As Southmoor braces itself for the publication of Lord Hutton's report into the death of Government scientist and resident Dr David Kelly, villagers are seeking some light relief in a pantomime.
Pantomime organiser Susi Dalton said that although the timing was not the best, there had been no calls from villagers to postpone the event.
The Panto Players are putting the finishing touches to their production of Dick Whittington in the village hall. The performances are from January 22-24.
The Panto Players were formed in December 2002 by Ms Dalton, a member of the Kingston Bagpuize Drama Group. Ms Dalton will also direct the panto.
About 100 people will appear in the production, including members of the choir at St John the Baptist Church, in Kingston Bagpuize, and members of the local WI group.
Profits will be divided between three village groups.
Ms Dalton said she had been overwhelmed by the response from residents. She said: "I think after all the sadness we have had in the village with Dr Kelly's death, people felt the need for something uplifting. I began forming the Panto Players before Dr Kelly's death and we booked the village hall before we knew when the Hutton Report might be published. The timing is unfortunate in a way, but we were unsure as to when the report would be published.
"I know Mrs Kelly through my involvement with the local drama group and she has spoken to me of her support for the pantomime. She has lent us some props for the production."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article