June seems to be galloping away; well it does to those of us who are taking part in next month’s production. It’s that time in a production that every participant dreads when those words are uttered ‘Books down’. And although you know you have learnt your words and every time you recite them to the dog, cat or goldfish, they are perfect every time. But the real test comes when you have to try and fit your lines in with everyone else’s. You can guarantee that the person you are acting with won’t say their lines as you thought you might, they miss out a word, or they might even change one, which will completely throw you. So you end up begging the director for your book back just so you can keep up. Its just like a security blanket you had as a child, you know you don’t really need it and that you can probably manage without it, but the thought of being without it is absolutely terrifying.

‘Dead Funny’ is about to descend on the Tithe Barn in July. That’s the title that was suggested to put all the different one-act plays together. And although I would love to take the credit for it, I can’t, I’m not that clever. That accolade lies with Matthew Nobbs, so thank you to him. As the title might suggest there is a lot of humour, but I have to come clean and tell you that there might be some serious things going on too.

You may remember the titles that we are performing under the umbrella of ‘Dead Funny’. But don’t worry if you can’t I will run through them again. (It also helps to fill up this blank piece of paper!) The evening will begin with Murder Play by Brian J Burton. This takes place the morning after the night before. This can be a difficult time. But in this particular instance it has

proven quite catastrophic for one of the dinner party number, or has it? This will keep you guessing right up until the end, well, I hope so!

The second offering is Early Blight. This is the story of a mother and daughter, which might seem quite simple. But the mother has kept a secret from the daughter and it has a devastating effect on both of them. After that, we will allow you a slight rest with the interval. Refreshments and the bar will both be available. So after you return to your seat refreshed, it will be time for a bit of a laugh (hopefully).

We waltz into the second half with the play Dancers (ok I couldn’t resist it). This is the second one from Deckchairs by Jean McConnell. This is a tale of two more mature ladies trying to find love and failing dismally. Perhaps they are trying a bit too hard. And finally, Costa Del Packet by Anthony Booth. A bit of nostalgia for the good old days. Well, I’m not sure that these were the good old days; I don’t think I’d class the 1970’s as that, but maybe I was too young to enjoy them fully! This is the story of five women going on holiday abroad, which was unusual to say the least in those days. Unfortunately, not everything goes to plan!

Now all you need to be reminded of is the dates. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday 25th June. These are available from the box office on (01603) 737665, book early to avoid disappointment. The performances are taking place on Wednesday 23rd, Thursday 24th and Friday 25th July at 7.30pm at the Tithe Barn, Horstead. I do hope you will come along and see ‘Dead Funny’.

Jayne Downing