The Swish of the Curtain: Book 1

In The Swish of the Curtain: Book 1, seven children transform an abandoned chapel into a theatre, pursuing their dreams of fame despite parental pressures.

In the charming tale of The Swish of the Curtain: Book 1, we meet seven imaginative children in the town of Fenchester, each with dreams of stardom. Their adventure begins when they discover an abandoned chapel, which sparks the idea of transforming it into a theatre. With a splash of paint and a curtain that stubbornly refuses to 'swish' as it should, they establish The Blue Door Theatre Company, igniting their passion for performance and creativity.

As the children dive into the world of theatre, they take on various roles, from writing and directing to acting in their own productions. Their enthusiasm and resourcefulness lead them to create captivating plays, showcasing their talents. However, the reality of growing up looms over them, as their parents urge them to abandon their theatrical aspirations in favor of more conventional careers. This conflict between childhood dreams and adult expectations adds a poignant layer to the narrative.

Despite the challenges they face, the spirit of The Blue Door Theatre Company remains alive. With a little luck and the support of some unexpected allies, the children learn that the end of their school days might not signal the conclusion of their theatrical journey, but rather the beginning of new adventures in the world of show business. The Swish of the Curtain has captivated readers since its publication in 1941, inspiring countless young performers to pursue their dreams.