CHESIL Theatre Winchester has chosen a blisteringly witty black comedy After Electra for their next production. The play, by April de Angelis, is also a deeply moving drama that re-imagines the meaning of family and explores how the choices we make can change our lives forever.

On her 84th birthday acclaimed abstract artist, Virgie, makes a shock announcement. She has enjoyed life and “had a good innings” but now with her failing eyesight and with hands that can no longer hold a brush, she’s had enough. She will kill herself after sharing this final day with her guests.

Although she has never been much of a mother to them, she has not reckoned on the determination of her children, aided and abetted by her sister and close friends, to thwart her distinctly unusual birthday plans.

After Electra opens tomorrow night and runs until Saturday May 27.

Tickets from chesiltheatre.org.uk or 0333 666 3366.