20:30-21:40, Wednesday 9th September 2026
The Cockpit
Music & Words: Edward Longstaff
Desperate times for Mr Polly!
He’s stuck in a marriage with his cousin and dragged down by their failing shop. He detests them both. How did he let his life get so intolerable?
Was it his failure to make his own choices? His escapism and wanderlust? Or, inspired by the books he so avidly reads, falling head over heels for the unattainable Christabel?
Whatever, he’s reached the point where drastic measures are called for. What else can he do but burn everything down?
Based on H.G. Wells’ comedy of manners, this is an evening of tragicomic, tuneful teasing about the lives of the petit bourgeoisie.
For everyone who knows what it is to have a dream come to nothing.
The production is presented as a staged performance, conducted by the composer, directed by Stuart Barker, with piano reduction of the full score.
Age range: All ages, but mostly adults.
In a festival of new work, please note that shows can often overrun.
Produced by Two-Wheeler Opera Productions
Venue: The Cockpit, Gateforth Street, London NW8 8EH.
On the same day:
Composer/Conductor: Edward Longstaff Director: Stuart Barker Accompanist: John Longstaff Cast to be confirmed
Composer/Conductor: Edward Longstaff
Director: Stuart Barker
Accompanist: John Longstaff
Cast to be confirmed