The Clearing

by Helen Edmundson | directed by Chris Bealey
27 February–1 March and and 5–8 March at 7.30pm
2.30pm matinee on Saturday 8 March

Contains adult themes and some use of theatrical haze.
Please note: we will have a collection for Refugee Action at every performance.

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

Photography: Grant Barker

Ireland, 1652. Robert and Madeleine Preston welcome their first child into the world. But their happy world is about to come under threat when news reaches them of trouble brewing from across the sea - Cromwell has a plan for Ireland. A deeply emotive and profound piece, originally performed in 1993, it remains grimly relevant to our current times.

*

"The acting as ever in this delightful theatre is of the highest standard, and good use is made of the versatile performance space in this intimate venue... With a capable cast and a powerful story this is a perfect evening of theatre in Norwich, just the thing to banish the winter blues and send you home inspired to be a better person." Julian Swainson - Norwich Eye [click here for full review]

"Brilliant performances by John Davis and Hannah Jones... The whole cast gave excellent performances, from David McCabe's brooding Pierce, to Jo Parker-Sessions 'sweet strange' Killaine, to the gorgeous work by the two musicians. In many ways what stood out most were the powerful moments of ensemble movement and music, proof of both a cohesive company of performers and a strong directorial vision from Chris Bealey." Niamh Duncan - UK Theatre Network [click here for full review]

"[A] brilliant production with superb acting (and singing) across the piece. I was moved to tears by the end. Very moving and alarmingly relevant. Phil's signature floor painting stole the set once again! You must all be so proud of this year’s programme so far this year - absolutely fabulous!" Shelagh

"Just a stunning play, watch it if you can!!" Sue

"Superb performance last night of The Clearing. The two leads & 'Susannah' in particular gave intense yet credible portrayals worthy of a play with things to say both then & now.  Congratulations to all involved in the production". Instagram: @mabqc

"The fortunes of a young couple and two nations are cruelly bound together in this evocative historical drama... Hannah Jones particularly brings it alive with an emotionally rich and impressively nuanced performance." James Goffin, Cultivated [click here for full review]

"The long and complex history of the Irish question is not easily explained but, watching The Clearing last night at the Sewell Barn Theatre enhanced my understanding of the tragedy created over so many years. Chris Bealey and his fine team of creatives have produced a moving piece of theatre which, although set in the 17th century, resonates all too painfully with our current world situation. This is communicated beautifully by a polished ensemble, underscored with spare but powerful singing. Congratulations to all!" Clare Williamson [Sewell Barn FOH Manager]

"This show is moving, relevant and beautifully produced." Julian Swainson

Richard II

 by William Shakespeare | directed by Sabrina Poole

16-18 and 22-25 January

“The children yet unborn shall feel this day as sharp to them as thorn.”

In order to silence a dispute before it turns bloody, King Richard banishes his cousin Henry Bolingbroke from England’s shores. But in his absence, Richard sees an opportunity and seizes his cousin’s lands to finance his costly wars. Angered, Bolingbroke breaks his exile and returns seeking justice. As Richard’s rule becomes increasingly unstable, Bolingbroke’s actions set in motion a series of violent events that will change the future of England forever.

A timeless story of corruption and power, and the complexities of loyalty in the face of a flawed ruler.

Photography: Sean Owen of Reflective Arts

"Sometimes the stars just align beautifully. An exceptional set of actors, the richest of texts, and a Director whose positive influence and clear vision is obvious. This production of Richard II is one of those instances... With such compelling drama and an awesomely powerful portrayal, Richard II at the Sewell Barn Theatre is simply one not to be missed." Ray Tempesta - East Anglian Theatre Podcast [click here for full review]

