45 Years review – Gabriel Byrne and Geraldine James mark an anniversary for the ages

The Minerva Theatre in Chichester is staging a new production of "45 Years," adapted for the stage by Hannah Patterson. The play centers on a couple, Kate (Geraldine James) and Geoff (Gabriel Byrne), who are preparing to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary. Geoff receives a letter revealing that his ex-girlfriend, Katya, who died over 50 years ago in the Swiss Alps, has been found preserved in ice. This discovery prompts Geoff to reflect on his past and how it might affect his present life with Kate. The adaptation is based on David Constantine's short story, which was previously turned into a film starring Tom Courtenay and Charlotte Rampling. The Guardian's review highlights the play's quiet and delicate nature, emphasizing the emotional impact derived from unspoken moments and silent revelations, and commends Patterson's spare and evocative adaptation for the stage.