This is the Life at Gala Theatre Durham

A new play by John Godber

Dave and Sapphire have worked backstage at the Old Forge for years. They’ve never felt the lure of the spotlight, they prefer the dark of the wings. But when they learn that the venue is closing, they are both shocked and angry.

Despite dwindling audience numbers, unfunny stand-ups and a chaotic staff, they love this damp, old, crumbling local theatre.

With money in short supply, they offer to stage their own extraordinary dramatic adventure, full of the characters they have met and scenes they have witnessed. Might it bring back the punters, or be a further reason to turn the Old Forge into luxury flats?

In his audacious new comedy, Godber interrogates hope, ghosts and the power of performance as seen through the eyes of a cynical backstage duo.

Dave and Sapphire might have preferred to work behind the scenes, but now they’ve chosen to stand centre stage and are beginning to think, maybe, this is the life!

Age rating: 14+ for strong language

Tour in association with York Theatre Royal