More than 100 local actors and performers have been confirmed for a new event on the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway, and the first ever to take place in Britain.
‘Theatre from the Train' on 7th July will feature at least a dozen events happening along the eight-mile length of the railway, entertaining passengers on one of five steam trains operating (pre-book only).
Superheroes, undead zombies and friendly characters from ‘The Wind in the Willows' will appear along the route, together with choirs and musicians playing at stations.
Gunfire will be heard at level crossings where re-enactment societies will put their historic weaponry to use.
Junior actors with Montgomeryshire Youth Theatre will perform alongside experienced older hands. Organisers of the event say there is still time for others to come and participate.
Inspiration for the event came from Germany, where performances took place in fields bordering a main-line railway.
Groups participating in the event include:
- Castle Belles Choir
- Llanymynech Golf Club (ladies section)
- Montgomeryshire Youth Theatre
- The Cosplay Group
- Llanymynech Amateur Dramatic Society
- 41st Foot Re-enactment Society
- Guilsfield Dramatics
- Signal Corps Re-enactment Group
- Rebel Alliance
- Saxaphone Sundae
- Sara Tree
- Dennis Duggan Classic Cars
Visitors wanting to experience this one-of-a-kind experience are strongly advised to pre-book their tickets from the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway. More details can be obtained by calling 01938 810441 or from the website at http://theatrefromthetrain.org.uk
What did the officials say?
Carol Davies, one of the event organisers, describes the enthusiasm of those taking place as exciting.
“We gathered local groups and performers together in Welshpool Town Hall last year and the ideas flew around – now it's all coming together and it's going to be a unique day,” she said.
“Nothing like this has ever been organised before in Britain, but it wouldn't be a surprise if other heritage railways decide to copy our idea.
“We are praying for good weather because many of our actors are going to spend a long day outside in the countryside. But I know they are getting prepared with umbrellas and gazebos just in case the sun doesn't smile on us.
“Our special thanks go to local farmers who are lending us their fields alongside the railway to use as performance areas. Their response to our requests has been great.
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