THE open-air theatre at Worsbrough Park was a very popular venue for romantic musicals in the 1950s.

We recently featured The Desert Song and The White Horse Inn which took place in the park to packed audiences and we were delighted that reference to these shows brought back happy memories for so many, not only in this country but in Australia, America and Canada.

The lavish Vagabond King took place from July 9 to July 14 1956 and was presented by the Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation Amateur Operatic Society (North Eastern Division No 5 Area). it was described as being the “most spectacular and outstanding presentation ever staged in the locality.”

With a cast of well over 100, a splendid large- scale stage, colourful costumes and exotic dresses, and with scenery of incredible reality, the show took on the appearance of a grand carnival. The two principal characters, Katharine de Vaucelles and Francois Villan, were played brilliantly by Sylvia Hulley and John C Stanley.

Singing their duets - “Only a Rose” and “Love Me Tonight,” “Some of the Vagabonds” and “Some Day” brought the house down.

Probably the most popular and impressive scene was in Act 1V in the church when, with grandeur, the whole company walked with lit torches beside the audience in an avenue of trees. With organ music in the background and the set in darkness, the singing created much beauty and enhanced the production beyond all expectations.

The soloists were accompanied by the chorus and they were admirably supported by the dancing girls and boys. The producer, Ernest Kershaw, who adapted the play, did a marvellous job and praise was also directed to musical director Ronald Beck. Arthur Newton, who designed, constructed and painted all the marvellous scenery was also congratulated on his superb, colourful, work.

One of the most enjoyable pieces in the play was a serenade by Tabarie (Jack Lindsey), Oliver (Jack Lingard) and Lady Mary (Beryl Farrar).

A grand performance from the character Margot was played by Blanche Milne. Tom Marsh as Louis X1 created a real character.

Other good performances were by Denis Wisteton (Rebe), Enoch Baxter (Casin) William Arnstead (Rogatt), Jean Littledyke (Isabeau), Glenis Littledyke (Jehanneton), Walter Arno (Jehan), Barbara Burgin (Haguette), Cyril Noble (Tristan), Fred Briggs (captain), William J Armstead (astrologer), Arthur Parish (Noel) and Robert Littledyke (Bison D’or) with Robert Harrison (Thibaut) outstanding for his voice reflections.

Officials were: President JE Longden; chairman TH Barker; production officials: secretary R Dyson; treasurer G Jameson; producer E Kershaw; musical director R Belk; ballet mistress P Ruddleston; accompanist B Neale; stage director V R Boyes; house manager CL Caine; stage managers E Coggan and G Maleham; electrician J Gillatt; sound engineer F Trevor Wilson; publicity manager C Boyes; booking manager RH Thompson; wardrobe mistress Mrs VR Boyes; assistant accompanist Miss MJ Henley; scenic artist A Newton.