This May, perhaps the most famous of stage and screen love affairs, “Brief Encounter” will performed by Everyman Theatre at Chapter Arts Centre from 17-21 May 2016. This version, by Emma Rice and courtesy of Kneehigh Theatre is new for amateurs and rarely staged. It is humorous and witty, with music and creative audio visuals.
Star crossed lovers Laura and Alec meet when she gets some grit in her eye, and play out much of their “brief encounter” in the refreshment room of Milford Junction railway station. This play stays true to the original version with script lifted from the film.
Also enjoying their own romances with Albert and Stanley are Myrtle and Beryl, the ladies who serve the teas and Banberry buns. These two couples add delicious humour, song and dance to the production.
Director Jackie Hurley said: “Everyman Theatre is delighted to have secured the services of experienced pianist Gwyn Morgans, who underscores the action with Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No 2 which also featured in the original film. We are pleased to present this version which is not often staged and is new for amateur groups. It stays true to Noel Coward’s original screenplay and our talented cast are going to delight audiences this May.”
This play marks the end of Everyman Theatre’s successful 2015/16 programme which is always staged in Chapter Arts Centre. This season has seen great reviews and sell out houses. From June the group’s annual festival will be staged in Sophia Gardens.
