Members of a drama group in Maldon have revealed their delight after being nominated for a national award for their post-lockdown return to the stage.

Maldon Drama Group staged hit comedy The Ladykillers in October as members' first production since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, bringing laughter to audiences with their three-day run.

The fast-moving black comedy was originally released as a film in 1955 and the group's version of the play remained close to the original, which tells the story of a gang of thieves posing as amateur musicians in order to move into an elderly lady's home to plot a major heist.

The National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) has now nominated Maldon Drama Group for best comedy for its production of The Ladykillers.

Carey Brown, a member of the group, said she is "really excited" to reveal the nomination.

She said: "Every production we do is adjudicated by both NODA and the North Essex Theatre Guild (NETG) and a full report is sent to the group covering direction, each individual actor, back stage, set and props, technical and front of house."

Christine Davidson, from NODA, called the production "amusing, entertaining and nostalgic" in her review of the show.

She said: "Choosing The Ladykillers was a great choice. As the full house showed, the audience was really ready to enjoy the show and all went out with smiles on their faces, which is surely what we all want with our productions - especially after such an awful time for us all."

She added: "Having just directed a show myself, and knowing the difficulties and constraints that were set by government guidelines due to Covid, I am full of admiration for Helen Rasmussen as director for putting on such an intricate production."

Maggi Fisher, who reviewed the show for NETG, said there was "much to be proud of" in the production.

She said: "The show was well attended and the audience responded enthusiastically, clearly delighted to see the group back in action."

The group is now rehearsing for its upcoming production of Treasure Island, which is set to entertain Maldon audiences next month.

Carey said: "This is a real fun comedy romp through this much-loved classic tale - not sticking terribly close to the original, but with bad jokes and slapstick aplenty it promises a good laugh and a thoroughly enjoyable night out."

Treasure Island will be staged at Maldon Town Hall, on Market Hill, from 7 to 9 April at 7.45pm.

The award ceremony for the NODA nomination will take place the day after the run ends, on 10 April.

Tickets for Treasure Island can be bought here.

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