North-east playwright Alison Carr’s latest piece is inspired by the notorious ‘Canoe Man’ case. See it at Live Theatre this September and October.

I wonder if the original ‘Canoe Man’ knew that his actions would trigger such interest in his deception? In this fictionalised new spin on the – Shakespearian? – tale, Alison Carr’s protagonists are married couple Colin and Deborah. But as their debts begin to pile up, they turn to the answer that’s been kinda staring them in the face: the North Sea. Colin fakes his own death in his less-than-trusty canoe and “widow” Deborah then seeks to secure their insurance claim. She must also deal with family grief and try to maintain a functioning marriage. Needless to say the real drama is still to come…

All At Sea, 24 September-10 October, Live Theatre, Newcastle, times vary, from £18 (first preview £12), live.org.uk