The performance of  ‘John Ford’s Story‘ took place in the dramatic setting of Buckland Abbey’s barn on Saturday September 24th. It opened with a colourful and lively Elizabethan style fair including plate spinning, scarf juggling, dance and balancing acts, accompanied by musicians such as Wren Music’s ‘Roots A Cappella’ group and MED Theatre’s young people.

The play about the life and works of Dartmoor’s very own 17th century playwright then took to the stage introduced by a short film set in the 1920s. All elements of the production were created by the talented 13-19 year olds, including the script-writing, the shooting of the film, the mask-making, the choreography, the lighting operation, the composing and playing of the music, the direction and the acting.

The young cast performed the play for a final time in the attractive setting of Burrator Reservoir. The ruins of John Elford’s house, one of the characters in the play, provided a dramatic backdrop. Congratulations to Wild Nights Young Company for producing what was labelled a “polished and professional” performance.