The Habit of Art

National Theatre on Tour present
a new play by Alan Bennett

After a sell-out success in London, Alan Bennett’s latest play comes to Newcastle, with Desmond Barrit (The History Boys) leading the cast.

It looks at the unsettling desires of two difficult men, and at the ethics of biography. It reflects on growing old, on creativity and inspiration, and on persisting when all passion’s spent: ultimately, on the habit of art.

Benjamin Britten, sailing uncomfortably close to the wind with his new opera, Death in Venice, seeks advice from his former collaborator and friend, W H Auden. During this imagined meeting, their first for 25 years, they are observed and interrupted by, amongst others, their future biographer and a young man from the local bus station.

Pre show talk: Wed 17 Nov, 6pm

Director - Nicholas Hytner
Designer - Bob Crowley
Lighting Designer - Mark Henderson
Music - Matthew Scott
Sound Designer - Paul Groothuis

Watch a clip! (Click on ‘Alan Bennett Short film’, picture bar at top of page)

PHOTO CREDIT - Photograph of Alan Bennett by Derry Moore

Fenwick's Tivoli Tea Club offer - buy a matinee ticket and get a 'Buy One Get One Half Price' Afternoon Tea in Fenwick's Tivoli Restaurant.  Exclusive offer for Theatre Royal customers only.