WHEN Patrick Marber's Closer opened at London's National Theatre it was hailed as the Private Lives of the 90s.

Couples regularly left the theatre arguing over the dubious relations of the four players - some finding the measures of cruelty they expend on one another realistic, others disbelieving.

"It's a raw play about emotions which works much better on stage," said director James Mackenzie.

Closer was made into a film in 2004 starring Julia Roberts as Anna, Natalie Portman as Alice, Jude Law and Clive Owen.

"Up close and personal it's quite difficult and not particularly pleasant, while still funny in parts."

He went on to say that the three-week rehearsal period had been a bit of a journey for the actors.

"It's about asking them to go somewhere they don't really want to go in their heads - discovering emotions best left alone."

The cast includes three new faces to the 4Play arena.

Kate Peden, professional actress turned education officer, was the first cast as Anna - the key in James' opinion.

As the older woman of the two, she is regarded as the player.

"I couldn't have played it 10 years ago," Kate said.

"None of the characters are faithful and nobody comes off lightly.

"The older couple tear one another apart but people can be like that when they're really hurt."

Billed as unsuitable for under 16s, Kate is hoping her mother comes to see her but expects no complaints about the language!

Closer also stars Jade Burniston (a performing arts student at Herefordshire College of Art and Design), Rob Billington (recently returned to Hereford) and Chris Williams.

Closer by 4Play Theatre Company will run from January 11 to January 14 at 7.45pm at Hereford Courtyard.