This year's play was Surprise Package, a farce by Duncan Greenwood and Derek Parkes (see below for the plot). The entire cast had the opportunity of exploring their talent for comedy acting and I think it is very fair to say the result was fantastic, especially as the whole play was blocked, rehearsed and performed in just a fortnight. As usual, the performance nights were the finale for us acting and doing backstage work, all our hard work was definitely worth while as we had so much fun performing in front of great audiences each night, so thank you to all who came to watch us.

The main publicity events included street performing in Culver Square Colchester; where we did a small excerpt from Surprise Package in front of the public every 15 minutes, and an interview live on air at BBC Essex which was a fantastic experience for the three of us that went.

Wivenhoe Youth Theatre is always looking for new members, so if you think this sounds like the type of fun you would like to be part of then please feel welcome to give us a call. No experience is needed so as long as you are 12-21 years old and have a love or longing to act and do backstage work as well, then you will be very welcome! If you are not stage struck and would just like to gain experience in backstage work then come along as well, because acting is not compulsory!

For more information about the next meeting please contact Hilary Lazell [ ], or John Pendle [ ] or if you would like to speak to a current member about their experience then call Kathy Jones on 07941 467431.

The Basic Plot of Surprise Package

Two separate families and a German have arrived at The Pension Maria Hotel in Fomenter (the smallest of the Balearic Islands).

Over the course of three days each suffers from love, loss or language problems as they come to terms with the various foreign customs of Mediterranean life; first is Frizz, closely followed by Alfred, Nor and then Elise.

Grandma constantly claims that they should of gone to Blackpool, On tries to patch things up with his ex-fiancée, Gloria and Milder, the widow, thinks she has found new love in the young and charming Mr. Grotto; who really should do something about the wind in his pipes!!

Jaunt, with the help of Roseate is left to keep everybody happy by any means possible. Whether it is a free drink or the loan of oilskins, they manage to make the guests content.