UK Theatre Network

In the fifties and sixties Doris Day churned out 39 movies and 650 pop songs.

But she is equally remembered for her wholesome image.

However, in A Sentimental Journey - which is currently enjoying its world premiere - writer Adam Rolston lifts the lid on her life to reveal three marriages before she was 30, bereavement, and a life-changing car accident.

It’s a sensitive portrayal, well researched and put together by 25-year-old Rolston as a musical, complete with a four-piece band which fits snugly into The Mill’s intimate space, and a sterling West End cast which includes Carol Ball, Glyn Kerslake and Tim Wallers.

Although he wasn’t able to get Doris Day’s approval, Rolston says he believes it’s a story that should be told, and he had no qualms about writing it. “I think it’s a very positive project and I hope audiences will be moved by it.”

It’s also, he says, ‘a lovely mother and son story’, which makes it quite remarkable. For Doris Day’s story is told by her son Terry, played by Ian McLarnon, with the title role being played by Sally Hughes, artistic director of The Mill, and Rolston’s own mother.

But Rolston assures me there was no nepotism involved.

He grew up in the industry - his father is Hollywood actor Mark Rolston whose credits include Aliens - and has learned from working in television and films since embarking on a writing career at the age of 16.

He explained: “I have always tried to get a play on at The Mill but it has very exacting standards.”

Now, however, he says it’s wonderful seeing his first play come to life, especially as it has been directed by the award-winning Alvin Rakoff - who also happens to be his stepfather.

“I’m very honoured that Alvin is directing,” he said. “The more I see it the more confidence I have.”

Meanwhile, the production lets us see Hughes in a different light, as an accomplished singer, while her skills as an actress mean that she flits easily from teenage Doris to disillusioned divorcee whose only wish in life was to be in a happy marriage.

A Sentimental Journey continues until April 19 at The Mill at Sonning. Box office: 0118 969 8000.

www.millatsonning.com