PEARL, retiring from a Northern fish-factory, is determined to celebrate with her friends, as Royal Ascot comes to York Racecourse for one year only.

A contemporary comic drama complete with popular culture references, Ladies’ Day is a poignant look at the lives of four friends, each seeking to escape from their unglamorous existence and live out their dreams.

The characterizations were extremely well-rounded, each woman showing vulnerability as well as determination, with consistently good accents, each having their moment to shine.

Sue Bale (Pearl) and Helen Russell (Shelley) enjoyed camaraderie amongst their sparring, while Sarah Kirkpatrick’s inebriated Jan was both comical and touching. Emily Prince (Linda) and James Bradwell (jockey Patrick) made an endearing couple, while Keith Edmund held court as racing presenter Jim.

A simple minimalist, multifunctional scenery, with minor alterations and change of projected images re-establishing venues, combined with an appropriate soundtrack that emphasised Linda’s enthusiasm for Tony Christie. Enjoyable fun!

Anne Waggott