45 Years
Minerva Theatre Chichester
until 11th July
The second world premiere of the Minerva 2026 season is now playing until 11th July. A psychological thriller adapted for the stage by Hannah Patterson from Andrew Haigh’s film of the same name which starred Charlotte Rampling and Tom Courtenay.
In the week leading up to the couple’s party to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary a letter arrives from Switzerland which shatters their world. Long buried secrets emerge and cracks begin to appear in their longstanding marriage. A body has been found preserved in melting ice thousands of miles away, but the weight of unspoken truths threatens to unsettle and disrupt the present as the details begin to unravel.
A stark minimal set allows for the full intensity of this powerful and poignant play to flourish. Under the direction of the charismatic actor/writer/director and former junior doctor Prasanna Puwanarajah, the play captures the audience from the very first moment.
Masterful performances, and their Chichester debuts, from both Geraldine James and Gabriel Byrne, complementing each other perfectly. Geraldine James, who played the neighbour Lena in the film, now takes on the compelling role of Kate and gives a heart-wrenching performance as she grapples with the shared recollections of their past and the memories that have been shattered now putting her under extreme pressure. Gabriel Byrne is equally superb playing Geoff whose thoughts are transported back to his earlier relationship that ended in tragedy, but he’s also struggling with his love for Kate. Gillian Bevan gives fine support too as their neighbour Lena.
This unusual and moving play is a fundamental human story that takes a close look at marriage and the fragility of relationships, quietly reflecting on memory, regret and unsettling truths. Comes highly recommended.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reviewer: Jill Lawrie
Photo: Helen Murray