THE STEPMOTHER by Githa Sowerby
Directed by Richard Eyre
11 August – 9 September, Minerva Theatre
Casting has been announced for Richard Eyre’s production of THE STEPMOTHER by Githa Sowerby. The distinguished company is David Bark-Jones, Kaye Brown, Simon Chandler, Joanna David, Will Keen (as Eustace Gaydon), Ophelia Lovibond (as Lois Relph), Macy Nyman,Eve Ponsonby, Samuel Valentine and Sharon Wattis. The production runs at Chichester’s Minerva Theatre from 11 August – 9 September, with a press night on 17 August.
1924. A comfortable house in Surrey. When the orphaned Lois Relph accepts a marriage proposal from an older man, Eustace Gaydon, she believes she’s been rescued from an uncertain future. Establishing a successful business as a dress designer, Lois leaves her fortune in her husband’s hands.
But when one of her devoted step-daughters needs her help, Lois is forced to address what drew Eustace to her in the first place – and, at last, to face the dark truth at the heart of her marriage.
This gripping drama is a searing look at manipulation, money and matrimony. What price a woman’s autonomy within a man’s world?
Playwright Githa Sowerby’s most famous play, Rutherford and Son, is acknowledged as one of the most influential plays of the 20th century.
Richard Eyre returns to Chichester to direct this rediscovered gem; formerly Director of the National Theatre, his work at Chichester includes The Pajama Game and The Last Cigarette, while recent productions also include his award-winning revival of Ghosts (Almeida, West End & New York).
Ophelia Lovibond plays Lois Relph; best known for the television series W1A, Elementary andHooten and The Lady, her theatre work includes The Libertine in the West End and The Effect at Sheffield Crucible, while films include Guardians of the Galaxy and Tommy’s Honour.
Will Keen makes his Chichester debut as Eustace Gaydon. His recent television work includes The Crown, Wolf Hall, Sherlock and The Three Musketeers, while his extensive theatre work includes Pastor Manders in Richard Eyre’s award-winning production of Ghosts (Almeida, West End and New York).
The production will be designed by Tim Hatley, with lighting by Peter Mumford and sound by John Leonard.
The Stepmother is sponsored by Hentys Corporate.
EVENTS
Pre-Show Talk with Richard Eyre Wednesday 16 August, 6pm
Free but booking essential.
Post-Show Talk Tuesday 29 August
Stay after the performance to ask questions, meet company members and discover more. Free.
BOOKING INFORMATION
Box Office 01243 781312
Online cft.org.uk
Tickets from £20. Prologue tickets for 16 – 25 year olds for £5.