The acclaimed production, The Holly and the Ivy, returns to the Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne from 26th – 30th November. This atmospheric drama is a timeless tale of painful memories etched out on a snowy Christmas Eve in 1947.
Set in a Norfolk vicarage on the cusp of yuletide, Reverend Martin Gregory’s family gather for the festive season. Peace and goodwill radiates from the warm-hearted elderly vicar who is cared for by his young daughter, but with the arrival of two irritable aunts, and an errant career driven daughter, the emotional veneer of the family is skilfully peeled away.
As skeletons tumble from closets and stones are turned over, family members are forced to confront their regrets and secret anxieties. Even the lovable vicar is not immune to the stresses and strains of a normal family life.
This atmospheric and absorbing human story stars Stuart McGugan (It Ain’t Half Hot Mum/Tutti Fruiti), Corrinne Wicks (Emmerdale/Doctors), Tom Butcher(The Bill/Doctors), Dean Smith (Waterloo Road) and Hildegard Neil.
The play was first performed in London to great success in 1950, and was subsequently turned into a film in 1952. Written by Wynyard Browne whose plays are often described as having a Chekovian quality, the show is presented by the award-winning Middle Ground Theatre and has received great acclaim making it an ideal winter warmer.
This wonderful festive production has received the Theatre Critic’s Choice in both The Guardian and The Times, and it’s the perfect way to begin your festive celebrations.
See The Holly and the Ivy at the Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne from Tuesday 26 November to Saturday 30 November, with nightly performances at 7.45pm with Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets are priced from £14.50 – £19.00, with concessions available, and can be booked by calling the box office on 01323 412000 or online at www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk