The Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond has released a first glimpse of rehearsals for its upcoming production of In Praise of Love, a powerful and moving drama by one of Britain's greatest playwrights, Terence Rattigan.

Running from 24 May to 5 July 2025, the production features a stellar cast including Claire Price, Dominic Rowan, Daniel Abelson, and Joe Edgar, under the direction of Amelia Sears.

Set in 1973 England, In Praise of Love tells the story of Estonian refugee Lydia and her Marxist literary critic husband Sebastian.

Dominic Rowan (left) and Claire Price during rehearsals for In Praise of Love (credit: Ellie Kurttz).

Both former wartime intelligence agents, they are skilled in secrecy – from each other as much as the outside world.

But when a visiting American admirer enters the picture, hidden truths begin to unravel in this deeply human and emotionally charged play.

Inspired by the real-life relationship between Rex Harrison and Kay Kendall, In Praise of Love is Rattigan's penultimate play – and one of his most personal.

Daniel Abelson during rehearsals for In Praise of Love (credit: Ellie Kurttz).

The OT's production marks a rare opportunity to see this poignant exploration of love, deception, and mortality brought to life on stage.

The creative team includes Peter Butler (Designer), Bethany Gupwell (Lighting Design), Elizabeth Purnell (Sound Designer and Composer), and Helena Palmer CDG (Casting Director). The production is managed by Pam Nichol.

Returning to the Orange Tree are Claire Price, who previously starred in Poison, and Dominic Rowan, last seen in Winter Solstice.

Amelia Sears during rehearsals for In Praise of Love (credit: Ellie Kurttz).

Daniel Abelson, who appeared in Amsterdam at the OT, takes on the role of Mark Walters, while Joe Edgar joins the cast as Joey Cruttwell.

The Orange Tree has a long-standing relationship with Rattigan's work, having previously staged much-loved productions of French Without Tears and While the Sun Shines.

Tickets for In Praise of Love are now on sale via the Orange Tree Theatre website.

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