Song of the Day 1: Atari Pilot

Irregularly I share a music video to our Facebook page with the status “song of the day,” or week, or whenever, as if it’s a daily occurrence. When the reality is it’s a big, fat fib on my part, it’s only when I happen to find such a video and can be arsed to share it. What-cha gonna do, sue me?

So, just in case your lawyer says you have a case, I thought I’d streamline this sporadic idea for 2021, make it an actual feature on the site rather than a Facebook post, and show off that I know what long words like “sporadic” mean.

Little more gone into it than this, you should be used to it by now. I’m not going to review them, just embed them here for your own appraisal and entertainment purposes. Potentially, it’ll be a groundbreakingily breif post, a simple but effective phenomenon, and something I can do without missing the Simpsons.

The challenge is consistency; whether I actually stick to the idea or, like others, it’ll be a flash in the pan. Who knows, this could be the start of something beautiful, this could be the thing they’re talking about in decades to come. A holographic Ken Bruce could be asking “what was the very first Devizine Song of the Day” in a Pop Master 200 years from now.

And you can answer it with who I bestow this honour, Atari Pilot. They’ll be revelling in the triumph of the hour if it wasn’t lockdown, I bet.

History in the making then, the only issue I foresee is I over-waffle any old crap, which is, incidentally, not what’s happening now and rarely does here; I had to explain myself, didn’t I?

Okay, I get message; here it is then, enjoy the tune, enjoy the rest of your evening. Good job, carry on.

  • Devizes Residents; Glue Chattering Teeth Toys To Market Cross!

    Our trustworthy Gazelle & Herod reported today that “disgraceful” behaviour in Devizes Market Place has elevated into a dental issue….

    Publishing an article which states the police are frustrated by the issue, they quote an Inspector, who said The Public Spaces Protection Order “has given them certain useful powers, but lacks teeth, and has yet to solve the problem,” as ze kriminalassistent pours away a can of booze he nicked off a thirsty hobo, for kicks.

    Are we to assume the blame lies with sugary doughnuts washed down with Coca-Cola? This Public Spaces Protection Order should’ve listened to its dentist when it was little. Where’s Oral B brand ambassador Holly Willoughby when you need her? Perhaps dentists might be able to help, if dental implants would suffice? Or could we, as concerned residents, come up with a better plan?

    While I’m willing to accept they’re not real teeth, just joke ones, and we don’t like jokes in Devizes, and get banned from Facebook pages for posting them, I think I have the perfect suggestion, bearing in mind we’re all a bunch of petty whinging geriatrics with some serious first world problems here.

    I call upon Devizes Town Council to glue chattering teeth toys to the base of the Market Cross, which would bite the bums of anyone congregating there; job a good ‘un. Thanks for the tip off, trustworthy Gazelle & Herod!

    I thought I’d pop down there, see what these hooligans think of that plan. So I’m at the Market Cross in Devizes, the centre of a town financially based on the production of alcohol, where, not so long ago, folk were encouraged to drink en masse, in a ritual called the rite of Black Rat Monday, ironically on the very spot the trouble is listed as being.

    Hooligans invade Market Place

    Where a filthy Potterne fibber was once struck down by the wrath of god for trying to swindle a market trader out of some wheat, 273 years ago. Makes you wonder if there’s always been anti-social issues there, and if one day in a far flung future, there might be a plaque erected in memory of the pisshead who snapped a begrimed fingernail while swiping a pouch of Benson & Hedges from Sainsburys.

    But all I saw there was one lonely guy, (pictured below,) sitting, talking gibberish to himself. Speaking in tongues, it sounded like he was upset with a local shop over a proposed zebra crossing, politicising a playpark, and frustrated over a byelection seat his party are bound to lose unless he really steps up his game and uses national political point-scoring tactics at a local council. I felt sorry for the guy, as he wasn’t causing a real problem (provided no one takes his balderdash seriously,) and he had a fine set of gnashers for his age.

    Maybe it is help that some of these people congregating there need, not public condemnation via social media? A social hub, or something to do, like a job, community service, or a dentistry course. Oh, if only there was a tinman councillor with a heart, but I’ve got a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore, Toto.

