A local drama group is bringing pantomime to Broughton and District Club later this month.
The PADUTA Players will perform Tales of the Ribble Bank, a reimagining of the classic The Wind in the Willows: Tales from the Riverbank, on Saturday 24 January. Written by leading man, Fred Roberts, the pantomime will be directed by another cast member, Clare Burton-Johnson.
The story centres on the ever-adventurous Toad, whose love of excitement lands him in a series of predicaments. Along the way, he encounters a band of wily weasels and lots of other woodland creatures, including a wise owl.
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Formed in 2014, the PADUTA Players is part of Preston U3A (University of the Third Age), a national organisation for retired and semi-retired people. The group produces two shows each year, and rehearses every second and fourth Monday afternoon at Galloway Hall in Fulwood.
All PADUTA Players productions are written by members of the group. Last summer’s show, Bonsoir! Bonsoir! – Déjà Vu was a sequel to their original 2017 play based on the popular TV series ‘Allo ’Allo! and written by Gael Hughes-Jones. The performance incorporated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and featured community singing, individual audience tables, and decorations.
Gael said: “We always play to full houses and have a regular following of loyal supporters. At Broughton and District Club, the seating capacity is higher so we hope to encourage more people from the local area to attend.
“Our pantomimes are particularly popular. Although we don’t have children in the cast, we involve those in the audience and we can guarantee they will have a fun time.”
Gael added: “We’re always keen to encourage new members in all areas, such as directing, acting, backstage work (costumes, scenery, sound and lighting) or front of house.”
Tickets for Tales of the Ribble Bank are available by contacting Gael at gaelhj@yahoo.co.uk or 07747 094138. They are priced at £8 for adults and £5 for children.
Anyone interested in joining the PADUTA Players should first become a member of Preston U3A. Drama is just one of almost 60 activity groups on offer. Annual membership currently costs £12, with an additional £3 per group meeting.
More information can be found on the Preston U3A website.
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