Henceforward--
by Alan Ayckbourn
What readers are saying
Readers have mixed feelings about 'Henceforward--', noting its thought-provoking themes but feeling that it lacks focus. Some appreciate its satirical take on technology and relationships, while others criticize its treatment of women and outdated perspectives. The overall impression is that the play has interesting ideas but struggles to execute them effectively.
Synopsis
England's comic master is in a black comic mode in this West End hit about our fascination with technology.
It is sometime quite soon in a steel shuttered, slovenly flat in a no go area of North London where punks rule deserted streets.
Here, a lonely composer sits surrounded by high tech equipment.
His only company is a robot nanny, and she's on the blink.
He desperately wants to reclaim his teenage daughter and enlists an out of work actress to implement a cunning plan he's evolved to impress his estranged wife and a wired for sound child welfare officer.
When things don't work out, Jerome has to improvise...
It's amazing what can be done with a few micro chips and a screwdriver!
Press Reviews
"This brilliant play offers an ultimately bleak vision of men, machines and society. But the exhilarating Ayckbournian paradox is that the darker it gets the funnier it becomes."
— The Guardian
"Nobody can be as funny as Alan Ayckbourn, or as frightening."
— Financial Times
Videos
Alan Ayckbourn on Growing As a Dramatist
Publication
Henceforward-- is a British comedy play written by Alan Ayckbourn and published by Samuel French in London (1989).
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Buy Play
Paperback
Samuel French · 1989 · 152 pp
Performance Rights
Restrictions: Major Markets Only (US) / Standard Restriction (UK)
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