Overview

The Pennington family haven't been in the same room together for seventeen years. But on the eve of William's seventy-fifth birthday, all three generations gather, hoping that the mistakes of the past can be consigned to history. An errant daughter, an autistic son, and a second son that could never just grasp the nettle – William's children have always been a disappointment to him. With long-held resentments rising to the surface, and new problems unexpectedly presenting themselves, a family reconciliation may be some way off. But William knows he is running out of time. A moving, poignant and funny family drama, Andrew Keatley's The Gathered Leaves was first staged at Park Theatre, London, in 2015. This new edition was published alongside Park's revival in 2025, directed by Adrian Noble. 'A freshness and verve that's hugely impressive' — Telegraph 'Riveting... Keatley accurately pins down the tensions within family life and records a moment of social transition' — Guardian 'Outstanding' — The Times 'Meaty family drama... perceptive and funny... a humane, deliberately old-fashioned play' — Evening Standard

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Reviews

'A freshness and verve that's hugely impressive' * Telegraph * 'Riveting... Keatley accurately pins down the tensions within family life and records a moment of social transition' * Guardian * 'Outstanding' * The Times * 'Meaty family drama... perceptive and funny... a humane, deliberately old-fashioned play' * Evening Standard * 'A classic Hampstead family drama, full of juicy, nuanced character relations and wry quips... sharp, witty and insightful' * WhatsOnStage * 'A theatrical treat... vibrant, honest, and heartbreaking... Keatley's writing rewards his starry cast in every line... It feels real without ever being forced or preachy' * Broadway World * 'A sensational piece of theatre... whip-smart writing... understated but continually captivating... Keatley is a master at building suspense' * All That Dazzles *

'A freshness and verve that's hugely impressive' * Telegraph * 'Riveting... Keatley accurately pins down the tensions within family life and records a moment of social transition' * Guardian * 'Outstanding' * The Times * 'Meaty family drama... perceptive and funny... a humane, deliberately old-fashioned play' * Evening Standard *

Author Information

Andrew Keatley studied English and Drama at Royal Holloway, University of London, and Acting at Webber Douglas. His plays include Alligators (Hampstead Downstairs, 2016); The Gathered Leaves (Park Theatre, London, 2015; revived 2025); Go To Your God Like A Soldier (Old Vic Tunnels, London/Underbelly, Edinburgh); Colourings (Old Red Lion, Islington); Care (Bush); Why Don't We Multiply? and Weapon of Choice (Theatre503).

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