A quarter of a century after the publication of Ian McEwan's critically acclaimed novel Atonement, a stage adaptation is to be performed in West Sussex.
Based on the play, which was previously adapted into an Oscar-winning film in 2007 starring James McAvoy and Keira Knightley, it opens at the Chichester Festival Theatre on Friday and runs until June 20.
Set from the 1930s to World War II, the film explores the guilt a person experiences throughout their life after a false accusation radically changes the lives of several people.
«"I think it speaks volumes about the world we live in today, and even touches a little bit on the topic of modern cancel culture," said director Adam Penford.
«"So, is it possible to atone for all your actions in life, or are some of them completely unforgivable?" he added.
It is the story of a 13-year-old girl named Briony who witnesses a romantic moment between her older sister Cecilia and Robbie, the son of their housekeeper.
«"By misinterpreting this as something sinister, she ended up lying, which had serious consequences not only for herself but for those around her," Penford said.
Since its publication in 2001, McEwan's book has won numerous international literary awards.
The author said he is "very keen" to see the production on stage in 2026 because "it will inevitably look and feel different in a quarter of a century.".
«"I started writing (the novel) with the rather grandiose idea that, as we approach the end of the 20th century, we might somehow be able to look back and assess our mistakes, such as the two world wars.".
«But in the end, it turned out to be a story about how one mistake can change your life.».
McEwan added that if the story still resonates 25 years later, it's because "deep down, we all know there could have been Briony.".
«"People are very good at convincing themselves - just look at all those court cases where someone falsely accuses someone else because it fits their preconceived notions.".
«"It's very human.".
The production stars Brighton native Miriam Petsche as Cecilia, Jasper Talbot as Robbie and Isabella Dempster as young Briony.
The role of Briony in later life will now be played by Jessica Turner, following the recent announcement that Welsh screen legend Sian Phillips was stepping down from the role.
The stage adaptation was done by Christopher Hampton.
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Related links
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Chichester Festival Theatre