Variety is the spice of life

Miss Helen Watson prepares to dish up a fresh helping of Seasonal Sauce

The Watermill's 2011 programme starts with its longest running show – Miss Helen Watson's Seasonal Sauce, which is now in its 24th year.

The creation of Helen Watson herself, the show has evolved over the years from Music Hall and Vaudeville to include contemporary songs and sketches, without losing the essence of good all-round entertainment.

Miss Watson's legion of followers will advocate that no two shows have been remotely similar, but just get better and better.

And Miss Watson loves The Watermill audiences. “I do love performing at Newbury. However, after so many shows it's a real challenge creating a show that will top our previous successes,” she said.

“I know our audience likes familiarity but I do like to introduce new items and, of course, new actors.

“This year we have three new actors in the show and all three of them will be memorable for not only the quality of their performance but for their vitality and energy.'

‘In the cast this year is Kate Brennan, who I saw last year in her graduation showcase and knew I wanted her in my show. She's young with an unforgettable voice – I think we'll be seeing a lot of this talented actress.

“Vanessa Clarke is back after playing Mrs Lions in Blood Brothers in the West End.

“Another comic actor new to us is Antony Howes. He's Mr Funny, with comic timing that a lot of actors would die for. He'll have the audience in stitches.

“Adam Linstead comes straight from the 25th anniversary tour of Les Miserables, where he understudied two main roles.

“It's been a while since we had Chris Vincent on The Watermill stage and it's good to have him back.

“And of course there is our lovely musical director Martin Waddington to drive us onward to brilliant vocal performances.'

Miss Helen Watson's Seasonal Sauce plays at The Watermill, Bagnor, from Wednesday, January 26 to Saturday, February 5.

Tickets are priced from £12.50 to £25. To book, telephone the box office on (01635) 46044 or visit www.watermill.org.uk