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