Alan Bennett’s People opened at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury last night, the same day as the National Theatre celebrated its 50th birthday.

Stars of the production including Siân Phillips, Selina Cadell, and Brigit Forsyth, joined theatre staff and local dignitaries for a special post-show reception to mark the occasion.

National Theatre executive director Nick Starr, who lives in Faversham, and attended the event said: “It is a significant moment in the National Theatre's history as we celebrate our 50th anniversary of our very first performance at the Old Vic in 1963.

"For Canterbury to have been hosting the National on this auspicious day gives me great pleasure, not just because it confirms our determination to be as national as possible with some of our finest work, but also because it's my own local theatre which I delight in supporting."

People is at the Marlowe Theatre until Saturday, October 26. Tickets from £15. Call 01227 787787.

Click here for a review of People.