Actors Mara Allen and Stuart Laing will tour nationally in Pentabus’ first village hall tour since Autumn 2019 with Jacaranda, a new play by award-winning playwright Lorna French. The tour begins at Pentabus on Thu 7 October, and will also include two weeks in Theatre by the Lake’s Main House from Thu 4 – Sat 13 November.

This brilliant new drama is presented by Pentabus and Theatre by the Lake and explores loss, love, prejudice, race and belonging.

‘Sometimes it feels so exposing just walking in the village. I told Jimmy to ignore it at first, he tried to, but it’s isolating he said, eyes on you, not a word spoken. Even when you meet their eyes they don’t look away. Like they have a right to, like you’re a spectacle, an object.’

Olivia has recently moved into her great uncle’s farmhouse. She’s not local, but she knows her way around. Matty is a gamekeeper, but he doesn’t often tell anyone. He’s wary of newcomers.

These unlikely strangers find themselves beside a stream on the longest night of the year.

TBTL’s Artistic Director, Liz Stevenson said:

"We're delighted to partner with Pentabus on this wonderful project. This play has a lot of heart and some themes really relevant for our communities."

Pentabus Artistic Director, Elle While said:

"I am full of hope and excitement to be launching this extraordinary new play on our first UK tour since the world has been turned upside down. We cannot wait to share Lorna's story which takes an unflinching look at humanity; brought to life by an exceptionally talented team."