Trevor and Susannah, a monstrously self-obsessed couple, parade their problems around the bedrooms of three other couples - exposing the cracks in each relationship, and lifting the lid on middle-class marriage in the 70s.
As a title,
Bedroom Farce suggests characters rushing in and out of cupboards and bedrooms scantily clad - but in fact it's a
study of real people in very real situations, that escalate into farcical situations.
Here we have four relationships, varying from 'love's young dream', to a couple married for almost a lifetime.
What makes the play so appealing and makes people laugh (and nod their heads in recognition), is Ayckbourn's deep and sympathetic understanding of human nature.
The play has had many revivals, most recently as an adaptation for BBC radio 4. this production has a wonderful eight-strong cast, and is headed up by Katie Brownings, a local director and Artistic Director of the NVT. Collectively, the team has a wealth of experience and many professional credits.
Katie Brownings says:
"When I read the play I laughed, and loved the structure of individual scenes and the rhythm of the dialogue.
"It's clear to me that Ayckbourn is a master craftsman, and his ability to mix mechanical skill and disquieting truth should never be underestimated.
"Although times have changed since the gaudy 70s, I believe that 'Bedroom Farce' can still be relevant and hugely entertaining for a modern audience."
New Venture Theatre's production of Bedroom Farce runs from 1st to 9th December 2023. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/newventuretheatre for further details phone Box Office Information on 01273 746118. Ticket price: £12.00 (£10 NVT Members)