Savile scandal inspires show (From Wiltshire Times)
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Savile scandal inspires show
9:00am Saturday 12th January 2013 in Latest News
The Savile abuse scandal has inspired the staging of a classic ghost story in aid of a charity for adult survivors of childhood sexual assault.
Amateur dramatist John Jameson-Davis, of Seend, is working on his four-person production A Face of Crumpled Linen, based on the short story Oh, Whistle, and I’ll Come To You, My Lad, by M.R. James.
The former member of the Bournemouth Shakespeare Players, who has lived in the village for four years, decided to put on the show after learning of Trowbridge-based charity Revival, which helps adults who suffered sexual assault in childhood.
Mr Jameson-Davis said: “Because of all the upset recently with the Jimmy Savile controversy, it got me thinking about how many adults live with this awful secret for years, so when I discovered this counselling service in Trowbridge I knew I wanted to do something for them.”
The show will mark his return to the stage after a 14-year absence.
He said: “I have always loved M.R. James’ stories, and in the 1960s the BBC broadcast an adaptation of the story starring Michael Horden.
“Then in 2010 they did a new version with John Hurt, and I thought I would love to one day do my own stage version.”
Rehearsals have been going on for weeks, with the opening performance looming on January 17.
Mr Jameson-Davis said: “I’m writing, directing and starring in it, so I’m quite worn out, but I’m still loving it.”
The newly-formed theatre company is called the Highly Strung Players, and Mr Jameson-Davis is keen to produce more ghostly plays.
“If it’s a success, I am hoping we will do a play each year,” he said.
“Seend already has a panto, but this is a chance to do something different. I’m already thinking of doing The SignalMan, by Charles Dickens next year.”
The show takes place on Thursday, January 17 at 7.30pm at the Seend community centre, and features strobe lighting.
Tickets are available on the door or from the Seend village shop in advance.
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