"I just had to pen you a missive on this one. Full house last night and the performance was astounding. Just to enter the auditorium took one’s breath away. The set / lighting was so imposing and the soundscape really effective. And that’s all before the acting! Some great character acting - loved John of Gaunt and Bolingbroke as well as York, Duchess of Gloucester…. and more. BUT Richard was stunning from beginning to end and can’t get him out of my head. At times he reminded me of Elon Musk - powerful, arrogant, vulnerable and petulant. A complete capture of the changing mood, tone, and fundamental isolation of a young king. Bravo to the Barn! It was brilliant! What a tale for our times! I want to see it again!" Shelagh

" [The] Sewell Barn Theatre are known to like a challenge and they have taken this lesser known script and made an absolute belter of a production.... Director Sabrina Poole has picked a cast who bring well defined character to build on Shakespeare’s script and add interest to an already gripping drama. Jez Pike is mesmerising as Richard, with a stary eyed intensity that reminded me of a host of performers from Graham Norton to Emo Philips managing to be both frighteningly megalomaniac and pathetically vulnerable almost in the same breath. His is a landmark performance... The Sewell Barn Company have crafted a superb production of this lesser known Shakespeare play and I am grateful that they have introduced me to it in such great style." Julian Swainson, Norwich Eye [click here for full review]

"I saw it last night and was really looking forward to seeing a play that I absolutely love. What a brilliant production with all round good performances. The lighting and sound were used to great effect on a striking set.  The production uses all available spaces really effectively.  Stand out performance from Richard II, wonderful direction; go and see it." Trudy

"Just back from Richard II at the Sewell Barn Theatre and highly recommend that you see it if you can. The storytelling is superb, and the cast bring great clarity to the narrative; the production values are outstanding and the many fight scenes exciting! It whizzes along and I was totally absorbed. Many congratulations to director Sabrina Poole and her whole team." Clare

"Before watching this performance Richard II probably wouldn't have even cleared my top five, but this well-wrought production has made me reconsider my rankings.... this was a very powerful production which made me evaluate the play with new eyes." Niamh Duncan - UK Theatre Network [click here for full review]

"Congrats to all involved in Richard II which we really enjoyed last night. Particularly impressed with the clear line delivery by all. Also impressed with the music used ... It was good to meet up with Ruby who I’ve worked with before and what a great performance from her - such a highly competent actor." David

"A fantastic production and great performances from the actors." Julian

"Saw the opening night of Richard II at the Sewell Barn Theatre on Thursday and I have to admit to reading a wiki synopsis beforehand as I didn't know the play and was braced for a confusing history lesson. I needn't have worried. In director Sabrina Poole's capable hands the storytelling was clear and the narrative had a terrific energy throughout. The cast of 18 worked with precision as an ensemble with great timing and choreography, enhanced by powerful sound and lighting to create an edge of the seat drama. And it was great to see proper sword fighting, swishy cloaks and gloves being flung down as challenges in every direction! Well done to Sab and her team - they deserve a few days off before the play opens again for 5 more performances next week Wed - Sat. Get your tickets now!" Clare Williamson, Sewell Barn FOH Manager

"[Jez] Pike is a haughty, cruel, and slightly manic monarch and roams the Sewell Barn’s intimate stage with assurance... This is a rare chance to catch one of Shakespeare’s lesser performed plays, with plenty of unique quirks to challenge those more familiar with the piece." James Goffin, Cultivated [click here for full review]

"Go see it!! Not the greatest of fans of Shakespeare like me? Still go... you won't regret it... I didn't!" Ginny

The Lives of Bosie

by John Wolfson | directed by Selwyn Tillett

5-7 December 2024

Bosie – Lord Alfred Douglas – was Oscar Wilde’s young lover. His role in Wilde’s tragic downfall, instigated by his father the Marquess of Queensberry, is part of the legend. What then happened to Bosie is left out of most history books, yet is equally dramatic: he converted to Catholicism, vilified Wilde, and became a crusader against homosexuality as well as a savage contender in numerous court cases for libel.

We meet Lord Alfred in 1945. Close to death, he is confronted with a visitation from his younger self. They argue, criticise and unpick each other’s lives and reputations. It is a painful and darkly humorous analysis, based entirely on fact.

