Alchemy In Three Easy Lessons

Alchemy In Three Easy Lessons, written by and adapted for the radio by John Quinn and directed by Stephen Bibby.  The authoritative voice of God (Nick Lock) told the listener how many believe being an Alchemist will lead to owning a football club and endless riches.  However, its true meaning is to turn base metal into gold.        

But first we must follow the The Cyclist who - at her school sports day - is selected by the Professor (Alan Moorhouse with a convincing German accent) to be a sports star of the future. That is lesson number 1) You need a catalyst; something to start the chemical reaction.  Lesson number 2) ‘to use talents and all potential which includes inner demons’. This lesson jumps six years and the Cyclist meets her mischievous inner demon, an alter ego playfully interpreted by Caroline Martin.  Ignoring advice, the Cyclist has an accident and Lesson number 3) Determination will “Turn her iron will into gold” by winning a medal at the Olympics.  However, the real nugget of gold is “If you have someone who believes in you – even if it is yourself – you will achieve your dreams.

The story was peppered with some panto style jokes such as at the sports day Mrs Cook not being able to make the omelette until the Egg and Spoon race had taken place and not being able to turn right in a one-way street.  The sound effects were excellent ranging from screeching tyres and the collision, thunder, sirens, children playing, various PA systems and the National Anthem.  The use of the distortion device for the voice of God compromised clarity but was nonetheless very effective and crucial to the story.  

The success of this production relied heavily on the technical expertise of Graham Martin as Technical Director, supported by Pete Reynolds with the sound and Jill Gillett as Production Assistant.  The entire cast under the direction of Stephen Bibby, was charged with energy and brought their characters to life with voice only acting. 

Congratulations Silchester Players on another innovative and creative production under the watchful eye of Caroline Martin ensuring all Covid protocols were observed.

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