Author: FairyPoweredProductions

THE NATIONAL THEATRE ANNOUNCES FINAL TITLES 

TO BE STREAMED FOR FREE THIS SUMMER

AS PART OF NATIONAL THEATRE AT HOME

The National Theatre today announces a further five productions that will be streamed as a part of the National Theatre at Home series. Established in April to bring culture and entertainment to audiences around the world during this unprecedented period, National Theatre at Home has so far seen 10 productions streamed via the NT’s YouTube channel, with over 12 million views to date. These will be the final titles to be shared for free via YouTube in this period. However, future digital activity to connect with audiences in the UK and beyond is planned, with further details to be announced soon. 

The productions will be broadcast each Thursday at 7pm BST for free and will then be available on demand for seven days. Titles added to the programme today include A Midsummer Night’s Dream from the Bridge Theatre, alongside Small Island, Les Blancs, The Deep Blue Sea and Amadeus from the National Theatre.  

The 2019 epic theatre adaptation of Andrea Levy’s Orange Prize-winning novel Small Island will be streamed on 18 June. Directed by National Theatre Director Rufus Norris and adapted by Helen Edmundson (Coram Boy, War and Peace), Small Island embarks on a journey from Jamaica to Britain, through the Second World War to 1948 – the year the HMT Empire Windrush docked at Tilbury. The play traces the tangled history of Jamaica and the UK through three intricately connected stories. Hortense (Leah Harvey Emilia, Julius Cesar) yearns for a new life away from rural Jamaica, Gilbert (Gershwyn Eustace Jr Pinocchio, Home) dreams of becoming a lawyer, and Queenie (Aisling Loftus War and Peace, Noises Off) longs to escape her Lincolnshire roots. This timely and moving story played on the Olivier stage featuring a company of 40 actors. The production coincides with Windrush Day on the 22 June.

On 25 June the National Theatre will stream A Midsummer Night’s Dream captured live from the Bridge Theatre in 2019. Shakespeare’s most famous romantic comedy, sees Gwendoline Christie (Game of Thrones), Oliver Chris(One Man, Two Guvnors), David Moorst (Allelujah!) and Hammed Animashaun (Barber Shop Chronicles) lead the cast as Titania, Oberon, Puck and Bottom. This production re-unites the team from the 2018 smash hit Julius Caesar including Tony and Olivier award winning director Nicholas Hytner (The History Boys, One Man, Two Guvnors). 

The 2016 archive recording of Lorraine Hansberry’s (A Raisin in the Sun) drama Les Blancs, will be streamed on 2 July. Directed by Yaël Farber (The Crucible (Old Vic), Mies Julie, Nirbhaya), this powerful play confronts the hope and tragedy of revolution when a family and a post-colonial African nation fall apart under the pressure to determine their own identity. The cast includes Danny Sapani (Medea, Black Panther, Killing Eve), Siân Phillips (People, Clash of the Titans) and Tunji Kasim (Network, Antony & Cleopatra).

Carrie Cracknell’s critically-acclaimed production The Deep Blue Sea, will be streamed on 9 July. This devastating masterpiece by Terence Rattigan, sees Helen McCrory (Medea, Peaky Blinders) playing one of the greatest female roles in contemporary drama. Filmed live from the Lyttelton Theatre in 2016, The Deep Blue Sea tells the story of a woman’s tempestuous affair with a former RAF pilot and the breakdown of her marriage to a High Court judge.  
 

The 2016 National Theatre production of Peter Shaffer’s Amadeus, will be streamed on 16 July. This iconic drama, which first appeared on the National Theatre stage in 1979 and was later turned into an Oscar winning film, follows rowdy young musical prodigy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart played by Adam Gillen (Fresh Meat, Benidorm). Awestruck by Mozart’s genius, Court Composer Antonio Salieri, played by Lucian Msamati (His Dark Materials, Master Harold and The Boys), has the power to promote his talent or destroy it. Seized by obsessive jealousy he begins a war with Mozart, with music and, ultimately, with God. Michael Longhurst‘s acclaimed production features live orchestral accompaniment by Southbank Sinfonia.

Small Island, The Deep Blue Sea and Amadeus will also be available on YouTube with Audio-Description. 

Each title will also feature additional content alongside the production available on the NT’s YouTube channel for audiences to engage further with the work. For Small Island and Les Blancs NT Dramaturg Ola Animashawun will be curating content that explores these plays in the context of the current global conversation around race and their potential to provide meaningful and timely contributions to that discourse.  

