THINGS AINT WHAT THEY USED TO BE!

 Are schools still in pandemic mode? It has been two years and we have yet to return to some semblance of normality.

I have just finished a conversation with a head teacher and learnt that the Covid shut downs are still having an impact. Let's get out of this rut before live drama in schools is killed off.

I recognise everyone is suffering but, despite restaurant prices having near doubled, they are still full. The roads are jammed with traffic despite the cost of fuel, and the Government is still lying to us about the rate of inflation; 10%! really, nearer 30% is more realistic. Yet, there is still lots of money being spent.

So come on schools, dig deep and let's hear from you.

We will set you back less than half the cost of hiring coaches for day trips, and you have the added advantage of security within your own premises.

I am now done beefing, so take a look at some of the magic we perform.

Until next time, Albert.....

WHAT AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE

 The actors have returned from the Turks & Caicos Islands and cannot stop enthusing about their experiences during the ten days there. Even the sun burns have paled into insignificance.

They performed Aesop's Fables and associated Drama Workshops at many of the primary schools in Providenciales to critical acclaim.

A special thanks must go to the organiser, Clare Jaget, who not only made it possible, but was totally hands on during the whole time ensuring it was a truly wonderful experience. 

As if the delightful environment and golden sandy beaches was not enough, they were treated to kayak and boat trips, delicious meals and cocktails and the pleasures of meeting so many interesting and friendly people. 

Since a picture paints a thousand words, I will leave you now with just a few. Take a look at the enchantment on the kids' faces

More to follow.

Until soon, Albert.....

BACK AFTER HALF TERM

Hello, I am here, but my actors are still performing to the school children in the Turks & Caicos Islands and loving every moment of it despite working in temperatures of up to 30 degrees centigrade.

As it is out of season there, the restaurants and hotels are not too busy and there is plenty of space on the beaches to soak up the sun between shows.

It is quite a paradise but, if you are thinking of going, be aware that prices are about four times what you would expect to pay here, even taking account of our rabid inflation.

A bottle of Scotch will set you back US $46 at the supermarket where a bunch of grapes was priced at $14. Best stick to the local rum at only $18.

Plenty of choices of cuisine but be prepared to pay around $100 a head for a three course meal, and forget the wine! 

Anyway, they are back this weekend and we have a full week's bookings ahead.

This said, we can still squeeze a few more in so get calling or emailing me.

Until next time, here are some photos from T & C.

Albert....

 

 

SO MUCH TO DO AND SO LITTLE TIME TO DO IT!

Here we are in full swing during the Summer term and we have still to finish preparations for our trip to "The Turkey & Cakes" OOPS, SORRY. Of course I mean "The Turks & Caicos".

The big problem is how to travel light?

Normally, we would fill an estate car with sets, props and costumes for whatever play or plays we are performing. However, I don't believe British Airways would take kindly to us arriving for the 12 hour flight laden with umpteen boxes, cases and bags.

So, we are going minimalist without losing the impact of our shows. This requires a great deal of creativity and, of course, many hours hard work. As writing this is taking up precious time needed elsewhere, I am going to leave you now with some pictures of the lightweight masks in preparation. Apologies for the mess, but enjoy some, if only a few, of the finished products.

Until I have more time, 

Albert........

 

KING CHARLES III CORONATION FESTIVAL

 It was all hands on deck on Sunday at the Pavilion in Chobham, and our Gingerbread Man was at the fore to take part in the celebrations. 

He was very much at his best alongside the pulled pork and hot dog stands, and competed well with the music and sounds from the fairground.

All in all, it was a very successful day with a good turnout and much cheer.

l say no more, but let the pictures do the talking.

Until soon,

Albert.....

RAISE YOUR GLASSES TO THE NEW KING

Are you all set for the CORONATION celebrations? We are. 

We have party bookings as well as a performance of "The Gingerbread Man" for the families in Chobham next Sunday. 

The bunting is already up and the funfair will be in full swing early next week. 

Grab your glasses of bubbly and get ready for the big celebration. 

All our characters from our ten plays will be on display and we are anticipating a bumper turnout.

Don't miss out on this great opportunity to be part of the carnival. 

I must be off now as so much to prepare, but I will look forward to seeing you all next Sunday.

Hopefully, your hangovers will have worn off! 

Bye, Albert.....

ALL THE WORLD'S A STAGE

Jacques never uttered a truer word when he spoke that immortal line.

There is plenty of COMEDY in our plays but, hopefully, not too many ERRORS.

Since we started performing almost 25 years ago, nothing has given me more pleasure than seeing the eagerness and delight on the kids' faces when they are invited to be part of the action. They jump up with both arms thrust in the air in the hope of being chosen.

Of course, modern teaching methods have played a major part in encouraging participation. In my day, hands-on involvement never existed; certainly not in the state sector. One sat at the desk pretending to pay attention as the teacher droned on.

More and more, we are asked for Drama Workshops on any number of subjects, and we like to think we always rise to the occasion and create something both educational and invigorating; an hour or so that will last in the children's memories long after we have left.

Now it doesn't just have to end there. We offer far more. Consider a school play and whether you have the time and resources to produce an enjoyable and memorable production, or would you like some professional help?

Again, this is where we come in. All our plays have been created, written, choreographed, produced and directed by us. 

We write the music, compose the songs and deal with a myriad of issues involved in any production. All this we can offer, and more, including rehearsals, staging assessments, props and costumes. We have a wealth of knowledge and experience. 

Anyone who has seen one of our plays knows what I mean and, if you have yet to test us, take a look at the commendations on our website. 

 So, next time you decide to put on a school play, have us in mind. I will leave you now as ever with some pictures. 

Until again, Albert...