Last night 21 Ashdown Probus members and guests enjoyed an evening’s entertainment at the Rude Mechanicals' 2023 production “Miss Popplewell’s garden”. The weather forecast was for torrential rain so all were relieved to be advised earlier during the day that the Eastbourne-based outdoor theatre group had secured the Commemoration Hall in Wadhurst for the evening’s performance in place of a sodden primary school field. In the play we were transported back to 1940 following three teenage schoolgirls with themes of young love, snaffling strawberries from the garden of the play's title, a possible escaped convict and the Sussex countryside. The lengthy cast list hid the fact that there were only six extremely talented professional actors and musicians managing speedy and seamless costume and character changes throughout the play alongside playing a variety of instruments. All were brilliant but special mention has to be made of Colonel Pickles / PC Burt Branch whose facial expressions and faultless delivery were a joy to watch. Overall, a delightful evening’s entertainment. The group continue their Kent and Sussex touring throughout the Summer so if you didn't make it last night there are still chances to see this production elsewhere locally before the finale at Eastbourne at the end of August. Website: www.therudemechanicaltheatre.co.uk. Spoiler alert: There are no murders, bad language or distressing scenes in the play, just good old fashioned fun (so it will never be shown on Netflix!)
