Celebrating the FFNWT 50th Anniversary
On 26th August 2018 around eighty FF gathered in the Time & Leisure Studio Theatre to celebrate our Golden Anniversary.
The star-studded Gala Evening was held in the presence of Dame June Whitfield DBE and Geraldine Stanford the Deputy May or Morden.
Also among the guests were past presidents of the FFNWT : David Wood – writer/producer, Thelma Ruby and Helen Cottrill (both accomplished actors).
The Gala Show produced by Jan Hunt of the Paper Moon Company was hosted by her friend (from the TV show Crackerjack) Don Maclean.
The evening began with a medley of songs by Elliot Frisby who pounded out American Pie with the backing of the audience. Star of West End musicals, Jane Horn followed with her cheeky rendition of I wanna Be Loved By You as she prowled around the male guest. Then came Mel Harvey who wowed the audience by magically transferring a number of cards from the blouse of one guest to the trousers of another – naughty but fun.
The evening ended with the dynamic duo Ferris & Milnes famous for their quick fire song ‘mash-ups’ which on this occasion featured all the songs from West Side Story in just three minutes.
Theatre visits
The King and I
This blockbuster musical opened in the summer of 2018 at the London Palladium and was a highlight for many of the FF.
From the opening scene we were mesmerised by the set changes, magnificent costumes, outstanding solos and authentic choreography.
Kelli O’Hara as Anna was bewitching with such clear diction and the most beautiful singing voice.
Ken Watanabe’s characterisation as the King of Siam was excellent and the chemistry between Anna and him was electric especially during the classic ballroom dancing scene.
All in all, a most magnificent production which well-deserved the standing ovation.
Wind in the Willows
On a blistering hot day in August a few intrepid FF braved the heat to see this evergreen production.
Set in the rose garden in Morden Hall Park and presented by Sixteenfeet Productions, kids and adults alike were entertained by Mr Toad and his wonderful motor car, Badger with his furry paws and ears and the dixy Mole.
After the production we all enjoyed a cool drink and cake with the cast.
The Unexpected Guest
Our annual visit to the Mill Sonning was a great way to spend a summer day.
The cooling drinks beside the river were followed by a lovely lunch before the show.
The classic thriller by Agatha Christie didn’t disappoint with its clever twists and turns leaving us guessing until the end – “Who done it?”