THE age-old conflict between parents and children is examined by The Hillingdon Musical Society (HMS) when it performs Children of Eden at the Compass Theatre, Ickenham.
The musical is freely based on the story of Genesis with the first act revolving around the tale of Adam and Eve and the second act following Noah's Ark. Written by Stephen Schwartz and John Caird, the show ultimately delivers the message that the hardest part of love is letting go.
The show's producer Kerry Bowers, 32, has been a member of the society for 11 years and, despite relocating from Rayners Lane to Oxford, still commutes three times a week to help put its twice yearly shows together.
She says: "It's very hard but enjoyable work putting a show like this together.
"Anthony Wilson, who is the show's director, and everyone else involved in the production is working incredibly hard to make sure the audience has an enjoyable time.
"The show is taking up most of my life at the moment what with making sure costumes will be ready, the programme is accurate and everything else that Anthony and I have to oversee."
Despite the toil that goes in behind the scenes, Kerry wouldn't have it any other way.
She says: "I have always loved being part of the society and when I moved I could have joined another more local group but the people involved in HMS are lovely and very, very talented so there was no way I could leave.
"The adult members of the cast have been rehearsing since June but the 40 children who are part of the show began practising their roles more recently.
"The addition of the children has given the adult members a big boost because they love working with the younger people and helping them progress."
The labour of love is definately worthwhile for Kerry and crew.
She adds: "When it all comes together and goes well, it's an amazing feeling.
Children of Eden is a great musical and a bit of a tear jerker which we think people will really enjoy."
*The Hillingdon Musical Society performs Children of Eden at the Compass Theatre, Glebe Avenue, Ickenham from September 24 to September 27.
Shows start at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinée at 2.30pm. Tickets cost £10/£8 concessions from the Hillingdon Musical Society box office on 01923 827 345.
