. We finished in time for a yummy lunch and continued in the afternoon with the Production Team meeting. It was quite long, but covered a lot of ground.
This is a play which has quite a few challenges for a touring company, not least audience seating in different venues. The play is performed on the flat, with actors seated, requiring either raised seating or chairs laid out to ensure visibility. That in turn requires transport for seating platforms etc. Another issue is the number of props and costumes, but we are well on the way to sourcing all that is needed. The actor playing the waiter(s) needs to be something of a magician or Houdini as he has around 18 costume changes!
Theatre visitsWe plan to see Albrighton Players' comedy “Bums on Seats” in the week before our production and “Maskerade” at the Rose Theatre, Kidderminster the evening after we finish. Other visits are being planned of which more anon.
Monday 28 September 2009
September round up
Lighting workshop
Norman Jones had his work cut out keeping an enthusiastic group in order at Starlight Theatre Services' workshop on theatre lighting on Saturday, as they hurled questions thick and fast. As a complete beginner I learned loads - about lanterns (Fresnel with soft edges, floods with reflectors to wall-wash backgrounds and sharp edge spots), current loadings, positioning lights to illuminate actors without blinding them, colour effects, not to mention using the control desk and programming sequences. Even the experienced techis learned something.
"Witness For The Prosecution"
Eight of us went to The Rose Theatre and had to wait till the final few seconds of this clever play to discover who did what and why. I do like Agatha Christie plays. The lead role, a hapless young man accused of killing a wealthy, older, woman, was a little too naive for my liking and the woman who brings damning evidence against his disloyal wife a little OTT, but it was well done and the scenes in chambers between his solicitor and barrister were delightfully convincing.
I am becoming rather a fan of the Nonentities.
"She Stoops To Conquer"
It was a good opportunity to visit the new Theatre Severn and I found myself a bit ambivalent about the design of the theatre. I can't agree with my pal up the road, who thinks it looks like an MFI flat-pack assembly from the outside, though I question the wisdom of large areas of timber, however sustainable a material it is, being used as cladding at high level externally. Think long term maintenance! Inside, the foyer is spacious and pleasant enough, though lacks drama or a sense of quality. The most interesting aspect is the incorporation of older riverside building into the structure to provide a first floor bar.
The play was "She Stoops To Conquer" by the 18th century playwright Oliver Goldsmith and was, I guess, the Brian Rix farce of its day. Wealthy Mr Hardcastle invites eligible young Mr Marlow to meet his daughter Kate, so the young man jouneys to the gent's country house accompanied by his friend. Unfortunately they get lost as night falls and are mischeviously directed to the house, but told it is an inn. Mr Marlow gets tongue-tied in polite company, but has no problems with chatting up serving wenches and he woos his intended in the belief that she is a servant. She chooses not to disillusion him till the appropriate moment. A good wheeze. The prominent use of bright red on set was distracting and seemed to serve little purpose, but that aside, it was an enjoyable production and worth a visit to Shrewsbury.
September meeting
Everyone read one or more parts in J B Priestley's "When We Are Married" and there was a lot of laughter. Further chuckles ensued as we read Geoffrey Speechly's "Sabrina". Geoffrey and several of the ladies will be entertaining St Mary's Street Residents to a performance in early December at their Christmas social (they may even get fed too).
Richard Aston has put his hand up for organising future theatre visits, so look out for a varied programme.
Norman Jones had his work cut out keeping an enthusiastic group in order at Starlight Theatre Services' workshop on theatre lighting on Saturday, as they hurled questions thick and fast. As a complete beginner I learned loads - about lanterns (Fresnel with soft edges, floods with reflectors to wall-wash backgrounds and sharp edge spots), current loadings, positioning lights to illuminate actors without blinding them, colour effects, not to mention using the control desk and programming sequences. Even the experienced techis learned something.
"Witness For The Prosecution"
Eight of us went to The Rose Theatre and had to wait till the final few seconds of this clever play to discover who did what and why. I do like Agatha Christie plays. The lead role, a hapless young man accused of killing a wealthy, older, woman, was a little too naive for my liking and the woman who brings damning evidence against his disloyal wife a little OTT, but it was well done and the scenes in chambers between his solicitor and barrister were delightfully convincing.
I am becoming rather a fan of the Nonentities.
"She Stoops To Conquer"
It was a good opportunity to visit the new Theatre Severn and I found myself a bit ambivalent about the design of the theatre. I can't agree with my pal up the road, who thinks it looks like an MFI flat-pack assembly from the outside, though I question the wisdom of large areas of timber, however sustainable a material it is, being used as cladding at high level externally. Think long term maintenance! Inside, the foyer is spacious and pleasant enough, though lacks drama or a sense of quality. The most interesting aspect is the incorporation of older riverside building into the structure to provide a first floor bar.
The play was "She Stoops To Conquer" by the 18th century playwright Oliver Goldsmith and was, I guess, the Brian Rix farce of its day. Wealthy Mr Hardcastle invites eligible young Mr Marlow to meet his daughter Kate, so the young man jouneys to the gent's country house accompanied by his friend. Unfortunately they get lost as night falls and are mischeviously directed to the house, but told it is an inn. Mr Marlow gets tongue-tied in polite company, but has no problems with chatting up serving wenches and he woos his intended in the belief that she is a servant. She chooses not to disillusion him till the appropriate moment. A good wheeze. The prominent use of bright red on set was distracting and seemed to serve little purpose, but that aside, it was an enjoyable production and worth a visit to Shrewsbury.
September meeting
Everyone read one or more parts in J B Priestley's "When We Are Married" and there was a lot of laughter. Further chuckles ensued as we read Geoffrey Speechly's "Sabrina". Geoffrey and several of the ladies will be entertaining St Mary's Street Residents to a performance in early December at their Christmas social (they may even get fed too).
Richard Aston has put his hand up for organising future theatre visits, so look out for a varied programme.
Thursday 6 August 2009
August meeting round up
“Time of my Life” is cast and a production team assembled. Rehearsals start this week.
Theatre outings are in the offing, with a spontaneous decision to try for tickets for “She Stoops to Conquer” by O Goldsmith, on next week at the spanking new Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury. I stopped by there for a crab, crayfish and rocket sandwich this week (as one does), whilst waiting for Rex the Wind to adjust my husband's clarinet up Frankwell.
Now, the public area inside is a nice space, and imaginative in its inclusion of an old building (possibly a chapel), used as a bar on the first floor level. The exterior is modern, but all that wood screams “Sadolin”. I am sure the architect will say that it is left untreated and will fade to a pleasing weathered silver grey, and he/she may be right, but weathering moves to a further stage – deterioration and rot. That practical quibble aside, I quite liked the overall effect, from the river side at any rate, though my pal up the road thought it looked more like a flat pack.
Other potential visits include a return to see the excellent Nonentities performing Agatha Christie's “Witness for the Prosecution” at The Rose Theatre in Kidderminster in September.
Agatha got a look-in at the meeting too, when Richard A presented us with her “Rats”, a neat one act play. After a break to replenish our cups and glasses with Cinnamon Coffee House's wholesome refreshments we continued with J B Priestley's “When we are Married”, finishing at the end of Act I. To be continued at our next meeting.
