Independent theatre company launches debut production in Hurstpierpoint

From left: Emma Hudson, Victoria Brewer and Lynda Brown in The Donahue Sisters

The performances, which run across two nights in July at The Players Theatre in Hurstpierpoint, will entertain and challenge audiences with two one-act plays: Two by Jim Cartwright and The Donahue Sisters by Geraldine Aron.

“These two superbly crafted plays have each won a host of awards and are compelling to watch,” said Steve Thurley, co-founder of STAB.

“Two tells the tale of a landlord and landlady of a pub in the North of England kept together by the need to work but brooding over a dark secret that has kept them at loggerheads for years.

“Meanwhile, The Donahue Sisters is a dark but amusing story surrounding three siblings who reunite and re-enact a singular but significant event from their childhood.”

STAB Productions was formed by Steve Thurley and Andy Bairsto, who met in 2011 while rehearsing for a production of Guys & Dolls at Haywards Heath Operatic Society.

“Our remit is to create good quality modern and edgy drama in a variety of venues around Mid Sussex at a sensible and affordable price,” said Andy Bairsto, co-founder.

STAB starts with a company of five – the two co-founders plus Victoria Brewer, Lynda Brown and Emma Hudson.

In rehearsal for their first production, the company has formed ties with Chailey Heritage Foundation, a pioneering local charity that educates and cares for children and young adults with complex physical disabilities and health needs.

It is envisaged that all post production proceeds will pay for much needed multi-sensory and ICT equipment, helping to improve opportunities and outcomes for young residents and customers from the community.

“We are delighted that this new and innovative company has chosen Chailey Heritage Foundation to benefit from their debut production and wish them every success” said Joan Martin, fundraising officer at Chailey Heritage Foundation.

The performances will take place on Friday, July 25, and Saturday, July 26, at The Players Theatre in Hurstpierpoint Theatre.

Curtain up at 8pm.

Tickets are priced at £8 and available from www.stabproductions.co.uk or by calling 01273 936808.