THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING JOHN FINNEMORE COMES TO YORK

DATE: TUESDAY 22ND MAY

So, what actually happens in a Flying Visit?

No actual flying, sadly. It’s me and the entire cast of my sketch show John Finnemore’s Souvenir Programme performing some of our favourite sketches from that show; and lots of brand new ones. Plus, I might even sing. Unless the rest of the cast win their legal battle to stop me.

What’s it like going on tour with the cast? What’s life like on the tour bus?

Oh, it’s everything you would expect from a Radio 4 show cast on tour. Typically, Lawry and I will be doing a crossword, Margaret will be Skyping her kids, Simon will be at work on his cross-stitch of hedgerow flowers… and at the back of the bus, Carrie will be in her jacuzzi full of champagne, trying to drink vodka through a trumpet.

And what made you want to come to York?

I love learning about trains, but I also love learning about Vikings. York is the only city that doesn’t make me choose.

You’re probably best known for Cabin Pressure – what gave you the idea for a sitcom about a tiny airline with only one plane?

My Dad was a pilot, so the inspiration for the show – and indeed for the smooth-talking old sky-god character played by Roger Allam – isn’t very difficult to find. Since then, I’ve written comedies about a nurse (my Mum’s job) and a railway signalman (my Grandad’s).  If I ever stop writing, you’ll know I’ve run out of relatives.

You also performed in Cabin Pressure, alongside Benedict Cumberbatch as Martin. What was it like working with such a huge star?

Well, you’d have to ask him, but I think he coped with it pretty well.

Your character, Arthur the steward, is a cheerful idiot. What made you want to play him?

Idiots in sitcoms get all the best lines. Plus, I’d already been a cheerful idiot on an amateur basis for some time, so it was an exciting  opportunity to take it professional.

Will Arthur be making an appearance in the show?

He certainly will, and he’s very excited about it. Mind you, he’s always very excited about everything.

And apart from him, what else can we expect from the show?

Well, for instance… we will be explaining how Pavlov’s research into conditioned reflexes in dogs was affected by Mrs Pavlova’s invention of a delicious meringue pudding; investigating what turns posh men’s trousers red; and revealing the original design brief for cats: tiny lions that live in your house. As you can see, it’s a very educational show. Bring the kids.

Grand Opera House York

John Finnemore’s Flying Visit

Tuesday 22 May 2018

Tickets from £29

Box Office 0844 871 3024

Online  www.atgtickets.com/york

EVERYBODY SAY YEAH!

THE WINNER OF EVERY MAJOR BEST MUSICAL AWARDSTRUTS INTO GLASGOW

KING’S THEATRE

MONDAY 6 – SATURDAY 18 MAY 2019

 

Kinky Boots, the winner of every major Best Musical award, is coming to Glasgow next year.

Inspired by true events, the production, sound-tracked by songs from by Grammy® and Tony® winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, will run at the King’s Theatre from Monday 6 – Saturday 18 May 2019.

 

Tickets are on sale to ATG Theatre Card holders now and go on general sale on Friday 13 April 2018.

Kinky Boots at the Adelphi Theatre has become a favourite with UK theatregoers having won three Olivier Awards for Best New Musical, Best Costume Design and Best Actor in a Musical for Matt Henry who played Lola. Kinky Boots also won the London Evening Standard BBC Radio 2 Audience Award for Best Musical as well as three WhatsOnStage Awards for Best New Musical, Best Actor in a Musical and Best Choreography.

 

Kinky Boots takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. Charlie Price is struggling to live up to his father’s expectations and continue the family business of Price & Son. With the factory’s future hanging in the balance, help arrives in the unlikely but spectacular form of Lola, a fabulous performer in need of some sturdy new stilettos. This joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover, and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind.

With direction and choreography by two-time Tony® Award-winner Jerry Mitchell (Legally Blonde, Hairspray), and book by Broadway legend Harvey Fierstein (La Cage Aux Folles), Kinky Boots is the winner of every major Best Musical award including three Olivier Awards, three WhatsOnStage Awards as well as six Broadway Tony® Awards.

Composer and Lyricist, Cyndi Lauper said: “It has been a wonderful adventure and a privilege for me, to play a part in creating Kinky Boots. Everyone can relate to this universal story, and I am overwhelmed that people in the UK have embraced it with open arms. I am thrilled that this fabulous show will be touring the country!”

Book writer, Harvey Fierstein said: “The inspiring story of Kinky Boots will soon complete its full circle journey from Northampton to the silver screen to Broadway and London and now, at last, back home to Northampton as it embarks on a national UK tour. How often does that happen? It’s been an absolute thrill to witness the giant heart of our show raise audiences up out of their seats in clamorous joy night after night in the West End and I am now so glad to experience its homecoming.”

Director and Choreographer, Jerry Mitchell said: “I am delighted to see this big-spirited musical going on tour. Kinky Boots is very close to my heart, and I am really looking forward to taking this British musical all over the UK .”

Kinky Boots is produced by Daryl Roth and Hal Luftig, James L. Nederlander, Terry Allen Kramer, Playful Productions, CJ E&M, Jayne Baron Sherman, Just for Laughs Theatricals/Judith Ann Abrams, Yasuhiro Kawana, Jane Bergère, Allan S. Gordon & Adam S. Gordon, Ken Davenport, Hunter Arnold, Lucy and Phil Suarez, Bryan Bantry, Ron Fierstein & Dorsey Regal, Independent Presenters Network, Jim Kierstead/Gregory Rae, BB Group/Christina Papagjika, Brian Smith/Tom & Connie Walsh, Warren Trepp, and Jujamcyn Theaters, in association with Cameron Mackintosh.

 

Casting to be announced.