Photography: Barry Parsons

"I'd never been to your theatre before and it was a real delight. The front of house staff were all charming and very welcoming. And the theatre itself is just wonderful. I was also extremely impressed by the play. Firstly, the staging was a brilliant use of the space, I thought. And the performances of the three actors were absolutely first-rate. I find it hard to believe you're an amateur company. It's invidious to single out any of the actors for special praise, but if anybody forced me to do so I would like to pay tribute to the young actor who played Bosie. That was an absolute tour de force and I would say he would have a very bright future as a professional actor. Thanks again. I hope to be back." Nick

"Overall this was an impressive theatrical experience and I suspect it could have filled the theatre for many more performances than the handful offered. It is a production that I could see doing very well in other venues although I can understand that the Sewell Barn crew are an experienced team who make the very best use of their atmospheric venue and may not wish to spread their wings too far. The closeness of the audience to the performers in the Barn gives an intimacy which helps us to believe the basic premise of this bold play. A triumph for the writer, director and actors and all who helped them to make it happen." Julian Swainson, Norwich Eye [click here for full review]

"Marvellous night last night. This small cast kept the audience rapt throughout the play. It was both entertaining and instructive. If you are interested in Oscar Wilde or in the LGBTQ+ community you must see this play and these talented performers." John

"Your UK premiere of Bosie gave us a very enjoyable evening. You did well to manage a very demanding text and construct, pulling it .off with style and panache. Excellent performances and memorable scenes - Jonathan giving a master class in cameo performances! Well done to you all." Shelagh & Alan

"Director Selwyn Tillett got his choice of protagonists absolutely spot-on, with each of the three performers commanding attention throughout, and delivering performances brimming with a delightful deftness.  The production is notable for being the premiere on UK soil for the play (and also an impressive directorial debut for Selwyn Tillett), so it was well worth checking out for that reason alone, however, coupled with some powerhouse performances from three fine actors, and its very short run, it makes it an absolute must-see. Catch it while you can." Ray Tempesta - East Anglian Theatre Podcast

"It was brilliant!" Etta

"Massive congratulations to Selwyn and the whole cast & crew. We were utterly transfixed & absorbed!" Sarah

"Brilliant, very powerful." Ruth

"Thank you for a very memorable and enjoyable performance yesterday. I was blown away by it. Excellent acting, perfect casting and you must be so pleased that you had the chance to direct such a personal play. How they manage to remember such vast amounts of dialogue, and deliver it with such pace and conviction, leaves me in awe. It certainly bore out the adage that those who veer towards such thoughts and feelings, condemn the most vehemently and it didn't do the church any favours in light of recent events did it? I hope you were duly proud of directing the English premiere and it will now get much more airing. Lovely to have the reference to Weston Longville too!!" Jenny [Email to director]

***

We have been delighted to receive a late review from Sean Titley of the Oscar Wilde Society, as published in their magazine Intentions:

"The Lives of Bosie is a quite wonderful piece of drama. It offers comedy, longing, the devil of memory and the impossibility of re-writing the past. The Sewell Barn production utilised a minimalist set, comprising little more than a writing desk, a sofa, a table and a few scattered magazines (including The Spirit Lamp) thus concentrating attention on performance. 

Jeremiah Humphreys-Piercy played the younger self of Bosie with a wicked turn of eye. He captured the egotism and narcissism, the later vulnerability, and the continued self-absorption of the character to perfection. He had a worthy foil in Rob Fradley-Wilde’s aging Lord Alfred who added just the right amount of gravitas and tortured despair at the behaviour of his younger self.

Rounding off a first-rate cast, Jonathan Cooke played the difficult multiple roles of Memory – presumably it was no easy task to portray Bosie’s wife Olive and Oscar Wilde within moments of each other. He accomplished it splendidly.

Congratulations must also go to the excellent direction of Selwyn Tillett. A friend of the playwright for fifty years and suitably attired with a green carnation buttonhole, he welcomed his Norwich audience with aplomb and style."

