A production banned by the BBC for more than 10 years because of its controversial nature is coming to Hampton Hill.
Teddington Theatre Club will perform Brimstone and Treacle, one of Dennis Potter’s most controversial works, at the Hampton Hill Playhouse next month.
The searing drama is set in the 1970s and focuses on a middle-aged suburban couple and their troubled daughter Pattie, who was left severely disabled from a car accident two years previously.
Out of nowhere a mysterious stranger arrives – a polite, clean-cut but disturbing young man who changes their lives forever.
People should note the production contains scenes of a sexual nature which some audience may find disturbing and parental guidance is advised Director Chloe Jones will hold a special post-show discussion that is available to all ticket holders on Sunday, March 2, and says choosing the play was, in a way, a controversial decision.
She says: “The Hampton Hill playhouse produces so many wonderful productions every year giving its audience members a wide variety of play genre.
“However, I don’t think to the depths of Brimstone and Treacle, it is different. It is incredibly dark in its themes, thought provoking, uncomfortable and certainly not a light-hearted evening’s entertainment at the theatre.
“Because of this, I debated as to whether the Playhouse’s patrons were ready for such alternative experience to the ‘norm’. Then I thought, why not? Theatre is meant to be thought-provoking, challenging, provocative and open to everyone. I just hope that we depict Potter’s play with the balance it needs to intrigue regular audiences and entice new ones.”
Jones says she worked hard on producing a piece of theatre where the audience will walk away with questions.
She says: “There is no right or wrong way when analysing this play, therefore everyone will have their own opinion of what they think it means and that opinion will likely change through-out the evening.
“Who are the characters and what is their purpose? What are Dennis Potter’s motives? Do you think that line meant this or that?
“It is definitely a conversation starter. There are scenes that some people will find disturbing and uncomfortable, but I hope that this won’t deter people from coming and experiencing some fantastic performances in what is a superbly written and interesting play.”
Brimstone and Treacle; Hampton Hill Playhouse, High Street, Hampton Hill; Sunday, March 2, to Saturday, March 8; Tickets £8 and £10; Call 0845 8387529 or visit ttc-boxoffice.org.uk.
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