ENDS

 

NOTES TO EDITORS

 

PRESS CONTACT

Laura Redpath

[email protected]

0141 240 1305

LISTINGS

Kinky Boots

King’s Theatre, Glasgow

Mon 6 – Sat 18 May 2019

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu: 7.30pm

Fri, 5pm & 8.30pm

Sat, 2.3pm & 7.30pm

www.atgtickets.com/glasgow

0844 871 7648 *calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge

The Ferryman
By Jez Butterworth
Directed by Sam Mendes

• Final six weeks of The Ferryman in the West End after winning three awards at the 2018 Olivier Awards
• More than 350,000 people will have seen the production during its year long run of 410 performances, with over 14,000 tickets sold at £12.50 or under
  

Audiences have just six weeks left to see the critically acclaimed hit production of The Ferrymanby Jez Butterworth in the West End. Produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, Neal Street Productions and Royal Court Theatre Productions, The Ferryman will play its final performance at the Gielgud Theatre on 19 May 2018, prior to its Broadway transfer.

Jez Butterworth’s The Ferryman was the most recognised play at this year’s Olivier Awards with eight award nominations. It went on to win the award for Best New Play, while Sam Mendes was awarded Best Director and Laura Donnelly received the honour for Best Actress.

The Olivier Awards follow successes at The Evening Standard Awards, Critics Circle Awards and WhatsOnStage Awards at all of which The Ferryman was given the Best New Play Award.

The production won widespread critical acclaim when it opened at the Royal Court and was the fastest selling show in the theatre’s history.  This phenomenal success has continued at the Gielgud Theatre where it has been playing to sold-out houses.

The current company includes Dean Ashton as Frank Magennis, Declan Conlon as Muldoon,Rosalie Craig  in the role of Caitlin Carney, Kevin Creedon as JJ Carney, Charles Dale as Father Horrigan, Sean Delaney as Michael Carney, Justin Edwards as Tom Kettle, Saoirse-Monica Jackson as Shena Carney, Terence Keeley as Diarmaid Corcoran, Laurie Kynastonas Oisin Carney, Mark Lambert as Uncle Pat, Catherine McCormack as Mary Carney, Stella McCusker as Aunt Maggie Far Away, Owen McDonnell playing Quinn Carney, Francis Mezza as Shane Corcoran, Glenn Speers as Lawrence Malone and Siân Thomas as Aunt Pat. As previously the full company comprises 37 performers: 17 main adults, 7 covers, 12 children on rota and 1 baby.

The Ferryman in the West End is directed by Sam Mendes, designed by Rob Howell, lighting by Peter Mumford, sound and original music by Nick Powell, with the current cast directed by Tim Hoare and casting by Amy Ball CDG.

Sonia Friedman Productions and Neal Street Productions will transfer The Ferryman to Broadway at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre (242 W 45th St, New York) opening in October 2018. Tickets are onsale through Telecharge.com.

Full production schedule, the 30-plus member cast and full creative team for The Ferryman on Broadway will be announced at a later date.

 

 

West End Listings:

Sonia Friedman Productions, Neal Street Productions
& Royal Court Theatre Productions 
with Rupert Gavin, Gavin Kalin Productions, Ron Kastner and Tulchin Bartner Productions

present
The Ferryman
By Jez Butterworth
Directed by Sam Mendes

Designer Rob Howell
Lighting Designer Peter Mumford
Composer & Sound Designer Nick Powell
New Cast Director Tim Hoare
Casting Director Amy Ball CDG

Gielgud Theatre

Shaftesbury Ave, Soho, London W1D 6AR
Until 19 May 2018
Box Office: 0844 482 5130*
*calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your standard network charge
Online: www.TheFerrymanPlay.com

Monday to Saturday 7.00pm, Wednesday and Saturday matinees 1.30pm.

Day seats are available to purchase at £12 for every performance from 10.30am at the Box Office in person
Premium tickets are available

Age Guidance 14+ Contains strong language

Twitter: @TheFerrymanPlay
Facebook: /TheFerrymanPlay
#TheFerryman

IS YOUR CHILD A LITTLE STAR?

A leading young person’s Theatre Company in Leeds is looking for new youngsters to join its Little Stars Group.

On Stage Academy Theatre Arts, whose home is at The Carriageworks Theatre in Leeds City Centre, wants more children aged three to five to join them for their weekly Theatre Class.

“On Stage Academy has been running for 19 years,” says co-founder Liz Coggins. “We started to work with young people aged five to 16 but soon found there was a desire for a class for younger children who wanted to do more than sing nursery rhymes.”

Liz and the Deputy Principal Carolyn Craven, an early years’ specialist, wrote a unique course that would ensure the young students would learn the same strands of theatre as the older ones, but it would be tailored to their age, and in 2010 Little Stars was born.

“Little Stars has been a great success with several students who started with still attending the older classes eight years on,” Liz continues. “We’re now looking for more young students to join us on a Saturday afternoon and start learning about all things theatre.”

Reuben, aged 11, was one of the original Little Stars and has continued with the class to this day.

“I love learning new skills and showing them off,” he says. “I’ll never forget when I performed in the pantomime Aladdin at City Varieties Music Hall – I had to crawl out of a washing machine as a shrunken Wishee Washee!”

Reuben’s more challenging roles have included the Scarecrow in a potted version of The Wizard of Oz at Scarborough Open Air Theatre.

“Each student gets the chance to perform at the legendary City Varieties Music Hall in Leeds and Scarborough Open Air Theatre,” continues Liz. “This gives them early experience of live performance in front of a large audience which is incredibly valuable for any performer.”

The team leading the classes at On Stage Academy is made up of professionals including teachers in dance and drama, a vocal coach, a jazz singer, early years’ professionals, writers and directors; they teach every aspect of stagecraft from props, hair and makeup, costume design, production and choreography to stage management and theatre etiquette as well as performance skills.

