Directed by Eileen Ryan
July 2021
After a year's delay, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this new play was performed outdoors on Harleston Recreation Ground in July 2021.
Members of Harleston Players were joined by children and adults from the town and surrounding area to bring to life the fascinating story of how two brothers from Harleston became some of the first English settlers in America. The script, based on detailed historical research, was written by Eileen Ryan and directed by her, with David Cumming as producer.
It was a family show with music, dancing and singing, and depicting the diverse group who sailed on the Mayflower – adults and children, profiteers and pilgrims – and the native Americans they encountered on their arrival.
Sarah Meers, eastern area representative of NODA, the National Operatic and Dramatic Association, wrote of the production:
Each individual who took a character part portrayed their role to perfection. It is impossible to pick out a performance in such an excellent production... The enthusiastic children behaved professionally at all times and added that little bit of detail essential to the narrative. The whole presentation of the costumes was good. The diction was clear, and considering the performance was outside, this was particularly remarkable and I heard every single word. The story flowed which made it easy to understand the plot. The musicians/singers blended into the aura of the time effectively. The impressive structure of the boat cleverly portrayed the journey across the Atlantic and was beautifully constructed. The furniture and props were minimalistic giving a true glimpse into pilgrim life. I loved the way the moving of the boxes was an integral part of the story. The representation of “death” with “a suitcase” was superb.
To find out more read here...
For more information about the historical research into Harleston's links with the Mayflower, life in the town in the early 17th century and the wider community heritage project read here...