Lisa Burger, Executive Director and Joint Chief Executive said – “During what has been such an isolating time for many people right across the world it has been wonderful to be able to share these productions with both new and existing audiences, and to have the opportunity to showcase the exceptional creative talent working in our industry. The support we, and our partner organisations have received, not only in terms of donations, but through messages of thanks has been so encouraging. We’re delighted to be able to bring these final titles to audiences around the world for free and we look forward to announcing the next stage of our NT at Home programming in due course.”

The final National Theatre at Home Quiz will be available from 7pm on Monday 29 June with Ben Power, Adam Godley, Ben Miles, Simon Russell Beale, Tamsin Greig, Julie Walters, Adrian Lester and Meera Syal posing the questions on topics including the Lehman Brothers, entertainment, and general knowledge. The Quiz is available via the NT’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.

Productions shown as part of National Theatre at Home are available to watch for free but should viewers wish to make a donation to support the National Theatre, we have launched a public appeal on our home page: nationaltheatre.org.uk. 

For more information on NATIONAL THEATRE AT HOME go to https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/at-home

‘In The Wings’

The FIRST LIVE PERFORMANCES in a theatre with a LIVE BAND since the West End closed.

WEST END STARS & Olivier AWARD-WINNING COMPOSER shine light on 4 new musicals postponed by COVID-19.

EXCITING 4-PART SERIES STARTS BROADCASTING THIS FRIDAY, 12TH JUNE

Filmed live in a theatre following Government workplace guidelines….. 

In conversation with Olivier award-winning composer Richard Thomas, featuring live performances by Dougie Carter (Les Misérables; Sunset Boulevard), Aaron Lee Lambert (Hamilton; Miss Saigon; Sweeney Todd), Steph Parry (Mamma Mia; 42nd Street) and Laura Pick (Wicked; The Sound of Music).

Filmed from 3rd June – 6th June 2020 in strict accordance with social distancing guidelines. 

In The Wings is a series of human interest interviews and live entertainment hosted in a London theatre, with composers, writers, and creatives of shows that have been postponed due to COVID-19. 

In the first step towards theatre’s return, In The Wings aims to shine a light on the shows directly affected by the industry’s shutdown and celebrate the work of those composers and writers. Featuring a line-up of stellar West End stars, each episode will feature the FIRST LIVE PERFORMANCES in a theatre with a LIVE BAND since the West End closed.

Episodes will air from this Friday 12^th June 2020 at 7:30p.m. and thereafter at the same time each week.  Olivier award-winning composer Richard Thomas (Jerry Springer: The Opera; Made in Dagenham) will be joined by creatives from 4 upcoming new musicals that were postponed due to Coronavirus: No Limits; Legends of Arahma; Gretel! and Dorian: A Rock Musical. 

HOW TO WATCH…

Tune into our YouTube channel https://bit.ly/INTHEWINGS2020 or catch all the action on facebook.com/InTheWings2020, Twitter: @wings_2020 or Instagram: @InTheWings2020

Every episode will also include a variety of performances of songs from those shows, as well as songs from already well-known musicals by a West End cast.  There is something for everyone in each fabulous episode.

The cast is made up of Dougie Carter (Les Misérables; Sunset Boulevard), Aaron Lee Lambert (Hamilton; Miss Saigon; Sweeney Todd), Steph Parry (Mamma Mia; 42nd Street) and Laura Pick (Wicked; The Sound of Music).

PROGRAMME SCHEDULE

FRIDAY 12TH JUNE at 7:30pm

Episode 1: No Limits with Sam Thomas (Composer) 

No Limits is an exciting new song-cycle by Sam Thomas that shatters the notion of falling behind in life – because there’s really no such thing. It follows characters as they dare to believe in themselves and strive for a better tomorrow. From confessing their dreams of becoming a rock star to catfish-ing their attractive neighbour, this powerful collection of songs sees characters let go of their anxieties, take leaps of faith and fight for what they’re worth. Featuring relatable stories of the heartfelt, soul-baring and even kinky variety, it highlights how we’re really all in the same boat, and that with enough self-belief, we can always overcome what’s holding us back. A show with heart, humour and a message we should all take on board. 

