He may not be David Jason, she may not be Pam Ferris, and Catherine Zeta Jones may not be their daughter, but together Billy Mulligan and Deborah Fallis are very much 'Pop and Ma' when it's come's to larkin about and playing happy families in the Enniskillen Amateur Dramatic Society's (E.A.D.S.) latest production set for the Ardhowen Theatre next month.
Based on H.E. Bates' novels and short stories about the Larkin family, 'The Darling Buds of May' became one of the most popular comedy drama programmes to be presented on UK television.
Set in Kent in the 1950's, the Larkin family live in rural idyllic bliss.
Fans will remember how Sidney 'Pop' Larkin famusly played by David Jason somehow managed to avoid paying tax or national insurance throughout his working life. He became a legendary figure at the local tax office.
That legendary figure and loveable rogue can now be seen in the shape of Billy on the 15th, 16th and 17th of February, when he takes to stage to play one of the lead roles E.A.D.S. nostalgic production of the flamboyant, loving family life of the Larkins.
Fresh from playing Horace Vandergelder in Enniskillen's Light Operatic's musical 'Hello Dolly', this three night stint will be Billy's first for the E.A.D.S. Despite having a credible background in drama, this will be Billy's first 'straight play' where the focus won't be on songs as in a musical, but instead, will be centred more on acted dialogue from start to finish.
For Billy, the production will also be a family affair as his son Matthew and sister Ena will be joining him on stage while his other sister Gillian is the President of the E.A.D.S.
Meanwhile, his leading counterpart on stage is the loveable 'Ma' Larkin who will be played by Irvinestown lady Deborah Fallis. She too has an extensive background in drama playing various roles in school and amateur productions from a young age.
Every year, the E.A.D.S. aims to attract new blood and it has certainly done so this year as both Billy and Deborah, the leading characters are making their debut under the direction of Ken Saunderson and Barbra Johnson.
The E.A.D.S. is now 98-years old and as such, is one of the oldest society's in Ireland that is continuously producing plays of such quality.
Rehearsals for 'The Darling Buds of May' began in October, and the 16-strong cast are currently in practice two nights a week as well as every Sunday. With the story littered with extremely funny jokes and witty one-liners, rehearsals are fun-filled and everyone is looking forward to hitting the stage in two weeks time. Reluctant to give to much away, Billy suggests that there are too many highlights to mention.
With entertainment to the fore, tickets for the production are currently selling fast and anyone wishing to purchase one, should contact the box office at the Ardhowen, or alternatively use their online service. Tickets: £7/£6 concessionary.