But it isn’t just about training to work in the theatre as Liz explains. “The skills we share at Little Stars and On Stage Theatre Arts Academy are skills that are transferable; we help grow confidence, teach teamwork and trust, and show the students how many people work together to create a successful project – all skills that will help as they grow and venture out.”

Savi is ten years old – she started at the Academy in 2011: “At Little Stars we learn really interesting things and I have made some very good friends,” she says. “I want to work with children when I’m older– maybe as a Teaching Assistant.”

Ten year old Aoife also started at the Academy in 2011: “I like being able to rehearse and perform in a real theatre and on a proper stage where so many famous people have been.”

The City Varieties Music Hall has seen many a star take to its boards over the years – from Harry Houdini and Marie Lloyd to David Baddiel and Kate Rusby – and these Little Stars will add their names to the long list, maybe even becoming the Big Stars of the future.

“The new term starts this Saturday 14^th April but we will accept applications over the coming weeks,” concludes Liz. “So if you think your child could benefit from this group, drop me a line.”

To apply for your child to join Little Stars visit www.onstagetheatrearts.co.uk and download an application form, or email [email protected] 

 

The Little Stars new term starts this Saturday April 14^th and runs every Saturday from 1 – 2pm at The Carriageworks Theatre, Millennium Square

Renowned Broadway, West End and film actress Caroline O’Connor, recently met up with legendary star of stage and screen, Chita Rivera, to discuss the first London revival in 20 years of Kander and Ebb’s THE RINK at Southwark Playhouse, which will run for a limited season from 25 May to 23 June 2018.

DUNGEONS, PENGUINS AND PUPILS …

Exciting opportunities for pupils in Yorkshire

 

Two key attractions in Yorkshire both owned and operated by Merlin Entertainments; The York Dungeon and Scarborough Sea Life have launched an exciting new partnership with Ebor Academy Trust.

Ebor are always seeking exciting new ways to develop specialist expertise so that the pupils attending their 15 academies throughout Yorkshire will receive exciting opportunities to learn whilst having access to exciting experiences.

Pupils have already enjoyed visits to The York Dungeon and teachers have visited Scarborough Sea Life as part of their science curriculum working group.

Stuart Jarman, General Manager of the York Dungeon says: “At the heart of our experiences is always FUN but we also recognise that learning can be fun and we are working with Ebor to develop an exciting learning offer for all pupils to enjoy.”

Rob Barr, General Manager of Scarborough Sea Life added: “Children are at the heart of our experience at the Sea Life Centre and this partnership gives us the opportunity to enhance our offer.”

Ebor Academy Trust will be able to gain access to the attractions as well as have the full support of the staff and expertise from the two brands.

Richard Ludlow, Chief Executive of Ebor Academy Trust, based in York, said: “We are always seeking different ways to engage with our communities for the benefit of our children. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do and we welcome this partnership with key attractions in our area, so that pupils have greater access to some unique learning opportunities.”

The Great Yorkshire Fringe returns for 2018   ·         Headliners announced so far include comedians Omid Djalili, Stephen K Amos, Tony Slattery and Ed Gamble with plenty more to be announced  ·         Family-friendly fare with Monstersaurus, the brand-new show by the creators of West End smash hit Aliens Love Underpants, introducing a world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters to young and old audiences alike ·         Music from acclaimed Ronnie Scott’s All Stars direct from London’s world-famous jazz club, with performances from multi-award-winning vocalist and BBC Radio presenter Claire Martin ·         Multi sell-out fringe phenomenon Sh*t-faced Shakespeare return with their inebriated version of a classic ·         Yorkshire’s tastiest street food will be on offer with a chance to try the award-winning Yorkshire pudding wraps from Yorkypud which became a social media sensation in 2017 Various venues, York: Parliament Street | Grand Opera House York Michael Palin In Conversation with Robert Ross –  Grand Opera House 28 July at 2pm Michael Palin CBE is a founding member of the internationally renowned Monty Python team, revelling in the fish-slapping dance, the lumberjack song, and performing the Dead Parrot sketch more times than is good for anyone. He went on to star in and co-write Ripping Yarns with Terry Jones, before becoming the national’s favourite travelling companion with Around the World in 80 Days, Pole to Pole and Full Circle. His big screen credits have included many collaborations with Terry Gilliam, including Jabberwocky, Time Bandits, and Brazil. He starred opposite John Cleese in A Fish Called Wanda, and it’s equal Fierce Creatures. His many publications include the West End play The Weekend, a collection of Limericks, the novel Hemingway’s Chair, Bert Fegg’s Nasty Book for Boys and Girls, and three best-selling volumes of diaries. Michael was made a BAFTA Fellow in 2013. He will be in conversation with  comedy historian Robert Ross. Tickets from £24.75 Reginald D Hunter –  Grand Opera House 28 July at 8pm. Reginald returns to The Great Yorkshire Fringe this year with a new show.  Reginald’s searingly honest material has garnered him a cross-generational fan base. His TV appearances have included Have I Got News For You?, and the hugely popular BBC2 series Reginald D Hunter’s Songs Of The South documenting Reginald’s epic road trip through 150 years of American popular song. ‘Stand-up comedy’s coolest customer’ – Telegraph ‘Comedy of a rare scope’ – ★★★★★ Times Tickets from £24.75   19th – 29th July 2018

Taking over York city centre for the fourth year running, The Great Yorkshire Fringe promises exciting theatre and comedy to entertain the whole family, plus world food and craft beer galore. Spread over eleven days, the 2018 festival will take place in the heart of York, transforming Parliament Street into a village green with the spectacular White Rose Rotunda and Turn Pot Spiegeltents, as well as hosting events at the stunning Grand Opera House and pop up venues throughout the city.

