Talispeople are a sociable lot and are passionate about the theatre. Even when they are ‘resting’, they love nothing more than an opportunity to get together and read a play. And so, since 2018 (with a break due to COVID19 lockdowns), we’ve been running a play reading group. We meet once a month; someone in the group chooses a play and obtains copies from the library or elsewhere and we make sure everyone gets an opportunity to read a part. And of course, we have an interval; a chance for a chat and a cup of a tea or coffee with a biscuit or two.

We’ve read a wide variety of plays including Absurd Person Singular by Alan Ayckbourn; 84 Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff and James Roose-Evans; Blue Remembered Hills by Dennis Potter and Belfast Girls by Jaki McCarrick. We’ve also read plays written by members or their relatives and, most recently, we were approached by a local play writer to read a play he has submitted for the RSC’s ’37 plays’ play writing competition; he wanted to hear actors reading his words to help him in developing the play.

Play reading has a number of benefits. For resting actors, there’s an opportunity to keep in touch, to practice their skills and widen their knowledge of plays. For the Talisman, it keeps our members in touch and provides ideas for plays we might like to put on in future. Alongside the youth theatre, the Fringe and Friday night socials, it provides a conduit for the growth and success of the Talisman Theatre. Long may the Talisman play reading group continue.

If you’d like to find out more about getting involved at The Talisman by volunteering or becoming a member then go to: Get Involved