DURING the half term holidays, the people of Chagford were treated to an exquisite production of The Pied Piper, written by Zelda Lambert and Derek Benny and co-directed by Rosina Kellman.

With beautiful sets, masterful lighting, extraordinary costumes and props and with fabulous musical accompaniment by the ensemble Ratattack, the audience were taken on an enchanting journey of music, drama and dance.

Infested with rats and near starvation, the townsfolk of Ye Olde Chaggeforde were looking to their leader, the ever corrupt mayor and the town council, to find a solution.

When the Piper offers to rid the town of rats, the villagers are delighted and relieved. However once the town has been cleared, the mayor reneges on his word with unfortunate consequences.

The cast ranged from nine to over 80 years old and were absolutely brilliant, working together to create a truly enjoyable evening of entertainment.

The unsung hero of the piece was the indomitable Derek Benny, who stepped in on two separate occasions to understudy two different characters. He balked on a third occasion when he was required to wear white tights and a leotard!

Thanks go to all who participated and contributed to this production. Watch out for the next production in 2018!