    But, in conclusion to my meticulous research, isn’t this a storm in a teacup? Police patrol, and if they see something happening they go and sort it out; that’s pretty much the way it has worked since Sir Robert Peel’s era, two-hundred years ago. Perhaps, just perhaps, provided no one is actually causing trouble there, we could live our lives and let others live theirs, or move to Kyiv, where their problems are such that they’re unlikely to bat an eyelid over some drunks loitering.

  • Devizes Brickley Lane Play Area Public Consultation

    Devizes Town Council would like to hear your views on the proposed scheme for the Brickley Lane Play Area…

    They are inviting residents and the local community to share their feedback. The consultation closes on the 30th September 2026.

    The Town Council is proposing to refurbish the Brickley Lane Play Area, which has been closed for approximately two years following concerns about the safety and condition of the existing equipment.

    The Council has worked with Sport and Play Consulting, specialist playground consultants, to develop the project and has subsequently undertaken an open competitive tender exercise. Three tenders were received and evaluated against the Council’s published criteria. Wicksteed achieved the highest overall evaluation score and has therefore been identified as the Council’s preferred tenderer.

    Again we sadly find these small issues being politicised by the Devizes Conservatives. You should note, the working party steering this project is made up of a cross-section of Devizes Town Councillors, not just those Conservative councillors mentioned on bias Facebook group, Devizes Issues.

    The proposed scheme is designed to provide a challenging, active and enjoyable play environment for a broad age range, from toddlers through to teenagers. The design provides a range of different types of play, including climbing, balancing, swinging, sliding and other physical and exploratory activities.

    The existing mound and mound slide will be retained as part of the refurbished play area, with opportunities to incorporate additional play and activity around the mound. This existing natural feature will continue to form an important part of the character and play experience of the site.

    The proposed scheme includes a large multi-play unit, swings, a basket swing, roundabout, horizontal bars, balance and agility features, and other elements intended to encourage active and imaginative play. The eastern section of the site also provides opportunities for features such as a zip wire and rope swing.

    Accessibility has also been considered within the scheme. The existing pathway will be retained and improved, and the proposal includes an accessible picnic table connected to the pathway by hardstanding, together with accessible seating provision. The combination of wetpour safety surfacing, grass matting and turf provides different surfaces appropriate to the site and equipment.

    The scheme also seeks to provide a durable and sustainable facility with manageable ongoing maintenance requirements. The specification requires predominantly steel or similarly robust play equipment rather than timber, with consideration given to longevity of equipment, replacement of parts and minimising ongoing repair and maintenance costs. The proposed benches are to be made from steel or recycled plastic.

    Visit this link, where you can also access the consultation survey

  • The Bayeux Tapestry: In-Conversation Event in Frome

    In 2027, British Museum exhibition curator Michael Lewis and medieval historian Janina Ramirez will be appearing at Frome’s Cheese & Grain for an exclusive talk on The Bayeux Tapestry….

    This special event invites audiences behind the scenes of one of the most talked about exhibitions in recent history. On Saturday 6th March 2027, join the British Museum’s Bayeux Tapestry exhibition curator Professor Michael Lewis and medieval historian Professor Janina Ramirez for an enthralling discussion on one of the world’s greatest medieval treasures.

    Learn about the tapestry’s rich storytelling, handcrafted details and extraordinary history across the centuries. Hear which threads, characters and scenes fascinate Janina and Michael the most and uncover your new favourite fact about this remarkable embroidery.

    Professor Michael Lewis is Curator of The Bayeux Tapestry and former Head of Portable Antiquities and Treasure at the British Museum. He’s a Visiting Professor in archaeology and social humanities at the universities of Exeter, Reading and Helsinki, with a particular interest in medieval small finds. Lewis has written many articles and several books on the Bayeux Tapestry, including The Story of the Bayeux Tapestry (2021) with David Musgrove. He’s a member of the Bayeux Tapestry scientific committee, which helps advises on the interpretation and display of the Tapestry at the Bayeux Museum.