A theatre lighting workshop is planned for Saturday September 26th.
Next meeting is Wednesday 2nd September.
Theatre outings are in the offing, with a spontaneous decision to try for tickets for “She Stoops to Conquer” by O Goldsmith, on next week at the spanking new Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury. I stopped by there for a crab, crayfish and rocket sandwich this week (as one does), whilst waiting for Rex the Wind to adjust my husband's clarinet up Frankwell.
Now, the public area inside is a nice space, and imaginative in its inclusion of an old building (possibly a chapel), used as a bar on the first floor level. The exterior is modern, but all that wood screams “Sadolin”. I am sure the architect will say that it is left untreated and will fade to a pleasing weathered silver grey, and he/she may be right, but weathering moves to a further stage – deterioration and rot. That practical quibble aside, I quite liked the overall effect, from the river side at any rate, though my pal up the road thought it looked more like a flat pack.
Other potential visits include a return to see the excellent Nonentities performing Agatha Christie's “Witness for the Prosecution” at The Rose Theatre in Kidderminster in September.
Agatha got a look-in at the meeting too, when Richard A presented us with her “Rats”, a neat one act play. After a break to replenish our cups and glasses with Cinnamon Coffee House's wholesome refreshments we continued with J B Priestley's “When we are Married”, finishing at the end of Act I. To be continued at our next meeting.
A theatre lighting workshop is planned for Saturday September 26th.
Next meeting is Wednesday 2nd September.
Thursday 23 July 2009
Killing Time at The Grand
Oh joy! It was a delight to sit and watch “Killing Time”, directed and produced by Ian Dickens, at The Grand last evening. It's a good yarn and was well acted by Huw Higginson and Hannah Waterman. It must be a challenge to take part in a two-hander, maintaining realistic dialogue and retaining the interest of the audience, but the tension between the two characters was sustained, helped by a good script from Richard Stockwell.
The story is set in the living room of comfortable middle class house. Jane has just given Rick a lift home, to thank him for coming to her rescue at the supermarket check-out. She found herself without her purse and he gallantly came to her rescue, paying for the shopping. She accepts the offer of a gin and tonic and reveals that, despite being financially well off, her marriage is not happy. Rick is a bit more reticent about revealing his background, but as the play progresses we learn that neither is quite as they first appear. As the balance of power shifts from one to the other and our sympathies waver, the story gets darker.
As I entered into the story as an ordinary member of the audience the am dram critic sitting like a parrot on my shoulder was taking notes. So much is down to body language, inuendo, looks exchanged or witheld, tone of voice. Learning and delivering lines is only the first step. This was no comedy, but good lines raised laughs on several occasions.
Well done all and I hope Ian Dickens Productions is back next year.
Dorothy
The story is set in the living room of comfortable middle class house. Jane has just given Rick a lift home, to thank him for coming to her rescue at the supermarket check-out. She found herself without her purse and he gallantly came to her rescue, paying for the shopping. She accepts the offer of a gin and tonic and reveals that, despite being financially well off, her marriage is not happy. Rick is a bit more reticent about revealing his background, but as the play progresses we learn that neither is quite as they first appear. As the balance of power shifts from one to the other and our sympathies waver, the story gets darker.
As I entered into the story as an ordinary member of the audience the am dram critic sitting like a parrot on my shoulder was taking notes. So much is down to body language, inuendo, looks exchanged or witheld, tone of voice. Learning and delivering lines is only the first step. This was no comedy, but good lines raised laughs on several occasions.
Well done all and I hope Ian Dickens Productions is back next year.
Dorothy
Wednesday 22 July 2009
Comedy con
The theatre is a place of darkness and light, a cocoon, where stories are woven and spells created. The audience settle down in comfy seats and wait to be entertained. They will happily suspend belief, accepting that the crook they see in TV's soap is , just for now, a handsome young squire, that someone on stage is capable of committing murder, that the attractive young woman with innocence in every word and gesture has wicked intentions. So it feels like a con, a betrayal, when we are asked to accept something that does not ring true. I can “ooh” and “ahh” with the best of them as Peter Pan flies across the stage but cringe when four ordinary women decide, at the suggestion of a newly arrived neighbour, that the solution to being a bit hard up is to become prostitutes for a week.
This was the premise of “The Tart and the Vicar's Wife” by Joan Shirley at The Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton last week. It was billed as a comedy and early scenes looked promising; it could develop as a comedy or even be pushed to farce. Instead, it followed an unreal story line, veered into serious drama, threw in a love story and ended “happily ever after”.
The set up is that a bright young, successful couple find their lives turned around when the husband decides to become a vicar as a result of deliverance from a serious car accident. They sell off their possessions and their house to fund his training and here he is in his first parish, with his wife regretting the loss of the high life she previously enjoyed. Her only source of income is writing risquee stories for lads' magazines, much to her husbands disgust.
Enter the new neighbour, a likely lad, former lorry driver and lottery winner. He bought the local manor at a bargain price, before moving in and discovering that it has a resident ghost. He asks the vicar to exorcise it, but the newly ordained vicar has no experience of such matters and in any case is about to go off for a month's training.
Enter the remaining characters, an American back-packing student en-route to Europe, an attractive middle aged divorcee who has an antique shop, and the farmers wife and mother of five.
Off goes the vicar, in comes the curate, the fun figure, to ask the ladies to organise some fund raising activities for the imminent church fete. Now, forgive me for being pedantic, but I doubt that vicars get sent off for four week training sessions by the C of E these days and any village lady worth her salt would have the fete planning sown up months before the event.
In comes the neighbour, Joe, driven out by Moaning Minnie, and after listening to the moans of the ladies about the shortage of cash, suggests they use the vicar's absence to turn the house into a high class brothel for some American businessmen who are nearby at a conference and looking to spend their expenses allowance before heading home, up to £5,000 each!
This is where I and the author part company. It was also where one of our party decided to sit out the second half in the theatre lobby. I was left with a nasty taste in the mouth and fuming. By next morning I was reworking the story, so here goes:
The ladies challenge Joe, to stop being a wimp and running over every time he sees the ghost (which occurs with dreary regulatory) and let them use the old manor to make money from tempting the American businessmen to “stay a night at the haunted house”. Each of the ladies can use their talents (writing, cooking for the hordes, antiques etc) and a proportion will go to the church funds. Meanwhile, Joe, scared witless, can move into the vicar's house to keep an eye on things.
There is plenty of scope for village misunderstandings as to what is going on at the manor, and for cases of mistaken identity with Joe standing in for the vicar. The student's Dad could even turn out to be one of the visiting Americans. At the end of the week the vicar returns and all is returned to normal, with Joe coming to an understanding with Moaning Minnie and the ladies in profit.
Now, that is a story I can live with and leave the theatre smiling.
This was the premise of “The Tart and the Vicar's Wife” by Joan Shirley at The Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton last week. It was billed as a comedy and early scenes looked promising; it could develop as a comedy or even be pushed to farce. Instead, it followed an unreal story line, veered into serious drama, threw in a love story and ended “happily ever after”.
