New dates in April

Funtington Players have had to postpone their production of Entertaining Angels by Richard Everett, originally scheduled for November 24-28.

Director Barbara MacWhirter said: “Funtington Players have performed at West Ashling and Funtington District Hall for over 75 years. The hall closed for several years in the 1960s for essential repairs and underwent major renovation this summer.

“Work was due to finish in mid-October, but unforeseen problems required additional work, delaying completion by several weeks. Changes to the hall’s dimensions also require an assessment of possible adjustments to the Players’ fixtures and fittings, including the raked seating.

“With performances planned for late November, there would not be enough time to complete any necessary adjustments, so the production has been postponed until spring.”

Barbara expressed her disappointment, noting that rehearsals had been progressing well. Barbara also highlighted the significance of the timing: the 20th anniversary of the play’s first performance at Chichester Festival Theatre, and the passing earlier this year of Dame Penelope Keith, who starred in it to universal acclaim.

“The production will now run from April 6–10 when Funtington Players look forward to welcoming audiences to the newly renovated hall.”