    Professor Janina Ramirez is a best-selling author, presenter, lecturer and researcher. She is Director of Studies for History of Art at Harris Manchester College, University of Oxford, and Visiting Professor in Medieval Studies at the University of Lincoln. She has published widely on medieval history, art and literature, has written both fiction and non-fiction for adults and younger readers, and has taught and researched across a broad chronological sweep, covering everything from the sculptures of antiquity to post-modern architecture. She has also written and presented documentaries across the world for over 15 years, including ‘Raiders of the Lost Past,’ ‘The Private Lives of Kings,’ and ‘Art Lovers Guide’. 

    This event includes an audience Q&A and book signing with both authors.


    Tickets are on sale now:     https://www.seetickets.com/event/the-bayeux-tapestry-a-conversation/cheese-and-grain/3722718

    Date: Saturday 6th March 2027

    Time: 1.30pm, doors 1pm

    Venue: The Cheese & Grain, Frome

    TICKETS

    Tickets are priced at £14 adults, £10 under 16s (plus booking fee)

    The Bayeux Tapestry: a conversation with Michael Lewis (British Museum) & medieval historian Janina Ramirez

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  • What’s on at the Wharf Theatre in October?

    OCTOBER at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes arrives with a burst of creativity, variety and irresistible entertainment. This month’s programme showcases everything that makes the Wharf Theatre such a beloved cultural home: bold theatre, international film, Shakespearean drama, laugh‑out‑loud comedy and the soaring power of live opera. It’s a rich, colourful season designed to surprise, delight and keep audiences coming back for more…..

    The month begins on 1st October at 7.30pm, when Devizes Film Club presents the award‑winning foreign‑language treasure Fremont. Quietly powerful, gently humorous and visually striking, Fremont has earned international acclaim for its delicate storytelling and emotional depth. This is world cinema at its finest—thoughtful, human and beautifully crafted. For film lovers, it’s an unmissable start to the autumn season.

    From 8th–10th October at 7.30pm each night, the spotlight shifts to the 17th‑century stage with Playhouse Creatures, April De Angelis’ celebrated play exploring the lives of the first women to perform professionally in English theatre. Brought vividly to life by local company 3rdThird Theatre, this production blends wit, grit and historical insight, celebrating the resilience, rivalry and sheer determination of the women who changed theatre forever. Expect passion, humour and a compelling ensemble performance.

    On 18th October at 8pm, jealousy takes centre stage as Shakespeare Live presents Shakespeare’s Green Eyed Monster. This dynamic collection of scenes dives into the Bard’s most gripping explorations of envy—from simmering suspicion to explosive rage. Performed by a talented local company with a reputation for clarity, energy and accessibility, it’s a thrilling way to experience Shakespeare’s emotional fireworks up close.

    Laughter erupts on 23rd October at 7.30pm, when Hambledon Productions bring their professional touring show The Phantom Raspberry Blower of Old London Town to Devizes. Inspired by Spike Milligan and Ronnie Barker’s iconic sketch, this riotous stage adaptation promises gleeful silliness, sharp satire and a lovingly chaotic romp through Victorian London. It’s comedy with heritage—and guaranteed hilarity.

    The month concludes with operatic splendour as White Horse Opera return from 27th–31st October with La Traviata, Verdi’s timeless masterpiece. Featuring soaring melodies, sumptuous costumes and a talented amateur cast from across Wiltshire, this production offers all the romance, tragedy and musical brilliance that have made La Traviata one of the world’s most cherished operas. It’s a perfect autumn treat for seasoned opera‑goers and newcomers alike.

    And before the Wharf transforms for its magical Christmas production of Peter Pan, there’s one November gem you won’t want to miss: Don Quixote (is a very big book) by Opposable Thumb Productions. Fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe and presented in association with DOCA, this inventive, anarchic and joyously theatrical retelling of Cervantes’ epic is a whirlwind of imagination and comic brilliance.

    October at The Wharf Theatre is packed with stories, music, laughter and unforgettable performances.

    Join us—your next great night out is waiting in Devizes. www.wharftheatre.co.uk/show/

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  • Dinosaurs at Jurassic Hillworth Park!

    Images: Jess Worrow

    Ah, for the connotations of US drive-in movie theaters, now in decline over the pond, but embedded as characteristic romantic americana; the rock n roll era, waking up little Suzie, and Danny Zuko making his move on Sandy while a monster movie plays on a giant screen in the background. It was folklore Brits forever envied….

