The Southbury Child

In a co-production with Chichester Festival Theatre 

Sharp-witted, wilful and frequently drunk, David Highland has kept a grip on his parish through a combination of disordered charm and high-handed determination. But when his conscience forces him to take a hard line with a parishioner who wants Disney balloons at a family funeral, he finds himself dangerously isolated from public opinion. As his own family begins to fracture, David must face a future that threatens to extinguish not only his position in the town, but everything he stands for. 

Stephen Beresford’s very funny play is a deeply humane exploration of family, faith, tradition and tolerance in a rapidly changing world. 

The Bridge, London

1 July – 27 August 2022

Writer Stephen Beresford 

Director Nicholas Hytner 

Set Designer Mark Thompson 

Costume Designer Yvonne Milnes 

Lighting Designer Max Narula 

Sound Designer George Dennis 

Casting Director Robert Sterne 

Assistant Director Isabel Marr 

Associate Set Designer Jaimie Todd 

Costume Supervisor Rosemary Elliott-Dancs 

Props Supervisor Lily Mollgaard 

Production Manager Chris Hay