Red Peppers / Aged in Wood
by Noel Coward / Cian Griffin
This production features two plays, one a classic by Noel Coward and the other a contemporary comedy by Cian Griffin, both set in a theatre dressing room.
28 May - 21 June 2025
OnBook Theatre presents “Red Peppers” by Noel Coward and “Aged in Wood” by Cian Griffin.
Set in a theatre dressing room in 1935, “Red Peppers” is one of Noel Coward’s most celebrated comic one-act plays, depicting a second-rate music hall double act—a husband and wife team—who perform two musical numbers amidst bickering and quarrels with colleagues. The first performance was part of the TONIGHT AT 8.30 collection, which premiered at Manchester Opera House in 1935 and at London’s Phoenix Theatre in 1936.
In contrast, “Aged in Wood” takes place in the same theatre dressing room but in present day. Ninety years later, leading lady Deena Ames navigates the chaos of backstage drama on the eve of a disastrous opening night, encountering agents, directors, her leading man, ex-husband, and wayward son in this new comedic play by Cian Griffin, having its world premiere at The Tabard.
This unique production features the same cast of six actors, each playing different parts in both plays.
Cast:
- Jessica Martin
- Jon Osbaldeston
- Emma Vansittart
- Philip Gill
- Rhys Cannon
- Dominic McChesney
Directed by Jason Moore
Set and Costume Design by Ian Nicholas
Lighting Design by Jonny Danciger
Lighting Operator Fintan Davies
“Red Peppers” is presented by arrangement with Alan Brodie Representation Ltd and Noel Coward Productions. “Aged in Wood” is presented by arrangement with OnBook Theatre Originals.
Reviews
“One of the wittiest pieces in Coward's oeuvre.” – The Guardian
“Cian Griffin delivers a fresh take on backstage drama with sharp humor.” – The Times