    Okay, yesterday evening at Hillworth Park in Devizes wasn’t precisely like that for their annual open air cinema experience! Replace the Chevrolets and Cadillacs with collapsible camping chairs and blankets and pillows, rock n roll with Was not Was and whatever songs about dinosaurs Fantasy Radio could dig up, and the “Snack-N-Vue” with homegrown outlets like Piña Colada connoisseurs The Muck & Dunder, Freddy’s Juice Bar and of course the in-house, fabulously tasty SoupChick.

    But what else could I possibly compare this unique event to?! Awaiting twilight, the park appeared more like a local music festival more than any cinematic jaunt. Apparently US drive-ins held grand fairs to entertain, and tire children before sundown too. As well as the everyday features of our fabulous town garden, we also had waddling dinosaurs chasing children through the park; terrifyingly simple but effective!

    Yet, this doesn’t compare to the contemporary soulless experience of a trip to a modern cinema; buy tickets online, flash your phone at a scanner on the door and collect your popcorn from a vending machine. You don’t utter a word to another human!

    Pricey merchandise thrust into your kid’s faces, and overpriced one-size-fits-all popcorn buckets the dimensions of a cathedral, are standard at multiplexes. Here it’s a moderate portion of popcorn for three coins, and merch only exists on those already dressed for the occasion in Jurassic Park t-shirts brought elsewhere. The word of the day is communal, for it was a little Devizes thing, where you rub shoulders with friendly faces, and that’s like no other cinematic pleasure I’ve experienced.

    Congratulations to Hillworth Park and Devizes Town Council, for the age demographic was plenary, the atmosphere adventurous and although stars were amiss with an overcast sky, rain thankfully didn’t show. But mostly, the film choice was apt; a movie set in a park, in a park, where a dad playfully pretends he’s a T-Rex, blowing raspberries on the belly of his captured prey, his giggling son, makes priceless memories.

    Jurassic Park was democratically decided upon. Civic & Community Engagement Manager for Devizes Town Council, Cherry Rosalind Cullen explained, “the public were invited to vote on which film they would like to see, and we had a total of eight films to choose from. The result was neck and neck between Jurassic Park and Dirty Dancing. As it was tied, we held an additional poll to determine the winner.”

    I’m content, for Dirty Dancing is not my cuppa, and certainly doesn’t touch the sides of the universal appeal of Spielberg’s 1993 masterpiece. This is the event’s sixth occasion since the first in 2019. “For our Twilight Cinema events,” Cherry informed me, “we have always given the public the opportunity to choose the film.”

    The unrivalled skill of Spielberg returned to me rewatching this after years of questionable sequels and rehashing; to adapt Michael Crichton’s relatively gruesome techno-horror novel, into a family-friendly sci-fi, is reflected in a modern franchise where, while plots remain similar, total CGI erases the authenticity of its suspense somewhat. There’s the jumpscare elements of Jaws in the original Jurassic Park, ingeniously combined with ET’s nurturing warmness. And gen z looks upon clunky vintage CGI like gen x does scratchy vinyl.

    The plot also captures a period of Dolly the sheep, where the possibilities of genetic cloning were open to interpretation for the most imaginative fiction authors. Of course, cloning dinosaurs is now regarded as impossible, that’s the fantastical point! There’s a funny dinosaur chasing kids around Hillworth Park; that’s more important here than scientific evidence; killjoy!

    “This isn’t just a film night,” Hillworth Park said, “it’s a chance to experience the magic of cinema in the heart of Hillworth Park, under the stars.”

    And the description fitted, it was certainly popular and a safely organised friendly evening. In a town where you’ll be sent to Facebook jail for enquiring when the cinema might reopen, this is a brilliant incentive!

    I confess, with regard to the cinema, I might’ve jinxed it, for which I humbly apologise. Living in Marlborough we craved for the flicks, I moved here delighted we had a cinema. It closed and one opened up in Marlborough! As if you ever needed an excuse to tell me to pack my bags! But, hey, you should know by now I like to cast my beady eye over happenings here, you don’t have to read them. This was something a little different for us to cover, and I’m delighted to report it was a fantastic family occasion!

