The death of a much-loved screen character is a huge blow, but spare a thought for the actress or actor who’s been given the push. This is the premise of ’60s classic The Killing of Sister George in which a soap opera star is being ’let go’.

June, nicknamed George, plays a cheerful district nurse in a TV drama but her real life is far from happy. Insecure and bullying she relies on the booze and bravado to see her through but comes to breaking point when her housemate and lover Alice turns away from her too.

The Killing of Sister George is at the Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City from January 20-28 at 8pm. Details: 01707 324300, www.barntheatre.co.uk