Talking Heads by Alan Bennett

Alan Bennett’s much-loved collection of monologues, giving us a glimpse into the lives of  ordinary British people.

Each tale gives us privileged access to the innermost thoughts of an individual, who, although we only hear his/her side of the story, frequently reveals more about him/herself than intended. The stories are poignant, sometimes sad, occasionally uplifting, and they all showcase Alan Bennett’s powers of observation, comic timing and exquisite turn of phrase.

Her Big Chance

Lesley is an aspiring actress, who, after a series of unpromising extra roles on television programmes such as Crossroads, finds what she believes to be her big break as the adventurous Travis in a new film for the West German market. It is not clear to what extent Lesley understands the true nature of the film.

Bed Among the Lentils

Susan, an alcoholic, nervous vicar’s wife has to travel into Leeds to go to the off-licence because of her debts with the local shop keeper.  She distracts herself from her ambitious, and, as she sees him, vainly insensitive husband and his doting parishioners by seeing quite a lot of nearby grocer, Ramesh Ramesh the third.

Talking Heads first appeared on BBC TV in 1988 with Julie Walters playing Lesley and Maggie Smith playing Susan.

Booking is now open

We are sorry not to be able to produce the previously scheduled play, Kafka’s Dick, but hope you will join us for this alternative production. Tickets for these staged readings will be at the reduced price of £5.