....and the First Night went as first nights do... the costumes were dusted down and merrily we did don them! The Old Woman arrived with much enhanced physique, Dick, t'Hoss, was burnished, the swords swished in anger for the first time in a year, the words muttered under bated breath,the event christened with a first ale: the Play was ON!
To the Saracen's Head at Warburton, the Play's home, where we amused the ruffians of Bollin Morris there to practice their ancient art. Some Souling virgins there, and some explaining to them about good and evil. Not too many others in the pub, but we were well received and a good start to the season.
Then onwards to the Axe and Cleaver, a much changed establishment since last year, but still, happily, with some familiar faces behind the bar. A sparse crowd (it was a Monday night after all)but some interest from a young couple who wanted explanations and laughed a lot, and my, some good ale! They have got a good drinking area by the bar now where there used to be just eatery tables: a good move with such good beer, well kept and a good welcome.
Off then to the more traditional Wheatsheaf at Agden: we tagged on to the end of a darts match and there were a lot of lads to watch the spectacle. No low lights smashed this year though, and the sight of two older regulars doing a pint-vanishing act as Beelzebub entered caused great amusement. Never seen pints hidden so quickly. Nice welcome from the Landlord and good to see a busy pub on a Monday. Good ale again....
And then off to the Vine at Dunham, where we just missed a few clients rapidly leaving after the quiz night, but still a good crowd in this lovely local pub. Nice welcome, good professional performance, good Sam Smiths and again lots of interest. The pub closes soon for a 3 week refit.... hope it doesn't change too much!
A good night then, especially for a Monday. Lots of laughter, no-one got lost despite the road diversion in Dunham, the Players played the Play well...... and Dick the Horse seemed pleased, all in all.