The set up is that a bright young, successful couple find their lives turned around when the husband decides to become a vicar as a result of deliverance from a serious car accident. They sell off their possessions and their house to fund his training and here he is in his first parish, with his wife regretting the loss of the high life she previously enjoyed. Her only source of income is writing risquee stories for lads' magazines, much to her husbands disgust.
Enter the new neighbour, a likely lad, former lorry driver and lottery winner. He bought the local manor at a bargain price, before moving in and discovering that it has a resident ghost. He asks the vicar to exorcise it, but the newly ordained vicar has no experience of such matters and in any case is about to go off for a month's training.
Enter the remaining characters, an American back-packing student en-route to Europe, an attractive middle aged divorcee who has an antique shop, and the farmers wife and mother of five.
Off goes the vicar, in comes the curate, the fun figure, to ask the ladies to organise some fund raising activities for the imminent church fete. Now, forgive me for being pedantic, but I doubt that vicars get sent off for four week training sessions by the C of E these days and any village lady worth her salt would have the fete planning sown up months before the event.
In comes the neighbour, Joe, driven out by Moaning Minnie, and after listening to the moans of the ladies about the shortage of cash, suggests they use the vicar's absence to turn the house into a high class brothel for some American businessmen who are nearby at a conference and looking to spend their expenses allowance before heading home, up to £5,000 each!
This is where I and the author part company. It was also where one of our party decided to sit out the second half in the theatre lobby. I was left with a nasty taste in the mouth and fuming. By next morning I was reworking the story, so here goes:
The ladies challenge Joe, to stop being a wimp and running over every time he sees the ghost (which occurs with dreary regulatory) and let them use the old manor to make money from tempting the American businessmen to “stay a night at the haunted house”. Each of the ladies can use their talents (writing, cooking for the hordes, antiques etc) and a proportion will go to the church funds. Meanwhile, Joe, scared witless, can move into the vicar's house to keep an eye on things.
There is plenty of scope for village misunderstandings as to what is going on at the manor, and for cases of mistaken identity with Joe standing in for the vicar. The student's Dad could even turn out to be one of the visiting Americans. At the end of the week the vicar returns and all is returned to normal, with Joe coming to an understanding with Moaning Minnie and the ladies in profit.
Now, that is a story I can live with and leave the theatre smiling.
Friday 17 July 2009
Write me a Murder
The Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton is without the usual Charles Vance repetory season this year, but its replacement is a set of three dramas, directed by Ian Dickens. I've booked for all three and report here on the first, a thriller entitled “Write me a Murder”.
It is set in Rodingham Manor, the ancestral home of the impoverished Rodingham family. Brothers Clive, and younger sibling David are there at the request of their dying father. Clive, charming and unprincipled, is planning to sell the old place and use the cash to follow his wealthy American fiancée to the States in a bid to secure a comfortable future. David, after an absence of twenty years, is thinking it is time to move back in. There is little love lost between the brothers and before his Lordship's body is even cold the sparks fly when local boy-made-good, Charles Sturrock comes to make an offer on the house. He does little to hide his contempt of the Rodinghams and is patronising to his wife, a hopeful young writer. With a sale agreed he pushes his young wife into the company of David, a successful author, intimating that he should ghost write a story for her to enter into a national competition.
Act I sets the scene and leads the audience first one way then another ending on an unexpected note and the conclusion of Act II was quite unexpected. I am full of admiration for the author, Frederick Knott, who is probably better known for his play “Dial M for Murder”, in the way he directs the audience into thinking they know what is going to happen, then throwing a googlie.
Leslie Grantham was particularly good as the local businessman with a nasty, bullying streak.
P.S. I notice that Horsham DC and the Capitol are included in the acknowledgments. This was my old stomping ground, back in the days when the Capitol Theatre was a cinema and before it became a Bingo Hall; I hear from contacts still living in Horsham that it is a successful Arts Centre with lots going on.
Tonight we're off to see a comedy - "The Tart and the Vicar's Wife" and next week it is another thriller - "Killing Time".
It is set in Rodingham Manor, the ancestral home of the impoverished Rodingham family. Brothers Clive, and younger sibling David are there at the request of their dying father. Clive, charming and unprincipled, is planning to sell the old place and use the cash to follow his wealthy American fiancée to the States in a bid to secure a comfortable future. David, after an absence of twenty years, is thinking it is time to move back in. There is little love lost between the brothers and before his Lordship's body is even cold the sparks fly when local boy-made-good, Charles Sturrock comes to make an offer on the house. He does little to hide his contempt of the Rodinghams and is patronising to his wife, a hopeful young writer. With a sale agreed he pushes his young wife into the company of David, a successful author, intimating that he should ghost write a story for her to enter into a national competition.
Act I sets the scene and leads the audience first one way then another ending on an unexpected note and the conclusion of Act II was quite unexpected. I am full of admiration for the author, Frederick Knott, who is probably better known for his play “Dial M for Murder”, in the way he directs the audience into thinking they know what is going to happen, then throwing a googlie.
Leslie Grantham was particularly good as the local businessman with a nasty, bullying streak.
P.S. I notice that Horsham DC and the Capitol are included in the acknowledgments. This was my old stomping ground, back in the days when the Capitol Theatre was a cinema and before it became a Bingo Hall; I hear from contacts still living in Horsham that it is a successful Arts Centre with lots going on.
Tonight we're off to see a comedy - "The Tart and the Vicar's Wife" and next week it is another thriller - "Killing Time".
Monday 6 July 2009
July update
July meeting
Sixteen members brought offerings of readings, a quiz and food to Richard A's place for the July meeting. Richard provided an excellent one-act Agatha Christie play, set on a beach and read a P G Wodehouse extract. Liz H's quiz, very local and tuned to the B Players fountain of knowledge, proved harder than expected and Rosemary and Catherine read poetry.
Play cast
Auditions for November's "Time of my Life" were well attended and brought in new members. Inevitably, some people had to be disappointed in not being chosen for some tasty parts, but I am sure they will be busy behind the scenes in a supporting role.
Theatrical activity
Whilst all this was going on, Q and I were walking in the Lake District, but found time to see Alan Ayckbourn's "Chorus of Disapproval" at the lovely Theatre on the Lake in Keswick. It is about a hapless, but likeable young man who turns up at the local operatic society to see if he can join and make new friends. He tends to take the line of least resistance and let others make decisions for him, whcih results in both excitement and very awkward situations. Ultimately he ends as he begins, on his own. A bit sad, really.
They are also doing "Summer Lightning" based on a P G Wodehouse story and I hope to get hold of a script for one of our monthly meetings.
This week David K performs in "Much Ado about Nothing" with BROADS at The Hem and the Grand Theatre in Wolverhampton offers three plays over the coming three weeks - two thrillers and a comedy - at a reduced rate of £33.
A group of BPs saw "Arsenic and Old Lace at The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster last month and were very impressed by the Nonentities production. I know that Liz H has a hankering for the BPs to tackle this one day.
Several BP members saw TOTS' "The Lion in Winter" and reported that, despite it being a rather downbeat story about a disfunctional royal family, there was some good acting and a fab set.