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.

Grand Guignol: A Night of Horror and Hilarity

10–12 and 16–19 October at 7.30pm / 2.30pm matinee on Saturday 19 October

The Grand-Guignol in Paris gained worldwide notoriety as the ‘Theatre of Horror’ until it closed in the 1960s. The venue specialised in short plays, giving its audience a rollercoaster ride of gruesome horror plays interspersed with hilarious comedies. It was a guaranteed ‘good night out’ of chills and thrills with as many belly-laughs as bloodcurdling screams.

In this rare opportunity, our ensemble will bring this long-dead theatre back to vivid life with a selection of the extraordinary plays that both terrified and titillated the audiences of the past… But don’t get too comfortable – there may be some modern surprises too…!

PLEASE NOTE: the show contains graphic violence, horror effects, sexual content, including themes of child sex abuse. DO NOT ATTEND IF YOU MIGHT FIND SUCH MATERIAL UPSETTING.

Photography: Sean Owen of Reflective Arts

"Gripping, entertaining and disturbing. Can’t stop thinking about it! Congratulations to whole cast and crew for exceptional quality throughout." Shelagh Maple [Sewell Barn Trustee]

"Richard Hand’s Grand Guignol... was a fascinating and intriguing journey through the history of the genre. The show masterfully alternated between moments of horror and comedy, immersing the audience in a truly unique experience. The actors delivered inspired performances (special mention for the captivating presentation of Belladonna), which captured all the tension and charm typical of the Grand Guignol. The theatre itself, with its intimate and authentic atmosphere, evoked memories of the early 20th-century Parisian performances, making the evening a memorable tribute to this historic genre. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to see Richard’s and his actors’ magnificent work: it’s an unmissable chance to discover and experience this theatrical tradition, which deserves to be known. I came from Italy to see it, don't miss it if it's in your city!" Gianfilippo Maria Falsina Lamberti - Director of Grand Guignol de Milan

"Congratulations to Richard Hand and all the cast and crew of Grand Guignol at the Sewell Barn Theatre this afternoon. I really wasn’t sure what to expect but it was incredibly atmospheric, funny, dark and highly entertaining with some fantastic performances. Hope you were lucky enough to catch it!" Alison

"Bravo to the cast and crew of the Sewell Barn's "Grand Guignol"! Thoroughly enjoyed the performance this afternoon! Immersive, dark, gory, funny, and even quite thought provoking at times! Très bien! Magnifique!" Lola

"I loved it! Congratulations to you all. A production that had it all, great characters, fantastic costumes and the most fabulous set, with such attention to detail all round the theatre." Jo

"Brilliant show! Suitably hair-raising and creepy!" Trevor

"The set designers have excelled themselves for this production, and the whole theatre has been transformed to match the mood of the Parisian original. The Sewell Barn is a perfect setting for this transformation, every twist and turn through the building gives another delight. The production is well paced with the actors confident in their roles, some of which demand intense dramatic skills to perform. They build credible characters often seen at a time of great crisis in their lives, with bloody consequences." Julian Swainson - Norwich Eye [click here for full review]

"Went to see the Grand Guignol production at the Sewell Barn yesterday, Wonderful, funny, thoughtful and brilliant. Well done everyone involved!" Etta

"Excellent show... scary, funny, surprises... well done to all involved, don't miss it." Ruth

"Fantastic show last night! Wonderfully dark and disturbing (and funny in parts)! Well done to all the cast and crew on a superbly staged show. Trick or treat yourself to a ticket while you can…" Lisa

"[A] testament to [Richard] Hand as a director is the sheer talent and versatility of his cast. It is rare to see such a strong ensemble, but here a group of just fifteen manage to fully flesh out the world of six different plays. The multi-roling demanded to achieve the vast tonal differences of the shows is met with aplomb by the actors." Niamh Duncan, UK Theatre Network [click here for full review]

"The pieces are performed by a fifteen-strong ensemble, with many appearing across the pieces – Shem Jacobs gives several contrasting, skilful performances, with Alexandra Evans also putting in multiple impressive appearances." James Goffin - Cultivated [click here for full review]

"Wonderful throughout. Edgy, thought-provoking - well done!" First night audience member comment

"It's brilliant. The best thing I've ever seen at Sewell Barn!" Clint

"Loved every minute of it, you created such a great atmosphere too." Penny

***

Finally, a very special set of reflections from an expert in this field, Alex Zavistovich.

