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Classics in new guises at the Watermill during 2013

There are three new adaptations in the programme January to July 2013 just announced for Berkshire's Watermill theatre. All are of classic texts, two of them novels and the third a version of [Molière]'s L'avare (The Miser) by Martin Sherman. This will be directed by Nancy Meckler and runs from 11 April until 18 May.

Beth Flintoff directs the Watermill's senior youth theatre group in her own adaptation of that most autobiographical of all Dickens' novels – David Copperfield – between 27 and 30 March. Flintoff in conjunction with the all-male Rhum and Clay company has created a version of Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde which is staged in the home theatrefrom 21 May to 1 June as part of an extended rural tour.

The other productions include a new staging of Anthony Shaffer's Sleuth by Jessica Swale – you may have seen one of the screen versions or even the original long-running West End hit. This is Swale's first production for the Watermill; it plays from 14 February until 23 March. That classic Hollywood comic double-act of Laurel and Hardy comes back to life in Tom McGrath's affectionate homage between 13 June and 20 July, directed by Paul Foster.

As well as what will be the final helping of Seasonal Sauce from Helen Watson (30 January to 9 February) there are shows by and for children as well as Book Club talks by Prue Leith and Tracey Chevalier and half-term and other holiday courses. The Watermill believes in variety of productions and the involvement its local community. It sound like a recipe for success.

- by Anne Morley-Priestman

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