Based on a story by one of NZ's most highly regarded authors, The Venetian Bride is the debut play from Wellington writer/actor Robert Tripe. First and foremost a love story, it also touches on the idea of the Kiwi 'cultural cringe' and the search for artistic identity, while shifting seamlessly between the 1930s, '60s and '90s, from New Zealand to Venice.

Image: Robert Tripe and Helen Moulder in rehearsal.Based on a story by one of NZ's most highly regarded authors, The Venetian Bride is the debut play from Wellington writer/actor Robert Tripe. First and foremost a love story, it also touches on the idea of the Kiwi 'cultural cringe' and the search for artistic identity, while shifting seamlessly between the 1930s, '60s and '90s, from New Zealand to Venice.

Image: Robert Tripe and Helen Moulder in rehearsal.The play follows artist and spinster Rose Lightfoot, who breaks free from her overbearing father and sheltered life to seek artistic fulfillment in Europe. In a cafe in Venice she finds love, but at what cost?

Rose's intriguing story unfolds through the memories of Alice, as she helps her great nephew to understand the mysteries of his own life.

The postscript in author Maurice Shadbolt's original text indicates that the story is based on the life of the painter Ilene Dakin (nee Stichbury) and her marriage to the Canadian poet Lawrence Dakin.

This new work brings together a team of Wellington's top practitioners, including Rachel More, nominated twice for best director at the Chapman Tripp Awards in 2005 and 2006; Gareth Farr, winner of most original music awards in 2000 and 2003; Helen Moulder, winner of actress of the year in 2000 and 2003; Jennifer Lal, winner of four lighting design awards; Wellington theatre stalwart and winner of several awards, Grant Tilly; and Carol Smith, winner of Best Actress in 2006.

When: 21 August - 1 September 2007
Where: BATS Theatre
Tickets: Adults $20, Concessions $14
Bookings: Phone 04 802 4175 or book@bats.co.nz

30/7/07