The East Cornwall production company behind sell-out shows Third Light and Gonamena are set to return with their new play, Poltroon, at Sterts Theatre this summer.

Headed by Sarah Pym and Simon Parker, the arc’s first production in 2009, Gonamena, told the story of the Caradon mining area’s boom and bust years, and involved more than 100 local performers, musicians and technicians of all ages.

Their second collaboration was Third Light. Also written by Simon Parker, it told the story of Herodsfoot, the only place in Cornwall to welcome home all its men who left for war in 1914 – earning it the title of a ‘fortunate village’.

Combining the talents of directors Nicola Rosewarne and Ben Dunks, musicians of St Pinnock Brass Band, and a professional and community cast of more than 70, Third Light premiered at Sterts in 2014. Four years later, the company took Third Light to The Minack for a sell-out, week-long run at the famous clifftop theatre.

Rehearsals for the arc’s latest play, Poltroon, began via Zoom and are now taking place in person in a big open-sided barn. The play is scheduled for six shows (five evenings and one matinee) from July 6-10 at Sterts.

Written by Simon Parker, Poltroon is a bittersweet story of lasting male friendship set in a Cornish community. In contrast to previous outings, Poltroon’s cast is limited to just seven performers, plus a small ensemble of singers.

Always strong on creating a believable world, Poltroon’s set – designed by Meier Williams – is said to be an imaginative evocation of a Cornish coastal village.

Feelings

“Through humour, song, and the revealing of shared experiences, the story of Poltroon follows a group of old boys who have been friends for a very long time, and examines why us men often hide our true feelings,” said Simon.

“At its core lies the question: have you ever wondered how life might have turned out if you’d made different decisions?”

Directed by Ollie Mcfarlane and supported by FEAST and Hall for Cornwall, the arc presents Poltroon at Sterts Theatre in Upton Cross from July 6 to 10, with performances at 7.30pm, plus a 2pm matinee on Saturday July 10.

Tickets can be booked by calling the box office on 01579-362382 or by visiting www.sterts.co.uk. (Plans are dependent on the current restrictions in operation and may change).