HOT on the heels of their triumphs with 2024’s The Drowsy Chaperone, Milborne Port Opera moves into new territory again this year, with a production of the musical version of The Witches of Eastwick, on stage at the Village Hall from 23rd to 26th April.

Most people know the story, adapted from John Updike’s 1984 novel, from the film that starred Jack Nicholson, Cher, Susan Sarandon and Michelle Pfeiffer. It was later reworked as a musical by John Dempsey (lyrics and book) and Dana Rowe (music) and opened in London, produced by Cameron Mackintosh. It is full of big ballads, humour and dark fun and follows the lives of three single women looking for love, but suffocated by the confines of small-town mentality.

Their prayers are answered by the “magical” arrival of Darryl Van Horne, but who exactly is he? Can he be tamed? Can good overcome evil? What is his hidden agenda, and is it really worth it?

The cast features all the MPO regular and a few talented newcomers, promising a musical and visual treat with some stunning special effects. The production is directed by Karen Pankhurst, with Caroline D’Cruz in charge of the music. Performances start at 7.30 each night.

Local vet Lloyd Davies, who scooped the Best Male Lead in a Musical prize in the 2024 Somerset Fellowship of Drama/David Beach Awards, returns to lead MPO in this year’s production as the devilish Daryll Van Horne. His three competing love interests are Alexandra Spofford (played by Sukie Read), Sukie Rougemont (Esmee Roach) and Jane Smart (Karen Pankhurst).

The company also includes Chris Bailward, Lucy Bennett, Sue Brown, Scilla Copper, Richard Gaunt, Neil Harrison-Shaw, Trevor John, Sam Kelly, Jacky Manning, Rachel Milestone-McAdorey, Martin Porter, Rachel Revell, Gemma Shave-Smythies, Jasper Shave-Smythies and Anthony White.
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