  • 3 Daft Monkeys Jumping on The Barge at Honeystreet

    I can be sent an album, review it because I love it, and put the artists atop of my cognitive must-see list. Although the list will grow as time progresses, I’m the elephant with a knotted trunk, awaiting some legendary local venue to announce, yeah, we’ve got these guys coming…… 

    In this case the legendary venue is the most apt for this act locally, it is the worshipped Barge on Honeystreet, and the band are the cider-infused Cornish scrumpy & western choir with a message to breakneck Balkan beats, 3 Daft Monkeys; I’m jumping on this bed and if I hit my head I’m waiting for no mama to call the doctor…..

    It seems the further west country you trek, across thar cider border, the crazier folk meshed danceable energy embellishes, with carefree counter-culture vibes. But, slightly eastwards to us there’s the remaining outpost of sanity, rejecting today’s mangled status quo and botched mainstream society. For those in agreement, The Barge is a temple, and a wharfside campsite, holding a spiritual synergy of its own making, and perhaps a few crop circles.

    If I’m going to see 3 Daft Monkeys on my doorstep, there isn’t a better place to do so. So, Saturday 26th September marks the occasion, owner Lenny No Strings supports. Lenny and his team have continued the authentic nonconformist vibe of the place, and transformed The Barge into the kind of place we’d have wanted it to be back in the nineties, with a homely festival vibe.

    It’s been two years since I fondly reviewed Information Camouflage, 3 Daft Monkey’s 2024 album, and I’m delighted for the possibility of finally catching them live. At the time they described their latest release as “a rich, life-affirming tapestry that masterfully blends world folk inspirations with wild punk-infused energy and modern storytelling,” and I could only agree. I said Information Camouflage called to me, as I “yearn for the alternative, the quirky and curious counterculture,” and it bears such hallmarks. I made reference to its melting pot, citing punk, ska, gypsy folk and bonkers west country underground. I hailed its frenzied fiddles, frivolous beats, poignant messages and its dreamy psychedelic vaudeville.

    I also said at the time; “all this album has done, other than entertain me highly, is confirm that, if they were playing a festival I’m at, and my mates wanted to go do something different, I’d be saying “see you later,” and making haste for the stage 3 Daft Monkeys are on!” But unfortunately that didn’t happen, I’m not getting any younger, so I hope to be there.

    I mean, I could scribe a few words about this event, probably I will, because that’s standard issue with me now, like a lost little diarist. But don’t leave me lonely there, waiting for me to tell you what you missed! Tickets are HERE. 

  • “Playhouse Creatures” at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, October 8th-10th – A preview

    by Ian Diddams

    images by Simon Hoy

    This tragi-comic play, set in 1660s London, focuses on the first English actresses allowed on stage after the Restoration. It explores the lives, struggles and camaraderie of five women navigating a male-dominated world, dealing with sexual exploitation, ageing, and the fight for artistic freedom. Bawdily funny yet profound, Playhouse Creatures explores the pitilessness of ageism and the need for economic independence. The play highlights the harsh realities of the early theatre scene, where actresses were often seen as ‘animals’ or ‘creatures’, rather than respected professionals. [ 3rd Third Theatre ]

    While April de Angelis’ play is – as above – set in the second half of the seventeenth century, and there are mentions to historical events of that period – the beheading of Charles I, Charles II, the plague, the Great Fire of London – as well as references to the contemporary theatre still of Shakespeare – nonetheless the real messages and contexts of its story are universal throughout time, including the present day. Its really about the patriarchal oppression of the female of the species, and only somebody that is living in a cave could fail to recognise that these women’s struggles are reflected in issues facing women almost four hundred years later than the play’s timeline. And then within those broadest of divisions, are portrayed further social demographics between the women of the story… of class differences.

