Douglas Bartlett: lover, teacher, genius, thief – his colleagues in the theatre all have differing views on the charismatic director. But whatever he was, six months ago he died and four of them are charged with planning his memorial service. Not an easy task because old sins throw long shadows and his actions and deception in the past changed all their lives.
So will Cressida, always the outsider, his stalwart stage manager, full of unrequited love, be able to plan a ceremony that will please Don, his unforgiving, bitter leading man or Barry, who scared of confrontation has only recently found the courage to start a new life?
And what about Zoe – a national treasure and an MBE? What could prevent her life from being all champagne and roses as it has been for so long?
Douglas has insisted in his will that the ceremony be held at St Augustine’s – a church that has seen better days in a poor part of London. The Reverend Thomas Haldane is unlikely to question the demand. Weary and exhausted from a thankless parish, he is only too pleased to think of the large congregation that will arrive for the ceremony – not aware that he, too, has been gently deceived by the charming Douglas.
Fondly Remembered? – will he be or will the past overshadow the present? This is a wickedly funny play, full of revelations, revenge and reconciliation. It also asks us a simple question – is it ever too late to make amends and start again?
For more information on Fondly Remembered, which is to be directed by Linda O’Byrne, or to register your interest in taking part, contact Linda here.