Behind the scenes of Dark Matters for the premiere performance of the science cabaret event

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The first performance of the science cabaret Dark Matters by Foot-Candle Productions took place in Teignmouth. John Teasdale from the show kept a diary of the day for ArtsCulture

With just hours to go before the first performance, time for last-minute tweaking of the script followed by a long walk through the lanes reciting the lines.

Packed all the kit, into the cars at midday and set off for the theatre at 1pm. We arrived at the Carlton Theatre, Teignmouth at two o’clock, unload and store props, costume, projector and everything we need in the Carlton foyer while participants in the three o’clock performance of the Science Oratorio gathered in anticipation of their performance in the main auditorium.

The chances for last-minute rehearsal were limited to a simple read through as the foyer area was now set for the interval of the Oratorio.

So off for a bite to eat, returning to the Carlton for a limited tech run with our volunteer technician, Rob.

With half-an-hour to go we set up the projector and screen in a crowded foyer filled with people having tea and cake, final check of props and lay out the set, 20 minutes of pacing about and we are on at 6pm.

Our first performance of this new show is on to a full house of about 60 people. Fifty minutes of an artfully crafted combination of physics physical comedy, slide show and video.

Fifty minutes later we finish to the sound of loud applause and laughter. We had done it!

Quick interview with the Western Morning News followed by a rapid get out and back home to pick up the kids and put them to bed.

One notable quote from a member of the audience was, “I laughed so much my face hurt! I never though anybody could make physics funny!”

The Bushell Theatre, Newton Abbot on Friday, March 18m at 7.30pm, £5, (£3 concessions)
The Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter, Thursday, March 24 to Saturday, March 26

• Read more about Dark Matters on the People’s Republic of South Devon and ArtsCulture