    Some of the characters are actual historical figures, others a melange of types, none more so than the nominative deterministically named Doll Common. Played by Louise Peak, she represents the working class and is an everywoman – cleaner, dresser, messenger et al

    Elizabeth Farleigh, played by Sophie Kerr, is a societally acceptable woman, somewhat disdainfully interacting with those she sees as beneath her social position. However, she falls from grace and ends up as one of the under-class she previously showed open contempt for. Mary Betteton, delivered by Wendy Dophiede, is the matriarch of these women – a long-standing actress of note and phenomenal palmarès, whose husband ran the theatre they performed in… and who fell from her pedestal when replaced by younger, prettier actresses.

    Nell Gwynn, portrayed by Grace Sheridan, probably the most well known today of the characters portrayed is a rags to riches story of commoner to leading actress and eventually a kept woman by King Charles II, while Rebecca Marshall, represented by Freddie Underwood, uses her connections as an actress to socially climb by marrying an Earl… to end up shunned by society as she is first tricked by a man, and then accused of a heinous crime.

    Five women, all under the control of men, trying to escape their lot… and all in differing ways ending up still oppressed by the patriarchy whether they rose, fell or trod water in life

    Five women, five stories, loosely intertwined. “Playhouse Creatures” is so much more than just five timelines though. It is funny, shocking, dramatic, poignant. These five actors and director Debby Wilkinson have together brought a black box performance to life, in the debut performance by new kid on the block, “3rd Third Theatre”.

    You can catch this rather super production in a few weeks time at

    The Wharf Theatre, Devizes between October 8th and 10th, tickets available from https://www.ticketsource.com/the-wharf-theatre/playhouse-creatures/e-jpykpl

  • Halloween Firewalk for Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance

    Would you dare to join Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance at their airbase on Friday 30 October 2026 for an unforgettable Firewalk Challenge?

    Feel the buzz, face your fears, and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush as you walk barefoot across hot embers beneath the autumn night sky – all while supporting Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance’s lifesaving work…..

    Firewalk 2026


    This spooky season, Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance say “we’re turning up the heat, and asks you to join them at their airbase for an unforgettable Firewalk Challenge. Feel the buzz, face your fears, and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush as you walk barefoot across hot embers beneath the autumn night sky – all while supporting our lifesaving work.

    The embers will glow a vivid red, with temperatures often reaching approximately 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Firewalking isn’t about fitness – it’s about mindset. With expert guidance and a powerful group atmosphere, you’ll build courage, confidence and belief before taking those unforgettable steps across the coals. There is no training required!

    Sign up fee:

    • Adult: £35
    • Child: £25 (12-16 years)
    • Team of 4: £120

    Why not get your colleagues or friends together and take on the challenge as a team?

    They ask every participant to pledge to raise a minimum of £100. As a charity, Wiltshire & Bath Air Ambulance receive no government funding and rely heavily on the generosity of community and events like this to continue delivering their vital services across Wiltshire, Bath and beyond. They will provide fundraising tips, ideas and support to help you smash your target!

    Be Brave! Sign up HERE

  • Ruby Darbyshire’s Freeman Tribute at Ilfracombe Festival

    If it’s not unusual for Wiltshire singer-songwriter Ruby Darbyshire to break out the bagpipes at a gig, it’s often for a solo stint of piping. Yet Ruby continues to experiment with ways she can merge piping into her music, and this, recorded last weekend at Ilfracombe Maritime Festival, shows Ruby at her best, backed with a band playing a tribute to the victim of the worst miscarriage of justice in British history, Clive Freeman….

    It was sent to us via Ruby herself, and we love it. Please like and share this video, it is outstanding. It explains why we support this artist as much as we do, hope to see her performing here soon, and wished we were in Ilfracombe last weekend! This is a watch party, I’ll say no more!

  • “Pink Mist” at The Mission Theatre, Bath, September 9th-12th

    by Ian Diddams

    images by Mike Stevens

    This week marks 25 years since 9/11 (11 September 2001), when the world awoke to the news that Al Qaeda hijackers had flown two commercial airliners into the Twin Towers, causing their collapse and a devastating loss of life. In 2006, British troops were deployed to Helmand Province; these years saw some of the heaviest combat and the highest UK casualties. UK combat operations formally ended in 2014, having had a very real human cost for the UK with 457 British service personnel killed, more than 600 serious casualties and thousands of medical evacuations. (Kitty Muffet – Director).

