~ Previous Productions ~

2008 - The Winters Tale

2010 - Cymbeline, King of Britain

2009 - The Taming of the Shrew

Hatherop Castle

 

When, in 2006, The Taming of the Shrew was first mentioned as a possible play for the Cotswold Arcadians, three members suggested that it might not be a popular play since it has sometimes been criticised as demeaning to women.

 

However, in 2008 the membership chose the play for July 2009 and the auditions produced a promising cast. They soon proved their worth: parts were learnt in the opening weeks of rehearsal, fruitful ideas were developed, and high spirits welded together a successful team which gave our audiences high entertainment and performances of solid worth.

We were fortunate in having two principals with a great deal of experience of theatre and especially Shakespearean plays. They were reinforced by a cast whose members ranged from those who had trodden boards and grass for many years to those fresh out of school.

 

 

Behind the scenes three new volunteers as Production Coordinator, Stage Manager and Front of House Manager provided invaluable support given very willingly. Our veteran Wardrobe Mistress and her assistants worked tirelessly to ensure that the production was well dressed.

 

 

 

We were fortunate in having early access to the site, by courtesy of the Headmaster of Hatherop Castle School, and at other times the broad field behind Eastleach Village Hall provided a helpful substitute. Rain fell continuously during the days of performance so that anxious folk drove to Hatherop. As if by a miracle, the skies cleared, and on two occasions at 7.45pm a rainbow provided a backdrop to the Prologue. Gazebos and umbrellas provided a colourful panoply on the lawns demonstrating the fortitude and determination of our patrons at their picnics.

 

Our enthusiastic audiences ― more so on two sell-out nights ― gave our actors their true reward for the long and intensive commitment in that sweetest of sounds; their laughter and their applause.