We covered both films and theatre on this morning’s show, both of which are flourishing across Brentwood and Billericay. First up Jill Dimmock popped in from the Brentwood Arts Cinema Club to talk about their line-up for this year, which starts next Sunday with a French film from last year. They’ve got a great schedule planned for their monthly screenings at the United Reformed Church in New Road, including films by big name directors such as Stanley Kubrick and Roman Polanski, as well as one made just a couple of years ago that is set and was filmed in south Essex. For more information on the Club, including details of how to join, phone Jill on 01277 216712, or e-mail jilldimmock@hotmail.com.

I then welcomed two members of Billericay Operatic Society – Chairwoman Jane Martin and Honorary Secretary Mark Clements, who’s also one of the main performers in their latest production, taking place next month at Brentwood Theatre. On the Twentieth Century is a musical comedy set on board a train in 1930s America, and although it’s not that well known Jane told us that it won a number of Tony Awards when it was first performed in Broadway in the late 70s. There are rumours that it’s soon set to make a return to the New York stage, but there’s no need to travel far from home as – if the Society’s past performances are anything to go by – their production is sure to be great! Jane and Mark explained that Billericay Operatic Society is always keen to welcome new members; if you think it’s something you might like to get involved with contact Jane via billericayoperatic@hotmail.co.uk.