Friday, April 16, 2004

Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte's classic tale of love, hate, cruelty and revenge, is brought to life in this stunning adaptation, which can be seen at the Little Theatre, this Spring. In adapting the story for the stage, Charles Vance has skilfully managed to encapsulate the epic novel into 2¶ hours of theatrical entertainment.

Set amid the bleak beauty of Haworth Moor, this is the story of the gipsy foundling Heathcliff, and his searing passion for the wilful but beautiful Catherine Earnshaw. The action moves backward and forward in time to tell of the tangled relationships that lead to the final tragedy.

Jennifer Crossley, the director, has assembled a cast of actors familiar to Little Theatre audiences, and a couple of new faces. In the latter group, Mat Firth plays Hindley Earnshaw, Catherine's brother, and Jimmy Hosang is Hareton Earnshaw, his son. Other parts are taken by Heather McBride, Ron Suthers, Steve Hirst, Sharon Kelly, Chris Legg and Marian Feather. Hannah Stow and Andy Carter play the ill-fated lovers, Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff.

Is Heathcliff the victim of cruel upbringing, or the archetypal tragic figure brought down by inner flaws? Jennifer hopes that her production will shed some light on this central element in the unfolding tragedy.

Wuthering Heights runs from Monday 19th to Saturday 24th April, at Hebden Bridge Little Theatre. The play is bound to be popular so we would recommend you book early to avoid disappointment. Ring 01422 843907 (evenings), or book in person at 'Innovation' (Please note, 'Innovation' does not accept telephone bookings).

More info from Vaughan Leslie Publicity Officer, HBLT 01422 845446 e-mail: vaughanleslie@hotmail.com Little Theatre webpage

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