Ballymena theatre group to bring dark comedy Lucky Sods to The Braid

The cast of the Ad Hoc Theatre Group performing in John Godber’s acclaimed black comedy Lucky Sods

A Ballymena-based amateur theatre group is set to explore the darker side of striking it rich with a performance of John Godber’s acclaimed black comedy Lucky Sods at The Braid Arts Centre this month.

The Ad Hoc Theatre Group will stage the production on Friday 12 September, with curtain up at 8pm.

The play tells the story of Jean, who works in a video shop, and her husband Morris, a night watchman. Their lives change overnight when their lottery numbers come up, transforming them into multimillionaires.

From a world trip to home luxuries such as a spa bath and conservatory, everything seems possible – but does sudden wealth really bring happiness?

Directorial debut

The cast in rehearsal

The production marks the directorial debut of Keri Robinson, who has long admired Godber’s work.

“I first discovered John Godber’s plays whilst studying for GCSE Drama almost twenty years ago when my friend in the year above played Salty in Teechers. I fell in love with the character and the play, and after reprising the role myself for my practical exam I forgot about the theatre for years,” she said.

“It wasn’t until a couple of years ago I got the opportunity to see Teechers performed again in Belfast by the Bruiser Theatre Company and I was blown away. This led to me joining Ad Hoc Theatre Group to try to capture some of that magic again. When I got the opportunity to direct our play this year I knew it had to be John Godber.”

Describing Lucky Sods as a “hilarious play” with an “interesting concept”, Robinson said it perfectly captures Godber’s trademark humour.

“It’s a perfect example of Godber’s laugh out loud humour, blended with the occasional emotional gut punch,” she added.

A strong cast and lasting legacy

Robinson praised the dedication of the cast and backstage crew who gave up their summer to prepare for the performance.

“I’ve really enjoyed being part of this production, and working with this talented cast and back-stage crew, giving up their time during the summer for these shows. I’m sure the audiences will enjoy the fruits of our labour with this excellent dark comedy by one of Britain’s most successful dramatists,” she said.

The group also remembered its late co-founders, Bob and Elza Margrain, who both passed away at the end of 2022.

“This is the third summer production without them, and they are still very much in our thoughts,” said co-founder Mervyn Barkman.

Event details

• Play: Lucky Sods by John Godber

• Presented by: Ad Hoc Theatre Group

• Venue: The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena

• Date: Friday 12 September

• Doors open: 7.30pm

• Curtain up: 8.00pm

• Tickets: Available online or at the door

• Run time: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes (including interval)

Godber is one of Britain’s most successful dramatists, best known for Bouncers and Teechers, and has also written and directed plays for television.