Theatregoers are being urged to support a community drama group that was hit by the pandemic.

The group is preparing for its first performance since lockdown as it struggles to survive financially.

Under The Headstocks Community Drama Group has been entertaining Mansfield audiences for more than 10 years.

Since bursting on to the local drama scene with playwright Alan Dawson’s controversial piece, The Glass Boot, the group has produced 15 productions in the town and each has featured new writing from local writers, such as such as Malcolm Seymour and Toni Sutton.

Alan (above), artistic director of Under The Headstocks, said: “The group is well known for its diversity and many topics have been explored by the actors.

“It has become a great tradition for the group to discuss themes with the audience in the bar afterwards!”

The group was ready to perform Ghostmode, a dark comedy by Toni, when Covid-19 first hit.

Under The Headstocks is a non-profit group and any profits are put towards costs for the next performance, while donations are made to charities.

So postponing the performance of Ghostmode put the group under financial strain.

Alan explained: “Unfortunately it is difficult to find low-budget rehearsal space in Mansfield nowadays and the group has rehearsed at the Create Theatre at Vision West Nottinghamshire College.

“Although they were given a generous discount, the extra costs for rehearsals due to the covid interruption has effectively depleted the group’s funds. However, the show must go on… and it will!

“All we ask is that our audience still supports us and we welcome them and newcomers to the Create Theatre on 13th and 14th May for the performance of Ghostmode, directed by Matt Lamb.”

Ghostmode is a dark comedy about expectation, entrapment, and escape after several bad days collide with enlightening results.

Tickets, priced £8.50, can be reserved by contacting Toni Sutton at [email protected] or on 07871 772005 or Alan Dawson at [email protected]