Originally published in Northumberland News

Looking for a distraction from the bombardment of headlines during these unsettling times? The Northumberland Players’ latest dinner theatre production, “Enchanted April”, offers a journey from the dreariness of postwar London to the sunlit charm of an Italian Villa. An escape I think we could all use right now.

Directed by Carol Beauchamp, produced by Leslee Argue, and adapted by Mathew Barber from Elizabeth von Armin’s 1922 novel, this comedy unfolds the transformative experiences of four women who — seeking respite (and independence) from their mundane lives — embark on a shared holiday in the hopes of seeking renewal, self-discovery and lots of wisteria.

After meeting at a ladies’ club in London, Lotty (Arden Payne) and Rose (Nicola Derwent) answer an ad to rent an Italian villa without their husbands. To help pay for the expense, Lotty and Rose recruit Caroline (Justine Benteau) and Mrs. Graves (Sheilah Currie) to join them on their adventure.

In her director’s note, Beauchamp says, “I have always been fascinated by this play, which I found thought-provoking, poignant, funny, and uplifting. The characters are at first quirky, and perhaps stereotypical of their era but as we peel back the layers, we discover complex characters who are dealing with a world that is rapidly changing, and they must change with it while journeying through loss, pain, and the desire for something new, hopeful and regenerative.”

The play is a reminder of both the importance of female friendship (despite our differences) and the transformative effect the beauty of travel can have on our personal growth. But most importantly, what this play offers, is something that is and will always be invaluable to us all — hope.

Kristin Andrews, Northumberland News