Dorothy
Sixteen members brought offerings of readings, a quiz and food to Richard A's place for the July meeting. Richard provided an excellent one-act Agatha Christie play, set on a beach and read a P G Wodehouse extract. Liz H's quiz, very local and tuned to the B Players fountain of knowledge, proved harder than expected and Rosemary and Catherine read poetry.
Play cast
Auditions for November's "Time of my Life" were well attended and brought in new members. Inevitably, some people had to be disappointed in not being chosen for some tasty parts, but I am sure they will be busy behind the scenes in a supporting role.
Theatrical activity
Whilst all this was going on, Q and I were walking in the Lake District, but found time to see Alan Ayckbourn's "Chorus of Disapproval" at the lovely Theatre on the Lake in Keswick. It is about a hapless, but likeable young man who turns up at the local operatic society to see if he can join and make new friends. He tends to take the line of least resistance and let others make decisions for him, whcih results in both excitement and very awkward situations. Ultimately he ends as he begins, on his own. A bit sad, really.
They are also doing "Summer Lightning" based on a P G Wodehouse story and I hope to get hold of a script for one of our monthly meetings.
This week David K performs in "Much Ado about Nothing" with BROADS at The Hem and the Grand Theatre in Wolverhampton offers three plays over the coming three weeks - two thrillers and a comedy - at a reduced rate of £33.
A group of BPs saw "Arsenic and Old Lace at The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster last month and were very impressed by the Nonentities production. I know that Liz H has a hankering for the BPs to tackle this one day.
Several BP members saw TOTS' "The Lion in Winter" and reported that, despite it being a rather downbeat story about a disfunctional royal family, there was some good acting and a fab set.
Dorothy
Monday 15 June 2009
Auditions for "Time of my Life"
Members and anyone interested in joining the Bridgnorth Players are welcome to audition for parts in "Time of my Life" by Alan Ayckbourn on Tuesday 23rd June 2009 and Monday 29th at the Library in Listley Street, Bridgnorth at 7.30. It is to be directed by Maureen Callon and will be performed the last weekend in November and the first weekend in December.
June meeting
Maureen Callon gave a synopsis of and we read part of "Time of my Life" by Alan Ayckbourn, the play proposed for the end of November. It was agreed to go ahead with auditions.
It was proposed, seconded and agreed that the new treasurer should be added to the list of bank account signatories.
Members read a short play by Linda Povey with great gusto and there was an encouraging murmer of appreciation at the twist at the end of the tale.
It was proposed, seconded and agreed that the new treasurer should be added to the list of bank account signatories.
Members read a short play by Linda Povey with great gusto and there was an encouraging murmer of appreciation at the twist at the end of the tale.
First Night of Murder Mystery
Friday Night's performance of "Who Killed the Director?" by Chris Martin was well received as was the slap up supper. The cast camped it up to melodramatic proportions and the audience responded with cheers and boos in all the right places.
The photo shows Geoffrey Speechly as Ralph Williams, the director; Sally de Sancha as Prudence du Maurier, the leading lady and former lover of Ralph; Graeme Christie in his debut role as Alex Pickles, stage manager and former convict; Louise Braybrook as Kathy the wannabe starlet and Richard Aston, the debonair but not particularly talented darling son of Prudence.
The three of us slaving in the kitchen had a flavour of the action through the roller shutter. Many thanks to Ruth Wheeler and Dave Bingham who laid everything out and served nearly 50 meals. Dorothy sweated over the stoves checking that nothing was burned or underdone. Ruth has asked to be on wine duty on Saturday in the hall at Ditton Priors as that way she'll get to see the play. Dave says washing up and trying to offload melting ice-cream was good therapy and it took his mind off other things.
We sold 43 tickets out of a maximum capacity of 48. Not bad at all! I noticed that most people were known to members and wonder whether there is any merit in newspaper ads when word of mouth seems more effective.
On to Ditton on Saturday 20th, where more of Keith Alderson's excellent beef stew will be served, with lashings of clues and lots of laughter!
Tuesday 9 June 2009
A Stab in the Dark
Whew! Our Murder Mystery this Friday is heading towards us like a runaway train. Everyone is on board to make it a fun evening, despite a few dramas of our own, and our audience is guaranteed a good feed and entertainment. It is a bit of a stab in the dark for us as we've not tried this style of performance before, but "Who Killed the Director?" should keep our audience amused.
Looking ahead, we are making plans for a full length play at the end of November and early December - "The Time of Your Life" by Alan Ayckbourn. All members are invited to take part and newcomers to the group will be welcomed too.
Looking ahead, we are making plans for a full length play at the end of November and early December - "The Time of Your Life" by Alan Ayckbourn. All members are invited to take part and newcomers to the group will be welcomed too.
Thursday 7 May 2009
Characterisation workshop
Workshop for grown up kids – The Two Minute Panto
Naomi had us in groups, pretending to be household appliances as a warm up. Some folk really moved it as a washing machine and the interpretation of a fridge was most inventive. Then it was on to the main event.
We all know what makes a panto don't we? Oh no we don't. Oh yes we do!
A beautiful heroine and laddish hero, a dame, comedy, slapstick, a celebrity, triumph over adversity, good over evil, a reversal of fortunes, songs, a chorus, colour, jokes ott characters and most important, a happy ending.
With that in mind, a well known tune to work with, minimal props and a piece of paper, we split in to 2 groups and prepared a story board with 6 scenes. Fortunately, one member in each group actually knew the stories and bossed everyone into order – very necessary as we only had 10 minutes to prepare ourselves.
First away was Snow White with newcomer Graeme making the most of the role of wicked stepmother, the lovely Liz H talking back as the mirror and John S with the help of a hand puppet and his trusty baton/axe as the woodman. The choice of the youthful Snow White was not in question and Ruth took to the role like a duck to water. One of the dwarfs should have ducked as she took a hit from a cupboard door on the bonce. They earned a well deserved round of applause.
Next up was Sleeping Beauty starring Patricia, with wonderfully naggy parents, Dave and Linda. The fairies, Richard, Chris C and Dorothy aka Julian and Sandy and Marylin, serenaded the baby a la Monroe to the tune of “Happy Birthday”, but it was not enough to deter the bad fairy, Sally, from her evil intent. Mark, as Nanny, tried to protect her, but with GCSE revision threatening, Beauty headed up the tower to hide and tried her hand at spinning as an alternative life style. Prince Sloane Ranger rescued his princess, after a typical teenager lie in of approx 100 years, and it all ended happily in a family rave.
So, in the space of less than 1 ½ hours, we all learned a bit about characterisation and throwing ourselves into the role. Above all we had a good laugh. Many thanks for motivating us all, Naomi, and helping us get so much out of what was a short time.
Naomi had us in groups, pretending to be household appliances as a warm up. Some folk really moved it as a washing machine and the interpretation of a fridge was most inventive. Then it was on to the main event.
We all know what makes a panto don't we? Oh no we don't. Oh yes we do!
