PREVIEW: The Haunting of Exham Priory

The Haunting of Exham Priory

Rumpus Theatre Company

Rotherham Civic Theatre

Monday, October 17

The American author achieved little fame in life and died in poverty, but his writings have inspired generations of fantasy and sci-fi writers.

For decades, the annual World Fantasy Award — the Oscars of fantasy writing — was a bust of Lovecraft known as a “Howard”.

The Rats in the Walls, one of his short stories, is now touring in theatre form as an adaptation called The Haunting of Exham Priory.

In it, an American named Mr Delapore retires to England to restore his ancestral home, which has been ruined for over 300 years.

Locals lament at the restoration, knowing what tragedy befell the ancient de la Poers there and why it still lies unoccupied.

Even Delapore’s cats know something is amiss — but will the proud progeny heed them before it’s too late?

As Delapore and Captain Norrys uncover the truth, Exham Priory reveals a history more horrific than either man could have imagined.

Rumpus Theatre Company brings The Haunting of Exham Priory to Rotherham Civic Theatre on Monday — miss it at your peril.