The Tabard Theatre Presents THE DUKE IN DARKNESS, Beginning April 16

PatRick Hamilton's The Duke in Darkness will be presented at The Tabard Theatre from 16 April to 11 May 2013. In a new version adapted by Orlando Wells, this production will mark the first time Hamilton's 'lost' play returns to the London stage in over 60 years. The production will be directed by Phoebe Barran.

This compelling but touching play is the third of a trio of psychological thrillers written by PatRick Hamilton in an illustrious career both as a playwright (Gaslight, Rope) and novelist (Hangover Square), which also saw him achieve Hollywood success with 'Rope' directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

France is in the grip of long and bloody civil wars. A Duke and his servant, incarcerated for fifteen years, plot their escape and dream of freedom. But in this world of conspiracy and paranoia, where no one is quite who they seem, what will one man sacrifice for his chance of survival?

London-based playwright and actor Orlando Wells has kindly been granted permission by Samuel French and the PatRick Hamilton Estate to adapt Hamilton's rarely seen piece for modern audiences.

Chiswick, a suburb of west London and where The Tabard Theatre is located, is rich in Hamilton history. The playwright and author lived at Burlington Gardens in Chiswick for 16 years. He died in 1962. In 1968 Doris Lessing wrote in The Times, '"Hamilton was a marvellous novelist who's grossly neglected". In 2011 English Heritage installed a prestigious Blue Plaque at his Chiswick address.

Full casting to be announced.

'The Tin Horizon', Orlando Well's first production, recently premiered to wide acclaim at Theatre 503 in London.

ADDRESS: THE TABARD THEATRE, 2 BATH ROAD, LONDON, W4 1LW
DATES: 16 APRIL - 11 MAY 2013
PRESS NIGHT: 18 APRIL 2013
Nearest Tube - Turnham Green Station (District Line)

BOX OFFICE: 0208 995 6035
TICKETS: £17 (£15 Concessions)

www.tabardtheatre.co.uk

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