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Overview

Synopsis

The Winterling is a darkly comic drama packed with sharp wit and unforgettable characters. Set in the desolate, wintry expanse of Dartmoor—dubbed the "Siberia of the South-West"—the play follows Len West, a disgraced gangster banished from the city for his untrustworthiness. Now staking his claim on the territory of Draycott, a badger-fighting vagrant, West waits in a burned-out farmhouse for the arrival of two former associates. The wine is poured, the revolver is loaded—but something, or someone, lurks upstairs.

When Wally, West’s old partner-in-crime, finally arrives with newcomer Patsy in tow, the past comes knocking. What unfolds is a tense, fast-paced battle of wits, where allegiances are tested, choices must be made, and survival depends on navigating a world where loyalty is as dangerous as betrayal.

Show Information

Book
Jez Butterworth
Category
Play
Age Guidance
Mature Audiences (M)
Number of Acts
3
First Produced
2006
Genres
Dark Comedy
Settings
Unit/Single Set
Time & Place
An abandoned farmhouse in the center of the forest of Dartmoor, England
Cast Size
small
Licensor
Nick Hern Book
Ideal For
Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Small Cast, Mostly Male Cast, Includes Adult, Young Adult Characters

Context

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Plot

Characters

Name Part Size Gender Vocal Part

Len West

Lead

Male

Non-singer

Wally

Lead

Male

Non-singer

Patsy

Lead

Male

Non-singer

Draycott

Lead

Male

Non-singer

Lou

Supporting

Female

Non-singer

Songs

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A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.

Monologues

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Scenes

All scenes are the property and copyright of their owners. Scenes are presented on StageAgent for educational purposes only. If you would like to give a public performance of this scene, please obtain authorization from the appropriate licensor.

Key Terms

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Videos

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Quizzes

Themes, Symbols & Motifs

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Quote Analysis

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Guide Written By:

Alexandra Appleton

Alexandra Appleton

Writer, editor and theatre researcher