So we went to the show...

Last night "The Anastasia Files" was everything we expected, and more.

Royce Ryton's well-crafted play was given a stunning treatment by Poulner Players and we, along with the full house, were enthralled.

Alla Mills as Mrs Monahan captured our attention by her magnificent silences as much as by her passionate outbursts or desolate despair. We felt hers was an absolutely brilliant performance.

The huge range of characterisation and costuming required by the four actors who played varied and complex roles over a period of 60 years was also impressive. Dedication and competency shone throughout.

In our neck of the woods, we are very conscious that local drama can become a very amateur affair. Currently our little Paihia group is in recess. So it was really stimulating to be entertained so well by another group of Players.

This post started to be nothing to do with Local Shared Ministry. But since once seeing a West End Play we find ourselves tending to measure local drama up against that standard. Last night was right up there... You don't need size and budget and professionals to deliver the goods, either on stage on in the parish.