‘Full of heart, surprise and theatrical joy’
It’s the story of one of the country’s most revered writers and it’s set to be staged at Exeter’s Northcott Theatre later this year. South West writer Rosie Race’s ‘Daphne’ will be receiving its’ world premiere in July.
The theatre’s new in-house production team explains the play aims to ‘explore the hidden secrets of one of Britain’s most celebrated authors Daphne du Maurier.’
Her ghostly novel, Rebecca, went straight to the top of the international bestseller list upon its’ publication in 1938. It tells the story of a woman haunted by the deceased wife of her husband.
And then, of course, there’s Jamaica Inn. The 1936 book was turned into an Alfred Hitchcock movie. The story centred on murder and intrigue in Cornwall during the early part of the nineteenth century…
Du Maurier had a deep-rooted emotional and inspirational connection to the wild Cornish landscape, which heavily influenced her atmospheric writing. Her suspenseful and thrilling fiction has long captivated readers around the world.
‘Many ideas caught my attention, but I was waiting for the one that made my heart race — something I could already see on stage, under the lights. And that was Daphne du Maurier,’ explains Rosie.
During the summer, Breaktime News reported on Exeter Northcott’s first ever open script submission with Rosie subsequently being presented with the opportunity to write Daphne.
‘This play is a wonderful example of what happens when you invest time, care and belief in artists and their work,’ says Martin Berry who is directing the play.
‘It is an amazing story – full of heart, surprise and theatrical joy – but no spoilers here!’
‘I was waiting for the one that made my heart race’
The bold play explores du Maurier through one of the most turbulent times of her life with Rosie portraying the author as an arresting, funny and magical woman – caught in hidden desires and fears.
The play takes us back and forth in time as she questions her deeply embedded secrets and obsessions: who are we when no-one is watching?
The play will run from Saturday 4 July until Saturday 11 July. Tickets starting from £19.50. The age guidance is 10+.
Daphne tickets are now available. Exeter Northcott Members will get a 20% discount on up to four tickets.
There is a special 20% discount on the opening day performance for the residents of Devon and Cornwall. U26 Members also receive an exclusive discount on this show.