"As the AD of The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre, I’m lucky enough to have been in the theatre in Norwich [for] opening night yesterday, when this reviewer saw this wonderful show, curated and directed by long-time Poe Theatre collaborator Richard Hand. I’m honored to be hosting a talk-back following [Friday's] show. Poe was a huge influence on the Theatre du Grand Guignol. In fact, in 1903 the theatre even mounted an adaptation of "The System of Dr. Tarr and Professor Fether." If you live anywhere near Norwich (UK), you don’t want to miss this spooky and fun evening of classic horror theatre."

Alex also followed his review with a very kind email to the Artistic Directors:

"Your Grand Guignol evening was an important event for horror theatre fans and practitioners. Thank you so much for your cordiality and hospitality.

The Sewell Barn theatre space is lovely. It’s everything that has ever drawn me to the stage. The intimacy is a true advantage for drawing in the audience, and really heightens the experience. I’m sure that’s true no matter what is on stage.

I’m so impressed by the work done by the theatre to create an immersive experience — from the sign above the entry, to the hall of posters, to the little coffin ticket booth. Your team deserves credit for going the extra mile.

This show was a huge success in my opinion, and it was an honor to moderate a talk-back panel with the audience. Thank you for that especially.

I’m not overstating the importance of this show for our community of horror and suspense theatres. Having proponents from the UK, Italy and the US together under one roof led to discussion of future collaborations that we might not have had otherwise. It was a summit of sorts.

Once again, thank you for everything. You’ve started off your season with a bang, that’s for sure. Break a leg on the rest of the run, and all your shows to come."

****

PLEASE NOTE: the show contains graphic violence, horror effects, sexual content, including themes of child sex abuse. DO NOT ATTEND IF YOU MIGHT FIND SUCH MATERIAL UPSETTING.

The Memory of Water

by Shelagh Stephenson | directed by Cassie Tillett

11-13, 17-20 July

Can you feel nostalgia for something that never really existed?

Three sisters gather at their mother’s house for her funeral. Through their arguments, tears, and laughter we learn of the joys and conflicts of their shared childhood, as well as the distortions of memory.

This powerful, painful and often hilarious illustration of family dynamics and influence won the Olivier Award for Best Comedy in 2000. It reflects on all our hopes, dreams, self-delusion and disappointments, and on the power of the past – imaginary or real - to shape our present and our future.

Photography: Cassie Tillett

"Sewell Barn company at its finest - superb direction, performing, staging. A truly first class production by an equally first class team of creatives." Karen

"It was phenomenal - it really couldn't be faulted. Many congratulations to you all." Clare

"I thought this was a great production, with a perfectly cast ensemble and meticulously detailed design and mood throughout. Congratulations to all involved." Richard

"Many congratulations on an incredible production with some phenomenal acting. You deserve a bigger stage to share your excellence." Peter

"This is the best production I've seen in a long while. I found myself laughing, gasping & cringing throughout the performance. Brilliantly done!" Jane

"Stupendous, in all regards. So glad I made it. Congratulations to you all." Aamer

"Fabulous play. Fast-paced, thought-provoking and also funny. A triumph of a performance by all!" Hayley

"What a fantastic play & performances by everyone involved. We really enjoyed it." Trevor

"Thoroughly enjoyed the show last night (second Thursday). It seems to me that the quality of theatre to be enjoyed at Sewell Barn just keeps on increasing. Wonderful play superbly acted. Do go and see it if you can." Kevin