A beautiful heroine and laddish hero, a dame, comedy, slapstick, a celebrity, triumph over adversity, good over evil, a reversal of fortunes, songs, a chorus, colour, jokes ott characters and most important, a happy ending.
With that in mind, a well known tune to work with, minimal props and a piece of paper, we split in to 2 groups and prepared a story board with 6 scenes. Fortunately, one member in each group actually knew the stories and bossed everyone into order – very necessary as we only had 10 minutes to prepare ourselves.
First away was Snow White with newcomer Graeme making the most of the role of wicked stepmother, the lovely Liz H talking back as the mirror and John S with the help of a hand puppet and his trusty baton/axe as the woodman. The choice of the youthful Snow White was not in question and Ruth took to the role like a duck to water. One of the dwarfs should have ducked as she took a hit from a cupboard door on the bonce. They earned a well deserved round of applause.
Next up was Sleeping Beauty starring Patricia, with wonderfully naggy parents, Dave and Linda. The fairies, Richard, Chris C and Dorothy aka Julian and Sandy and Marylin, serenaded the baby a la Monroe to the tune of “Happy Birthday”, but it was not enough to deter the bad fairy, Sally, from her evil intent. Mark, as Nanny, tried to protect her, but with GCSE revision threatening, Beauty headed up the tower to hide and tried her hand at spinning as an alternative life style. Prince Sloane Ranger rescued his princess, after a typical teenager lie in of approx 100 years, and it all ended happily in a family rave.
So, in the space of less than 1 ½ hours, we all learned a bit about characterisation and throwing ourselves into the role. Above all we had a good laugh. Many thanks for motivating us all, Naomi, and helping us get so much out of what was a short time.
Annual meeting
May 6th 2009 Summary of annual meeting
Apologies
Apologies from Tom W and Louise B
Attendance
17 Members signed the attendance sheet.
Report and accounts
The committee presented its annual report reviewing the year and looking ahead, plus the expenditure and income accounts.
Appointment of officers
Nominations were received for Liz Herdson, Dorothy Leiper and Maureen Callon and they agreed to continue in office as chairman, secretary and artistic director for the year ahead. Liz Fisher was nominated as treasurer and joins the committee. All nominations were seconded and agreed unanimously.
Health and Safety policy
The members agreed to adopt the NODA templates 1 and 3 for H & S Policy Statements and appointed Catherine Cochrane as Health and Safety Officer.
Membership and Subscriptions
It was agreed to introduce a membership subscription of £12 per annum, running from the May AGM each year. This covers the named member and their household. The level of the annual subscription is based on the need to cover the fixed costs of insurance and NODA membership, which all members benefit from. People joining part way through the year pay pro-rata.
People taking part acting in productions must be members.
Newcomers are welcome to attend two meetings as guests, but would be expected to join on the third visit.
The £2 monthly meeting charge will continue, £3 for guests. This covers the hire of the venue.
It was also agreed that the cost of rehearsal space will be allocated as a production cost, but actors will continue to bear the cost of their script.
Any other business
No other matters were raised, but please note the following:
Donation of stage flats
We are very grateful to Sally deSancha for the donation of the flats. Sally had these professionally made when she went on tour with “Shirley Valentine”.
Tickets for Arsenic and Old Lace
Friday June 19th at The Rose, Kidderminster, for those who put their names down, are available from Dorothy. Please settle at or before the June meeting. They are £8-50 and cheques should be made out to “Bridgnorth Players.”
The business concluded at 8.20 and we welcomed Naomi Conway who lead us in a drama workshop.
Tuesday 14 April 2009
Murder Mystery Auditions
"Who killed the Director?"
Auditions 7.30 at Cinnamon Coffee House, Cartway, Bridgnorth on Thursday 16th April 2009.
No experience necessary, just a desire to take part and have fun.
The Murder Mystery suppers take place on Friday 12th June at the Community Hall in Low Town and Saturday 20th June at Ditton Priors Village Hall.
Auditions 7.30 at Cinnamon Coffee House, Cartway, Bridgnorth on Thursday 16th April 2009.
No experience necessary, just a desire to take part and have fun.
The Murder Mystery suppers take place on Friday 12th June at the Community Hall in Low Town and Saturday 20th June at Ditton Priors Village Hall.
Saturday 4 April 2009
Death by Drama
As in "Death by Chocolate" - overindulging in something rich and enjoyable.
This week has brought out the blossom and some really good plays. The shame is they all happened this week, so getting to them was tricky for those of us not taking part and impossible for those who were.
Belfrey, BroADS and Albrighton Players - we need to talk!
TOTS beat the rush with "Dial 'M' for Murder",by Frederick Knott, directed by Richard Aston. He can be justifiably pleased with the result. It's a cracking story, (though the intervention of the Home Secretary in the final scene can be considered artistic license) with the audience held in suspense to the end. The production was an effective collaboration of an excellent cast from Wellington, and various Bridgnorth folk creating a convincing set and providing back-stage support.
On Thursday I made by lone way to the Birchmeadow Centre in Broseley, whilst other Players headed for the Drama Festival at the Belfrey in Wellington. The play, "Dangerous Corner" by J B Priestley was played in the round, the set being a 1930's drawing room. I didn't know the story, but it reminded me of a Poirot tale, with each character in turn being exposed in some way as the spotlight of suspicion fell on them. An interesting ending. I had hoped to chat with the director at the end, but had to leave before he was free. I shall certainly make a point of going to see other BroADS productions.
On Friday, Q and I headed to Albrighton to see "Abigail's Party" by Mike Leigh. This one is set in the 1960's and the set brought back memories! The audience found quite a lot to be amused at in this dark tale and the character of the cringeworthy Beverley, in a long lime-green dress, was well portrayed. In fact, all the actors were good. The only down-side was that some local oik had scored the car, which was parked (tucked in and not blocking any driveways) outside the school.
Had a lovely chat with chairman Debbie also Gill and Mark at the end and ascertained that the Albrighton Players' next production, a farce, will be the 3rd weekend in November, so we must ensure that our end of year production does not clash; mind you, AP also recommended the Pattingham Players, one at Codsall and one at Wightwick, so I guess there is bound to be a clash somewhere. Perhaps we should get together at the start of the year and divvy up the weekends?
Dorothy
This week has brought out the blossom and some really good plays. The shame is they all happened this week, so getting to them was tricky for those of us not taking part and impossible for those who were.
Belfrey, BroADS and Albrighton Players - we need to talk!
TOTS beat the rush with "Dial 'M' for Murder",by Frederick Knott, directed by Richard Aston. He can be justifiably pleased with the result. It's a cracking story, (though the intervention of the Home Secretary in the final scene can be considered artistic license) with the audience held in suspense to the end. The production was an effective collaboration of an excellent cast from Wellington, and various Bridgnorth folk creating a convincing set and providing back-stage support.
On Thursday I made by lone way to the Birchmeadow Centre in Broseley, whilst other Players headed for the Drama Festival at the Belfrey in Wellington. The play, "Dangerous Corner" by J B Priestley was played in the round, the set being a 1930's drawing room. I didn't know the story, but it reminded me of a Poirot tale, with each character in turn being exposed in some way as the spotlight of suspicion fell on them. An interesting ending. I had hoped to chat with the director at the end, but had to leave before he was free. I shall certainly make a point of going to see other BroADS productions.