The lineup includes award-winning comedian and actor Omid Djalili, who has extended his UK tour for the fourth time due to overwhelming demand, as well as comedian and TV panel show regular Stephen K Amos who marks his return to the Great Yorkshire Fringe for one night only. Meanwhile comedy legend Tony Slattery reveals all in his candid conversation with comedy historian Robert Ross in an unpredictable gallop through several lifetimes worth of hilarious anecdotes. Plus there’s work from stand-up comedian, writer and actor Ed Gamble, who most recently starred in BBC America’s cult US hit Almost Royal. For theatre goers, multi sell-out fringe phenomenon Sh*t-faced Shakespeare will be bringing their own version of Hamlet to York, served up with their signature twist of one genuinely inebriated actor.

Full of original song and plenty of audience participation, Monstersaurus is thrills, spills and mayhem for the whole family from the creators of West End smash hit Aliens Love Underpants. Also for younger audiences and their parents, Morgan & West (ITV’s Next Great Magician, CBBC’s The Slammer) will present a magic show mixing brain-boggling illusion and good old-fashioned tom-foolery.

Festival goers can expect world class music from the acclaimed Ronnie Scott’s All Stars direct from London’s world-famous jazz club, including performances from multi-award winning vocalist and BBC Radio presenter Claire Martin. The White Rose Rotunda Spiegeltent will play host to celebrations of iconic musicians from Ella Fitzgerald to saxophonist Charlie Parker and trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie.

Yorkshire’s finest street food will be on offer including the award-winning Yorkshire pudding wraps from Yorkypud which became a social media sensation in 2017. Alongside traditional local fare, local favourites Shambles Kitchen will be returning as well as Cattle Shed, last year’s winner of best Great Yorkshire Fringe concession award whilst tipples of choice will be available from a converted horse box with the Angel Share Gin Bar.

For four-legged friends, the hugely popular York Fringe Dog Show will be returning with prizes up for grabs for the Waggiest Tail, Prettiest Female, Most Handsome Male and Best in Show.

Full line up details can be found at www.greatyorkshirefringe.com with more shows to be announced.

Festival founder and York resident Martin Witts said, “We present to our fair home city of York, the fourth special edition of The Great Yorkshire Fringe. It’s bigger, brasher, cooler than ever before with over 500 performers, the best street festival of food drink and delights on this island (well we think so!) as well as two of the most beautiful 19th Century performance Spiegel palaces and our Teapot Tent creating a beating heart in the City Centre. We dare you to come….”.

The Great Yorkshire Fringe has wowed York with three years of festivals on Parliament Street, and for 2017 took comedy, variety and family entertainment to even more locations in the heart of the city. A key summer event in York’s entertainment calendar, The Great Yorkshire Fringe will grow with the city of York, engaging residents and visitors, supporting local businesses and encouraging tourism for the wider area. Check The Great Yorkshire Fringe website for the latest announcements on additions to the programme.

@yorkfringe | #yorkfringe | www.greatyorkshirefringe.com

JUL – DEC 2018 SEASON ANNOUNCED

LES DENNIS & BLAKE HARRISON IN WORLD PREMIERE OF END OF THE PIER, AS A FADED COMEDIAN IS DRAGGED BACK INTO THE LIMELIGHT

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER DUO LEAD A REVIVAL OF THE RISE AND FALL OF LITTLE VOICE

A LEADING NEUROLOGIST STUDYING DEMENTIA SUCCUMBS TO IT HERSELF IN THE OTHER PLACE

A FESTIVE REVIVAL OF THE ORIGINAL J.M. BARRIE CLASSIC PETER PAN

JOANNA MURRAY-SMITH’S HONOUR TO BE STAGED IN THE ROUND

A PARK 90 SEASON THEMED AROUND MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Park Theatre today announce their new July – December 2018 season. Featuring a mix of new and existing writing, the season includes six World Premieres, one UK Premiere, three celebrated revivals and a brace of homegrown productions, two of which have been developed through Park Theatre’s Script Accelerator programme.

 

In response to customer demand, Park Theatre have also introduced Monday performances across a majority of shows in the new season and introduced a new Park200 pricing structure that includes a wider range of pricing with a new band C rate and a single access concession.

 

Artistic Director Jez Bond says: “I’m excited to be presenting a season which includes two in-house shows in Park200, and two shows that we’ve supported through our Script Accelerator programme in Park90 – where we’ll be exploring the sometimes challenging, but wonderfully told, stories about our mental health and wellbeing. It’s heartening to be able to present so many plays which at their heart are simply wonderful, engaging stories which deal with many themes – race, mental health, dementia, FGM – that are so pertinent in today’s society. We’ve further increased our range of access performances, we’ve added Monday evening shows and we’ve created more dynamic ticket pricing, with three bands, and lower priced tickets across certain performances to balance a small increase at the top end.”

 

The world premiere of black comedy End Of The Pier by Danny Robins opens the new season in PARK200, as Les Dennis stars alongside Blake Harrison, Nitin Ganatra and Tala Gouveia as a former comedy presenter and national treasure thrust back into the limelight, at the centre of a media frenzy. A revival of The Rise and Fall of Little Voice follows, with the beloved story of a timid but brilliant singer led by real life mother and daughter Sally George and Rafaella Hutchinson. Karen Archer stars as a brilliant neurologist studying dementia who develops the condition herself, in the world premiere of psychological thriller The Other Place. Joanna Murray-Smith’s unflinching portrait of what happens when a secure marriage suddenly stalls comes next, in a revival of Honour. Park Theatre also provides the Shakespeare Schools Foundation a platform on the main stage, with a series of unique abridged Shakespeare productions by local schools in Shakespeare Schools Festival. A revival of J.M. Barrie’s original 1904 play of Peter Pan closes the PARK200 season, as the family favourite from Neverland takes flight on stage.

