The Bats back with dark comedy
PLETTENBERG BAY -
Since their formation in 2013, the Bitou Amateur Theatrical Society, fondly known as the
Bats, have delighted local audiences with their annual live theatre productions.
From modest beginnings they have grown into a confident troupe staging one successful show after another, the last one being their acclaimed 2019 production of Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap.
Covid-19 forced them to take a sabbatical but they are delighted to be back with a dark comedy farce, Arsenic
and Old Lace. This play achieved instant popularity in 1941 on Broadway and the West End and is still regularly performed around the world. A New
York Times critic said it is "so funny that no-one can ever forget it".
David Hall-Green, former television personality and cofounder of Bats, is the driving force behind all the productions. He doubles as director, set designer and actor. He takes pride in his team of dedicated amateur thespians. "They have worked hard over the past months, learning lines and discovering the magic of live performance". He is grateful to the many people behind the scenes who helped to make the production possible - building and painting the set, providing furniture, helping with publicity and sponsoring various things.
As in the past, proceeds will go to the Plett Animal Welfare Service to enable them to continue to provide a primary health care service to the neglected and abused dogs and cats in the Bitou area. Arsenic and Old Lace will be staged at the Anglican Church Hall in Plett from Tuesday 18 October (gala opening night) to Saturday 22 October. Bats productions have always been a sell-out and locals are urged to book reserved seats through Quicket or Barney's booking service at Market Square. For information, contact Marsja Hall-Green on 073 645 9476.