Penarth writer draws inspiration from town for new play, 'Before it Rains' (From Penarth Times)

Penarth writer draws inspiration from town for new play, 'Before it Rains'

8:40am Tuesday 11th September 2012 in News

A PENARTH writer has penned a new play based on the Penarth community in which she grew up.

Katherine Chandler, of Harbour View Road, took inspiration for Before it Rains from her childhood in and around Cedar Way in Penarth.

The play focuses on the relationship between a mother and son, and how it is tested by the arrival of another person into their community "Before it Rains is a story that we can all relate to, about the strength of a mother’s love and how far we will go to protect the ones we love," she said.

"When I was writing it I was thinking about the estate my family is from in Penarth. I was thinking about what it's like with lots of people that have lived on an estate, and what it is like when new people move in.

"It’s about community and changing elements of community," she added.

"It’s something that I think we have seen in Penarth too."

Former St Cyres pupil Katherine, who trained as a stage manager at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, said the cast visited local streets after they began rehearsals.

"We had a road trip to Penarth so they could get a feel for the community and what Penarth is like," she said.

"It’s going really well and it’s interesting seeing all the characters come to life."

Before It Rains stars former Coronation Street actor and Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama graduate, Craig Gazey, who played Graeme in the ITV soap.

"With new writing its useful to have a familiar cast as the audience can recognise the people starring in the show," added Katherine.

Before it Rains is a collaboration between Bristol Old Vic, where it will be shown from September 10 to 22, and Sherman Cymru, where it will be staged between September 25 and October 6.