Much Ado leading lady found

A RECENT appeal in the Bexhill Observer for a leading lady has reaped rewards for the Bexhill Amateur Teatrical Society (BATS).There was been much ado about something when the actor previously cast as Beatrice in the local am dram company’s upcoming production of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing unexpectedly pulled out of the role. BATS’ put out an urgent appeal for a replacement in the Bexhill Observer, and directer Mike Poole said: “It worked!”, adding: “That same week, the glamorous Natascia Mazzucato, who runs Dancehouse UK in Heathfield, joined the cast as fiery heroine Beatrice.

'Beatrice', Natascia Mazzucato, and 'Benedick', Anthony Lusted

“She is really enjoying rehearsals, especially tormenting the reluctant romantic hero Benedick, played by Anthony Lusted.”

Describing the play as “a sparkling comedy” originally set in Italy with characters from Padua, has been moved to Britain in 1945, with all the stylish uniforms and costumes of the period and the music of Glen Miller, Mike says this could be the part that Natascia was born to play, adding: “Because by remarkable coincidence, she was born in Italy, in Padua and her genuine middle name is, of course...Beatrice!”

The play runs July 22 - 27 every evening at 7.30pm in Manor Gardens, Old Town, Bexhill. Mike said: “The weather is set to be sunny, so why not take along a picnic and champagne?”

Tickets are available on the website: www.the-bats.co.uk, where you can also find a trailer for the show. Alternatively, tickest can also be purchased in Bexhill from Destinations, Sackville Rd (01424 225722) and Best Sellers, 56 St Leonards Rd (01424 730885), or at the gate on the night.