Durham Gala Theatre is putting on iconic play Lord of the Flies in the first collaboration of its kind.

The Gala Theatre in Durham has teamed up with Durham University Student Theatre to stage Lord of the Flies, William Golding's classic play.

Lord of the Flies marks the first time the Durham Gala Theatre has co-produced a show with Durham University Student Theatre.

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Directed by Annie Rigby, of Newcastle-based Unfolding Theatre, and designed by theatre designer Andrew Stephenson, Lord of the Flies explores the dark side of humanity. It follows a group of schoolchildren who become stranded on a desert island, and their attempts to govern themselves soon descend into savagery with terrifying consequences.

First published in 1954, Lord of the Flies is now recognised as a modern classic and is regularly featured on the GCSE English syllabus. The Durham Gala Theatre production of Lord of the Flies will be based on a stage adaptation by Nigel Williams.

Rehearsals for the Durham Gala Theatre production of Lord of the Flies
Rehearsals for the Durham Gala Theatre production of Lord of the Flies

Annie, who directed the Durham Hymns at the Gala Theatre last November, said: "It's extraordinary to be directing a piece that speaks so powerfully about the fragility of democracy during this unsettled political period.

"What is as extraordinary is the talent and commitment of the acting company. I am really excited to share their moving and powerful performances with audiences."

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Kate Barton, head of student theatre at Durham University, said: "Working with Annie and the whole Gala team has been incredibly exciting for our students as it gives them the opportunity to learn from professionals and perform in a great community venue. We are hoping this will be the first of many collaboration projects."

Performances will take place at 7.30pm each night from Monday September 30 to Saturday October 5, apart from Wednesday when it begins at 6pm. There are additional performances at 1pm on Tuesday and Thursday.

To book, visit www.galadurham.co.uk or call the Gala Theatre Durham on 03000 266 600.

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