23 Feb 2026
What could be better to liven up the fag end of winter than an hilarious evening’s entertainment from the pen of comedy genius Richard Bean, writer of the smash hit One Man, Two Guvnors?
His play To Have and to Hold is the Company of Ten’s February offering and promises to deliver knowing laughs in a moving testament to older age, inspired by his own parents’ relationship.
Jack and Florence are in their nineties, and with 70 years on the marriage clock, they have refined the art of bickering to perfection. Into their daily routine in the village of Wetwang, East Yorkshire come their son and daughter bringing with them concerns, secrets and not always welcome expectations. Buried truths begin to surface.
The stage is set for a humorous portrayal of the struggles endured by elderly parents, and the disconnect between the generations. Prepare for sharp wit, touching emotional depths and some universal home truths. As The Guardian puts it: “A play that touches on ideas around ageing and alienation, care and family love, but focuses on making us laugh.”
Director Andy Mills is well acquainted with the work of Bean having directed the Company of Ten’s production of One Man, Two Guvnors two years ago.
He says: “Having read this family comedy, I thought it was a delightful, thought-provoking, and funny take on the relationship between older parents and their grown-up children.
“When we applied for the production rights, Richard Bean offered his updated unpublished version of the script which has only just been performed at the Hull Truck Theatre in 2025. He is intending to come and see our production, which is both a challenge and a delight for me as a director!
“The set includes a working stairlift, and the task of acquiring one fell to our stage manager, Paul Davidson. After a long search he found a company who were willing to loan and fit a stairlift for us in plenty of time for the actors to get used to using it.
“I have been in a similar situation to that depicted in this play with my own parents, and so can identify with the predicament of all the characters. Richard Bean gives each one real depth and believability, making the play whilst a comedy at heart, both an interesting and very entertaining watch.”
Performances are on the Abbey Theatre Main Stage on Friday and Saturday February 27-28 at 8pm, Sunday March 1 at 2,30pm, and Wednesday to
To book tickets please go to www.abbeytheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01727 857861
