Deckchairs review

And, for the first time ever, BATS took their autumn production on a mini tour, performing at Battle Abbey Memorial Hall, Eastbourne and Underground Theatre, with final performances at Parkhurst Hall, Bexhill.

Deckchairs consists of four one act plays. Written by Jean McConnell, each play is a duologue for women set at various seaside locations.

Directed by Dorothy Webb, the plays, which the local am dram society chose to perform, were two comedies and two dramas and each had a twist in the tail.

Short Changed, a drama, tells the story of retired girl's school Headmistress, Miss Westlake, played by Rachel Steven, and the conversation she has with the administrator of an exclusive retirement home, Julia Griffith, played by Clare Sayers.

Miss Westlake is determined to gain a place at the retirement home, believing she can side-step any red tape, however Julia Griffith has other ideas on the matter as a tale from the past is recalled.

Rachel aptly portrayed the snooty Miss Westlake and Clare was totally convincing, appearing natural and relaxed in her role as the authoritative Julia Griffith.

Cupboard Love, a comedy, takes place on a seaside promenade. With Trish Daly as Peggy, Verena Bradbury as Jane, the play is described as 'a story embracing fitness and fatness'.

The two ladies played their roles to perfection, giving hilarious, natural performances, as they discussed food and the way to a man's heart '“ or perhaps not!

Following the interval was the comedy, Doggies. Taking the stage was the youngest member of the cast, Rebecca Bowley as Eleanor, and Sarah Burchell as Thelma.

The ladies not only had to remember lines but control wayward hand puppets, which the audience particularly enjoyed.

The evening ended with a drama, Last Post.

Meryl Beamont took the role of grieving widow Felicity Grant-Poole and Josephine Turnball played the devious Mary O'Reilly.

Following her husbands death, Felicity receives a letter from Mary which indicates that her long and happy marriage was a sham- or was it?

The evenings performances were clearly enjoyed by an appreciative audience.

For information on future productions or to join BATS contact the secretary on (01424) 843566, email: [email protected]