The production is set to begin performances at the Hampstead Theatre on the 3rd September.

Rehearsal images have been released for the upcoming revival of Shelagh Stephenson’s Olivier
Award-winning play which made its world premiere debut at the theatre in 1996.

Alice Hamilton directs Lucy Black, Kulvinder Ghir, Adam James, Lizzy McInnerny, Carolina Main and Laura Rogers in this play about conflicting memories, life and loss.

Mary, Catherine and Teresa are sisters who think they share a common past. A world of disputed bicycles, midnight ice-cream sodas, Mum’s cocktail dresses and perfumed advice – a seaside childhood punctuated by the odd monosyllable from Dad. But where does reality end and family myth begin? Why has war broken out in Mother’s bedroom – and why is Vi, so recently deceased, still with us?

Talking about the production, Alice Hamilton said: “I am so pleased to be back at Hampstead Theatre and directing The Memory of Water with this group of brilliant actors. Shelagh Stephenson’s Olivier Award-winning play is a modern classic, rich with fabulous characters and a deep vein of humour. The past year has placed
family at the forefront of our minds, and I can’t wait to share this warm-hearted riot of sibling rivalry with live audiences.”

Alice Hamilton returns to Hampstead following her 60th anniversary production of Harold Pinter’s The Dumb Waiter (2020) and the Olivier-nominated Every Day I Make Greatness Happen and Paradise (both Hampstead Downstairs). Other directing credits include Blood Wedding (Salisbury Playhouse) and While We’re Here (Bush Theatre). She is joined in the creative team for this revival by designer Anna Reid; lighting designer Johanna Town; composer and
sound designer Harry Blake; assistant director Aysha Kala; voice and dialect coach
Stephen Kemble, with casting by Briony Barnett CDG.

The Memory of Water will remain socially distanced with reduced capacity from 3rd September until 25 September. The theatre may increase capacity from 27 September but out of concern for audiences, staff and performing companies, it is exercising caution. Additional dates will go on sale closer to the time.

The Memory of Water will play at the Hampstead Theatre from the 3rd September until the 16th October.