Culture clash at the racecourse in comedy coming to Kenilworth

The Talisman Theatre stages Ladies’ Day from Monday March 6 to Saturday March 11.

Written by Amanda Whittington in 2005, the play tells of fish-filleting foursome Pearl (Kathy Buckingham-Underhill), Jan (Caroline McCluskey), Shelley (Leigh Walker) and Linda (Emma Searles) from Hull. Work, love and life are just one long, hard slog for them, but their fortunes are set to change when Linda finds tickets to Ladies’ Day at Royal Ascot the year it relocated to York.

Talisman spokesman John Francis said: “Most of the reviews of this play remark on the well-drawn characters down to their obsessions with various singers, or catching a glimpse of the queen.

“The writer’s fine eye for the stresses and strengths of female friendships are keynote of the show. In a particularly enjoyable piece of casting, all of the male roles are all played by one actor, Ian Stares.”

Director Graham Underhill had many years living near York and enjoyed productions by Hull Truck, for which the play was originally written.

Graham said: “Hull Truck productions were, as the name suggests, originally toured with all scenery and props in the back of a truck.

“This means a lot is left to the imagination and the cast have to paint the scenes with words and movement. This piece is no exception and an exciting challenge to both cast and crew as we literally go to the races.”

The set design by Brian Tuck, who is also responsible for lighting, cleverly combines racecourse and factory in the original spirit of the production. The whole show runs under the stage management of June Bewick.

John added: “The theatre has selected a fine play to herald the end of winter and will remind us all that summer is on its way.

“Late bookers for the theatre’s previous five shows have often not been able to get seats so early booking is advisable.

The play runs each night with performances beginning at 7:.0pm.

Tickets cost £9 or £8.50. Call 856548 or visit talismantheatre.co.uk to book.