Over the last ten years I have been lucky enough to participate in many of the plays put on by the ETC. There are so many different roles to play when making a successful production- and it’s not always just about treading the boards you know! Sadly, due to my travel plans I was unable to audition for a part in Murder at Checkmate Manor so I was quite excited when on my return, I had a call from Maggie to see if I could help by taking on the role of the Dresser for the Boudrac performance. Of course, I jumped at the chance to be a part of the action again and even better – I was invited to join the lunch before the dress rehearsal so I could see exactly what my new role of a dresser entailed. I don’t think people realize just how much goes on behind the scenes and this was going to be my opportunity to learn!The five actresses take on several different characters which means rapid fire changes of costume throughout the proceedings. Luckily for me they had all rehearsed so well that that they knew exactly who they were, what they were doing and when! I was kept busy helping to pass costumes over the head or doing zips up, holding jackets for ease of putting on, or hanging clothes up again ready for their next outing. My most important part however was banging the gong after it had been announced dinner was served. If I say so myself – my timing was perfect and I banged with such gusto even people at the back row could hear it!🤣 Handing out the napkins, offering the glass of amber nectar and passing the gun were also part of my duties!After the stage lights were turned off and we sat around to a celebratory drink or two, I thought how lucky I was to be back in the fold of this talented and hard working group. Well done to the whole team!
Melodie Minty
