Actors stand around a long table surrounded by chairs with red leather seats and backs in a rehearsal studio. Four stand around the table leaning on the backs of chairs or the table itself, with another three standing slightly behind them. Some are looking down at various papers on the table, whilst others look at each other, talking and laughing. They are all concentrating but enjoying themselves.>

The Promise in rehearsals

News 2 Jul 2024

News Story

Just as the country is gearing up for the General Election, we're preparing to welcome The Promise to the Minerva Theatre: a new play about the politicians who moulded modern Britain. Scroll down to get a first look at this pertinent world premiere in the rehearsal photos and to read more about the show from the director, Jonathan Kent.

Two performers are sitting either side of a bed in a rehearsal room, with white sheets around them. The man on the right is looking towards the woman on the right, who has her back to him. He is pleading with her, whilst she appears cold. She wears a kimono-style dressing gown and holds a cigarette in one hand and looks down.
Reece Dinsdale and Clare Burt in rehearsals for The Promise Image: Helen Murray 2024

The Promise deals with giants of our political history, for all their weaknesses and faults. They were people of real vision and aspiration - it’s a sad reminder of what we have become. And a pointer to what we might be.

Jonathan Kent, Director

Two performers stand next to a long table that is surrounded with red leather chairs. Other performers can be seen out of focus in the background or just out of shot. The man on the right is leaning over the table with both hands and has a pile of papers in front of him. He is smiling and looking off to the side, where is looks like he is talking or listening to someone. The woman next to him is holding some papers and also looking off to the side, laughing. There is a red folder containing more papers on the table in front of them.
Clare Burt, Allison McKenzie and Clive Wood in rehearsals for The Promise Image: Helen Murray 2024

Quite apart from being a fascinating period in our history, it is a compelling drama - not remotely a history lesson.

Jonathan Kent, Director

Three performers stand next to a long table that is surrounded with red leather chairs. The lady on the left wears a dark blue shirt and thick framed glasses. She leans over the table and smiles off to the side. The man next to her is looking in the same direction, talking, with one hand resting on the back of a chair. He wears a grey t-shirt and dark leather jeans. The woman on the right is leaning forward, passing a piece of paper to someone out of shot. She wears a grey cardigan and has her medium brown hair tied up. She is smiling and looking up. They all look relaxed and happy.
Suzanne Burden, Andrew Woodall and Clare Burt in rehearsals for The Promise Image: Helen Murray 2024

The Promise opens in the Minerva Theatre on Friday 19 July. Visit the show page for more content from the rehearsal room and to book your tickets.

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