Mr Beresford is a play for the stage, in two acts, by Michael Allen. It is a love story, but not a soppy one.
There are two strong lead parts for Lady Cynthia (31) and Mr Beresford (38). The story is told in flashback and is set in an English prep. school in 1953, Coronation year. Mr Beresford, a political refugee from Eastern Europe, is working in the school for a few months while he seeks permission from the Home Office to remain in England permanently. Lady Cynthia, the Headmaster’s secretary, falls in love with him. The villain of the piece, Lady C’s cousin, is a high-ranking civil servant; he uses Lady C’s affection for Mr Beresford as a lever to gain what he wants from her.
This play was produced by the Show of Strength Company in Bristol in January 1999.
If you would like to read the script, please use the Contact link.
One set, representing several locations.
6 male parts, 2 female.
Comments from professionals
‘I read Mr Beresford with great pleasure and admiration.... I am sure there are plenty of directors who would give their back teeth to do it.’ Clifford Williams
‘There are many good things about the play and I enjoyed reading it.’ Mark Furness
‘It’s a very intriguing piece.’ Caroline Dawson
‘Often moving and funny, with some splendidly evocative individual scenes and speeches.’ Ned Sherrin
‘Thank you so much for your play Mr Beresford which I have read and enjoyed enormously....’ John Nettles
