Life and Beth
by Alan Ayckbourn
Synopsis
It's Christmas, and Beth Timms is mourning the recent death of her health and safety officer husband, Gordon.
Beth's sister-in-law Connie and son Martin have come to stay, determined to ensure that she should have a stress-free Christmas, but between Connie's drinking problem and Martin's unspeaking and emotionally volatile girlfriend Ella, their intentions prove to be short-lived.
Only David, the local vicar, provides Beth with any comfort, but when he says a prayer for her bereavement he unwittingly summons Gordon's ghost to return to the family home.
Gordon has been busy implementing health and safety measures in the afterlife and is now determined to stick around to help Beth manage her affairs.
It soon becomes apparent, however, that his return is not altogether welcome.
Press Reviews
"Comic and touching …"
— The Guardian
Videos
Alan Ayckbourn on Getting Started
Publication
Life and Beth is a comedy play written by Alan Ayckbourn and published by Samuel French (2011).
Community Reviews
No community reviews yet
Buy Play
Paperback
Samuel French · 2011 · 60 pp
Performance Rights
Restrictions: Major Markets Only (US) / Standard Restriction (UK)
Apply for Rights
Similar Plays
Plays with similar themes, style, and content.
More from Alan Ayckbourn
More plays from Alan Ayckbourn that we think you'll enjoy.
