With his own play about alcoholism, The Red

Marcus Brigstocke is to direct his first play – a  piece he wrote about alcoholism.

The Red was originally commissioned for Radio 4 based on his own experiences of addiction and recovery.

Now the work – about a wine connoisseur who leaves a bottle of exceptionally fine red wine to his recovering alcoholic son – has been turned into a stage show, which will make its debut at the Pleasance Dome during Edinburgh.

Brigstocke said: ‘This is the most personal piece of writing I’ve ever created. I am hugely proud and very excited to be able to tell this particular story, but mostly I am grateful. I’ve had a lot of help and I’m very lucky to be able to finally see The Red on stage.

‘My 29-year recovery from alcoholism and other addictions has been the result of a huge amount of help. I like wine. I don’t drink it – I would if I could – but I like the role it can play in a social situation. It is complex and sophisticated, wine is nuanced and subtle. Like my Dad.

‘I would have liked to share evenings over a bottle of wine with friends and family. I’m glad to have been able to choose not to.’

The Edinburgh run will star by real-life father and son Bruce and Sam Alexander. Bruce is best known for his role as Supt. Norman Mullett in A Touch of Frost,  while son Sam has appeared in a number of Royal Shakespeare Company productions.

Published: 20 May 2019