SET in the mid-eighties, this is an adaptation by Terence Brady and Charlotte Bingham of a best-selling Rosamunde Pilcher novel.

Brady and Bingham are responsible for numerous hit TV series, including Upstairs Downstairs, and this play includes frequent flashbacks and scene changes in the manner of a TV production. It all works surprisingly well, though, thanks to clever set design and lighting.

The play revolves around Penelope, newly returned home after a near-fatal heart attack. She's a feisty, independent lady but Stephanie Cole gives her an endearing gentleness as well. When Cole's on stage - and she is on stage most of the evening - the loving strength of her character is almost tangible.

Penelope's grown-up children are a selfish lot, bickering over the possible contents of their mother's will, although they each love her in their own way. Rather than give practical help, they grudgingly agree that Penny shall offer a home to Antonia, whose father has recently died. Touchingly played by Katherine Heath, the young girl reminds Penny of herself at the same age and when Antonia falls in love with Danus, who is renovating Penny's beautiful garden, the memories come flooding back of her own first love.

It's a story from a gentler time, romantic and emotional right up to the two-hanky conclusion. I suppose you could say it's over-sentimental, but there's just enough humour and a spiky performance from Veronica Roberts as daughter Nancy to keep it from being too syrupy. Readers of romantic novels will love it.

Sue Heath

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Published: 22/01/2004