FROM Broadway to Bognor is the latest musical comedy from the MODS, opening tonight (Friday November 17) at the Palace Theatre.

The MODS, (Mencap Operatic Dramatic Society) who are based in Prittlewell, rehearse once a week all year round to put on this two-date annual show, this being the 12th one!

The play tells the story of Loretta Dupon’t, the one time darling of Broadway, who in the 1940’s held the world in her hand. However, fame and fortune are often fickle partners and suddenly Loretta’s life plunges into darkness.

Two decades later Loretta seeks a way back into the limelight but soon discovers that few remembered her past glory days. She secures what she believes to be a summer season in London’s West End but she quickly discovers, to her dismay, that her showbiz comeback will actually take her to a third rate holiday camp on the south coast of England.

Loretta is plunged into a crazy world she knows little about and full of talentless no-hopers.

However, a young girl enters her life and reveals a secret that could transform both their lives forever.

June Westenhofer is one of the volunteers who helps out with the group, who rehearse at St Fishes Hall.

She said: "The group is run entirely by volunteers and every single week we meet for a whole year, all to lead up to this show at the Palace Theatre.

"Some of us volunteers have to get on stage to help guide the performers. It's a really great show and a lot of heart and work goes into it.

"The script has been written by Andrew and Georgie."

The show is on at 6.30pm both tonight and tomorrow, Saturday November 18.

Tickets are available from southendtheatres.org.uk from £8.50 - £11 or by calling the box office on 01702 351135.