Artful Dodging by Max Brandt
A look at what’s going on in Dartmouth
(Opinions expressed are those of the writer – unashamedly biased, when moved to be so!)
England is to have it framed and glazed in a comfortable room.’ Although understanding the sentiment and, in some respects, agreeing with it, we can but sincerely hope that, as far as summer 2012 is concerned, the redoubtable Earl was completely and utterly wrong! July rushes to greet us with a plethora of delights that cover the entire artistic spectrum, with the exception of poetry… which is a little sad, when you think about it. Perhaps we need to rectify that situation in the not too distant future? What’s on offer in the summery month of July? Here’s a summary – aren’t you impressed? Word jokes! - read on and be amazed!
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CANVAS & OTHER MEDIA It may have escaped your attention but that seems unlikely, that Dartmouth is celebrating the tercentenary of, perhaps, its most famous son, who, until quite recently, has remained largely unsung. Thomas Newcomen, inventor, innovator and all round clever clogs, is being celebrated throughout July – and quite right too! The Flavel have an exhibition throughout the month, telling the story of his steam engine and how it, quite literally, changed the way we live. To compliment the many different celebratory events (more of which later), the TV presenter and writer, Adam Hart-Davis will be at the Flavel on 11th July, talking about the Newcomen Engine and showing a short documentary, ‘The Birth of Steam’, which won a Best Documentary R.T.A. award in 2010. A Q and A session will follow. On 13th July there are a series of lectures during the day, also at The Flavel, with speakers from the Newcomen Society, which cover pretty much everything you’ll ever need to know about the man, his invention and its effect
way back in the late 1700s, the Earl of Oxford, one Horace Walpole, wrote a letter to an acquaintance, stating that ‘…the way to ensure summer in
upon this island nation and the world! In other art-type news, the Dartmouth Art Society are holding their annual exhibition at the Flavel Church from 23rd July – 4th August. The show is open every day from 10am until 5pm, except Sunday and the themed section this year is ‘The Olympics’ – who’d have thought it? There are some very, very talented artists out there and many of them have their work on view during this exhibition; all support gratefully received.
Suzi Ruffell
ON THE STAGE The Dartmouth Players are presenting a play, specially written for the occasion by local playwright Linda Churchill, about the life of Thomas Newcomen. Entitled ‘From Floods Defend’ it’s at The Flavel on Monday and Tuesday, 9th & 10th July. It has a fascinating tale to tell and more power to Linda and the Players for researching and writing this production. The Miracle Theatre Company is presenting ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ on 19th July, again at the Flavel. Written by Oscar Wilde and premiered in February, 1895, it is described as a ‘trivial comedy for serious people’ and critics of the day hailed it as Wilde’s most accomplished work to that point. Its mix of high farce and witty dialogue have made it one of the most popular plays ever, whether it is presented by a professional or non-professional company. It’s a real bums-on-seats crowd pleaser. I must, therefore, question as to why the company need to give it their ‘trademark’ ‘surreal treatment’. Is not a work of avowed genius enough for any company? Personally, I despair of unnecessary tinkering and ‘reimagining’. 13th July sees the Fringe coming to Dartmouth. (I’m making the assumption that all you good people are nodding sagely when I just say ‘the fringe’) This Edinburgh Preview show sees two young comedians trying out their stuff, before the main event in Scotland’s first city (don’t tell anyone from Glasgow I said that). Suzi Ruffell and Charlie Baker have both garnered shining reviews and enthusiastic
praise for their work but, by now, you know me and comedy. Ms. Ruffell: an ‘mmm’ rating of 3; and Mr Baker made me smile once or twice. You make up your own minds. All at the Flavel.
FILMIC TREATS Thursday 5th July at the Guildhall and the Dartmouth Film Society are showing what, to me anyway, is one of the funniest films, ever, anywhere, anytime. ‘Some Like
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