Filmed in 2001, this programme documents Alan Ayckbourn's busiest time of year - the new Summer Season at the Stephen Joseph, Scarborough, where he premiered two brand new plays (his 58th and 59th) back-to-back, using the same seven cast members on the same specially constructed set - rehearsed and premiered in under ten weeks. Gameplan began rehearsals on 23 Apr 2001 and premiered on 29 May. But for Alan and the cast it was also the first day of rehearsals for his second new production, Flatspin.

The first play is about a single mother forced into a life of vice to survive and Flatspin is a tale of mistaken identity - when a female cleaner is mistaken for her employer and becomes involved in a lurid arms deal. Both plays are set in the Docklands and are inspired by Alan's flat in London.

Backstage documents Alan and the cast throughout this gruelling rehearsal schedule, looks at the successful reputation of the Stephen Joseph Theatre and explores the playwright's passion for this secluded coastal town and regional theatre.