 

Alkaline by Stephanie Martin commences the new PARK90 season, in a home-grown production from Park Theatre’s Script Accelerator programme about a woman who converts to Islam for her soon to be husband, and the effects this has on her relationship with her best friend. The world premiere of Spiral tells the story of two troubled women, exploring issues surrounding teen runaways, abuse and bullying. Distance follows, with the only male-directed play in PARK90’s season shining a light on male depression and suicide (the biggest killer of men under 45 in the UK) with the story of Stephen: a man trying to make sense of his world. During Black History Month, Bullet Hole takes a stark look at female genital mutilation through the eyes of three Londoners, as their different cultures and backgrounds come together. A Pupil follows the story of Simona, a disgraced former violinist preparing to end her life, who is persuaded to tutor an aspiring musician, throwing her plans into disarray. Ending the season is Dialektikon, which follows the story of Miranda as she delves into the underworlds.

www.parktheatre.co.uk

Box office: 020 7870 6876*
* Telephone booking fee: 10% (capped at £2.50 per ticket) 

 

PARK200

11 July – 11 August 2018

Park Theatre presents the World Premiere of

 

END OF THE PIER

By Danny Robins
Cast: Les Dennis, Nitin Ganatra, Tala Gouveia and Blake Harrison

Press Night: Mon 16 Jul, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3pm
Parents & Babies: Mon 23 Jul 1pm

Captioned: Fri 10 Aug 7.30pm

 

‘I used to dream of people remembering my jokes. Now I just wish they’d forget.’

Bobby was once a household name with 20 million TV viewers – but now the laughter has faded. Resigned to a life of solitude and second-rate panto performances, his glory days are behind him. When Michael, the nation’s favourite comedian, arrives at his door asking desperately for help to save his career, Bobby is unwillingly thrown into the limelight once again. A dark question lurks behind the laughs: What if, inside, you’re not the person everyone thinks you are?

Les Dennis has had an extensive TV career and is well known for his role in Coronation Street and as the host of Family Fortunes. Blake Harrison (The Inbetweeners), soap star Nitin Ganatra and Tala Gouveia star alongside.

End of the Pier is a powerful new black comedy from acclaimed writer Danny Robins (Rudy’s Rare Records, starring Lenny Henry at Hackney Empire and on Radio 4, and Radio 4’s The Cold Swedish Winter).

‘All comedy needs victims, Bobby. It was just your turn’

 

15 August – 15 September 2018

Land of Green Ginger and Ann Pinnington Productions in association with Park Theatre present

 

THE RISE AND FALL OF LITTLE VOICE

Written by Jim Cartwright

Directed by Tom Latter

Designed by Jacob Hughes

Cast includes: Sally George, Rafaella Hutchinson and Jamie Rose Monk

Press Night: Tue 21 Aug, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3pm
Captioned: Wed 5 Sep, 7.30pm

 

“You have lights. I have voices.”

A timid and brilliant young woman, Little Voice has a hidden talent – she can sing like the greatest divas of the 20th Century.

Living a lonely life in a northern town, all she wants is to feel safe in her room with her records. No chance with mother Mari on the rampage – she’s after booze, a man, a greasy breakfast, and a working phoneline.

When local impresario Ray forces Little Voice into the spotlight, her transformation astounds everyone. Then the battle between mother and daughter truly erupts.

Funny, brutal, beautiful and sad, Jim Cartwright’s timeless and ultimately uplifting tale is a comic tragedy about finding your voice in a noisy world.

19 September – 20 October 2018
A Park Theatre and Theatre by the Lake co-production and UK Premiere in association with Abinger Productions

 

THE OTHER PLACE

By Sharr White
Directed by Claire van Kampen
Cast includes: Karen Archer

Press Night: Mon 24 Sep, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3pm

Captioned: Fri 12 Oct, 7.30pm

Parents & Babies: Thu 18 Oct, 1pm

Confident, intelligent and highly successful neurologist Juliana Smithton is at the top of her game.

But while delivering a lecture to a roomful of doctors, she’s interrupted by a series of disturbing events… With her husband filing for divorce and her health in the balance, Juliana’s life suddenly starts unravelling.

As details emerge of a ten-year-old mystery, fact blurs with fiction, the past collides with the present, secrets are spilled and slowly the elusive and shocking truth is revealed.

Nothing is as it seems in the UK Premiere of Sharr White’s brilliantly crafted and emotionally charged psychological thriller.

25 October – 24 November 2018

Tiny Fires in association with Park Theatre presents

 

HONOUR

Written by Joanna Murray-Smith

Directed by Paul Robinson

Press Night: Tue 30 Oct, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3pm
Captioned: Wed 21 Nov, 7.30pm

 

“Sometimes one craves something for years – for years – and one just defers from – from acting on it…”

For Honor and George, the arrival of the self-assured Claudia threatens to wreck a 32-year marriage. But as the power balance starts to shift, the husband, wife, daughter and mistress together must face the fundamental question – what is love?

Often compared to David Hare’s Skylight and Harold Pinter’s Betrayal, Honour paints an unflinching portrait of what happens when a secure marriage suddenly stalls, and when the opportunity arises for one life to be revived at the expense of another. Staged in-the-round, immerse yourself in this poignant and gripping revival!

27 November – 28 November 2018

Shakespeare Schools Foundation in association with Park Theatre presents

SHAKESPEARE SCHOOLS FESTIVAL

Created by Shakespeare Schools Foundation

Times: 7pm

 

Shakespeare Schools Foundation is proud to present the world’s largest youth drama festival at Park Theatre.

This exhilarating evening will feature a series of unique abridged Shakespeare productions by local schools.

