Cash for village drama

THESPIANS in Waldron have received a cash windfall to help fund this summer's ambitious community play, The Smuggler's Tale.

THESPIANS in Waldron have received a cash windfall to help fund this summer's ambitious community play, The Smuggler's Tale.

Wealden District Council has announced that it is to provide a grant of 1,170 to support the village's dramatic efforts. The news comes just days after the community fund Awards for All revealed is was to award Waldron's performers the maximum grant of 5,000.

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The money will finance a professional director and scene designer, plus sound equipment, for the play. Added to that is cash already received from Heathfield and Waldron Community Association, Mayfield Festival and sponsorship from generous local companies.

Valerie Chidson, who wrote The Smuggler's Tale, welcomed the cash boost. She said: 'This means we are well on our way to covering our budgeted costs and means our treasurer Barry Russell can sleep soundly at night!'

The play, which will feature a cast of almost 100, will be performed in various locations in the village in July. Scene locations include outside the Star pub, inside the village church and an area near to the Rocks. Between each scene change the audience, of around 200 people, will up and move with the performers.

The Smuggler's Tale is set in Sussex during World War II but features 'flashbacks' to the late 18th Century. One of the pivotal characters in the play is the 18th Century diarist from East Hoathly, Thomas Turner.