Theatre and dining

Oscar Wilde’s short story, Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime, has been adapted by Manchester-based Rocket Theatre and can be enjoyed whilst dining in Brighton.

Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime is a tale of love, honour, duty, fortune telling and murder.

Rocket Theatre has turned it into a two-man show with artistic director Martin Harris playing Lord Arthur and James Anning his trusty valet Middlewick.

Martin said: “Audiences should prepare themselves to laugh at Lord Arthur’s anecdotes, marvel at the versatility of his valet (who is coerced into playing a variety of roles – male and female - in Wilde’s gripping tale) and gasp as sinister secrets are revealed that will have them squirming in their seats!

“It’s a great black comedy, full of Wilde’s wit and humour. It’s a real treat for lovers of theatre and food.

“Festival-goers will be able to see the play in the luxurious surroundings of The Paganini Ballroom in Brighton’s Old Ship Hotel and rather than facing a conventional stage, seating will be cabaret-style (around tables) as Lord Arthur and Middlewick roam among the audience, ensuring that at some point during the show everyone will have a front-row seat.

“Audiences have the choice of seeing an afternoon performance, which will include the serving of a refined afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones and cakes or an evening show which includes a sumptuous three-course dinner.”

Performances are: May 14, 21, 29 (7.30pm) – with three-course dinner (£33) or May 15, 22, 30 (3.00pm) – with afternoon tea (£22). Tickets are available from the Fringe Box Office: 01273 917 272 or online at www.brightonfestivalfringe.org.uk.

Following the festival, Rocket Theatre will be performing the play throughout the UK. More details on www.rockettheatre.co.uk.