Directed by Gareth Brighton

This Olivier award winning play has become one of Ayckbourn’s most popular and is in many ways a love letter to all of those amateur theatre groups around the country that put on his works.

The play follows Pendon Amateur Light Operatic Society attempting to put on a production of John Gay’sThe Beggar’s Opera, a satirical 18th-century tale of prostitutes, pimps and highwaymen. Quite a departure from their usual offerings!

Like all amateur societies PALOS attracts a mixed bunch of characters but all find the current production challenging. In comes Guy Jones, a widower, venturing into his first social contact after his wife’s untimely death. His effect on the society, particularly the ladies, has repercussions.

Ayckbourn cleverly weaves parallels between the people of ‘Pendon’ and The Beggar’s Opera’. The action is interspersed with scenes and songs from the Opera as we follow the progress from first rehearsal to opening night.

But the drama onstage is nothing compared to behind the scenes! Can Guy negotiate dodgy business deals, love interests, and his Welsh madcap director, and survive to opening night?!

‘Nobody really cares. Not in this country. Anything you want to mention’s more important than theatre to most of them. Washing their hair, cleaning their cars. This place, you tell them you’re interested in the arts, you get messages of sympathy. Get well soon.’