After Electra

by April de Angelis | directed by Clare Williamson

21-23, 27-30 November 7.30pm. Matinée 30 November 2.30pm

It’s Virgie’s 84th birthday and she’s come to a momentous decision. Never one to toe the line, she is determined to announce her wishes as her family and friends gather to celebrate her special day. However, Virgie has always been more committed to art than motherhood and she has not reckoned on her guests’ determination to thwart her highly unusual birthday plans.

A thought provoking and scabrously funny black comedy that pulls no punches, exploring family relationships and the impact of past decisions on future lives.

Photography: Andrew Evans

"I would highly recommend this play to any fans of art history, or dark comedy, or simply anyone who wants a deeply thought provoking while also viciously funny evening." Niamh Duncan, UK Theatre Network [click here for full review]

"While the subject matter could be seen as difficult the play is not; it has lots of humour and some great one liners and is delivered with zest and enthusiasm by this talented ensemble. A play to enjoy and then talk about for many days to come." Julian Swainson, Norwich Eye [click here for full review]

"Susan Newstead as Virgie drives the action with a remarkable performance: waspish, caustic, and cruel as she debates with her daughter Haydn (Mandy Kiley); then by turns subtle and subdued, and heart-achingly passionate, as the plot progresses. It is a captivating watch." James Goffin, Cultivated [click here for full review]

[Comment on the previous review] "Great review. Although it grates a bit to read that John and Sarah ‘complete the cast’. They do so much more than that. They bring a really important counterpoint to the other relationships and both actors brought this out beautifully. Well done. A really pleasurable night of theatre for me." Laura

"Just been to see a performance this afternoon. It was excellent. All the actors were very good and although a tricky subject, the play dealt with the emotions involved very well. Thank you to all the cast, production and front of house." Sarah

"This was so good. I was really moved by the issues and the absolute sincerity of the cast and their performances. Virgie almost had me in tears. Thank you to everyone including the backstage team for a memorable evening." John

"Very much enjoyed the play last night - the themes are very bleak [and timely!] but there is great wit and humanity. Great work across the team - everyone in the cast 'has their moment' - and there was a lovely stage and tech design. Well done all!!" Richard

"Thoroughly enjoyed this last night, excellent performances from all the cast. The story was thought provoking, emotional and often very funny. Well done to everyone involved." Katie

"I thought it was brilliant. The character portrayals, the set, clothing etc. it raised interesting thoughts on people, choices and communication and was very funny." Rae

"I just wanted to say how fantastic I thought the play was this evening.   I thoroughly enjoyed myself." Chrissy

"Truly excellent performances by everyone... In fact, it was an exceptional play. We both really enjoyed it, very well done to everyone involved." Viv

"We saw this fantastic play last night. Beautifully written and performed by an excellent cast... don't miss this one!" Lucille

"A deep, funny and heart rending exploration of the tension between being an artist and being a parent- strangely something only women are continually confronting! There’s also the very topical issue of the right to take your own life and its impact on those close to you. In a way the whole play is about whether you have the right to live your own life. It’s well performed by a strong cast. Do go and see it." Helen

"Congratulations to the whole team! Very enjoyable and thought-provoking." Robin

"Really good watch, thought-provoking , funny, emotional, with outstanding performances all round." Jamie

Contains strong language and adult themes.

Tickets www.ticketsource.co.uk/sewellbarn, or by phone 0333 6663366.