Young actors from Ilminster are helping bring a new musical to life.
Phoebe Swain, Elspeth Grice, and Albert Whitehouse are starring in the premiere of Nell! The Musical, which tells the story of Nell Gwyn, an orange seller who became an actress and eventually the mistress of King Charles II.
Phoebe will play the young Nell, with Elspeth as her best friend, Mary-Ann and Albert as Charles Beauclerk, Nell's son with the King.
The young actors are joined by Warehouse Theatre stalwart Mick Glynn, who recently portrayed Bob Dylan in the IES production of Knocking on Dave’s Door.
In Nell! The Musical, Mr Glynn plays Mr Chiffinch, who, along with his wife Barbara, was the keeper of the King’s backstairs.
Dominic Sandford, composer, lyricist and assistant director, said: "It has been fantastic to work with such talent.
"The youngsters are a credit to Ilminster Youth Theatre and the Warehouse Theatre, also represented by Mick Glynn – recently of Bob Dylan fame.
"We can’t wait for opening night."
The production is described as lively and entertaining while remaining grounded in historical context, with period costumes and a soundtrack of powerful, memorable songs.
The show will premiere on Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27, in the grounds of Charlton House, Charlton Mackrell, as part of the venue’s 300th anniversary celebrations.
Pudding Lane Productions, which is behind the musical, hopes to foster community spirit and create a lasting platform for theatre and creative events in the area.
The group aims to involve people from both the local and wider community and to lay the foundations for future outdoor performances.
They are encouraging involvement from amateur performers, creatives and volunteers, with the hope of making this first production the start of a new tradition.
For more information, email info@puddinglaneproductions.co.uk or info@nellthemusical.co.uk.
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