Bouncers back (From Stroud News and Journal)

Bouncers back

DEAD Ernest Theatre Company represent Stroud this week when they compete in the Cheltenham All England One Act Play Festival.

Their award winning production of John Godber's Bouncers is set to battle it out against offerings from thirteen amateur groups based in the Cotswolds.

Featuring John Ferguson, Gary Gallagher, Chris Stimson and Rob Thom, the play depicts a gritty but comic realisation of suburban nightlife.

Director Gavin Hurley said: "It's a fantastic achievement to even be contemplating entering such a prestigious competition considering that it is only three years since our first ever production."

In that time Dead Ernest has gone from strength to strength with critically acclaimed productions of Popcorn by Ben Elton and Shakers, another John Godber play.

"We are in a fortunate position where we are able to attract both experienced actors and also some outstanding young talent to the company," said Hurley. "It is a wonderful situation that we intend to develop further over the next twelve months. We have some very exciting projects in the pipeline."

Dead Ernest Theatre Company perform Bouncers at the Cheltenham All England One Act Play Festival in the Cheltenham Playhouse on Wednesday, March 9 at 7.30pm. They will also be touring the full show during the spring and summer.

Their next new production will be Masterpieces by Sarah Daniels, which will take place at The Space, Stroud on May 12 and 13 at 7.30pm.