See Shakespeare’s timeless stories brought to life like never before, and support young people from your community as they take to the stage.

Details of the schools performing at the Park Theatre can also be found on SSF’s website:www.shakespeareschools.org/the-festival

Shakespeare Schools Foundation is a cultural education charity, transforming lives through the unique power of Shakespeare. Their annual Festival provides a platform for up to 30,000 young people to express themselves and grow in confidence as they take to a professional stage. This year, they mark their 18^th birthday with a Season of Democracy, in which young people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities have been finding their ‘voice’ in their school rehearsal room, culminating in a thrilling night of theatre.

5 December 2018 – 5 January 2019

Damien Tracey Productions and Park Theatre present

 

PETER PAN

The original J.M. Barrie play

Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle

Press Night: Fri 7 Dec, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Matinees selected Thu & Sat 3pm, school matinees Tue & Thu. See full schedule online.
Relaxed: Fri 21 Dec 13.30,

Audio Described: Sat 5 Jan, 3pm (Touch Tour, 1.30pm)

 

“Come with me Wendy; I’ll teach you to fly, we’ll jump on the wind’s back and then away to Neverland.”

In 1904, J.M. Barrie premiered one of the greatest adventures to ever play on a theatrical stage. Filled with mermaids, pirates and fairies, lost boys and crocodiles, this is the stunning original story of the boy who could fly.

With the help of a little sprinkle of fairy dust, Peter Pan will be a thrilling theatrical treat this Christmas.

The multi-award nominated Damien Tracey Productions is delighted to be joining forces with Park Theatre to bring the stunning original J.M. Barrie text to the London stage once more. Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle whose production of Hair(The Vaults) won the WhatsOnStage Award for Best Production and Pippin (Southwark Playhouse), nominated for 11 Off West End Awards.

So join us, young and old, and take your seats on the shores of Neverland for what’s sure to be an awfully big adventure.

PARK90

10 July – 4 August 2018

pluck. productions in association with Park Theatre presents the World Premiere of

 

ALKALINE

Written by Stephanie Martin

Directed by Sarah Meadows

Press Night: Fri 13 Jul, 7pm

Times: Evenings Tue – Sat 7.45pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3.15pm

Parents and Babies: Tue 31 Jul, 1pm

Audio Described: Thu 2 Aug, 7.45pm (Touch Tour, 6pm)

 

“Their hot, angry, confused eyes nervously glancing up at my headscarf, as if they could catch something. Why don’t you like it? Why do you care?”

Sophie and Sarah have been friends since secondary school, but when Sarah converts to Islam and announces her engagement to a married man, their friendship is shaken to the core.

Alkaline is a play about rebellion, faith and fear. Where does our duty lie? Do we ever dare to be different?

7 August – 1 September 2018

Veritas Theatre Company in association with Park Theatre presents the World Premiere of

 

SPIRAL

Written by Abigail Hood

Designer Nomi Everall

Cast includes Abigail Hood and Jasper Jacob

Press Night: Wed 8 Aug, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.45pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3.15pm
Captioned: Tue 28 Aug, 7.45pm

 

London, 2018. A bedsit. A young woman in trouble. A bridge. A missing teenager – and parents searching for answers.

This dark, compelling story looks at the damage that happens when you can’t trust the people you love. Whilst a young woman is pushed to the edge of what she can bear, a teenager inexplicably disappears, and a family is left in turmoil.

Do we really know the people we are closest to? Does our past shape our future? Can other people save us? Or must we save ourselves?

5 September – 29 September 2018

Fine Line Productions in association with Rough Fiction and Park Theatre present the World Premiere of

 

DISTANCE

Written by Alex McSweeney

Directed by Simon Pittman

Press Night: Fri 7 Sep, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.45pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3.15pm
Relaxed: Sat 22 Sep, 3.15pm

Audio Described: Fri 28 Sep, 7.45pm (Touch Tour 6pm)

 

“The distance between us can grow without taking a single step.”

A complex recent past and a fragile present collide, as Steven tries to make sense of his world. We accelerate headlong into his chaotic and troubled inner life, as an everyday encounter unravels into something disturbing and unrestrained.

Fine Line Productions (Out Of The Cage) return to Park Theatre with a physically dynamic, technically bold portrayal of the mind, bringing you an urgent and darkly funny examination of the impact of mental illness.

This play was developed as part of the Park Theatre Script Accelerator programme.

 

 

2 October – 27 October 2018

Freedom Tongues & Naiad Productions in association with Park Theatre present

 

BULLET HOLE

Written by Gloria Williams

Directed by Lara Genovese

Press Night: Fri 5 Oct, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.45pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3.15pm
Captioned: Fri 26 Oct, 7.45pm

“So I finally got my gift. Gifts are meant to be opened, right?”

Young Londoner Cleo was given her ‘gift’ at age seven – except that ‘gift’ left her with type 3 Female Genital Mutilation.

How can Cleo love her body when she has been scarred by her husband in a brutal sexual assault? Finding strength after this hideous act, Cleo resolves to go against her family’s wishes and seek reversal surgery. On her journey of healing, Celo meets Eve, a fellow FGM victim who is instantly drawn to her…

A story of hope, love and human rights played by an all-female cast.

Shortlisted for the Alfred Fagon Audience Award 2017.

 

 

31 October – 24 November 2018

Bear Trap and Kosky Productions in association with Park Theatre present the World Premiere of

A PUPIL

Written by Jesse Briton

Directed by Jessica Daniels
Composed by Colin Sell

Press Night: Mon 5 Nov, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.45pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3.15pm
Dementia Friendly: Thu 15 Nov, 1pm

Audio Described: Fri 23 Nov, 7.45pm(Touch Tour, 6pm)

 

In a dilapidated North London bedsit, Simona, a disgraced former violinist, is preparing to end her life. The surprise arrival of Ye, an aspiring musician and wealthy heiress, throws her plans into disarray.

