Hall comedy coming to city

The cast are Lyndee-Jane Rutherford, Paul Barrett, Phil Grieve and Hilary Norris.

ROGER Hall's hugely successful Four Flat Whites in Italy comedy play is coming to the Royal Wanganui Opera House on Thursday night.

It's 2007 and, guide book in hand, retired librarians Alison and Adrian are excitedly embarking on their long-awaited (and carefully saved-for) Italian trip of a lifetime.

But when their best friends pull out at the last minute, they find themselves sharing their precious holiday with their neighbours - Harry, a wealthy plumber, and his new wife Judy.

As these delightfully mismatched couples valiantly negotiate the pitfalls of a later-in-life overseas experience it's not just the Italians the intrepid travellers have to deal with - it's also each other.

Adrian and Alison have a dark secret that is causing them some strife and Harry, who loves his rugby, has a dream. But there are surprises in store.

Will the trials and tribulations of their cherished Italian sojourn prove "make or break" for the Kiwi quartet?

Will the holiday be heaven or hell, or both?

Blending cracker one-liners with lots of laughs and astute observation Four Flat Whites in Italy is classic Roger Hall, as he again deftly satirises our manners, morals, loves and lusts in this highly entertaining treat.

Fresh from their sold-out tour of Grease, Paul Barrett and Lyndee-Jane Rutherford will be joined by Phil Grieve and Hilary Norris and directed by writer, actor and director Geraldine Brophy.

Four Flat Whites in Italy, Royal Wanganui Opera House, 8pm Thursday, May 25, Call 06 3490511or book online at royaloperahouse.co.nz.