Maldon Drama Group is gearing up to perform Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing at the Town Hall, in June - with a 1940s twist.

A special outdoor performance at the Museum of Power will take place on July 1.

The production had originally been scheduled for April 2020, but was cancelled due to the pandemic. Now it's back – with the original cast and some new faces, too.

'Much Ado' is set in a pub in London's East End in 1945. It sees locals welcoming soldiers home from the war. As thoughts turn from conflict to love, can their hearts stay strong against rivalries, misdeeds, and misunderstandings?

Carey Brown, spokesperson for the Drama Group, told Nub News: "The auditions are going tremendously well, and we are looking forward to bringing regular and new faces back to the stage."

The local troupe is set to debut some new cast members: Neil Smith, as Benedick, Chris Selden as Claudio, and even 'sound man' Trevor Hammond will take the stage as Dogberry and the Friar.

Neil has acted locally for around 15 years and has taken on a major role, playing Benedick opposite long-time member Michelle Edgington as Beatrice. Chris Selden has been an actor for seven years and plays Claudio opposite Heather Simms as Hero.

Debbie Thomas, Manager at the Museum of Power, told Nub News: "The Museum has proudly presented outdoor theatre productions by Essex-based performers within its beautiful grounds for over 10 years, with the aim of being a valued asset for the local community.

"Taking into account Maldon Drama Group's programme of productions, staging and performance considerations, it was agreed that Much Ado About Nothing would be idyllic at the site and a great partnership was formed for this brilliant production.

Performances of 'Much Ado About Nothing' will take place at Maldon Town Hall from Thursday 22 June until Saturday 24 June. The production will then be brought to the Museum of Power, Langford, on July 1.

To purchase tickets, visit the Maldon Drama Group website or call 07928 403 991.

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