On Friday, Q and I headed to Albrighton to see "Abigail's Party" by Mike Leigh. This one is set in the 1960's and the set brought back memories! The audience found quite a lot to be amused at in this dark tale and the character of the cringeworthy Beverley, in a long lime-green dress, was well portrayed. In fact, all the actors were good. The only down-side was that some local oik had scored the car, which was parked (tucked in and not blocking any driveways) outside the school.
Had a lovely chat with chairman Debbie also Gill and Mark at the end and ascertained that the Albrighton Players' next production, a farce, will be the 3rd weekend in November, so we must ensure that our end of year production does not clash; mind you, AP also recommended the Pattingham Players, one at Codsall and one at Wightwick, so I guess there is bound to be a clash somewhere. Perhaps we should get together at the start of the year and divvy up the weekends?
Dorothy
April meeting summary
Pat brought a play to read; alas, I can't remember the title, but it was about the attemps of two feuding nieces to remove their aunt from her increasingly expensive town centre flat; however, they are outmanouvred by the wiley old bird.
Catherine read a lively piece from Richmal Cromptons "Just William's Christmas" and Rosemary did a creditable Oxfordshire accent reading a couple of Pam Ayre's poems.
Auditions for our June Murder Mystery play will take place at Cinnamon Coffee House on April 16th at 7.30.
Auditions for our end of November production will be in June, with rehearsals starting in early August. Script extracts will be available at the June 3rd meeting for anyone who'd like to have a read-through before auditions.
Our May meeting celebrates Bridgnorth Players' first anniversary with an acting workshop. Please bring any guests who might be interested in joining the group. We need at least one more person on the organising committee to take on the role of treasurer. It has been suggested that no-one should be able to hold a role for more than 3 years, to prevent it becoming a long-term committment or burden, to encourage members to have their say in the running of the group and to ensure that no individual ends up monopolising how things are done. So step on up!
Dorothy
Catherine read a lively piece from Richmal Cromptons "Just William's Christmas" and Rosemary did a creditable Oxfordshire accent reading a couple of Pam Ayre's poems.
Auditions for our June Murder Mystery play will take place at Cinnamon Coffee House on April 16th at 7.30.
Auditions for our end of November production will be in June, with rehearsals starting in early August. Script extracts will be available at the June 3rd meeting for anyone who'd like to have a read-through before auditions.
Our May meeting celebrates Bridgnorth Players' first anniversary with an acting workshop. Please bring any guests who might be interested in joining the group. We need at least one more person on the organising committee to take on the role of treasurer. It has been suggested that no-one should be able to hold a role for more than 3 years, to prevent it becoming a long-term committment or burden, to encourage members to have their say in the running of the group and to ensure that no individual ends up monopolising how things are done. So step on up!
Dorothy
Tuesday 10 March 2009
Belfrey review
We were made very welcome at The Belfrey in Wellington last weekend, both by the Belfrey members and committee and by the audiences on both nights. 103 people came to see us and, although I could not see much of the audience from the lighting/sound box, I could certainly hear the laughter.
Well done to everyone for reprising their roles in "Last Tango" by David Tristram and "Gosforth's Fete" by Alan Ayckbourn and to Maureen for tackling the part of Mrs Pearce so convincingly. Thanks too to all the back-stage crew.
Dorothy
Well done to everyone for reprising their roles in "Last Tango" by David Tristram and "Gosforth's Fete" by Alan Ayckbourn and to Maureen for tackling the part of Mrs Pearce so convincingly. Thanks too to all the back-stage crew.
Dorothy
March meeting resumee
Play readings
The Players were entertained to a new radio play, "On the Up" about a talking lift and its occupant. The author, Tom Wentworth, read the part of Mark, the office worker who is keen to make an impression on the Board and Beverley Fry read the part of the lift, who, though charming and perhaps a little in love with Mark, is capable of vengeance when provoked.
Tom also brought a two-hander stage play "Purvis" by Nick Warburton, which started as a radio play. The put-upon vicar's wife is cornered into offering a role as "health and safety officer" to a lonely wodower, a new-comer to the chruch. He proves tobe rather accident prone, resulting in the vicar heading for a nervous break-down and his wife growing fond of Purvis and making a stand with him against her husband. Those of us who had heard the radio play preferred the original ending, where the vicar escapes to a new parish, only too be followed some months later by Purvis, when the nightmare starts over again.
Next month Pat wil bring her choice of play, with additional material provided by Catherine and Rosemary.
Other news
We have applied to join National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA).
I'll buy tickets for a visit to the Rose Theatre in Kidderminster to see "Arsenic and Old Lace" on Friday June 19th, before the April meeting. Let me know if you would like to go, if you have not already put your name on the list.
We plan a Murder Mystery supper on Friday 12th June at the Community Hall in Low Town, Bridgnorth and Saturday 20th June at Ditton Priors Village Hall. More information to follow.
In May we will have been running for a year and it is planned to have an acting workshop at the May meeting, immediately after the business of reviewing the past year and discussing plans for 2009. The workshop will be suitable for all abilities and should be fun.
Dorothy Leiper
The Players were entertained to a new radio play, "On the Up" about a talking lift and its occupant. The author, Tom Wentworth, read the part of Mark, the office worker who is keen to make an impression on the Board and Beverley Fry read the part of the lift, who, though charming and perhaps a little in love with Mark, is capable of vengeance when provoked.
Tom also brought a two-hander stage play "Purvis" by Nick Warburton, which started as a radio play. The put-upon vicar's wife is cornered into offering a role as "health and safety officer" to a lonely wodower, a new-comer to the chruch. He proves tobe rather accident prone, resulting in the vicar heading for a nervous break-down and his wife growing fond of Purvis and making a stand with him against her husband. Those of us who had heard the radio play preferred the original ending, where the vicar escapes to a new parish, only too be followed some months later by Purvis, when the nightmare starts over again.
Next month Pat wil bring her choice of play, with additional material provided by Catherine and Rosemary.
Other news
We have applied to join National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA).
I'll buy tickets for a visit to the Rose Theatre in Kidderminster to see "Arsenic and Old Lace" on Friday June 19th, before the April meeting. Let me know if you would like to go, if you have not already put your name on the list.
We plan a Murder Mystery supper on Friday 12th June at the Community Hall in Low Town, Bridgnorth and Saturday 20th June at Ditton Priors Village Hall. More information to follow.
In May we will have been running for a year and it is planned to have an acting workshop at the May meeting, immediately after the business of reviewing the past year and discussing plans for 2009. The workshop will be suitable for all abilities and should be fun.
Dorothy Leiper
Saturday 28 February 2009
The Curve, Leicester
As You Like It. 27th February 2009
Take two middle aged parents and a couple of twenty year olds and pour them into a brand new theatre, stir in some Shakespeare and what do you get? A memorable evening's entertainment.
