Golden play will bring laughter and tears

The Kenilworth venue is staging Ernest Thompson’s moving and affectionate play On Golden Pond from Monday August 29 to Saturday September 3.

A study of family’s love for each other, the play has won over audiences in Broadway and in cinemas around the world.

Director David Draper has been a passionate advocate of bringing the production to the Talisman for several years.

He said: “It’s a warm feel-good play which will give you laughter and perhaps a tear or two.

“Audiences can share the beauty of a summer on Golden Pond.”

The play tells the story of Ethel and Norman Thayer, who are returning to their summer home on Golden Pond for the 44th year.

He is a retired professor of almost 80 with heart palpitations and a failing memory — but still as tart-tongued, observant and eager for life as ever.

Ethel, ten years younger, and the perfect foil for Norman, delights in all the small things which have enriched, and continue to enrich their long life together.

They are visited by their divorced, middle-aged daughter, Chelsea, and her dentist fiancé, who then go off to Europe, leaving his teenage son, Billy, behind for the Summer.

The relationship between Norman and Billy turns into one that Chelsea always wanted but has been denied.

Is it too late for Norman and Chelsea to establish their father-daughter love?

Ann Richards and John Fenner play the parts of Ethel and Norman.

They are supported by Michelle Williams, Ross Woodward, Geoff Brook-Taylor, and Elliot Relton-Williams who is making his Talisman debut.

Paul Chokran has designed the show’s holiday home and technical input is provided by an experienced team of Ian Roberts, Dik Thacker, Vicky Hollings and Geoff Barker-Mountford under the watchful eye of stage manager Wendy McClay.

Performances start at 7.30pm and tickets, which vary in price depending on the night, are available from the box-office by calling 856548.