Audiences will be treated to a little bit of history repeating itself when the Lichfield Players perform A Voyage Round My Father at the city’s Garrick Theatre later this month.
It will be the second time the production has been performed by the society in its 70 year history as well as a welcome second outing for the director and various cast.
Written by John Mortimer – acclaimed author of Rumpole of the Bailey – A Voyage Round My Father is a touching and humorous tribute to the playwright’s own father. Told from the perspective of a grown man reminiscing, snapshots of his life are depicted over a span of 30 years in relation to his eccentric and latterly reclusive but ever-influential father.
From incidents at prep school and experiences on a wartime filmset to the son’s rise as a barrister as his father’s profile wanes, the depiction of real people and real events takes audiences on a journey of emotions from warmth and laughter to tears.
“It’s a real pleasure to be directing the Lichfield Players in Mortimer’s semi-autobiographical play again,” said Rose Bodger. “The first time was in 1986 in the old Arts Centre, now the city’s Ego restaurant.
“Having played four of the 33 named characters in a 1978 production in Burton, I fell in love with the play and jumped at the chance to direct the Lichfield Players in 1986 – and again in 2014. From over 250 plays performed since the society’s birth, I’m delighted A Voyage Round My Father was selected for our 70th anniversary programme, and am excited to be one of the only directors to do the double in Players’ history!”
Rose, who also takes on a minor role in the current production, will be joined on stage by four other Voyage veterans. These include Stephen Brunton who starred in the title role in the Players’ original production, and Denise Baker who played Iris at school. Her ten year old daughter Olivia will take on the same role for this production.
“Revisiting such an absorbing and heartwarming play is a real treat,” continued Rose. “We’d love people to come and share this fascinating father and son story – and see who they recognise in the cast too!”
The Lichfield Players present John Mortimer’s A Voyage Round My Father at the Lichfield Garrick from March 25 to 29. Tickets are £10 (£9 unwaged/senior citizens; £7 students). To book call the box office on 01543 412121 or visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com.
