Anne Reid, James Bolam

Deerland Energy’s plans to drill for shale gas in the pretty village of Fenstock are going well. The company is looking at big profits, they can count on the support of university departments funded by the energy companies, and Councillor Pilbeam, Chair of the Planning Committee, seems to be open to lucrative offers.

The only slight snag is a ragged band of protestors, reluctantly led by retired academic, Elizabeth Blackwood. Surely she’s just another ‘mad old biddy’, as she’s characterised by ruthless PR guru Joe Selby?

This new razor-sharp black comedy by Alistair Beaton takes a timely look at the conflicted core of planetary energy and earthly power. A much-praised political satirist, Beaton’s television work includes the BAFTA-nominated The Trial of Tony Blair and Spitting Image, and plays such as his revised version of The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui.

The distinguished cast includes James Bolam, whose recent television work includes Cold Feet series II and New Tricks, and Anne Reid, acclaimed for her many award-winning roles in theatre, television and film including Hedda Gabler (Old Vic), Last Tango in Halifax and Dinnerladies (BBC).