SHAKE is delighted to announce the famous Suffolk-based sculptor Laurence Edwards has joined the creative team for their new stage production of Akenfield.
“I’m intrigued to work within a stage set, designing all the elements. It’s a fascinating new challenge for a sculptor” he said, “Akenfield is part of my background, and close to the hearts of so many in Suffolk and wider East Anglia.”
The newly completed play has been adapted from Ronald Blythe’s iconic Akenfield; Portrait of an English Village, and was written by Glenn Wilhide, who lives in Suffolk and is best known for producing the first series of The Royle Family with Caroline Aherne, among other TV and film credits. “Writing a play for Suffolk people to perform, based on Ronald Blythe’s superb writing, has been an exciting project.” he said
Taking its lead from the 1975 film , and echoing the book itself with its 49 testimonies by local people, the stage play of Akenfield is being cast authentically from within the Suffolk community.
Traditional and original music for the production is being composed by the young local Folk musician Finn Collinson, who will be playing live on stage with other musicians during
performances.
Produced by Jenny Hall and Liz Cook via the Benhall-based theatre company SHAKE Festival, and directed by Jenny Hall, the new play will initially be performed as 9 previews in Framlingham, Halesworth, Ipswich, Stowmarket and Saxmundham. “Casting is well underway” said Jenny, the daughter of Peter Hall who produced and directed the
film of Akenfield. “The auditions have been amazing so far. We’re meeting some wonderful people and there’s a lot of talent out there in the community.
The 9 preview shows take place between 24th September and 11th October 2025. For details of dates and times and to buy tickets go to www.ticketsource.co.uk/shake
SUFFOLK THEATRE 