Smugglers
The original Production
The first production of Smugglers took place at the Watersmeet, Rickmansworth, Herts. on 13th, 14th and 15th May 2006.
Rehearsals began in earnest on Sunday 26th February - only 10 weeks before the first performance, a fantastic feat by everyone concerned.
The show was directed by John Swain, assisted by Ross Forbes, but the monumental task of production was carried out by John Swain who used his infinite network of contacts to create a coastal backdrop of epic proportions, designed and built by a senior set designer at Leavesden Studios.
With realistic props by Frank Flynn and stunning costumes by Jill Hockham, the show was watched by more than 1,000 spectators over the three days.
John will be eternally grateful to everyone who contributed to the show's production - most of whom did so at their own expense and with no remuneration.
Ticket sales of just over £7,000 only made a small dent in the £19,000 cost to produce the show, but in 10 short weeks a dream became a reality - one that everyone involved in the show will never forget.