BY the time this article goes to press CODS members will have really got their sleeves rolled up! The show opens on April 9, just over a week from this "Courier" publication date.

We will already be working hard creating what you could call a "pop up" theatre. Friday will be the second day of our "get in" (Don’t you just love those theatrical terms!)

It takes nearly a week to build the set, light it, set up the sound, the band, backstage and all the seating etc.

We transform the hall at QE Lower School (Barnfield campus) into a real theatre. Even the school staff that have been to our shows don’t recognise the place. It gets a real makeover as many of our supporters and followers know.

I wonder which setting we will use this year? Will it be "in the round" or facing the stage?

As our previous articles have stated "Witchfinder" is based on fact. The trial of the "Witches of Pendle" really did happen.

The year was 1612 and the England of James 1st was a turbulent place. There was always a power struggle as those with that power sought to influence the King and seek his favour.

Governing the more distant parts of the realm was not easy, and when the news of the "lawless" people in Lancashire reached the court, an unstoppable chain of events was set in place that has sent echoes down through the last four hundred years.

"Witchfinder" tells this story through the lives of those involved, highlighted by music that will either stir your soul, or bring a tear to your eye, probably both. Definitely a "mascara" warning for this show!

But what of the actors involved? Who are they and what parts do they play? Let’s meet a few.

Captain James Roberts, sent to escort the Kings’ magistrate. He leaves behind his fiancée, Lady Sarah Owen. James is played by Andy Kirby who joined CODS for “Made in Dagenham” where he played the part of Eddie, the somewhat clueless but good natured husband of Rita.

He followed this with his performance as the "mystery man" in “Love from a Stranger”. Then came his pièce de résistance, "Snow White and the Six and a Halve Dwarves". Andy was responsible for CODS first ever Panto, which was a great success as well as great fun.

In "Witchfinder" Andy’s role is quite different, as dramatic as it is romantic.

Lt. Edward Sykes, accompanies James as his second in command. Edward is played by Ben Edgecombe who is no stranger to CODS, though he does make a habit of working his way around the world on cruise ships between his performances! Ben has been with the society since he was the tender age of 12 and has played many roles since his first appearance as the boy Harry in "The Hired Man". In Pendle Edward Sykes finds that life has new challenges and new love. He must address his conscience... and his heart.

Catherine Howard is one feisty lady. It is she who defies the authority of the Kings’ Magistrate, Roger Nowell.

She is played by Tasha Currie who joined CODS in 2011 when she was Lucinda in “Viva Mexico”.

Alizon Device, though not outwardly as strong as Catherine, is nevertheless her constant friend. She is played by Buffy May who will be no stranger to CODS audiences, in particular those who support our September Evenings.

Roger Nowell is the magistrate sent North by the King. He is ruthless and ambitious and sees a way to make a name for himself at the expense of the people of Pendle. He is played by Adam Carpenter.

Lady Sarah Owen leads a life about as far away from the people of Pendle as you could imagine. As James’s fiancée she sees him ride North and life is never the same again for her. Sarah is played by Steph Morgan, who will also be known to our regular audiences.

As Lady Sarah she shows the vast contrast between the different ends of society in 1612.

Then there’s Jenet Device. She is Alizon’s younger sister and her innocence is key to the plot as our audiences will discover. Jenet is portrayed by Rosie Reynolds (11) and this is the first occasion that Rosie has appeared with us.

Of course there are numerous other facets to the story played by many other talented members of CODS. Individually they involve us in the action, through dramatic scenes and even funny moments. Collectively they swell into a chorus that really will have you gripping your seats. We keep saying the music in this show is quite simply stunning.

But there’s only one way to appreciate this. Please come and share the "Witchfinder" experience with us. You won’t regret it.

In the first article about this show we mentioned that it was the most favourite musical production of the National President of NODA. That’s the main man of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association. He has reserved his seats for the Tuesday night performance. In fact when we asked if he would like to comment in advance of his visit, here’s what he said: "As the President of NODA I get to be invited to amazing productions all over the UK and to enjoy some of the astounding hard work that local amateurs put into entertaining their communities.

"I feel sure that CODS production of ’Witchfinder’ will be no different.  I look forward to attending the Tuesday evening performance – along with the rest of what I hope will be a full house.  Don’t miss out on this fabulous opportunity.

"CODS are renowned for their innovative approach to shows of all varieties.  The group particularly excels in works that need realistic characterisation and powerful storytelling.

"With their ever changing design ideas and their reliance on strong singing this musical is ideally suited to them.  “Witchfinder” is a powerful story and will suck you in.   One quickly identifies with the characters and recognises the political machinations of the various parties.  And all the while there are the wonderful soaring melodies and harmonies of the stunning score.  CODS will surely do justice to the music leaving no heart untouched.”

"Witchfinder" is performed by CODS from April 9 to 14, performances at 7.30pm at QE Lower School (Barnfield campus).

Tickets are available from Olivia James, High Street, Crediton, telephone 01363 777968 or go online at: www.codsonline.com and click our Box Office button.

Mike Palmer