Psychological thriller takes centre stage

London Classic Theatre is making a welcome return to North Staffordshire with a unique psychological thriller.

Following last year’s powerful production of After Miss Julie, the company is bringing the acclaimed Equus to the New Vic from Wednesday 13 to Saturday 23 June.

Inspired by a true story, Peter Shaffer’s absorbing drama is touring the UK following a critically acclaimed West End revival which starred Daniel Radcliffe in 2007.

In a Hampshire stable, a youth blinds six horses with a metal spike.

Convicted of this appalling crime, 17-year-old Alan Strang is sent to a secure psychiatric hospital. Child psychiatrist Martin Dysart begins to probe Alan’s past in an attempt to understand why. As he digs deeper and begins to win Alan’s trust, the truth eventually begins to emerge.

But, if Alan is to ever be free of his demons, he must relive the events of that terrible night.

Equus, by the author of the The Royal Hunt of the Sun and Amadeus, was first staged at the Royal National Theatre in 1973 and was later adapted for the big screen in 1977 starring Richard Burton and Peter Firth.

Breathing fresh life into the play, a cast of eight is directed by London Classic Theatre founder and artistic director, Michael Cabot.

Tickets, priced £10.50 to £19.50, are available by telephoning the New Vic box office on 01782 717962 or online.