Every year, The Autumn Festival of Norfolk, previously the Hostry Festival, presents a production as its central showpiece.
Director Stash Kirkbride, who also co-founded the festival, has a taste for underperformed classics like Tennessee Williams’ The Night Of The Iguana or Peter Ustinov's Beethoven’s Tenth.
So why the choice of Oscar Wilde’s witty Lady Windermere’s Fan? Isn’t this comedy rather frivolous? I met him over coffee to discuss it.
He said: "I think it is anything but frivolous. You can play it as farce or comedy or you can make it totally realistic. Getting the balance just right is the challenge."
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What is this play about?
Kirkbride: Lady Windermere is told that her husband may be having an affair and it is about how that affects her.
It is a reflection on what counts and what does not in Edwardian society and a window into that era - like Downton Abbey or Gilded Age.
Is this your favourite Oscar Wilde play?
Kirkbride: I do love this play as it is all about the writing, Wilde’s language and philosophies and his wisdom.
Not only have you rebranded the festival this year, but you have also renamed your ensemble - you are now the Norfolk Actors’ Company, why is this?
Kirkbride: We work with actors, both professionals and non-professionals, from all over Norfolk.
Our new name is a calling card for talented people across the county to get involved.
Lady Windermere’s Fan runs in The Hostry at Norwich Cathedral from October 23 to 28, visit autumnfestivalofnorfolk.org, norwichtheatre.org or call 01603 598676.
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