A theatre company is in grave danger of having to cancel its upcoming Fringe run – because its members can’t find a coffin.

Otherplace Productions is now appealing to generous local undertakers to lend it a casket for its May 14 to 20 performances.

Titled Cold Comfort, the one-man piece tells the story of an Irishman who returns to his native land to attend his father’s wake.

Actor Padraig Breathnach performs the powerful monologue in which he addresses the coffin in the middle of an otherwise minimalist set.

Director Áine King said: “They are not easy to come by.

“The coffin is essential to the play but it is difficult to find an affordable one or one we can return.

“We would be so grateful if a local undertaker could lend us a coffin for the run.

“We would include them in the programme notes and give them a good bit of publicity.”

The play begins by conforming to all the usual stereotypes of a drunk, broken Irishman returning to his country after many years away.

'Proud of producation'

However, those clichés soon give way to a powerful and moving portrayal of love, loss and fragility.

The piece, which is already selling well, will be staged at The Warren in Russell Place.

Áine King said: “It is a great venue and we are really proud of the production.

“It would mean the world to us if somebody could help us out.”

Tickets for the May 14 to 20 run are still available. Adults are £10 and students £7.50. All performances begin at 7.30pm.

See the latest news headlines from The Argus:

More news from The Argus

Follow @brightonargus

The Argus: Daily Echo on Facebook - facebook.com/southerndailyecho Like us on Facebook

The Argus: Google+ Add us to your circles on Google+