THE bittersweet and ultimately fulfilling story of moving on and starting again after a failed relationship was lovingly and convincingly rendered by the Dramateurs on Saturday.

In their spring show at the new Mac-Arts Centre in Bridge Street, the award winning Galashiels-based am-dram company breathed fresh and poignant life into Good Things by Liz Lochhead.

Set in a charity shop, the action followed the fortunes and misfortunes of Susan who finds herself traded in for a younger model on the eve of her 50th birthday.

With support from her colleague and confidante Fraser and advice from a motley assortment of customers, Susan painstakingly negotiates the world of speed dating, lonely hearts ads, anger and a fear of the unknown to survive her ordeal and eventually find a new love.

It’s a bumpy journey with tears and laughter along the way with the audience confidently steered over two-acts by a drama group committed to convey and enhance the sharp and challenging Lochhead text.

There were stand-out performances from Lynsey Cullen as Susan, Robin Murray as romantic interest David, Brendan McAndrew as flamboyant Fraser and Sheila Wilson as comedy customer Scotch Doris, while the strength of the company was exemplified by a strong supporting cast.

All but a few of the 150 seats laid out for this premiere – the first ever public performance at the former St Andrew’s Church – were taken.

“The venue was fantastic and having nearly a full house was a real bonus,” said Andy Thoms, who produced and directed along with Susan Dickson.

“We’ve been rehearsing there twice a week for the past eight weeks, but nothing quite prepared us for the intimacy and atmosphere of the surroundings.

“The lighting and sound quality were exceptional and I know the audience were impressed with the auditorium and its potential for all of the arts in the Borders.

“We’ve found a lovely new home and we’re very much looking forward to our autumn show in September.” If you missed Good Things in Galashiels, the Dramateurs are performing the piece this Friday (May 2) at Eckford Village Hall and at Lilliesleaf Village Hall the following evening. The curtain goes up at 7.30pm and tickets, in advance or at the door, are just £5.

For details, contact lynseycullen@icloud.com or call 07936 933 735.