While the actors are rushing to fill their pre-Christmas engagements, I am busy backstage preparing for the new Spring term.
An opportunity to repair and replace props and
costumes and, perhaps, scour the markets for new ideas and items.
We are always being complimented on our appearance on
stage, and pride ourselves on having eye-catching sets.
Masks depicting animals and large heads figure in many
of our productions, and these take quite a battering, especially from the
children who are intrigued by them and want to try them on, particularly the tortoise shell.
Of course, it is all part of the show, and we love
explaining how they are made, shaped and coloured to make them look
realistic.
Some of the venues we visit can be quite challenging.
I particularly remember Folkestone Promenade where we performed on the cliff
top with our backs to the sea. Our south coast is not renowned for calm days,
and this one was no exception. It took some ingenious planning to ensure our
backdrop did not end up in the ocean; stage weights and ropes galore, with me
hanging on for dear life!
Certainly, a day to remember, and I will tell you
about some more next year.
In the meantime, a collage of some of our plays.
Albert…..
