Escape to Italy: Enchanted April brings romance and laughter to the Talisman Theatre

Enchanted April at The Talisman. Photo credit Gwyn Davies.

Enchanted April at The Talisman Theatre, Kenilworth, from 14 – 19 April.

Preview by Sharon Sully.

The Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre is delighted to announce its upcoming production of Matthew Barber's Enchanted April, a heartwarming tale of self-discovery, love, and the rejuvenating power of an Italian getaway.  

This enchanting play promises to transport audiences from the drabness of post-war England to the sun-drenched terraces of a medieval Italian castle.

Set in the aftermath of the Great War, Enchanted April follows Lotty Wilton and Rose Arnott, two London housewives trapped in unfulfilling marriages and the monotony of 1920s England. An advertisement in The Times sparks a daring idea: to rent a castle in Italy for a month-long retreat. Joined by the formidable Mrs. Graves and the spirited Lady Caroline Bramble, the quartet embarks on a transformative journey. Amidst the wisteria and Mediterranean sunshine, each woman confronts her past and embraces the possibility of a brighter future.

Rose and Lotty. Photo credit Gwyn Davies.

Director Maurice Smith, who previously directed Enchanted April 18 years ago in Bath, is thrilled to revisit this much-loved play. “The 1990s adaptation by Matthew Barber of the 1922 novel by Elizabeth von Arnim proved a magnificent success,” he says.

“When I returned to live in Warwickshire and joined the Talisman, I was delighted to be asked to repeat that earlier experience. I dug back into the play with some trepidation, wondering how appropriate this romantic and moving comedy would be for today’s sophisticated audiences.

“I need not have worried. Just a few pages in, I was again laughing happily at this funny, well-written, award-winning play. The humour and machinations of Lotty and Rose, trying to break free from their class-ridden society, engender much laughter. Keeping everything hidden from their disapproving husbands while trying to mix with two other women of a higher class (for class, read money) still rings true today.”

Mrs Graves and Caroline. Photo credit Gwyn Davies.

 This production features a talented ensemble cast, including Paige Phelps as Lotty Wilton, Eleanor Lake as Rose Arnott, Gillian Halford as Lady Caroline Bramble, Christine Carpenter as Mrs. Graves, Ben Ionoff as Mellersh Wilton, Phil Spencer as Frederick Arnott, James McCabe as Antony Wilding, and Teresa Robertson as Costanza. This diverse group of performers brings depth and nuance to Barber's richly drawn characters, ensuring a captivating theatrical experience, perfect for an uplifting night out with family or friends.

Enchanted April is a heartwarming, funny, and beautifully uplifting tale that will leave audiences feeling refreshed, inspired, and joyful. With its charming mix of romance, comedy, and self-discovery, this play transports you from the grey skies of England to the sun-drenched beauty of an Italian castle, where love and laughter bloom. Perfect for those seeking an escape from the everyday, it’s a story of second chances, unexpected friendships, and the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone.

Don’t miss this captivating production - book your tickets now and let Enchanted April work its magic on you!

Performances will run from Monday 14 April to Saturday 19 April 2025, with evening performances at 7:30 pm at the Talisman Theatre & Arts Centre in Kenilworth. Tickets are available via the Talisman Theatre website or by contacting the Box Office at 01926 856548.