ETT and the Guildford's Yvonne Arnaud Theatre presents

The Old Country

By Alan Bennett

Jean Marsh and Timothy West
Susan Tracy and Simon Williams
Rebecca Charles and Tim Delap

Directed by Stephen Unwin

'Bennett does what only the best writers can do – make us look at ourselves in a way we've never done before.' Michael Palin

'Bennett is the most generously entertaining of writers.' Daily Telegraph

Timothy West leads an exceptional cast as Hilary, a British spy in exile, traitor to King, country and class. When his sister and newly knighted brother-in-law (Simon Williams) come to visit him and his long-suffering wife (Jean Marsh), Hilary is forced to re-examine his allegiances.

Alan Bennett is one of Britain's best loved dramatists. The author of modern day classics such as Talking Heads, The Lady in the Van, The Madness of George III and the award winning History Boys, Bennett received an Olivier in 2005 for his Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre. The Old Country was premiered in 1977 and this is its first major revival.

This ETT production furthers Timothy West's long association with the company, following Henry IV, The Master Builder and King Lear. Simon Williams' many credits include Upstairs Downstairs, Agony, First Among Equals and The Winslow Boy. Jean Marsh famously co-created and starred in Upstairs Downstairs, and her recent credits include Bremner Birs & Fortune and Most Mysterious Murders.

'This is a towering production by ETT and its centrepiece is Timothy West giving the subtlest performance of his distinguished career' Sunday Times on King Lear

'Stephen Unwin succeeds triumphantly – thrilling' The Telegraph on Hamlet