The building is impressive. Discard any idea of the traditional layout of main entrance into a foyer leading to an enclosed auditorium and imagine an egg. The yolk is the auditorium, the translucent white the public area and half the shell is quite transparent. In fact all that separates the white from the pavement outside are huge sheets of glass. Beyond the patterns on the paving and the sparkling rotating bollards is the old theatre, now, judging by the swankily dressed people at the entrance, a top class venue for black tie events.
Inside the auditorium our eyes adjusted to a sloping stage, which created an effect of perspective as much of the action was set in the Forest of Arden. A loud strike of a drum started the action and drew attention to a single musician who created all the atmospheric music and sound effects on a variety of percussion and strange, unidentified stringed instruments.
I've not seen As You Like It before, but it involves siblings at loggerheads, best friends, gender changing, a fool and of course, love. My husband was happy, because it all ended happily. I shall have to reclaim my copy of the programme to give names to the lead characters, but all played well and the leads, Rosalind and Orlando fairly steamed with barely controlled passion - much needed to illuminate the meaning of the archaic language on occasions. The fool may have been the Paul Merton of his day, but I was a bit baffled by Elizabethan humour.
Whilst we were enjoying the spectacle, next door in the Studio theatre, Marc Warren (Hustle on TV) was in Pillowman. Acoustic walls between the two theatres can be raised to make one huge theatre and the enclosing walls lifted so that the public can see productions being prepared. Windows in perimeter rooms open on to workshops. The public, walking past, dropping in the the booking office or visiting the cafe, become spectators of the whole work in progress.
Dorothy Leiper
Take two middle aged parents and a couple of twenty year olds and pour them into a brand new theatre, stir in some Shakespeare and what do you get? A memorable evening's entertainment.
The building is impressive. Discard any idea of the traditional layout of main entrance into a foyer leading to an enclosed auditorium and imagine an egg. The yolk is the auditorium, the translucent white the public area and half the shell is quite transparent. In fact all that separates the white from the pavement outside are huge sheets of glass. Beyond the patterns on the paving and the sparkling rotating bollards is the old theatre, now, judging by the swankily dressed people at the entrance, a top class venue for black tie events.
Inside the auditorium our eyes adjusted to a sloping stage, which created an effect of perspective as much of the action was set in the Forest of Arden. A loud strike of a drum started the action and drew attention to a single musician who created all the atmospheric music and sound effects on a variety of percussion and strange, unidentified stringed instruments.
I've not seen As You Like It before, but it involves siblings at loggerheads, best friends, gender changing, a fool and of course, love. My husband was happy, because it all ended happily. I shall have to reclaim my copy of the programme to give names to the lead characters, but all played well and the leads, Rosalind and Orlando fairly steamed with barely controlled passion - much needed to illuminate the meaning of the archaic language on occasions. The fool may have been the Paul Merton of his day, but I was a bit baffled by Elizabethan humour.
Whilst we were enjoying the spectacle, next door in the Studio theatre, Marc Warren (Hustle on TV) was in Pillowman. Acoustic walls between the two theatres can be raised to make one huge theatre and the enclosing walls lifted so that the public can see productions being prepared. Windows in perimeter rooms open on to workshops. The public, walking past, dropping in the the booking office or visiting the cafe, become spectators of the whole work in progress.
Dorothy Leiper
Wednesday 25 February 2009
"Oklahoma" visit
Bridgnorth Players members and friends visited Bridgnorth Musical Theatre Company's production of "Oklahoma" on Friday 20th February.
What a spectacular show! The music and songs were delivered with confidence, verve and enthusiasm and the lead singers were captivating. The scenery was stylish and expertly painted (loved the woodland walk). The costumes were typical "western musical" style, with leather chaps for the men and swinging skirts for the women, creating a wonderfully colourful effect.
From start to finish the cast kept up the pace and they looked as if they were having a great time. We in the audience were. It's difficult to pick out the best bits from such a well- known and well-loved musical, but the dream sequence was cleverly staged. The contrast produced between this dark and threatening sequence and the rest of this bright and breezy show was quite unsettling.
Well done to everyone involved. I'm looking forward to next years show already.
Pat Lowe
What a spectacular show! The music and songs were delivered with confidence, verve and enthusiasm and the lead singers were captivating. The scenery was stylish and expertly painted (loved the woodland walk). The costumes were typical "western musical" style, with leather chaps for the men and swinging skirts for the women, creating a wonderfully colourful effect.
From start to finish the cast kept up the pace and they looked as if they were having a great time. We in the audience were. It's difficult to pick out the best bits from such a well- known and well-loved musical, but the dream sequence was cleverly staged. The contrast produced between this dark and threatening sequence and the rest of this bright and breezy show was quite unsettling.
Well done to everyone involved. I'm looking forward to next years show already.
Pat Lowe
Theatre visit to Spider's Web
Bridgnorth Players' theatre trip 18th February 2009
On Wednesday a small group of us went to see Agatha Christie's SPIDER'S WEB at The Grand, Wolverhampton.The performance was put on by The Agatha Christie Theatre Company. There were several familiar faces from TV and film - I recognised Bruce Montague (Leonard in Butterflies and much else).
The action is set in 1952 and the period was convincingly portrayed by the Christie characters, their names, dialogue, expressions, manners and assumptions - the stepdaughter schoolgirl was constantly hungry and supper was cocoa, chocolate biscuits, chocolate mousse and something else equally sugary - no concerns about 5-a-day or other dietary issues here - although who was eating when they shouldn't have been was one of the clues. And the '50's atmosphere was further captured by the set and outfits. I would love to have gone backstage and had a closer look at the clothes - especially Clarissa's roses dress - very Lulu Guinness.
All the acting was very strong, but I'll sketch a couple.
Melanie Gutteridge played the heroine Clarissa who is nothing if not a paragon of virtue. But so very sunny and engaging you can't help but like her. She's the glamorous champion and essential chum of Pippa her schoolgirl stepdaughter and possible manslaughter 'victim' played by Karen Elliot. Karen Elliot is a grown-up in real life - in her early 20's which I found amazing - but as Pippa looks and acts (1950's style) 12-13 years. Plaits, woolly socks, woolly dressing gown and consoled with a dish of chocolate mousse. Cool! No teenage breaking out here or getting on Facebook.
Jeremy Warrender (TV - Soldier Soldier) plays bad Ben Nealon who .......
A thoroughly enjoyable evening and those who didn't come missed a treat. Perhaps next time we'll organise a charabanc!
Maggie Allen
On Wednesday a small group of us went to see Agatha Christie's SPIDER'S WEB at The Grand, Wolverhampton.The performance was put on by The Agatha Christie Theatre Company. There were several familiar faces from TV and film - I recognised Bruce Montague (Leonard in Butterflies and much else).
The action is set in 1952 and the period was convincingly portrayed by the Christie characters, their names, dialogue, expressions, manners and assumptions - the stepdaughter schoolgirl was constantly hungry and supper was cocoa, chocolate biscuits, chocolate mousse and something else equally sugary - no concerns about 5-a-day or other dietary issues here - although who was eating when they shouldn't have been was one of the clues. And the '50's atmosphere was further captured by the set and outfits. I would love to have gone backstage and had a closer look at the clothes - especially Clarissa's roses dress - very Lulu Guinness.
