The Three Musketeers - July 2009

The final play in this year's season was set in France in 1625. The Three Musketeers tells the story of a weak King Louis, manipulated by his beautiful queen Anne, and  his cunning advisor Cardinal Richlieu.

The musketeers themselves, a "band of brothers" whose motto -One for all and all for one - is still the universal maxim for fighting men, gave us a real feeling of brotherhood. Their swordplay was truly spectacular, prompting audible gasps from the audiences!

This was an exciting and fast moving production with splendid sword fights, robust language and wonderfully colourful costumes, a happy end to the 2009 season at Willow Cottage.

 The Audience settling down for Act 2:

 

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The Three Musketeers, Wadham Players, July 2009

 

As You Like It - July2009

 

Last weekend the theatre became the forest of Arden, when the always excellent Southend Shakespeare Company presented As You Like It.

The misty rain on Saturday in no way dampened the spirits of either audience or cast, and indeed, in a very English way, added to the enjoyment.

It was good to see so many youngsters in the cast, their performances strengthened and encouraged by the expert timing and interpretation of the seasoned actors.The singing and dancing were notable, and a triumphant maypole dance led up to Rosalind's final, beautifully delivered speech.

 That triumphant maypole dance:

 

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As You Like It, Southend Shakespeare, July 2009

 

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The Happiest Days of Your Life - June 2009

On a warm Sunday afternoon we recalled the happiest days of our lives while watching John Dighton's sparkling comedy. They were all there: the fondly remembered schoolmasters and mistresses of our youth, brought to joyous life by the Global Theatre Company. The talented and well balanced cast whisked us through the misfortunes of two schools battling the incompetence of the post-war education system...so no change there then! We wish the company good luck at the Minack Theatre next week where most of the performances are already sold out.

The cast, taking a deserved round of applause:

 

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The Happiest Days Of Your Life, Global Theatre Company, June 2009