JOHN COHEN joined Huddersfield Thespians in the Eighties as an actor.
Since then he has played roles with them and with a variety of companies across the region.
John, who lives in Mirfield and is a retired English teacher, is back with the Thespians to direct a new production which opens at the Lawrence Batley Theatre on Tuesday.
“I was asked if I would direct Frank Vickery’s Easy Terms,” said John.
“It’s been really worthwhile. It’s a good piece.”
And John’s love of music has proved useful as he has been digging out pieces appropriate to the show to play during the performances.
John is clearly a man of many interests as he has also brought out a new edition of his book, Lost Treasures Of The Odeons.
A lifelong film buff, John has tracked details of over three thousand films that were main features on release but have never or rarely been seen on terrestrial television.
His attention in recent weeks has focussed on Easy Terms, a play by the Welsh playwright, Frank Vickery who lives and works in the Rhondda Valley.
Easy Terms is a bittersweet comedy played by four actors and centred on the story of Vi Davies who, after suffering a stroke, is cared for by her son Howard who gave up his college course to nurse her.
Once Vi’s health improves, she finds it difficult to let Howard get on with his life, a life which includes a secret.
John was asked to direct the show and is delighted with the team of experienced actors he has been working with.
Maureen Speight is just as much a talent off stage in the wardrobe department as she is centre stage but is kept busy in the spotlight with a series of good roles for the company.
Daren Wild, who has just finished directing a show with Turn Again Theatre in Holmfirth is in the cast alongside Steve Crowther and Louise Williams.
The show opens in the LBT’s Syngenta Cellar Theatre on November 22 where it runs until Saturday.
Evenings performances are at 7.45pm and there is a Saturday matinee at 2.15pm. Box office is on 01484 430528.
