Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Virginia Woolf- rehearsal, Nick - Jack Sargent and Honey - Sophie Wood. Photo by Martin Pulley.
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf written by Edward Albee, directed by Malcolm Fawcett, at Rugby Theatre from 9 – 16 March.
Preview.
Rugby Theatre’s next production will be the dark comedy Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf. Edward Albee’s critically acclaimed play will be directed by Malcolm Fawcett and a limited number of Early Bird tickets are now on sale priced at £12.
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is about the dysfunctional and self-destructive marriage between a history professor and his wife, witnessed in a searing night of dangerous fun and games following a drinks party.
“Ever since seeing the iconic film version of 1966 (Oscars for Elizabeth Taylor and Sandy Dennis, and nominations for Richard Burton and George Segal) I have been enthralled by this quite remarkable play,” says director Malcolm Fawcett.
“What makes it work so well is not just the superb writing by Edward Albee, but the way the plot twists and turns, leaving the audience never quite able to relax, such is the nature of the shocking personal revelations and jaw-dropping verbal confrontations!”
Audiences don’t need to know anything about writer Virginia Woolf to watch the show – the title is simply taken from a play on words with her name.
Virginia Woolf - rehearsal. George - Nigel Westlake and Martha - Rayner Wilson. Photo by Martin Pulley.
Malcolm went on to saythat it is now reasonable to label it a Modern Classic and Masterpiece – it is now being used as a study source both here in the UK and the USA, as well as it still being widely and regularly performed.
“Since its first performances in 1962 it has been the well deserved recipient of many awards including Tony Awards and New York Drama critics awards for Best Play. As such, I feel very honoured to be entrusted with leading the team on this great enterprise, and hope we can do it justice!
“All four characters in it are hugely inviting and have been coveted by some of our most distinguished actors over the years! Nonetheless, all four are extremely challenging roles, not just for the complexity of the characters but for the sheer length of it (running time not far short off 3 hours).
“I take my hat off to the cast for meeting the acting challenges so well, as well as for their stamina both physical and mental!
“Squirm, be shocked, laugh and be prepared to feel more than a little uncomfortable at times… but most of all enjoy!” says Malcolm.
Call the Box Office on 01788 541234 or visit: http://www.rugbytheatre.co.uk/
