A Memory of Water was Stephenson's first play, opening in London in 1996, and was awarded the prestigious Olivier Award for Best Comedy. Three sisters meet on the eve of their mother's funeral; as the conflicts of the past converge, everyday lies and tensions reveal the particular patterns and strains of family relationships. This Student Edition features the full text of the play and an introduction that includes a plot summary and a discussion of the themes, characters, structure, language, style and production history of the play. Notes on words and phrases in the text, questions for further study and a bibliography provide students with everything they need to study and appreicate this award-winning play.

The Memory of Water, which opened at the Hampstead Theatre, London in 1996, was her first stage play and won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy A Student Edition of the play, featuring a full introduction and commentary on the plot, themes, characters, language, style and production history Questions for students and teachers and a full bibliography provide the student with a complete study guide to the play

About the Author
Shelagh Stephenson is an award-winning writer of stage and radio plays. Her most recent work, Enlightenment, premiered at the Abbey Theatre in 2005. Methuen Drama has published a collected edition of the writer's plays: Stephenson Plays: 1.

Reviews
'In Shelagh Stephenson's play, three estranged sisters with a long history of failing to get on convene to make arrangements for their mother's cremation.' Alfred Hickling, Guardian, 1.8.09 'The drama has a fierce, instantly recognisable humanity that is difficult to resist.' Joyce McMillan, Scotsman, 17.07.10



Book Information
ISBN 9780413776143
Author Shelagh Stephenson
Format Paperback
Page Count 192
Imprint Methuen Drama
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 164g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 129mm * 12mm