    “Pink Mist” by Owen Sheers portrays the experiences of three young men from Bristol, and the women in their lives, who sign up to the British Army aged in their teens in 2008 and are deployed in Afghanistan. Its content, though fictional, is drawn through Sheer’s interviews with actual military veterans that served there, for a previous play “The Two Worlds of Charlie F.” It delivers an, at times, harrowing story of three boys going to war, three boys in war, and three boys coming home from war, broken, damaged … or draped in a flag. While three women, girlfriend, mother and wife with young child become equally scarred through concerns, worry and grief. “Boys” and “Women” – two sides of the same coin. We live in a patriarchal society but it’s the matriarchs that are its glue and carry the burdens, and “Pink Mist” amply demonstrates this as the women pick up the pieces.

    The story was originally written and recorded for BBC Radio 4, and broadcast as five, fifteen-minute episodes in 2012, then adapted into a verse-drama book in 2013, winning the “Wales Book of the Year” award in 2014. Subsequently it was again adapted as a stage play which premiered in 2015 at Bristol Old Vic. As such as a stage play it is not “action” heavy yet director Kitty Muffet has created some powerful non-active interaction; tableaus and frozen positions from characters not involved in a scene or dialogue. Some of these tableaus last for multiple minutes – the opening scene is at least ten minutes during which the only speech – bar a minimal very few lines – is given by Arthur played by Jonathan Taft. During that monologue there is movement from characters directly involved in the story when mentioned, but otherwise all sit perfectly still until it is their own time to strut and fret their hour upon the stage. All actors remain on stage throughout the entire play in this powerful manner.

    The book also won the 2018 “Wilfred Owen Poetry Award”, extremely fitting as the play evokes connections with that poet’s own WW1 works – as the three lads sign up, gung-ho and crying “Who wants to play war” and desperate for action, we surely recall immediately “Dulce et Decorum est”, and the pals battalions of 1914.

    It would be remiss to give any more of the plot away as its strength and its impacts come as each new layer of the story is revealed, so I urge you to go and see it this week at the Mission Theatre, Bath, performed by “Next Stage”.

    The boys Arthur, Taff and Hads are played respectively by Jonathan Taft, a Next Stage stalwart, Arthur Williams, in his first appearance since school, and James Hacker, in his second Next Stage production. All three excellently convey the youthful exuberance and naiveness when signing up, then the shocking appreciation of the realities of war, and then the consequences of their own involvement.

    No less excellent are the women in their lives picking up the pieces after initial worries, arguments and concerns… Arthur’s girlfriend played by Perrine Maillot, another long-standing Next Stage performer, Had’s devoted mother Sarah, wonderfully performed by Tania Lyons and demonstrating all her stage craft and experience, and Taff’s young wife Lisa played by Poppy Morris in her stage debut … Poppy has set her own bar extremely high right at the start of what must be a stunning acting career.

    This is Kitty Muffet’s directorial debut with Next Stage and as mentioned above already has created something very special with this dialogue heavy and precise actioned piece, including some clever choreography especially in the opening monologue by Arthur. She is aided and abetted by Andrew Muffet as Stage Manager, and tech crew Hannah Johnson, Jamie Woodington and Kris Nuttal. Music provided by Bill Whelan.

    Amongst all the wonderful prose, and delivery there are snippets of realisation oneself… the use of colour descriptions throughout the play… blue, green, red, black, rose… and pink. And if you don’t know the meaning of the play’s title before you see this, you will learn it well before the end. Then there is the juxtaposition of two types of “friendly fire” – one war, one domestic.

    This is not to be missed. Take a hanky, Have a stiff drink afterwards.

    You may well need both.

    “Pink Mist” is performed at The Mission Theatre, September 9th-12th at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2pm on Saturday 12th.

    In addition, there is a Q&A with the author and playwright, Owen Sheers, at The Mission Theatre between the matinee and evening shows. Held at 4.15pm in the theatre, entry is £5, all of which goes to the charities being supported by this show, the Royal British Legion and the Royal British Veterans Enterprise, supporting those affected by the Afghanistan conflict and by conflicts past and future.

    Tickets are available from https://www.missiontheatre.co.uk/tickets?category=1.+Pink+Mist

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