"All these issues are going on in the community, but are rarely discussed," she said.
"The audience will recognise them as something they've had to help a neighbour or a friend through, but hope to never to experience.
"It brings to life what we don't like talking about in public."
On stage, guests check into a motel -- which has seen better days but is suitably isolated, in keeping with each character's agenda.
"It was rated a two-star when it opened, but it's sunk a little since then," Mrs Penhale-Cashmore said.
"And the manager is an absolute nightmare -- no social skills, and just wants to take your money and watch TV."
The first guest to arrive is Jenny, a career woman with a secret -- to be joined by Ben, with whom she has arranged a special business transaction.
Next are happily married couple Pearl and Harry Wentworth, seeking refuge following a traumatic event.
Following them is high-flying salesman Elvis Leadbetter, who is in the area to find new clients, and gains new insights after an exchange with the manager.
Finally, Annabel, a glamourous PA, checks in, expecting a pleasant evening -- and gets more than she bargained for when a unexpected visitor arrives.
Mrs Penhale-Cashmore said she was drawn to Motel because of its well-rounded characters..
"They're not silhouettes -- they're all real people we can relate to," she said.
"It's a challenge for the cast as they're dealing with huge emotion -- they're having to dig into their lives and memories and bring up things with correspond to the characters' experience."
She said there is plenty of humour, but each character's problem is treated sensitively.
"There are some hilarious moments -- but tender moments as well."
Motel will be the first full-length play Mrs Penhale-Cashmore has directed -- though she was awarded Best First Time Director at last year's Theatrefest one act play festival.
Motel runs from Thursday 19 May to Saturday 28 May, starting at 8pm, with a matinee on Sunday May 22 at 4pm. Tickets available from www.iticket.co.nz.
