MY only previous knowledge of the East Devon village of Colyford was that it sold excellent cider, which we always purchased en-route to the Sidmouth Folk Festival during the 1980’s. Now, thanks to this thoroughly enjoyable production, I know a great deal more.
The evening began with an 1837 Goose Fair, where a 21st century audience found themselves surrounded by 19th century traders selling – yes, really – their wares and farmers and landowners hiring staff. The play then followed the fortunes of three families through the next 50 years, even including a ‘wedding feast’ for the entire audience.
As a history lesson (the play is based on a true story) and insight into the period it was fascinating, and despite the youth of most of the cast – 3 years to adult – it was performed with total commitment, enthusiasm and sincerity, and an impressive Devonian dialect. Projected backdrops depicted changes of scene well, and props and costumes gave a real flavour of the era.
Whilst it seems invidious to pick out individuals from such a large (30+) cast I must mention young Luke Miall, whose singing of several folk songs was a delight, and of course director Glenwood Carlyon, whose imagination and flair will be very much missed now that he has decided to take a back seat in the group’s activities.

Linda Kirkman
Courtesy of the Bournemouth Evening Echo