Thesp Maggie returns to the stage aged 84 for part she first did 50 years ago!
A play you won't want to miss going on in your area
After a distinguished career spanning decades, respected Derbyshire-based actor Maggie Ford is set to make a proud return to the stage at the age of 84.
Maggie will be taking on the challenging role of Flora in Harold Pinter's thought-provoking dark comedy, A Slight Ache.
The play follows an older couple, whose marriage is disrupted by an external force — a Matchseller. On the surface everything appears to be perfect their life, but the presence of a supposedly innocent Matchseller triggers a series of revelations.
Originally performed in 1961 with Richard Briers as the silent Matchseller, A Slight Ache delves into the intricacies of an older couple's marriage, Edward and Flora, whose lives are disrupted by the enigmatic presence of the Matchseller. As the Matchseller enters their home, a silent yet potent force, it sets off a chain of events that unravel the fabric of their relationship.
Maggie, who first portrayed Flora in her early 30s, said: "I was intrigued by the play when I first performed Flora, but I lacked the political understanding to grasp its depth.
"Harold Pinter was ahead of his time with this piece."
Maggie’s successful and diverse career includes training at RADA and performances in renowned productions such as Joan Littlewood’s production of Oh What a Lovely War!
She also played Mary Shelley in a production for the BBC and was a member of the National Theatre.
A Slight Ache follows an older couple, whose marriage is disrupted by an external force — a Matchseller. A team of seasoned Derbyshire artists bring this funny, disturbing, and powerful play to the stage, beautifully celebrating Pinter’s fascination with the interloper.
Acting alongside Maggie will be Lewis Hancock and David Frederickson (pictured above). It's directed by Ava Hunt and tickets are available from her website. Here's where it's going to be:
- July 4: Youlgreave Village Hall, Holywell Lane, Youlgave, Derbyshire
- July 5: Buxton Community School, College Rd, Buxton SK17 9EA
- July 6: Derby Theatre, Eagle Walk, Derby DE1 2NF
- July 12: Buxton Community School, College Rd, Buxton SK17 9EA
- July 13: Wirksworth Town Hall, Coldwell St, Wirksworth DE4 4EU
- July 18: Buxton Community School, College Rd, Buxton SK17 9EA
- July 20: Tansley Village Hall, Church St, Tansley DE4 5FH
- July 26: Medway Centre, New St, Bakewell DE45 1DY
