Local dramatic society, the Service Players, will be performing Nell Dunn’s internationally acclaimed play Steaming at the Gaiety this month. This raunchy comedy centres on six women in a dilapidated East London bathhouse. The friends bare their bodies, dreams and souls in this warm-hearted story of women at their witty, compassionate best. It explores the nature of friendship, self-worth, dignity and inner strength, with a large dose of humour. This theatrical gem comes from award-winning author, playwright and screenwriter, Dunn, whose works include Up the Junction and Poor Cow. Her Steaming won the 1981 Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy (at the time known as the Society of West End Theatre Award for Best New Comedy), and in 1985 was adapted to film starring Vanessa Redgrave and Diana Dors. This production of the play, stars a strong cast including society veterans Lindsay Quayle, Una King, Jan Jordan (most recently seen as Mrs Robinson in last year’s The Graduate), Rachel Caine, and two young actresses Sadhbh O’Shea and Caitlin Howell-Evans. Caitlin made her impressive debut with the company in 2004 in The Crucible, then took time out to focus on her studies and attend university. She doesn’t only impress on stage though: she has recently been accepted to do a teaching degree at Cambridge University, so she’ll be taking another break from local am dram and the society wishes her well. The play is directed by Service Players President and Life Member, Jean Webb, in a rare break from her well-deserved amateur dramatics retirement. Jean has been an active member of the society for over 40 years, has been involved in more plays than she can mention, and has graced the Gaiety stage umpteen times. She said of the play: “Steaming has been a joy to direct - six powerful actresses playing six funny and provocative characters. I think this is going to be a real delight for the audiences”. Steaming is on at the Gaiety on 23, 24 and 25 June, curtain up at 7.30pm. Call the box office on 600555 or visit www.villagaiety.com for tickets. - ends -