New Forest Players’ Calendar Girls set for Ballard School

Inspired by the true story of a fundraising group of friends, Calendar Girls will be performed by New Forest Players next month.

On stage at Ballard School’s Performing Arts Centre in New Milton from 26th to 29th July, the amateur production will also raise cash for Lymington’s Oakhaven Hospice via audience collections.

The film and the award-winning play Calendar Girls, by Tim Firth, is inspired by the true story of a group of ladies who decide to appear nude for a Women’s Institute calendar in an effort to raise funds to buy a settee for their local hospital, in memory of one of their husbands.

To date, the group has raised almost £5m for the cancer charity Bloodwise.

Director Lyn Lockyer said: “We all have our own ideas of what Calendar Girls is about. Being privileged to direct this play for the talented New Forest Players, every time I look at the script I come to realise that there are so many levels to explore and understand.”

Calendar Girls opened at the Chichester Festival Theatre and has since become the fastest-selling play in British theatre history.

Lyn continued: “The story is heart-warming, joyful, and raw. Friendships are tested and bonds are strengthened. The whole play is about embracing all women regardless of age, ethnicity, or size. A true celebration of women, by women, for everyone.”

Tickets are £13 each, and groups of 10 or more can purchase tickets for £10 each by calling the box office on (01425) 542414. For more information visit www.newforestplayers.com