Pinter at the Pinter - The Dumb Waiter/A Slight Ache

Martin Freeman returns to the West End

Jamie Lloyd and co have cooked up a unique new event paying tribute to theatrical iconoclast Harold Pinter for the tenth anniversary of his death - a whole season at his namesake theatre, dedicated to his one-act plays. Closing the season is this power-themed double bill starring Martin Freeman and Danny Dyer.

Over a five decade career, Harold Pinter rose to become one of our most influential playwrights with his biting wit and simmering menace contributing to 29 full length plays and 25 theatrical sketches. The Pinter at the Pinter season will delve into his shorter works, that despite their length, pack no less of that characteristic punch.

The Dumb Waiter (1957)
Early on in Pinter's career but by no means lacking his signature tapestry of claustrophobia, menace and the search for meaning, The Dumb Waiter focuses on Gus and Ben, two hitmen awaiting their next assignment.

A Slight Ache (1958)
A married couple reminisces on their youth and does their level best to escape the fear of ageing, particularly husband Edward, whose world is shattered by the appearance of an elderly stranger. Self-identity and insecurity form the crux of this early tragicomedy.