From riches to rags and back again

The Declining fortunes of a wealthy family provided the theme for Ivor Novello's "Fresh Fields".
An audience of around 100 filled St. Mary's Hall on the opening night, and much enjoyed this three act comedy set in Belgravia in 1933.
Joan M. Mallett dominated the stage as the enterprising Lady Mary Crabbe, who cooks up a plot to boost the family's dwindling resources.
At the same time, she must save the delicate feelings of her "wilting violet" sister. Lady Lillian Bedworthy, excellently portrayed by Ann Lishman.
The plan appears to be working smoothly with the arrival of three Australian guests. But the unpolished ways of the Pidgeons cause quite a stir in fashionable Belgrave, where standards of etiquette are high.
Jean Shelbourn plays the effervescent Mrs. Pidgeon, with Lorraine Irvine as her down-to-earth daughter, and Peter Arundel as the forthright Tom, Mrs. Pidgeon's brother.
In complete contrast, Shirley Grimshaw convincingly plays the aristocratic Lady Stawholme.
The characters become entangled in the true tradition of light comedy, and after many an ingenious twist in the plot, all ends well. Lady Mary's son, Tim, played by Nicholas Moss decides to marry, and so provides the family with the money they need to live up to Belgravia standards.
Jacquie Scarborough plays the secretary Miss Swaine with John S. Mallett as the butler.