"What a lovely evening I had at the Barn yesterday. You had cast the play perfectly and I laughed out loud, between feeling sorry for and sad for all the characters. I know a funny script is most important, but it is only funny if delivered with perfect timing and all the actors had that, especially Catherine, who had me wanting to shake her and hug her in equal measure. I had seen Jo at the Maddermarket and knew how good she was, but every character delivered. I didn't know Mike was being played by an understudy until I saw it on the board in the interval, and didn't he do well? I wondered why a man would come through the window to get out of the snow, with a book in his hand, but he only glanced surreptitiously to cue himself in and knew the script so well it did not distract at all. It must have been such a lot of work to get it to that standard, thank you for getting it to that point, so we could relax and just enjoy the whole thing." Jenny

"In this production of Shelagh Stephenson’s Olivier Award-winning play, the creative team has struck the balance between humour and anguish perfectly... [a] beautiful, sensitive production." Ray Tempesta - East Anglian Theatre Podcase [click here for full review]

"This play – and this production of it – pulls of the rare feat of being deeply moving and riotously funny; a dark comedy that touches raw nerves and funny bones in near equal measure. A lot of the credit for that goes to Shelagh Stephenson’s script, with its sharp observation, characterisation, and deft phrasing, but director Cassie Tillett has also elicited stunning performances from her talented cast." James Goffin, Cultivated [click here for full review]

"My heart is tender this morning - this powerful, funny, poignant play, beautifully performed, at Sewell Barn, explores and stirs memories and losses and how we all tend to sit in our own perceptions of the past, how memory is a creative act of storytelling in itself. It’s left me feeling and thinking a lot which is what good theatre does." Helen

"What an amazing production! Incredible performances - moving and hilarious. Well done all!" Hollie

"What a super production - really engaging. The actors were fantastic and the comedic bits were really funny." Annie

"Second week of this insightful and brilliant show. A delight to be captured by this bittersweet funny play so beautifully acted and presented." Shelagh

"Saw a really excellent production of The Memory of Water at Sewell Barn Theatre last night, directed by Cassie Tillett, brilliant cast taking us through a very emotional journey of love and loss (and laughter, too). Yes, of course I cried! If you’re in Norwich catch it if you can." Alex

"Saw this on Thursday - it is truly an excellent play and exquisitely performed." Jonathan

"Amazing performances by all. Fab show. Definitely book some tickets if you haven't already." Diane

"A great & must see production. Throughly enjoyed Saturday evening's performance." 'Head Verger'

"Just been to see this excellent play at Sewell Barn Theatre in Norwich... It was great to see my good friend Laura, who I’d only previously known in a senior education role, on stage and acting her socks off. Sometimes doing something new is appreciating someone else in a completely different role. It’s a good play, managing to be sad, profound and funny all in one small space, well done Laura and all the cast for taking us all somewhere that was both different and yet familiar. Last performances on Saturday so there’s still time." Colin

"Huge congratulations to Cassie Tillett and her cast and crew after a wonderful opening night of The Memory of Water at the Sewell Barn Theatre. This is such a rich depiction of grief in all its rawness and complexity yet it's also funny and ridiculous in equal measure as the lives of the three sisters and their mother are revealed. The performances of the women, their men and their relationships are beautifully and tenderly conveyed. The coffin is amazing but the most credit must go to John Holden for picking up the role of Mike with three days' notice due to the sudden illness of the original cast member - John deserves an Oscar for best performance in a pink bath towel ever. Lots more opportunities for everyone to see this." Clare Williamson [FOH Manager, Sewell Barn]

"It was excellent, great acting, powerful story, moving and funny." Gill

"Congratulations to Cassie and company! A brilliantly written play, beautifully performed by the whole company. Special shout out to John Holden, practically off book with just three days notice, very impressive!" Robin

"A very fine play - well worth performing!! And how well the cast and support team provided an excellent evening - congratulations to all involved!!" Ian

