The Bench re:plays at Library
After very successful runs at the Salford and Didsbury Studios, and The Lowry, Joe O’Byrne’s hit play The Bench arrives at the Library Theatre as part of the Re:Play Festival later this month.
Over a period of 12 months, the lives of an eclectic group of Paradise Heights residents intersect around a bench in the local park.
Thematically the play is about life, death and rebirth. Many of the characters find themselves at transitional points in their lives. They are either nervously eyeing an uncertain future and change, or coming to terms with the often painful process of moving on, or letting go.
Whilst some are desperately holding onto the past, others are are even more desperate to escape it and the unbearable pain that has made them who they are.
Although billed as a comedy, the play tackles some serious topical issues - homelessness, abuse, addiction and enormous personal grief, all themes that will be further explored through these characters in future plays featuring them.
Six actors portray a total of eighteen characters in the play.
‘Highly recommended and a play, and writer, which will surely go on to great things. Be the envy of your friends and be able to say you saw it first…’ Kevin Bourke, Manchester Evening News
The Bench is at the Library Theatre from 27th- 29th January at 7.30pm
For tickets, please call the box office: 0161 236 7110.
-Glenn Meads
June 30th, 2008 at 8:27 am
I saw this play the first time round and will be going to see it again. It was excellent. The actors done an exceptional job. This is definately a must see for anyone who is into theatre.
July 10th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
This is a must see!
Having been involved in the industry from grass roots level to Hollywood, I have to say, this is exceptional theatre.
Keep your tickets and make sure they are signed, because these guys are bound for the bright lights.
Don’t miss out!
August 1st, 2008 at 9:18 am
I went to see this play back in its early days of Salford and loved it. They’ve really captured the ups and downs of life with so many characters. Both funny and tense, I forgot to finish my drink. A great evening of entertainment.
August 4th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Great entertainment! If you want to see some great, cutting edge theatre, get yourself to the Lowry for another chance to see this fabulous production.
August 25th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Went to see this play having been told it was a comedy. Some scenes were funny and the acting was good.
However, towards the end of the first act where the teenagers were in the park, the language deteriorated dreadfully and the whole scene became embarrasing,so much so I did not return for the second half.
I certainly did not expect this and such unacceptable language surely warrants some kind of warning before people buy tickets!
January 12th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
To Pauline
I’m sorry you were offended. There were warnings about the strong adult content on the flyers, the posters and in the program for the play.
Best wishes
Joe
January 30th, 2009 at 12:58 pm
It was the first time I’d ever been to the theatre and my girlfriend wanted me to see this play, I thought it was brilliant, the actors were exceptional (especially Eric)
loved it and i’ll definetly go again
cheers