Last Friday evening, with the support of the Arts Council of Wales and Pembrokeshire County Council, the Arts Club presented Alison Neil with her one-woman play, 'Truly Yours C.B.', the story of the author Charlotte Brontë.
This was the sixth visit of Alison Neil to the Arts Club and her second presentation to members of this play.
As the audience entered the hall they saw the stage set with the living room of the Brontë house, a sombre mid-Victorian setting, sparsely furnished, and it was here that 'Charlotte' related her family history.
In a modest bronze coloured dress, made by herself, she gave the background of the Brontë family and described the surroundings in which they lived. She went on to tell in some detail the events of the lives of each member of her family as they occurred.
The change of mood and expression of each character, together with a change of accent, some Yorkshire and some Irish, was quite remarkable. Alison Neil conveyed great joy or heart-rending sadness with consummate skill, making the story come alive. Her listeners suffered or rejoiced with her as she related the story of Charlotte Brontë's life.
Alison Neil is both author and actor. She has led a long theatrical career here and abroad. She is also an historical researcher and script-writer and has worked for radio and television. Her biographical plays have been particularly successful and the Arts Club has benefited from these through the remarkable talents of this very clever lady.
Tonight (Friday), the club ends the season with an evening of music presented by John Harrison and friends. Non-members are welcome at £5, at 8 pm in Church House.