Love for Menabilly is an original audio play written by Jo-Ann Challis, exploring the obsessive relationship Daphne Du Maurier had with Menabilly, the house she loved.
Menabilly is a house with a past, but seemingly no future. Hidden away from prying eyes on a Cornish peninsula, Mena’s been abandoned by its owners and left to rot. It’s hurting and lonely, and embarrassed by its shabby appearance.
But everything changes when a young Daphne du Maurier seeks out Menabilly and is instantly entranced …
Daphne du Maurier invested money and love in Menabilly – an illustrious Cornish house she could rent but never own. This play explores a possible explanation for Daphne’s obsessive devotion to Menabilly: that a house has its own emotions and desires that bond with and influence those of its human occupant.
The play is set in the 1960s, but the action flashes back to key scenes in Daphne’s relationship with Menabilly and with her husband, Tommy.
Love for Menabilly by Jo-Ann Challis
Daphne ….. Julia Savill
Menabilly ….. Jane McKell
Tommy ….. Russell Biles
Tessa ….. Ellie Brooks
Tommy’s mistress ….. Tanya Alexander
Lord Evans ….. Lee Tilson
Other parts played by members of the cast
Written and produced by Jo-Ann Challis
Sound design and mix by Steve Rafter at BOMO Audio
Recorded at Bournemouth University, March 2022
Really enjoyed this, well done to all involved!
I love Daphne Du Maurier and this gives such an interesting perspective on her relationships. Excellent cast.
Really atmospheric piece – the intriguing concept of giving the house a voice is handled deftly and seamlessly provides context for the unfolding tale.
Atmospheric and compelling!
Thank you very much for listening, Sue.
Intriguing and entertaining! I loved the voice of the ‘house’.