The two plays offered are A R Gurney’s “Love Letters” and “Told by an Idiot” by Chris Austin.

The play centers on two characters, Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III.

Using the epistolary form sometimes found in novels, they sit side by side at tables and read the notes, letters and cards – in which over nearly 50 years, they discuss their hopes and ambitions, dreams and disappointments, victories and defeats – that have passed between them throughout their separated lives.

Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and Melissa Gardner are childhood friends whose lifelong correspondence begins with birthday party thank-you notes and summer camp postcards.

Romantically attached, they continue to exchange letters through the boarding school and college years – where Andy goes on to excel at Yale and law school, while Melissa flunks out of a series of “good schools”. While Andy is off at war Melissa marries, but her attachment to Andy remains strong and she continues to keep in touch as he marries, becomes a successful attorney, gets involved in politics and, eventually, is elected to the US Senate.

Meanwhile, her marriage in tatters, Melissa dabbles in art and gigolos, drinks more than she should, and becomes estranged from her children. Eventually she and Andy do become involved in a brief affair.

“Love Letters” is directed by Richard Clifford and stars Sharon Naylor and David Adamson.

“Told by an Idiot” by local drama teacher, actor and artist, Chris Austin, marks his debut as a playwright.

The play has only two characters, but they are played by different actors in each of the five scenes.

Albi appears to be the stronger of the two, but is prevented from being totally uninhibited by the heavy briefcase padlocked to his right arm.

Sam is constantly yearning for answers to life’s important questions, which Albi confidently answers – at first.

Each answer raises more questions and causes both characters to circle around looking for direction and meaning in their bleak existence.

“Told by an Idiot” will hold audiences spellbound.

This is fresh and exciting drama with the lot. 

“Told by an Idiot” is directed by the author and stars Debbie Hannan, Craig Marvell, David Tyrrell, Gay Marsh, Anna Thornton, Lee McIntosh, Rob McAulay, Ian Yates, Chris Austin and Jenny Marks.