02/01/2026
We are holding auditions for our next production “Deliver us from Evil” by JD Robins on Wednesday 28th January at 7:30 pm at Ditchling Village Hall.
The play is scheduled for 20th to 23rd of May 2026
DELIVER US FROM EVIL by J.D.Robins
Ben Seaton is the new rector at Wychcombe Magna and is beginning to be accepted by the locals. His wife, Diana feels decidedly out of place and increasingly threatened by a strange woman, Jessy, who keeps walking into the house without any invitation. To add to this the church bells suddenly ring at odd times. When a statue in the graveyard is vandalised and a placard depicting a sw****ka is found there, Diana’s uneasiness escalates. Then the unthinkable happens – there is a murder at the rectory.
Characters
All characters, except Emmeline Rawlins, are about the same age – roughly early 40’s. [For casting purposes, they could all look roughly the same age, with some flexibility].
Emmeline Rawlins - a forceful woman. Originally part of a “landed gentry” family now living in reduced circumstances but continues to behave as though she still lives in the baronial hall and expects the deference due to the old established family. She is involved with village activities and speaks her mind. Has an “upper crust” accent.
Diana Seaton – the rector’s wife. She is of a nervous disposition and hoping this change of parish will give both her, and her husband, a new start in a new home.
Ben Seaton – new rector in the parish. He is concerned about his wife’s health. Steady and thoughtful with a sense of humour.
Jessy Beer – born and bred locally. She has an insolent attitude towards others, especially Diana Seaton. A rough speaker who drops her “h’s”.
Meg Bestwood – the daughter of a tenant farmer of the Rawlins, she played with the Rawlins twins as a child. Her hobby is restoring old houses. Married to Tim Bestwood.
Tim Bestwood – a self-confident barrister who is also a church warden.
Peter Rawlins – He presents himself as a quiet, courteous person. Wears glasses and stoops slightly. He has the attributes of the stereotypical professor of archaeology.
Needless to say, the majority of characters have secrets, which affect their behaviour as the play progresses!
