“MANY a true word hath been spoken in jest.”

The next CODS production is gradually coming to the boil, and my goodness the cast are enjoying the rehearsals. There’s a lot of jesting, and indeed many a true word!

"A Bunch of Amateurs" by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman originated from the 2008 British film of the same name. The film, starring Burt Reynolds, Imelda Staunton and Derek Jacobi, has now taken on a new lease of life with the stage play and is proving very popular with its audiences.

So here’s the scenario … A somewhat faded, washed up, vainglorious Hollywood actor comes to England as his agent has managed to get him the ultimate acting role.

He’s to play King Lear in Shakespeare’s powerful play. Not only that, he’s playing the part in Stratford! As an opportunity to revive one’s career, it doesn’t get much better does it? King Lear at Stratford, now that’s something to relish.

There’s just one small problem. Unfortunately his agent is either unaware of English culture, or his geographical knowledge of the country leaves a lot to be desired. The Stratford in question is sadly not “Upon Avon”, it’s just a little less well-known.

Stratford St John is a small village tucked away deep in the county of Suffolk. There is no Swan Theatre, but a little less magnificent local hall, that has seen better times.

The Hall is nevertheless much-loved by the local Am Dram group who work hard to keep it open. This motley bunch of enthusiasts are an interesting group of personalities, all with their own individuality, and their own hang ups!

Steve Moore takes a lead role in the play as Jefferson Steele, the Hollywood actor.

He nearly stole the show as Hodgson, the gardener, in last year’s play "Love from a Stranger". It was a small part, if you can describe anything relating to Steve as small, but he certainly made the most of it! Doffing his cap so politely and ‘umbly giving the lady of the house flowers from his garden.

So now he’s back with us again as Jefferson Steele, whose character traits are rather similar to another American who, all too regularly, appears on our daily newscasts.

Steve has been involved in shows for many years. He has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe and appeared in TV productions. Recently he’s been in "A few Good Men”, "Allo Allo", “Oliver!" and "Calendar Girls".

As a considerable bonus, Steve has also brought his partner Tracey to join him in this play. She takes on the role as director of the Stratford Players and is the driving force behind the survival of their theatre.

But more of Tracey, and others anon!

“Verily why dost thou not come along and jest with us?”

"A Bunch of Amateurs" will be performed at QE Upper School (Western Road) from Wednesday, October 24 to Saturday, October 27.

Tickets are available from the Box Office link on CODS website: www.codsonline.com and from Olivia James in the High Street. Telephone 01363 777968.

Mike Palmer