All the acting was very strong, but I'll sketch a couple.
Melanie Gutteridge played the heroine Clarissa who is nothing if not a paragon of virtue. But so very sunny and engaging you can't help but like her. She's the glamorous champion and essential chum of Pippa her schoolgirl stepdaughter and possible manslaughter 'victim' played by Karen Elliot. Karen Elliot is a grown-up in real life - in her early 20's which I found amazing - but as Pippa looks and acts (1950's style) 12-13 years. Plaits, woolly socks, woolly dressing gown and consoled with a dish of chocolate mousse. Cool! No teenage breaking out here or getting on Facebook.
Jeremy Warrender (TV - Soldier Soldier) plays bad Ben Nealon who .......
A thoroughly enjoyable evening and those who didn't come missed a treat. Perhaps next time we'll organise a charabanc!
Maggie Allen
Friday 13 February 2009
Bridgnorth Players on tour at The Belfrey
Anyone who missed our 2 one-act plays in November, "Last Tango in ...." by David Tristram and "Gosforth's Fete" by Alan Ayckbourn can catch them at the Belfrey Theatre in Wellington on
Friday 6th and Saturday 7th March.
Curtain up is 8pm and tickets are £6 from the Belfrey box office 01952 222277.
The Theatre is in the Belfrey Arts Centre on Princes Street, off Mill Bank in Wellington, postcode TF1 1JG.
Friday 6th and Saturday 7th March.
Curtain up is 8pm and tickets are £6 from the Belfrey box office 01952 222277.
The Theatre is in the Belfrey Arts Centre on Princes Street, off Mill Bank in Wellington, postcode TF1 1JG.
Thursday 5 February 2009
Summer Plans
February's monthly meeting went ahead despite the snow. We read Act 1 of Alan Ayckbourn's "Taking Steps" and discussed how this could be staged. It is set on 3 levels in an old, reputedly haunted house, has a few items of furniture and minimal props, but does need some nifty footwork as the actors nip in and out of rooms and up and down stairs. Members were keen to offer help in putting this, or another production on, but after some discussion it was decided to leave a full length production till later in the year and do something less demanding in the summer.
Liz H came up with the idea of a "Murder Mystery", short plays in 3 acts, with intervals for supper - main course and pudding. I have heard of similar plays being put on very successfully in village halls. They are intended as light entertainment and involve a bit of audience participation, and are good fund-raisers. We shall do a read through of one of the options before doing it for real in June. See www.murderplays.com for more information.
The likely programme is one evening at a Bridgnorth venue on the 12th or 13th June and one at Ditton Priors on the 19th or 20th.
Next meeting 4th March.
Liz H came up with the idea of a "Murder Mystery", short plays in 3 acts, with intervals for supper - main course and pudding. I have heard of similar plays being put on very successfully in village halls. They are intended as light entertainment and involve a bit of audience participation, and are good fund-raisers. We shall do a read through of one of the options before doing it for real in June. See www.murderplays.com for more information.
The likely programme is one evening at a Bridgnorth venue on the 12th or 13th June and one at Ditton Priors on the 19th or 20th.
Next meeting 4th March.
Wednesday 4 February 2009
Rehearsed Play Reading done and dusted
The Rehearsed Play Reading on Saturday was far from a polished performance, but a very creditable "production", bearing in mind that we had only 4 read-throughs, including one where we pencilled out swathes of text, and that the rehearsal space was my living room. 25 of us entertained, or were on the receiving end of, the combined efforts of Mark Youngs and Liz Reeves, Liz Herdson as an ott mother, Geoffrey (you'd never think I was nearly 60) Speechly, Dorothy Leiper trying out a Yorkshire accent, Jan Hudson looking gorgeous in a long blond wig and Dave Kelly being convincingly menacing. Maureen Callon kept us all in order.
Supper was served in the interval, washed down by byo's and everyone went away happy.
We must try it again later in the year, in the summer perhaps. Meanwhile, outside the snow is melting and traffic moving again.
Supper was served in the interval, washed down by byo's and everyone went away happy.
We must try it again later in the year, in the summer perhaps. Meanwhile, outside the snow is melting and traffic moving again.
Stagefight Workshop
Three Bridgnorth Player members joined a couple of school pupils and a real actress at the Edge Arts Centre at Much Wenlock William Brooks School for a stage fight workshop on 23rd January.
Olly Crick of the Fabulous Old Spot Theatre Company took us through our paces and we quickly learned that it is the "victim" who controls the action in stage fights. He combined technical know-how with entertainment, showing how the victim responds to attack, whether a "poor female", a heavywieight thug or a panto clown.
We stamped, slapped, pulled hair, punched, kicked and felt all the better for it! Two hours well spent and excellent value at £3.
Thanks to Olly, to the school for providing the mirrored rehearsal room and Arts Alive for supporting the event.
Olly Crick of the Fabulous Old Spot Theatre Company took us through our paces and we quickly learned that it is the "victim" who controls the action in stage fights. He combined technical know-how with entertainment, showing how the victim responds to attack, whether a "poor female", a heavywieight thug or a panto clown.
We stamped, slapped, pulled hair, punched, kicked and felt all the better for it! Two hours well spent and excellent value at £3.
Thanks to Olly, to the school for providing the mirrored rehearsal room and Arts Alive for supporting the event.
Sunday 18 January 2009
Rehearsed play reading 31st January 2009
Invitation to members and guests:
Bridgnorth Players meet for a social supper and rehearsed play reading on Saturday 31st January 2009 at the WI Hall in Old Mill Lane, Oldbury, Bridgnorth.
Doors open at 7pm with the reading starting at 7.30.
The £6 entry includes a two-course hot supper, but bring your own booze.
To reserve a place please contact Dorothy Leiper on 01746 764514 before Tuesday 27th January.
Bridgnorth Players meet for a social supper and rehearsed play reading on Saturday 31st January 2009 at the WI Hall in Old Mill Lane, Oldbury, Bridgnorth.
Doors open at 7pm with the reading starting at 7.30.
The £6 entry includes a two-course hot supper, but bring your own booze.
To reserve a place please contact Dorothy Leiper on 01746 764514 before Tuesday 27th January.
Our first production November 2008
Bridgnorth Players had fun with their first production in November2008 performing two one-act comedies: "Gosforth's Fete" by Alan Ayckbourn and "Last Tango in..." by David Tristram. We played to packed halls in Bridgnorth, at the Community Hall and to equally appreciative audiences at Ditton Priors Village Hall.
"Gosforth's Fete"
Director: Maureen Callon
Gosforth: John Sugden
Stuart: Mark Youngs
Millie: Louise Braybrooke
Mrs Pierce: Sally de Sancha
The vicar: Geoffrey Speechly
Prompt: Ruth Wheeler
Last Tango in ...."
Director: Liz Herdson
Gordon: Richard Aston
Bernard: Tom Wentworth
Margaret: Pat Lowe
Joyce: Linda Povey
Scene change announcer: Jan Hudson
Prompt: Patricia Edmund-Fitzgerald
Producer: Dorothy Leiper
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