Dramatist's last play performed for centenary

Arthur Berry (r) wrote about the "grit and humour of Stokie life", the theatre said

The last play written by a leading dramatist from the Potteries is receiving its world premiere as part of commemorations marking the centenary of his birth.

Arthur Berry grew up in Stoke-on-Trent and became a prolific writer and artist before his death in 1994.

His final play Whatever happened to Phoebe Salt is being staged at the New Vic Theatre. The New Vic opened in 1986 with a performance of one of Berry's poems by Freddie Jones, father of actor Toby Jones.

The city is also marking its centenary - with Stoke-on-Trent Day being held on Thursday.

The production of Whatever Happened to Phoebe Salt features local actors.

Isabella Rossi, who is making her stage debut, said it was an honour.

"To be able to be here which is a theatre which I grew up in coming to watch shows and now to be on the stage, doing a show and for such a celebration - for Arthur - for Stoke - it is just a full circle."

Isabella Rossi from the Potteries is appearing in the title role, making her professional stage debut

As well as being a renowned writer, Berry was a notable artist, using the inspiration he drew from his hometown as a thread that ran throughout his work.

Theresa Heskins, artistic director of the theatre, said he loved the area he was from.

"The very first word spoken on this stage by Freddie Jones, [film and TV actor] Toby Jones' dad, was the word 'yes' as part of a poem called Yes by Arthur Berry - what a thing to be part of our history.

"He made these plays about Stoke-on-Trent really. The place that he loved and all of his work was about it.

"It's all full of the grit and humour of Stokie life."

Theresa Heskins artistic director of the theatre said Berry loved his local area