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Jennifer Saunders stars in The Sea, Edward Bond’s acclaimed play, returning in its first major revival in nearly 20 years.

Directed by Jonathan Munby, this new production opens at the Theatre Royal Bath in October 2026, ahead of potential further performances. A bold mix of comedy, satire and drama, The Sea is one of the most distinctive plays in modern British theatre.

Set in 1907 at the height of the Edwardian era, a violent storm shakes a small seaside village to its core. As chaos unfolds, Mrs Rafi — the village’s self-appointed “First Lady” — prepares her amateur dramatics troupe for a production of Orpheus and Eurydice, while the local draper, Mr Hatch, spirals into paranoia, convinced an alien invasion is imminent.

About The Sea

The Sea is a bold and genre-defying play by Edward Bond, combining farce, satire and tragedy in a vividly imagined Edwardian world.

Originally premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in 1973, the play has seen major revivals at the National Theatre and in the West End. This new production marks the first major revival in almost 20 years.

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Stars and Creatives

Who is in the cast of The Sea?

  • Jennifer Saunders as Mrs Rafi
    (Further casting to be announced)

Who are the creative team of The Sea?

  • Written by Edward Bond
  • Directed by Jonathan Munby

Venue Information

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, The Sea has matinee performances on the following days:
The Sea is a play by Edward Bond set in an Edwardian seaside village, where a violent storm sparks paranoia, social tension and darkly comic events within the community.
Jennifer Saunders stars as Mrs Rafi, one of the most celebrated comic roles in British theatre.
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