New Alan Ayckbourn play to head to Lake District theatre

Show & Tell, the 90th play by the acclaimed playwright, will be performed at the Old Laundry Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere, from Tuesday, October 8, to Saturday, October 12.

The play, which is written and directed by Sir Ayckbourn himself, is a celebration of theatre, described as a 'delightfully dark farce' that unveils the performances people enact in their everyday lives.

Richard Stacey, left, and Olivia Woolhouse (Image: Tony Bartholomew) Sir Ayckbourn's relationship with the Old Laundry Theatre began in 1992 when the theatre first opened its doors.

Since then, a production penned and directed by him has been staged almost every year, cultivating a dedicated fan base in the Lake District and surrounding areas.

As of 2024, Sir Ayckbourn has penned 90 full-length plays, earning his status as one of the most successful and performed living playwrights globally.

Bill Champion, left, and Richard Stacey (Image: Tony Bartholomew) His works are staged around the world and have been translated into more than 35 languages.

His latest play, Show & Tell, features a talented cast including Bill Champion, Paul Kemp, Frances Marshall, Richard Stacey, and Olivia Woolhouse.

The production team comprises set and costume designer Kevin Jenkins, lighting designer Tigger Johnson, associate sound designer Ernest Acquah, and wardrobe supervisor Julia Perry-Mook.

Frances Marshall, left, and Paul Kemp (Image: Tony Bartholomew) The casting director is Sarah Hughes CDG.

Show & Tell unfolds as Jack plans a big birthday party for his wife, hiring a touring theatre company to perform in the main hall of their home.

However, as Jack grows older, his memory begins to fail him, and he struggles to recall the details of the booking.

On the other hand, the Homelight Theatre Company, in dire need of a well-paid gig, finds Jack's booking both appealing and puzzling.

Paul Kemp, left, and Bill Champion (Image: Tony Bartholomew)

The play, performed in the year the author turned 85, offers a humorous yet revealing look at the intricacies of human interactions and the performances we all put on daily.

Tickets are available for adults at £30, groups of 10 and above at £20, hardship tickets at £15, and student/under 25 tickets at £10.

A Dine Out ticket, which includes a two-course pre-theatre supper, is priced at £58.

Tickets can be purchased via the box office at 015394 40872 or online at oldlaundrytheatre.co.uk.