A new ensemble takes over a transformed Cottesloe Theatre this summer to present four short plays by writers new to the National Theatre: Tom Basden, Sam Holcroft, DC Moore and Prasanna Puwanarajah. A live band and a single group of performers and theatre-makers will premiere the two double-bills. Suitable for 15yrs+ Edgar & Annabel - A young married couple prepare dinner in a smartly furnished kitchen. Annabel is composed, intelligent, in love. Edgar is professional, successful, assured. She's chopping vegetables, he's brought the wine. But something isn't right. In a city not so different from our own capital, a group of freedom fighters attempt to stand up to an Orwellian establishment in increasingly perilous circumstances. Sam Holcroft's ingenious new play paints a picture of a police state in crisis. The story that unfolds brings into question relationships, identities and the very nature of reality itself... The Swan - In a decaying pub in South London, preparations are being made for a wake. The beer is warm, the rain is falling, and tempers are running close to breaking point. Denise has lost a father - and Jim has missed his own son's funeral. With only an hour before their guests arrive, a fractured family begin to settle their accounts. The ghosts of lives lived and opportunities missed are laid to rest as new and ancient betrayals are confronted and forgiven. DC Moore's touching and very funny new play examines the ties that hold us together in a multi-cultural society.| 18 Jul 11 to 10 Sep 11 | National Theatre West End, Greater London Performance Details => Venue archive |