FRIDAY 19TH JUNE at 7:30pm

Episode 2: Legends of Arahma with Joe Purdue (Composer) 

Legends Of Arahma is an epic adventure tale by Joseph Purdue in which two clans, divided by war, decide the fate of their natural world. For years now the warlord Zoran has dreamed of conquering Arahma – some say she’s driven by the betrayal of an old friend, others tell a different tale. Word spreads that a young man named Copernicus Danbury has entered the world of Arahma. He is welcomed by the Kalani tribe, who embrace him as one of their own. Rumours reach him concerning his long lost father, and in his search for answers, he agrees to be trained in combat. If the prophecy is true, only Copernicus can defeat Zoran in battle and protect a beautiful green world from destruction. 

FRIDAY 26TH JUNE at 7:30pm

Episode 3: Gretel! with Liv Ward (Writer) 

It’s 1940s England: a country ravaged by war. When a young girl finds her mother’s abandoned storybook, Hansel and Gretel, she feels a glimmer of hope – but, faced with evacuation, her mother is too afraid to let her open the book and sink into the story, taking her attention away from her brutal reality. Inside the story, the characters are bored without an audience; growing irritable, restless and looking elsewhere. Only Gretel is desperate to connect to the real world to remind both mother and daughter the joy the story can bring. But up against an ambitious witch and some mischievous fairies, it’s going to take all her determination to succeed and rewrite her own tale. Can Gretel bring light and happiness to a lost child in a frightening world? ‘Gretel!’ is a tale of childhood, loyalty, and the power of fantasy to arm us against a dark reality. In a world where your past and future are written out in a storybook, it’s a reminder that we all have the power to create our own fate – for sometimes destiny could use a little help. 

FRIDAY 3RD JULY at 7:30pm

Episode 4: Dorian: A Rock Musical with Henry Brennan (Musical Director) 

Dorian Gray, the secret child of love and death is suddenly thrust into a confusing world. A world where love dare not speak its name, yet everybody is searching for it. On his search Dorian comes across the many mirrors of his soul. The dangerous and charismatic Lord Henry casts him into a hedonistic lifestyle; Sibyl Vane sees him as the Romantic lead and Lady Henry merely wants to prey on him. But it is the gentle society painter, Basil Hallward, who shows him as he truly is. On his quest to find his true identity, Dorian must decide if it is better to be loved or to be feared. When Dorian realises the painting is, in fact, a portrait of his conscience, he is horrified to see the level of corruption depicted on the canvas and decides to try to reverse time. “I would give anything for that – I would give my soul!” But is it too late? 

CREATIVES

CO-PRODUCER AND DESIGNER – JUSTIN WILLIAMS

Justin Williams is a graduate of Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts and has been nominated for seven Off-West End Awards for Best Set Designer, was a shortlisted finalist for Best Set Designer in the OFFIES 2020 and has trained with Punchdrunk at Follow Cross. Other credits include: Who Cares (Waterloo Vaults); Ben Hur (Barn Theatre); Soho Cinders (Charing Cross Theatre); Whistle Down the Wind (Union Theatre); Brooklyn the Musical (UK & European Premiere, Greenwich Theatre); Seussical – The Musical (Southwark Playhouse); Section 2 (Bunker Theatre); The Giant Killers (UK Tour), and Fiver The Musical (Southwark Playhouse) 

CO-PRODUCER AND MUSICAL DIRECTOR – HENRY BRENNAN

Henry Brennan has been nominated twice for the Off-West End Award for Best Musical Direction, for Brass and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes at the Union Theatre. He was also nominated for a BroadwayWorld UK Award for Best Musical Direction for Brass. Henry is the MD for Crazy Coqs Presents, a monthly cabaret at Crazy Coqs at Brasserie Zédel. Other credits include: Maggie May (Finborough Theatre); Rapunzel(Immersion Theatre UK Tour); I Do! I Do! (Upstairs at the Gatehouse) and Hello Again(Union Theatre). 

VIDEO DESIGNER – BEN BULL

Ben Bull is an award-winning Video Designer and Lighting Designer for Theatre. A graduate from RADA, his work can be seen from Fringe up to West End whilst also designing regularly for P&O and Cunard cruise liners. His most recent work includes: Baby Reindeer (Bush Theatre/Edinburgh Fringe) for which he won an Off-West End award for Video Design; The Effect (English Theatre Frankfurt); Tom Brown’s School Days (Union Theatre); Mr Tickerton’s Clockwork Circus (P&O Britannia); Fast (Park Theatre); Hello Again (Union Theatre); The Happy Prince (Place Theatre, London) and Sasha Regan’s All-Male The Pirates of Penzance (Wilton’s Music Hall); 

THE FIRST YOUTUBE EPISODE AIRS THIS FRIDAY 12TH JUNE.  DON’T MISS OUT!

