A BOOK once deemed too steamy for the masses is being brought to life at Darlington Hippodrome.

TV regular Rupert Hill stars alongside Phoebe Marshall in a new stage adaptation of D.H. Lawrence’s controversial masterpiece, Lady Chatterley’s Lover.

Considered sensationalist erotica when first published and banned worldwide, Lawrence’s text caused outrage not just because of the explicit language, but also because it bridged social and class divides. The impassioned tale of female agency and the desire to live more than a half-life changed the literary landscape of Britain.

60-years after the scandalous trial of the unexpurgated publication, this new production reflects the monumental changes in attitude towards female sexuality.

Director and adaptor, Ciaran McConville said: "It’s a privilege to bring this book to the stage.

"I’ve loved Lawrence’s writing since I was a teenager, but revisiting Lady Chatterley, I’m struck by how modern so much of it feels. It’s a comment on the fragility of masculinity and the need for an honest approach to our physical life. And it’s beautiful, too. I’m really excited to be working with Tilted Wig, whose values and ethos make for wonderful tours.’

It is at the Hippodrome from March 26 to 28.