Friendships put to the test in telling of author DH Lawrence's story at Robin Hood Theatre, Averham
A play about one of Nottinghamshire’s most famous sons closes the latest Robin Hood Theatre Company season next week.
Amy Rosenthal’s On The Rocks is staged at the Robin Hood Theatre, Averham, from Tuesday, June 14 to Saturday, June 18.
Based on true events, it is described as a wonderfully witty, nostalgic and emotional comedy show that tells the story of the relationship of author DH Lawrence and his German wife, Frieda, with their close friends Katherine Mansfield and Jack Murry.
It is spring 1916 and the writer and his wife have found a new life for themselves in the remote Cornish village of Zennor.
He is starting on his new novel — Women In Love.
Rejuvenated by the wild beauty around them, they persuade close friends Katherine Mansfield and John Middleton Murry to join them in their idyll. But no sooner have Katherine and Jack arrived than long-simmering tensions bubble to the surface, and Lawrence’s dream of communal living starts unravelling before his eyes.
His new work seems to be coming to life among them — and to make matters worse the locals are convinced that Frieda is a German spy.
“The show creates a wonderful evocation of times past and gives us lots of laughs along the way,” said Andrew Beighton, who is making his directorial debut at the Robin Hood.
“It’s been a great honour to direct such a wonderful play with such skilled actors. It has been such fun to research these characters and help the actors bring them to life. And the design team have done an amazing job creating the stunning set in which our story takes place.
“If you come along and see the show you will laugh, cry, smile and be moved by the sheer joy of living that the show creates.”
It stars Cavan McLaughlin as DH Lawrence, Kerri McGarrigle as his wife Frieda, Tabitha Daniels as Katherine Mansfield and Andrew Tallis as Jack Murry.
Performances are at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.
Tickets are available from the Robin Hood Theatre Company’s website or by calling 07733 179986.