LOVERS?of costume dramas lapped up the delightful adaptation of Flora Thompson’s Lark Rise to Candleford when it was screened on the BBC several years ago.
The depiction of late 19th century English countryside and its rustic characters, taken from the author’s semi-autobiographical novels were an instant Sunday night must-see.
Her writings are having another moment now locally, with the 100th anniversary this year of her arrival in live in Liphook and to run the Post Office in London Road following her husband’s promotion to Postmaster.
The Thompsons lived in the village until 1927, and Flora wrote the first Guide to Liphook and Bramshott in 1925.
And, to celebrate this milestone, Headley Theatre Club is touring a production of Lark Rise, written by Keith Dewhurst and based on the book.
This was first performed at the National Theatre in London in 1978 ‘in promenade’ with live music.
Performances will be at six venues across the district: The Triangle Liss, on Friday, July 8, at 8pm; Liphook Village Hall, Saturday, July 9, at 2.30pm and 8pm; the Rural Life Centre, Tilford, on Sunday, July 10, at 2.30pm; Butser Ancient Farm, on Friday, July 15, at 8pm; Haslemere Museum, on Saturday, July 16, at 2.30pm; and at Headley Village Hall, on Saturday, July 16, at 8pm.
The touring company is made up of a 30-strong cast of amateur actors and musicians who have come together for Lark Rise.
Artistic director is Steve White who, in 2009, successfully directed a similar touring production of Candleford.
The lead parts of Laura and Edmund –?Flora and her brother Edwin –?are played by Emma Worman, who is aged 12, and Sid Levin (9).
They are reported to be enjoying their experience of being in a “big play”.
John Owen Smith, who has written a biography of Flora Thompson, and has two parts in the play, is also producer and historical consultant.
Tickets are available from the venues, on 01428 717358 or at www.headley-village.com/drama