Bench Theatre - ‘THE POSSIBILITIES’ By Howard Barker
Thirty Years in the Making! This February sees actor David Penrose and director Neil Kendall reunited, three decades after their last collaboration. Neil, previously a multi-award winner with The Bench, said: ‘It is such a joy to direct David again. The last time was with The Homecoming, so when I got the opportunity to direct Barker’s masterpiece, I could think of no better performer.
‘I was just a young student on that first production, but I remember feeling so humble to be part of something so important to the local community. Ironically, we have several talented students of my own working on The Possibilities. Maybe in thirty years’ time they will come home to Havant to direct me?’
Neil has performed in and directed previous Barker productions. This one is made up of ten short plays, each with their own story to tell. An Emperor on the edge of madness; a beautiful assassin; a woman trapped in a dystopian interrogation; a family of weavers sheltering from war; and the guardian of the one remaining library. What do these disparate characters have in common? Each must navigate a treacherous path of survival, while clinging to what humanity they have left. Neil remarked: ‘As Barker says: Come. Be amazed. Be disturbed.’
At The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, East Street, Havant.
Wednesday 19th – Saturday 22nd February 2025, with an additional matinee on the 22nd at 2.30.
About Bench Theatre
Bench Theatre is an amateur theatre group, founded in 1969, committed to producing a wide range of quality drama, both modern and classical, to the highest possible standards. Bench is a regular award winner in The News "Guide" awards.
About The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre
One of the few integrated arts and heritage centres in the UK, The Spring has enjoyed a long history as a cultural landmark in Havant. Known as a small organisation where big things happen, the arts centre delivers a diverse programme of vibrant cultural events and activities that inspire and engage its local community. From high quality live performances to workshops and exhibitions, The Spring’s eclectic events connect with audiences via its Arts Centre and through outreach work.
For Press Enquiries and Further Information:
David Penrose for Bench Theatre: david.penrose1@gmail.com
Emily Harlow, Marketing Manager: emilyh@thespring.co.uk
Websites: www.thespring.co.uk / www.benchtheatre.org.uk
