TV regular Rupert Hill (Casualty, Coronation Street) will star alongside Phoebe Marshall (Witness for the Prosecution) in a new stage adaptation of D H Lawrence’s masterpiece, Lady Chatterley’s Lover, which comes to Darlington Hippodrome in March as part of a UK tour.
Considered sensationalist erotica when first published and banned worldwide, Lawrence’s text caused outrage not just because of the explicit language, but also because it bridged social and class divides. The impassioned tale of the desire to live more than a half-life changed the literary landscape of Britain.
The touring production reflects the monumental changes in attitude towards female sexuality.
It is also an exploration of the scars of war and the dangers of toxic masculinity as well as being a passionate and optimistic love story.
Trapped in a sexless marriage following her husband’s disability, Connie is burdened with her female duty of care and an increasing sense of isolation.
She instigates a physically charged love affair with the gamekeeper, Mellors, flouting expectations and obligations in the name of self-love.
Director and adaptor Ciaran McConville said: “It’s a privilege to bring this book to the stage.
“I’ve loved Lawrence’s writing since I was a teenager, but revisiting Lady Chatterley, I’m struck by how modern so much of it feels.
“It’s a comment on the fragility of masculinity and the need for an honest approach to our physical life. And it’s beautiful, too. I’m really excited to be working with Tilted Wig theatre group, whose values and ethos make for wonderful tours.”
Lady Chatterley’s Lover is at the Hippodrome from Thursday, March 26 to Saturday, March 28. It comes with an age restriction of 14+.
Call 01325 405405 or visit www.darlingtonhippodrome .co.uk for details.
