Review

Laying The Ghost: The Fairfield Players

In a world that has become uncertain, locally, nationally and internationally, it is important that the certainty of small localised village initiatives to promote fun and cultural matters continue. So it was I looked at my better half and booked two tickets to attend in late June an amateur drama production in the Memorial Hall of not-too-distant Stotfold. The Fairfield Players promised ‘Laying the Ghost’ a comedy by Simon Williams, a two act play to include a light supper served during the interval. Tickets were a very modest £10.00 each from the Box Office at: 01462 624369. It was one of my better decisions.

Externally Stotfold’s Memorial Hall was well situated for the purpose. Internally it was well-appointed and provided all that was physically required for good drama: a curtained stage; covered tables laid out in cabaret-style format with individual seats to accommodate informal groups of 8-10 patrons; lighting and amplification visible and ready to go; front of house persons taking tickets, guiding patrons to the seats, and building the various groups to give a wellfilled auditorium for the performers. It was all very informal and relaxed – but professionally executed as all important sight lines were maintained. Patrons chatted. There was that wonderful buzz of anticipation. Then the ceiling lights dimmed, the stage curtains opened on a well-lit and very credible set with actors present, each on her mark. The major roles were female, itself uncommon.

Simon Williams’ play was set in the communal area of Yew Tree House, a retirement home for theatrical people situated in its own grounds on England’s South Coast. It was both witty and funny – which is not an easy task to request of actors in general. Set in the present and over a single day, the play bowled along, revolving around resident Margot Buchanan’s 70th birthday – which she would prefer to ignore – several unexpected visitors, and her fellow resident and friend Freda Deacon, a somewhat strange psychic. The entire performance was well-directed, with both Acts unforced and very comfortable to watch. Some strong language, which had been flagged in advance, was appropriate to the occasion, serving also to convey a contemporary feeling to the production.

During the interval a simple but pleasant Ploughman’s Cheese Platter with a cold drink followed by strawberry gateaux was served to each patron. The service was quick, informal and efficient so that all table groupings were served almost simultaneously. There was time to eat, drink, chat and socialise. It was all very pleasant and enjoyable, complementing the on stage comedic drama we had all experienced.

The play, with eight characters, was produced and directed by Penny Mitchel who also performed the box office function and led the front of house arrangements. She also performed (most unobtrusively) the all-important prompt function when Stella Barnes as Margot Buchanan had a senior moment. This may even have been scripted since Stella Barnes did it so well and all those on stage in character were in fact seniors!

The acting, technical and administrative members of Fairfield Players brought all their individual and collective on-stage and off-stage talents together and delivered a relaxing evening of high quality amateur drama. They did that alongside delivering a very pleasant light supper in a convivial setting and all for the princely sum of £10.

Established in 1968, The Fairfield Players aim to perform at least 2-3 productions per year. On the evidence I witnessed with ‘Laying The Ghost’ – and with my better half as a second opinion – they are indeed well worth a visit. Their next production is scheduled for November. Long may they flourish. Hugh Pollock

The Fairfield Players on stage performing ‘Laying The Ghost’.

The Fairfield Players are based at the Memorial Hall in Stotfold.

For more information contact Penny Mitchell on 01462 624369