Henry II of England and his chancellor, Thomas Becket, are best friends. They share a love of hunting, wine, women - and fighting the church. When the old Archbishop of Canterbury dies, Henry hits on a brilliant scheme to bring the church under royal control. He will appoint his friend as the new archbishop!

Becket is horrified, and begs Henry not to do it. "If I become archbishop, I can no longer be your friend." Henry, laughingly dismisses Becket's fears, and proceeds with his plan, thus setting in motion one of the most titanic power clashes in mediaeval England, and culminating in Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral by four of Henry's barons.

Anouilh's play had its London premiere in 1961, with Christopher Plummer and Eric Porter in the cast. It was then famously filmed, in 1964, with Richard Burton and Peter O'Toole, both at the height of their fame (O'Toole from Lawrence of Arabia and Burton from Cleopatra) as king and archbishop. In more recent times, the play has been revived in London with Derek Jacobi and Robert Lindsay in the roles.

This powerful play, with its two compelling central characters and its clash of ideologies, is every bit as pertinent today as when it was written. Above all, it is a brilliant piece of theatre

Such a play needs two powerhouse performances at the helm. IT is thrilled to announce Stephen Tongun as Becket, and Samuel Rogers, as Henry II.

AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE