KOSG Info part 1

The Killing of Sister George is both an intimate and emotional story and an almost farcical comedy enriched by characters that manage to be simultaneously appalling in their selfishness and endearing in their vulnerability. It is set firmly in the 1960’s and follows the professional and personal demise of the actress behind a beloved character in the fictional radio-soap Applehurst where she plays the district nurse who gently ministers to the medical needs and personal problems of the local villagers. However, in real life and amongst her colleagues, she is the antithesis of the sweet character she plays. In an attempt to boost ratings the character is to be killed off and Mrs Mercy, the BBC executive responsible for this decision, confronts June who has played the part for some 2000 performances. Her only true confidante in these troubled times is her clairvoyant and somewhat eccentric neighbour Madame Xenia.

Against this back-drop, the play centres around June’s domestic relationship with the childlike and manipulative Alice McNaught, who shares her home and the benefits of her success. With the impending catastrophe of June's job loss, the insecure relationship is taken advantage of by Mrs Mercy and Alice’s response becomes increasingly more self-centred than supportive.

Following highly acclaimed runs of the original productions in the West End and on Broadway, most people now will recognize the play from either its recent West End revival starring Meera Syal or the iconic 1968 film which featured Beryl Reid in the title role.

Cast:

June Buckridge (Sister George): Irascible, dominant, vulnerable and brusque.
Late 40s/upwards

Alice McNaught: (Childie) Girly, cunning and emotionally demanding.
20’s to young 30’s

Mrs Mercy: Cold, efficient, polite BBC Executive.
40’s upwards

Madame Xenia: Eccentric, clairvouyant, loyal and out-spoken.
Any age

Staging:

Single set – 1960’s loft apartment in central London.