Steph's preview of The Railway Children

The Railway Children

If you’ve lived in Audlem for years — or you’ve only just arrived and are wondering why the lights at Audlem Methodist Church are burning late and mysterious groups of excited youngsters keep appearing at the door clutching scripts, scarves and the occasional sandwich — don’t worry. Nothing suspicious is going on. You’re simply witnessing one of Audlem’s favourite theatrical traditions getting underway again.

This year, the village’s talented young performers (aged 8 to 21) are bringing The Railway Children to life under the enthusiastic guidance of producer Nancy-May Goodwin. If you happen to pass the church on rehearsal evenings, you might hear something remarkable drifting out into the street: soaring harmonies, bursts of laughter, and the occasional cry of “Who’s taken the candle?” or “That’s my hat!”

Keeping the musical magic on track is the wonderful Naomi Newman, the talented musical director and conductor of a lively and enthusiastic choir. With impressive patience and a well-trained ear, she somehow manages to guide a large collection of energetic voices into beautiful harmonies that fill the building from floor to rafters — a task which occasionally requires the diplomacy of a UN negotiator and the stamina of a marathon runner.

Behind the scenes, a small army of volunteers has been hard at work. The scenery is made up of a series of huge bright murals that transport the audience straight into the world of Edwardian railway stations and rolling countryside and the lighting arrives on cue so perfectly it deserved its own bow. The costumes have been stitched, pressed and adjusted, and props have been carefully organised — before immediately going missing again.

The result is the village’s annual theatrical treat: a production powered by community spirit, creativity, gallons of tea, and just enough railway magic to make you want to climb aboard.

At its heart, The Railway Children tells a story filled with warmth, courage and kindness. It reminds us how family loyalty, friendship and simple acts of compassion can help people through difficult times. Woven through the performance are gentle railway sounds, moments of humour, and touching scenes that capture the spirit of E. Nesbit’s beloved story.

Among the large and energetic company are several wonderfully confident young performers delivering impressive solos, their voices ringing out clearly before being swept back into the joyful swell of the full cast — occasionally accompanied by a perfectly timed whistle or the rumble of an imaginary train.

So whether you’ve lived in Audlem for decades or you’ve only recently arrived, this is your invitation to come along and enjoy one of the village’s most cherished traditions. Support these talented young performers, share an evening of music and storytelling, and experience a little theatrical railway magic.

Tickets are sure to be in high demand — and this is definitely one journey you won’t want to miss.
Tickets Available: 01270 811761 or tickets@audlemmethodistchurch.org.uk
Show starts at 7.30 pm from Wed 11th to Sat 14th March