This collection of performance pieces certainly is a treasure. Written by Pip Parry over a lifetime, this is a brilliant source of material for amateur theatre groups looking for festival entries, shorter pieces, something different etc. There are 37 different pieces over 160 pages including solos and monologues (possible audition pieces), verses for choral speaking, sketches and duologues and playlets and one-acts.

Especially appealing for amateur theatre groups is the comment that “The project has not been undertaken for profit, and genuine amateur or Charity performances will be assessed at a minimal or zero rate, provided adequate credits are assured.”

Particularly insightful are the two playlets about deciding on a play (Behind the Drama) and rehearsing a piece (The Rehearsal). I swear I’ve been to both these events! Pip obviously has the experience and skills to translate real events onto the stage. Although obviously written for more mature performers, some of these could be played by youngsters to add an interesting twist!

The collection costs £9.99 and can be obtained from Parrilay Plays MK, 17 Lissel Road, Simpson Village, Milton Keynes, MK6 3AX. The ISBN is 0-9545180-0-4. Or visit their website.