S.I. Hsiung’s play concerns the undying love of wealthy Precious Stream (Nancy Bradshaw) for her long-absent husband (Christopher Tutt). He was a humble gardener, and the marriage was opposed by her father (Frank Pickering) and mother (Audrey Hall). He becomes a great warrior, and the Princess of the Western Regions (Diane Fairweather) tries to tempt him into marriage
It is an old Chinese play performed in English, but in traditional style, with an Honourable Reader (Elizabeth Birkby Snr) appearing occasionally to explain the progress of the play. The programme lists 34 people appearing on stage: about half of these had not appeared for GDS before, and several (including Brenda Hester and Viv Stuart) stayed and became key members
We have only found a couple of photos so far
The play was performed at Yew Lane (Yewlands) Secondary School as part of International Theatre Month. Betty Bellamy produces, assisted by Mr P. Cromwell. It seems to be the last involvement for Hilda Dronfield, after 12 years
It is also the last play under the name “Grenoside Dramatic Society”, before they become the “Grenoside Community Players” in 1966 when the Community Centre opens
