by Katrina ffiske
Following its world premiere at The Lowry, Salford in May, and sell out performances at the Edinburgh Fringe, and London, the play Toast, based on Nigel Slater’s award-winning novel, is coming to Salisbury Playhouse from November 4-9.
Valley News had a chance to talk with food writer and journalist, Nigel Slater to find out the history behind the play. “I was initially asked to write an article about the food of my childhood. When I started writing it, I realised that every food I wrote about brought back strong memories,” said Nigel. “The article led into the book Toast and now a play adapted by Henry Filloux-Bennett. When Henry initially asked me if he could write the play, I said ‘No.’ But when he sent part of the script I was completely blown away.”
“Toast is the story of a boy who feels abandoned because his mother dies when he’s very young and his father falls in love with another woman. The boy’s life changes with the arrival of a woman who’s completely different from his mother.
“It’s my story but I have managed to separate myself from the character of Nigel in the play. There’s 50 years between us! But when I see the play, suddenly all those emotions come flooding back and it isn’t that little boy any more, it’s me.
“Jonnie Riordon, the director, decided that the heart and soul of this show should be food. My stepmother opens a cupboard and a wonderful cake or some pastries are waiting. Little doors open and food keeps appearing. The cast have to run into the audience and hand out sweets. It really makes quite an impact.”
The plays tells how children feel abandoned after a bereavement, how they don’t understand when a new person comes into their life that they have to accept. ”I hadn’t realised so many people would send letters or write emails saying. ‘That’s my story. That happened to me,’” Nigel said. “During the play you can expect magic, the luxury of nostalgia, some fantastic surprises and treats that you don’t usually get at the theatre. It might be worth popping in a Kleenex as well – there have been quite a few tears.”
Giles Cooper continues to star as Nigel Slater. He is joined by Katy Federman (Abigail’s Party), as Mum, Blair Plant (The LadyKillers), as Dad.
November 4-9. wiltshirecreative.co.uk
Photograph by Piers Foley