VIEWING LINKS:

YouTube: https://bit.ly/INTHEWINGS2020

Instagram: InTheWings2020 

Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/InTheWings2020 

Twitter: @wings_2020 

NEW GUESTS ADDED TO CONVERSATIONS WITH… MARK CURRY IN AID OF ACTING FOR OTHERS

Further guests are today announcedforMark Curry’s Conversations With… series in aid of Acting For Others. Each conversation, taking place via zoom, is an in-depth look into the guests lives and careers, as well as finding out their thoughts and tips on getting through lockdown, Mark speaks to a mix of interviewee’s including performers, presenters, and directors. Joining the previously announced guests are Vicki Michelle, Millicent Martin, Sally Hughes, Robin Herford, Toyah Willcox and Annabel Croft.

The first four episodes featuring conversations with Debbie McGee, Bonnie Langford, Cheryl Baker and a jointepisode withboth Peter Duncan and Janet Ellis are now available via the Acting For Others YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/channel/UCiIUJKnx3rmPpV-gh94JonA/featured or on their website: www.actingforothers.co.uk/. Upcoming conversations with Beverley Callard, Annabel Croft, Yvette Fielding, Rula Lenska, Susan Penhaligon, Jenny Seagrove, Petra Siniawski and Finty Williams will be made available via the schedule below.

Interviews will be released via Acting for Others’ YouTube weekly. They are free and available to all, with the opportunity for viewers to donate in support of the charity: https://justgiving.com/campaign/actingforothers

Mark Curry today said “These are uncertain times for everyone, particularly performers and entertainment industry professionals.  I hope viewers find these conversations interesting and are then able to donate to help those in our business who are suffering financial and emotional distress.”

SCHEDULE FOR CONVERSATIONS WITH…MARK CURRY

Online Now:       In conversation with Debbie McGee about training as a classical ballet dancer, her life with Paul Daniels and her experience on Strictly Come Dancing.

Online Now:       In conversation with Bonnie Langford about being a child star, her time on EastEnders and her Dancing on Ice experience.

Online Now:       In conversation with Cheryl Baker about all things Eurovision.

Online Now:       In conversation with both Peter Duncan and Janet Ellis, reminiscing about their days presenting Blue Peter together in the 1980s.

11 June:               In conversation with Finty Williams about her acting career and following in the footsteps of her famous parents, Dame Judi Dench and Michael Williams.  

18 June:               In conversation with Beverley Callard who plays, Liz McDonald in Coronation Street about her life on and off the screen.

25 June:               In conversation with Petra Siniawski, Associate Director on the West End production of Wicked, about being behind the scenes of the smash-hit musical.

2 July:                   In conversation with another Corrie favourite, Rula Lenska about her role on the show.

9 July:                   In conversation with Yvette Fielding about her presenting career and ghost hunting.

16 July:                 In conversation with Susan Penhaligon talks about being a 70’s fresh, young star and how she’s kept her career continuing successfully. 

23 July:                 In conversation with Jenny Seagrove about balancing her career alongside her passion for Mane Chance, a horse sanctuary she founded. 

Guests today announced, with dates to be confirmed:

In conversation withVicki Michelle about starring in Allo, Allo, and how it changed her life. 

In conversation with Millicent Martin who this year celebrates 72 years in the business as an actress, singer and comedian and talks about the ‘60’s, Sondheim, Frasier and working with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin in Grace and Frankie. 

In conversation with Sally Hughes about being the owner and Artistic Director of The Mill at Sonning.

In conversation with Robin Herford about directing the most frightening ghost story on stage; The Woman In Black.

In conversation with Toyah Willcox about being an ‘80’s singing legend, her acting career and how she’s kept the success going through the years. 

In conversation with Annabel Croft about her years as the British No. 1 tennis player, her commentating career and how the current situation is affecting the sport.

