The Anniversary
Malvern Theatre Players
THE ANNIVERSARY
by Bill Macilwraith
Every year since her husband died, Mum has held an anniversary party (despite the absence of her husband) which she has always insisted all the family must attend. Her three grown-up sons are still dominated by their scalpel-tongued, deviously possessive mother, both in their daily business and personal lives, a woman who usually manages to make them do whatever she wants, regardless of their own family needs.
This year they gather as usual, but the worms turn and fearing she is losing control over her sons, Mum resorts to the most despicable means and tricks to try to keep them close to her.
This deliciously dark comedy was made into a memorable film starring Bette Davis as the Mother from Hell.
“Bill Macilwraith’s comedy of family power play is a vicious delight.” Financial Times
“A comedy, at once outrageously funny and enjoyably creepy.” Daily Telgraph
“A selection box of witty insults and put downs.” Evening Standard
“… the hate-ridden humour always drawing a well-balanced mixture of gasps and guffaws.” Sunday Citizen