Notice of Cancellation

It is with regret that we have to announce the cancellation of our November 2018 production at the Ice Factory Studio Theatre but, we believe, for the right reason. 

Teignmouth Players decided back in mid-2017 to present My Old Lady, by Israel Horovitz and obtained the licence at that time.  In the early hours of last Saturday morning, 20th October, we became aware of serious allegations made against the author in America and Scotland.  These allegations, which we do not wish to repeat here, had only been reported in America and until we were contacted by a number of the alleged victims we were completely unaware of the situation.  Having subsequently undertaken our own research it transpires that Mr Horovitz has issued an apology if his previous behaviour had been deemed predatory or abusive although he denies that was the case.  His own son is reported to believe that the allegations are true.

The committee of Teignmouth Players has, after seeking guidance from NODA (the National Operatic and Dramatic Association) and Samuel French (the licensors) and in consultation with the Director, taken the decision that it would be inappropriate to present a play and thus pay royalties under these circumstances.
Unfortunately, the way in which this situation was brought to our attention was itself abusive and very disturbing for those committee members dealing with the initial attacks.  As a result, we have been forced to take down our Facebook page and have experienced concerted attacks against our website.
These attacks would only have multiplied had we decided to continue with the production and could have significantly damaged the Society’s reputation.  Whilst a number of people may say that we should not bow to external pressure of this nature, we have taken the view that had we been aware of the allegations when considering this play, we would have decided against including it in our 2018 programme. 
There have been many negative reviews posted on Facebook making unfounded and inaccurate accusations against us by people who will probably never come to the UK let alone visit the Ice Factory Studio Theatre to experience the wonderful amateur productions that are staged there.  We hope that those people who have posted offensive comments and reviews will reflect on their behaviour and realise the distress that they have caused by their actions.  Having reflected, it is hoped that they will then see that we have done the right thing, once informed of the situation, and it is now their turn to have the decency to remove their negative reviews and abusive comments.

Everyone that has booked tickets will be contacted shortly to ensure that they receive a full refund.

David Renwick
Chairman, Teignmouth Players Amateur Dramatic Society