Locked into life in decaying house

2:21pm Tuesday 19th August 2008

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ACTRESS Stephanie Cole stars in Born in the Garden at Malvern Theatres from Monday, August 25.

This comedy by Peter Nichols was originally commissioned by the Bristol Old Vic to celebrate its 200th anniversary and is about Maud, an elderly lady, and her son Mo, who live together in a dilapidated and decaying mock-Tudor house.

She chats to the telly, he converses with the cat and both share a penchant for bizarre cocktails, tinned food and keeping the past alive.

When older son Hedley, and Mo’s twin Queenie, return for their father’s funeral, they try to persuade Maud and Mo that it is time to escape from their crumbling home - but not everyone wants freedom when it is offered.

Stephanie Cole has previously starred in Peter Nichol’s So Long Life and had lead roles in A Passionate Woman, Quartet, Blithe Spirit and Noises Off. Her diverse television roles include Tenko, Keeping Mum and Waiting for God for which she won Best Actress in the British Comedy Awards.

Co-star Simon Shepherd’s credits include Peak Practice and the West End productions of The Secret Rapture and Art.

Playwright Peter Nichols is the author of some of the best British plays of recent years including A Day In The Life Of Joe Egg, Privates on Parade, The National Health and Passion Play.

Born in the Garden is directed by Stephen Unwin, founder of English Touring Theatre, and currently artistic director at the Roses, working alongside Peter Hall.

Tickets for Born In The Garden, which starts at 8pm, cost £17.50-£26.50, under 25s £8. Call 01684 892277.