A serious case of Mad Dogs and stiff upper lip is due to strike the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis.  A rare event is to take place on Friday 28th & Saturday 29th November 2008 when members from all the local amateur theatrical groups are coming together for special performances of “Cowardy Custard”.

Why are members of all these groups coming together to stage this sparkling revue ? To raise money for capital projects at the Marine Theatre – home to most of these groups' productions. Funds are urgently required to undertake vital improvements to the Front of House facilities at the popular “theatre with a view”.  What better way to contribute to these much needed projects than by buying tickets for what promises to be a most enjoyable entertainment ?

"It's great that we have been able to form a team of people who represent all Lyme's `am dram` groups”, says Nick Lawrence, Music Director of the show.  “The local societies provide a much appreciated service to our town but are reliant on the provision of a theatre in order to present their entertainments.   "Cowardy Custard" is an extra commitment for them.  As a Trustee I am most grateful for their generous efforts to raise money for improvement to the building."

Among the performers, audiences will recognise Jerry Smith (Community Players), Brian Rattenbury (Lyme Regis Pantomime Society), Anne King (Lyme Regis Dramatic Society), John Challis (Lyme Regis Operatic Society), Kelly Street (BOF Productions) and members of the highly acclaimed Lyme Youth Theatre.

“Cowardy Custard” is a kaleidoscopic revue of words and music by The Master, Sir Noel Coward. Put together for the Mermaid Theatre in the 1970s it features all the most well loved of Coward's songs, “Don't Put Your Daughter on the Stage”, “Mad Dogs and Englishmen”, “I Went to a Marvellous Party”, “The Stately Homes of England”, “Nina”, “Let's Do It: Let's Fall in Love” amid readings from his diaries, vignettes from his plays and many other well-known melodies. It makes for a lovely entertainment full of romance, comedy and irony.

The production is being organised by Howard Earl, with staging organised by Joyce Pomeroy and musical direction by the award-winning Nick Lawrence. Accompaniment will be centred around the brilliant pianistic skills of the Marine Theatre's Administrator, Stephanie Dommett.

With only three performances tickets should be keenly sought after.

Martin Diplock's in Broad Street, Lyme Regis (01297 445500) has kindly agreed to act as box office for this unique "coming together of local talent" Tickets are £8.50 for evening performances and £6 for the matinee.  For those outside Lyme Regis, tickets can be ordered from the website:  www.v4productions.org.uk.