Wiltshire Times ARTS IN FOCUS Slick deal from society's Card The Card THE CARD is a musical adapted from Arnold Bennett's 1911 novel, which charts the rise and rise of ordinary Potteries lad Denry Machin, who is determined to make something of his life and avoid the toil of local industry. Set around the Stoke on Trent area in the early 20th century, this was an exuberant, energetic and colourful performance by the Trowbridge Amateur Operatic Society: indeed, it is hard to believe they are an amateur company. Denry, played by Sean Andrews, grasped every opportunity to turn himself from humble clerk to businessman and eventually mayor of Bursley. There were some outstanding performances, particularly by Caroline Schmidt as the confident, money-orientated Ruth Earp. Mrs Machin, Denry's down-to-earth, working class mother, played by Joan Francis, provided a dry commentary on her son's latest escapades. With touches of humour and uplifting musical numbers by Tony Hatch, The Card provided an entertaining portrait of a man with irresistible charm. With wonderful, colourful costumes in every scene and a boundless enthusiasm and energy by TAOS, it was just a shame the Civic Hall was only half full for the opening night. Liz Gwinnell
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