Approximately 2hrs 15mins including an interval.
A killer comedy where manners could be your last mistake.
An amateur production presented by arrangement with Nick Hern Books.
The Unfriend by Steven Moffat is a darkly comic and sharply witty exploration of British manners, social obligation, and the unintended consequences of politeness. Peter and Debbie, a seemingly typical middle-class British couple, befriend Elsa, an eccentric American woman, during a holiday. In the spirit of polite conversation, they exchange contact details, expecting never to hear from her again. However, Elsa soon announces that she is coming to visit them in their home, leaving the couple both stunned and unsure of how to respond.
What starts as a seemingly innocent visit soon escalates into a chaotic, absurd nightmare. As Peter and Debbie attempt to manage the situation without being rude or confrontational, they realise that Elsa is not quite the harmless tourist they thought she was. Secrets begin to unravel, and the couple’s good-natured politeness only serves to complicate matters further.
Offering a biting satire on the constraints of social decorum, the difficulty of saying no, and the absurdity that can arise from seemingly innocent decisions. With sharp dialogue, unpredictable twists, and a sense of escalating tension, Moffat weaves a story that balances comedy with a subtle critique of modern society’s obsession with manners and politeness at all costs. Perfect for fans of dark comedies and those looking for a thought-provoking laugh
The Unfriend is a must-see production.
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At the Barn we are committed to promoting equality and challenging discrimination in all its forms. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for all members of the cast and creative team, regardless of their race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity and will work to prevent any form of discrimination or harassment within our organisation.
The Unfriend
The Unfriend has no specific diversity message within its narrative. The play can be cast with complete neutrality on race / ethnicity. There is one quote in the play – “Rosie, you could be your mother’s twin” – however, there is no diversity stipulation and therefore we welcome a mixed cast of all ages, ethnicities and genders.
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