Absent Friends is a play by the renowned playwright Alan Ayckbourn. The play premiered in Scarborough 50 years ago. A tea party has been arranged for the recently bereaved Colin by “friends” and acquaintances. However, Colin’s acceptance of his situation and of his fulfilling time with his fiancée only serves to highlight and widen the rifts in the other relationships.

In an interview with Ayckbourn in 2021, he describes this play as an “unflinching tragi-comedy which explores the death of love”. Although first aired in 1974, it has been regularly revived making it one of the most popular plays in the Ayckbourn play canon. When asked if the play was still relevant today, he replied “I think a lot of it still very relevant. Human nature doesn’t change. We just adopt different hairstyles”.

This is John Casey’s debut as a Director for Bartholomew Players, and the play will both amuse and invite you to reflect on modern British life.

The production will follow all Government guidance in place at the time of the performance regarding any COVID-19 safety measures – please check the website regularly for updates.
Venue: Eynsham Village Hall, Back Lane, Eynsham, OX29 4QW
Dates: Wednesday 27th to Saturday 30th November 2024
Doors open: 7.00pm, Performance: 7.30pm
Price: £12.00 (no concessions)
Available: online from https://www.trybooking.co.uk/DVGG in advance from Denise Santilli, 07721 744020, bart.players@gmail.com, from Evenlode DIY in Eynsham or on the door
Website: www.bartholomewplayers.co.uk
New members interested in acting or backstage are very welcome. The Bartholomew Players are an award-winning, friendly company. Please contact via the email address or website.

Bartholomew Players present: “Absent Friends” by Alan Ayckbourn

£12