'LEARNED FRIENDS” - LEGAL DRAMA SET BEHIND THE SCENES OF A CRIMINAL COURT

Warwick's historic Old Shire Hall hosts the return of Ginny Davis's acclaimed new play “Learned Friends” on 22^nd May.

The Warwickshire-based, former barrister and Edinburgh Fringe sell out writer and performer lifts the shroud of secrecy surrounding behind the scenes machinations of criminal proceedings in this high stakes cliff-hanger which echoes of “Twelve Angry Men” and TV's “Silk”.

Prosecution and defence counsel are long-time friends and advocates awaiting a jury's verdict. Prosecution counsel is bored, defence counsel preoccupied. Each holds a secret which poses impossible conflicts: duty v loyalty, right v wrong.  “Learned Friends” provides fascinating insight into criminal proceedings, answering questions frequently put to barristers: Can opposing court advocates be friends? How can a guilty man be defended?

Scenes are performed in the magnificent 18^th century hall and atmospheric courtroom, where the audience occupies the seats of former jurors, court officials and dock officers.

“Engaging and thought-provoking”   Stratford upon Avon Herald

“A lively, intelligent legal cliff-hanger.” Leamington Spa Courier

Davis performs alongside Sharon Baylis (The Bill, Emmerdale). The play is directed by Michael Bott (National Theatre, RSC, 2014 Skylight, Wyndham's Theatre,  2015 Doctors, The Scandalous Lady W).