2018 saw another milestone in the history of FDS as it celebrated its 75th anniversary and performance of over 200 productions since ‘The Ghost Train’ in 1943.
The season began last October with ‘Baggage’ directed by Holly Seijo. This slick American comedy from the pen of Sam Bobrick in the style of Neil Simon kept the audience laughing throughout and proved to be a popular hit.
The mood changed in February as Robin Walker directed ‘Strictly Murder’, a thriller set in France at the outbreak of WWII. Typical of writer Brian Clemens, it kept a very appreciative audience guessing until the final pages. It also saw a very accomplished debut from new member Chris Franks, as the evil Ross. Chris stepped in a week into rehearsal after the unlucky Martin Dale snapped a tendon in his foot. Nevertheless, the show still went on!
The season ended in May with Mark Hollidge directing Eric Chappell’s dark but extremely comic ‘Natural Causes’, a performance which was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience and was the FDS entrance to the Bromley Theatre Guild Full Play Festival. Martin returned to the stage playing the cycling samaritan, despite his foot not recovering as quickly as hoped and an NHS support boot playing a supporting role. However, once again, the show went on!
FDS were delighted to receive two nominations for the festival, for props and Martin Dale’s performance, along with his boot!
Following on from a successful season, FDS celebrated 75 years of friendship and fun with a celebratory dinner (and a few classes of wine) at Chapter One at the end of June. We were delighted to be joined by some of ex members, who still make the journey, no matter how far, to join us at every performance.
If you feel like having a go on stage or backstage please feel free to get in touch. Call our secretary Nicola Hollow on 07900014697 or email fds@fdsfarnborough.co.uk