"Congratulations to the cast and crew - we really enjoyed last night's performance. Wishing you a very successful run. So recommend this show." Diane

[Review of earlier rehearsal] "As I’m away on holiday during the run of this show, the director and cast of The Memory of Water were kind enough to allow me to watch a full run rehearsal this evening so that I don’t miss out! And, wow, am I grateful!! What an exceptional piece of work. It’s a brilliantly written script and this ridiculously talented cast play it perfectly. I laughed (boy, did I laugh, it’s hilarious) I cried (apologies for the noisy sniffs), and I was utterly captivated from start to finish. I urge you to book and see this show. It’s a very special one." Alison

As You Like It

As You Like It

by William Shakespeare
directed by Carole Lovett
30 May-1 June, 5-8 June 7.30pm
Matinée 8 June 2.30pm

The Forest of Arden provides a safe haven to political exiles. But whilst its leafy canopy may shelter them from the world’s problems, it proves a chaotic playground for affairs of the heart. Romantic ambitions conflict and entangle as disguises, misdirected affections, and their own natures create riotous fun. Can they battle through the misunderstandings and find freedom in love?

Photography: Sean Owen of Reflective Arts

"Tonight, I had the very great pleasure of attending the Sewell Barn Theatre for the very first time. I and several of my compatriots from the recent production of Twelfth Night (at ‘the Other Place’), were in tonight’s audience for the Barn’s production of  As You Like It. And like it we did (see what I did there?!) Now, I could wax lyrical about the quality of the performances (excellent, one and all), and the crispness of the direction (marvellous, darling), and tell you all that it was calibre entertainment, but the truth is, you already know I’m going to say that. But here’s the thing… We’re all just a little bit jealous. We’re all pining for our own show, and tonight I felt the same buzz in As You Like It as we felt a couple of weeks ago. I could just tell the cast were having a ball. That sense of fun, of love, and camaraderie, just zinged off the actors. There really is nothing like being in a show you just know is working.  Good work!" Richard

""All the world's a stage..." utters nobleman Jaques in Act II, but this talented company are not "merely players" as the famous monologue continues. For such was their ease and comfort with what can be daunting text, one could be fooled into believing that this troupe of actors have been speaking Shakespearean English their whole lives.... From top to bottom, this was an accomplished and most vibrant production. Director Carole Lovett has drilled her team well, eking the best out of everyone as they showed clear intentions throughout, and not a tentative performance in sight." Ray Tempesta (East Anglian Theatre Podcast - click here for full review)

"Congratulations on a brilliant production of As you like it. We went on Friday and thoroughly enjoyed it. Setting the play in the second World War showed very effectively the constancy of mankind’s flaws and also I think made the play more accessible for people unfamiliar with it. Thank you for a delightful play." [message to director] Charles

"[Lewis Garvey and Hannah Wood] are naturals on stage and the moment they enter a scene I am immediately sucked into whatever tale they are spinning this time.  Accompanying them are a strong supporting cast made of men and women of the forest, who never failed to make me laugh whilst on stage. I particularly enjoyed the songs, sung by Gill Tichborne and Ros Swetman, and arranged by Tichborne too, which brought a livelihood to the piece even when I had no idea what was going on plotwise. Every time they appeared on stage I was hoping for another song and I was not disappointed! Sewell Barn’s shows consistently have incredibly strong supporting casts and this was no exception." Bertie Pearson (UK Theatre Network)  

"Thank you for a riveting evening of entertainment from start to finish. To say Rosalind, Celia, and Orlando were truly outstanding would be unfair to the others, who all played their part so well. Well done to Director Carole. Wow, what an evening to remember. Well done to all involved and wish you equal success with remaining  performances." Brian

"Enjoyable night at the Sewell Barn Theatre watching their current production, As You Like It. Very entertaining with some notable performances and the music was great fun!! On again next week from Wednesday to Saturday. Go get yourselves some Shakespeare!" Alison

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