All eyes of the world are on a sleepy Suffolk village, as washed up Hollywood action star Jefferson Steele arrives to play King Lear, alongside a bunch of amateurs, the Stratford players. Tricked into thinking he was playing Lear in Stratford-upon-Avon by his agent, Jefferson must now navigate the chaotic world of amateur dramatics while also trying to repair his relationship with his daughter, Jessica.

A whole host of colourful characters are there to guide Jefferson on his journey to master one of Shakespeare’s greatest works.

Hi, my name’s Bethan and I’m playing Mary Plunkett, who is the owner of the local B&B in Stratford St John and an enthusiastic member of the Stratford Players. Playing Mary has been an absolute joy for me, never before have I played a character with so much, well, character.

Behind the scenes has been so much fun, the whole cast and crew are a family, we care and support each other and always encourage each other to be our best. Being part of the Cardiff Players, particularly this production, has given me so much confidence in my abilities as an actress. Our director Graham’s direction has been instrumental in building the world of the Stratford Players and its characters, but each actor has also brought their own personal touches that really bring the characters to life in many unique ways.

This production is not just full of laughs; it’s full of heart. Each and every cast member has put their all into making a fantastically funny and heartfelt production.

The Cardiff players will be presenting ‘A Bunch of Amateurs‘ at the Cardiff YMCA from the 26th of July to the 28th of July, 7:30pm and a 2pm Matinee on Saturday 28th.

Please come and support your local community theatre.

Bethan Harris, 25.