Together the pair embark on a series of lessons that will test the limits of friendship, music and success.

From multi award-winning writer Jesse Briton (Bound) comes a new play, directed by Jessica Daniels (Resident Director, Girl from the North Country); featuring live classical music and original compositions by Colin Sell (Radio 4).

This play was developed as part of the Park Theatre Script Accelerator programme.

6 December – 29 December 2018

Ex Nihilo Theatre Group in association with Park Theatre presents World Premiere of

 

DIALEKTIKON

Written by Jacky Ivimy

Directed by Adébayo Bolaji

Composed by Kate Luxmoore
Designed by Karl Robertshaw
Puppetry by Jenny Dee

Press Night: Mon 10 Dec, 7pm

Times: Evenings Mon – Sat 7.45pm, Matinees Thu & Sat 3.15pm

Parents & Babies: Fri 28 Dec, 1pm

 

A dragon’s roar wakes Miranda into a fantastical lost world. The idol Moloch rules over heaps of treasure and weapons as great voices from the past cry out to Miranda to right the wrongs of an angry Earth. Led by Ayida Wedo, mysterious spirit guide, can she find her own wisdom and the courage to escape from this black mirror world of greed and war without falling for the wiles of the ominous Servant?

A deliciously dark ‘down-the-rabbit-hole’ tale, a play of ideas to add sparkle to your winter evenings.

OLIVIER AWARDS 2018 WITH MASTERCARD

WINNERS ANNOUNCED

• HAMILTON WINS 7 AWARDS INCLUDING BEST NEW MUSICAL WITH LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA AND ORCHESTRATOR ALEX LACAMOIRE WINNING OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN MUSIC AND GILES TERERA AND MICHAEL JIBSON WINNING BEST ACTOR AND BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MUSICAL RESPECTIVELY
• THE FERRYMAN WINS 3 AWARDS INCLUDING BEST NEW PLAY WITH SAM MENDES WINNING BEST DIRECTOR AND LAURA DONNELLY WINNING BEST ACTRESS
• THE NATIONAL THEATRE CELEBRATES 5 AWARDS INCLUDING BEST REVIVAL FOR ANGELS IN AMERICA AND BEST MUSICAL REVIVAL FOR FOLLIES WITH BRYAN CRANSTON WINNING BEST ACTOR FOR HIS ROLE IN NETWORK AND DENISE GOUGH WINNING BEST ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE FOR ANGELS IN AMERICA
• SHIRLEY HENDERSON AND SHEILA ATIM WIN BEST ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL AND BEST ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MUSICAL RESPECTIVELY FOR GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY
• BERTIE CARVEL WINS BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE FOR INK WRITTEN BY JAMES GRAHAM, WHO WINS BEST BEST NEW COMEDY FOR LABOUR OF LOVE

The winners of the Olivier Awards 2018 with Mastercard, the UK’s most prestigious stage honours, were announced tonight (Sunday 8 April 2018) at London’s Royal Albert Hall hosted by Catherine Tate.  The full list of winners is available below and online at OlivierAwards.com.

This year’s ceremony will be broadcast on ITV tonight at 22:20. It will also broadcast worldwide at the same time, outside the UK, on the Olivier Awards Facebook page.  The Oliviers will broadcast in China via iQiyi on Tuesday 10 April.

New American musical Hamilton collected seven Olivier Awards including Best New Musical with composer-lyricist Lin-Manuel Miranda and orchestrator Alex Lacamoire winning Outstanding Achievement in Music.  Giles Terera, who plays the part of Aaron Burr, was named Best Actor in a Musical, with Michael Jibson winning Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical for his portrayal of King George III.  The musical, about the life of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, also went on to win Best Lighting Design, Best Sound Design, and Best Theatre Choreographer.

The Ferryman collected three Olivier Awards including Best New Play.  Stage and film director, Sam Mendes, won Best Director with Laura Donnelly winning Best Actress for her role in the Northern Irish drama set during The Troubles.

The National Theatre celebrate five Awards including Best Revival for Angels In America and Best Musical Revival for Follies.  Bryan Cranston won Best Actor for his role in Network and Denise Gough won Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance in Angels In America.  The production is currently playing in New York to great acclaim.

Shirley Henderson and Sheila Atim won Best Actress in a Musical and Best Actress in a Supporting Role in a Musical respectively for Girl From The North Country, Conor McPherson’s musical based on the work of Bob Dylan.

Bertie Carvel was named Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Ink, written by James Graham who won Best New Comedy for Labour Of Love.

The Royal Court’s production of Killology won Outstanding Achievement in Affiliate Theatre and Dick Whittington won Best Entertainment and Family.

In the dance categories, Best New Dance Production went to Flight Pattern by Crystal Pite for The Royal Ballet at Royal Opera House.  Francesca Velicu won Outstanding Achievement in Dance for her performance in English National Ballet’s production of Pina Bausch’s Le Sacre Du Printemps at Sadler’s Wells.

The Royal Opera House won Best New Opera for Semiramide and Joyce DiDonato and Daniela Barcellona won Outstanding Achievement in Opera for their performances in Semiramide.

David Lan was this year’s recipient of the Special Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution in leading the Young Vic since 2000, his work within the local community around the theatre, and his commitment to internationalism and diversity.

Performances on the night included American musical theatre legend Chita Rivera performing the iconic West Side Story track Somewhere with Andy Karl (Olivier Award 2017 winner for his performance in Groundhog Day), Adam J. Bernard (Olivier Award 2017 winner for his performance in Dreamgirls), and the Arts Educational Schools London Choir, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the production debuting in London.  There was also a unique moment to honour the 50th anniversary of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s iconic musical Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with past stars including Jason Donovan and Linzi Hateley, Lee Mead and Preeya Kalidas, and Joe McElderry and Danielle Hope. There were also performances from nominated musicals including: Hamilton; Everybody’s Talking About Jamie; Girl From The North Country, Young Frankenstein, Follies and 42nd Street.

