I FIND it very interesting that when two different drama groups stage the same play how their interpretations vary. Beaconsfield Theatre Group produced this popular play in a distinct and appealing format.

Well directed by Cassie Sharp and with some strong performances the audience were taken through a range of emotions from the sad and heart wrenching to the comic and light hearted as the story unfolds.

As John gets weaker the story darkens and after his death when the ladies of the W.I. much to the disapproval of the chairman decide to do a calendar to raise funds for a hospital settee for the patients waiting room in the cancer wing.

Some of the members embrace the idea with enthusiasm while others needed persuading but the end result was excellent with the ladies disrobing for a good cause with a few strategically placed props to retain their modesty in keeping with the W.I theme, cakes, knitting, flowers and the like.

The end of the story was uplifting with the projection of a field of sunflowers (John’s) favourite flowers on the backdrop. This was one of Beaconsfield Drama Group‘s best productions and they selected a very worthy cause for their retiring collection, they made in excess of £400 (some still to come in) for the Ian Rennie Hospice at Home- an excellent choice.