Presenters this year included Alexandra Burke, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Anne-Marie Duff,  Beverley Knight, Chita Rivera, Cuba Gooding Jnr, Frank DiLella, Juliet Stevenson, Meera Syal, Mel Giedroyc, Michael Sheen, Ophelia Lovibond, Patti LuPone, Pearl Mackie and Sergei Polunin.

FULL LIST FOR THE OLIVIER AWARDS 2018 WITH MASTERCARD

AMERICAN AIRLINES BEST NEW PLAY

The Ferryman at Jerwood Theatre Downstairs at the Royal Court Theatre and Gielgud Theatre

BEST NEW COMEDY

Labour Of Love at Noël Coward Theatre

BEST NEW DANCE PRODUCTION

Flight Pattern by Crystal Pite for The Royal Ballet at Royal Opera House

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN DANCE

Francesca Velicu for her performance in English National Ballet’s production of Pina Bausch’s Le Sacre Du Printemps at Sadler’s Wells

BEST ENTERTAINMENT AND FAMILY

Dick Whittington at London Palladium

BEST COSTUME DESIGN

Vicki Mortimer for Follies at National Theatre – Olivier

DELTA LIVE AWARD FOR BEST SOUND DESIGN

Nevin Steinberg for Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre

BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Bertie Carvel for Ink at Almeida Theatre and Duke of York’s Theatre

BEST ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Denise Gough for Angels In America at National Theatre – Lyttelton

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN AFFILIATE THEATRE

Killology at Jerwood Theatre Upstairs at the Royal Court Theatre, a co-production with Sherman Theatre Cardiff

BLUE-I THEATRE TECHNOLOGY AWARD FOR BEST SET DESIGN

Bob Crowley and 59 Productions for An American In Paris at Dominion Theatre

WHITE LIGHT AWARD FOR BEST LIGHTING DESIGN

Howell Binkley for Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre

BEST ACTOR

Bryan Cranston for Network at National Theatre – Lyttelton

BEST ACTRESS

Laura Donnelly for The Ferryman at Jerwood Theatre Downstairs at the Royal Court Theatre and Gielgud Theatre

BEST DIRECTOR

Sam Mendes for The Ferryman at Jerwood Theatre Downstairs at the Royal Court Theatre and Gielgud Theatre

BEST NEW OPERA PRODUCTION

Semiramide at Royal Opera House

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN OPERA

Joyce DiDonato and Daniela Barcellona for their performances in Semiramide at Royal Opera House

BEST REVIVAL

Angels In America at National Theatre – Lyttelton

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN MUSIC

Hamilton – Composer-Lyricist: Lin-Manuel Miranda; Orchestrator: Alex Lacamoire at Victoria Palace Theatre

BEST THEATRE CHOREOGRAPHER

Andy Blankenbuehler for Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre

MAGIC RADIO BEST MUSICAL REVIVAL

Follies at National Theatre – Olivier

BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MUSICAL

Michael Jibson for Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre

BEST ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MUSICAL

Sheila Atim for Girl From The North Country at The Old Vic and the Noël Coward Theatre

BEST ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL

Shirley Henderson for Girl From The North Country at The Old Vic and the Noël Coward Theatre

BEST ACTOR IN A MUSICAL

Giles Terera for Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre

MASTERCARD BEST NEW MUSICAL

Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre

SPECIAL AWARD

David Lan

Hen and Chickens Theatre 3-7 April, The Bridge House 12 – 14 April.  Reviewed by Claire Roderick

4****

Tim McArthur certainly knows how to write memorable characters, filling his new play about domestic abuse in an initially idyllic gay relationship with some real corkers. Control might be short, but it is almost perfectly formed, packing an emotional punch that will stay with you for days.

When Stephen (David Archer) begins a relationship with an older man, Jeremy (Lewis Rae), he thinks it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to him. Carried away on a romantic tide of meals at posh restaurants and social events, Stephen allows a distance to grow between himself and his best friend Sally (Kitty Whitelaw) and his mum (Jo Wickham). He thinks this is a natural thing, but the audience can see Jeremy’s secret actions to ensure he has Stephen to himself in his own perfect little bubble. Eventually Jeremy’s jealousy and domineering manner is something Stephen can’t ignore, but he always accepts Jeremy’s heartfelt apologies and carries on passively in the relationship until his friendship with Carlos (Ben Woods), finally pushes Jeremy over the edge.

Director Guy Retallack has the cast sitting around the stage watching the action with the audience, heightening the feeling of helpless guilt and anger felt as you watch a relationship destroy someone you love. The actors slip on and off stage seamlessly as the story jumps forward in time, sometimes with just a moment’s breath marking months, carrying the audience at breakneck speed through Jeremy’s subtly engineered idea of love. As dark as the play’s theme is, there are lots of laughs, most provided by the fantastic daily Skype calls between Stephen and his mum.

The cast is superb, with Lewis Rae delivering a smilingly venomous performance as the twisted Jeremy (if Control was on TV things would be thrown at screens all over the country during some of his evil machinations), and David Archer doing wonderful work as the sweet but naive Stephen, making his domination by the physically less intimidating Jeremy completely believable.

The ending is an abrupt shock, which on one level is wholly satisfying, but there is a part of me that longs to see the aftermath. The continuous little hints that McArthur teases through about Jeremy’s relationship with his mother and earlier sexual experiences come tumbling out to a certain extent in the final scene, but this damaged and damaging man is a character that I would love to see explored more.