Mark Curry is a presenter, actor and broadcaster. His presenting credits include Catchphrase, Blue Peter, Saturday Picture Show, Record Breakers and Junior Showtime. His theatre credits include Wicked (Apollo Victoria), Talent (Menier Chocolate Factory), Victor/Victoria, Company (Southwark Playhouse), The Woman in Black (Fortune Theatre), Ten Times Table, All Creatures Great and Small, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Tons of Money, Far From the Madding Crowd, London Suite, Noises Off, Charley’s Aunt, Move Over Mrs Markham and Billy Liar (UK tours). His television credits, as an actor, include Doctors, Hollyoaks and Bread; and for film, Bugsy Malone.

Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of needthrough the 14 member charities.

The Acting for Others charities are Actor’s Children’s Trust, Dancers’ Career Development, Denville Hall, Drury Lane Theatrical Fund, Equity Charitable Trust, Evelyn Norris Trust, SafetyCurtain formerly the International Performers’ Aid Trust, King George V Fund for Actors and Actresses, Ralph and Meriel Richardson Foundation, Dance Professionals Fund, The Royal Opera House Benevolent Fund, The Royal Theatrical Fund, Theatre Chaplaincy UK and The Theatrical Guild.

READING REP THEATRE TO OPEN NEW

PERMANENT HOME IN READING IN SPRING 2021

AFTER RAISING £500,000

Due to their ongoing fundraising campaign, Reading Rep Theatre has now raised over £500,000 towards the company’s first permanent home in Reading, meaning the new cultural arts hub will open in Spring 2021. The new space will house the multi-award-winning Reading Rep Theatre, led by Founder and Artistic Director Paul Stacey and Executive Director Nick Thompson, and provide the facilities for the company to continue producing critically acclaimed and increasingly ambitious work as Reading’s only year round professional producing theatre, as well as delivering outreach opportunities to those with least access to the arts.

Alongside generous support from trusts, foundations and the public, Reading Rep Theatre is being supported by Arts Council England.

Paul Stacey today said, “We can’t wait to open the doors of our new venue for the first time and give the communities we serve the opportunity to experience live theatre again. The Covid-19 pandemic has been monumentally challenging for the arts, but as we emerge from isolation, Reading Rep’s mission to contribute to and strengthen the local community will be more urgent than ever. Theatre brings people together in a shared space to tell a collective narrative: these stories will be essential as our community comes together again and I can’t wait to share them with our audiences.”

Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading Borough Council (Lead for Culture), added, “Reading Rep has clearly shown itself to be a top quality leader in Reading’s theatrical landscape; and a group that is always ensuring theatre is accessible to all. Their rapid re-invention and creativity with on-line workshops and performance during the current Covid-19 crisis is typical of their “can do” attitude. Their quick rise in recent years to a major player in Reading’s ever-expanding theatrical scene is commendable and I urge others to continue to “watch this space!” for more from Reading Rep.”

Hedley Swain, South East Area Director for Arts Council England, also commented, “This is an exciting time for culture in Reading and Arts Council England is really pleased to be able to support this initiative, which will provide a much needed venue for some of the town’s excellent theatrical work”.

Moving from a basic 60 seat studio, the new Reading Rep Theatre arts hub will include a 168-seat theatre, a permanent education and learning centre, backstage areas, new front of house facilities, and a café/bar. The building is being converted from a 1927 Salvation Army building by Total Projects, and is designed by David Hughes, the architect of the award-winning Park Theatre.

Fundraising for Reading Rep Theatre is ongoing, for more information and to donate, please visit https://www.readingrep.com/support-us/new-theatre/

About Reading Rep Theatre

Reading Rep Theatre was founded from scratch in 2012 by Paul Stacey, operating out of a sixty seat venue. It has since grown into Reading’s multi-award-winning resident professional producing theatre. 

As Reading’s only year-round producing theatre, the company provides support to some of the UK’s leading emerging artists, ensuring that everyone in Reading, but especially those with least opportunity, can access high-quality theatre and culture. 

In 2018 nearly 15,000 children and young people were reached through Reading Rep’s award-winning ENGAGE programme providing year-round youth theatres, school workshops, and a work experience scheme.

@ReadingRep

#BuildRDGRep

www.readingrep.com

UK Charity Be Kind Movement Announce Comedian and Amazing Human Joshua Robertson as New Kindness Ambassador

Dates Revealed For New Series of Digital Webinars Featuring Award Winning Short Film ITSY

The UK charity Be Kind Movement have today announced that multi-talented comedian, writer, actor and star of BBC Three’s Amazing Human series Joshua Robertson is their newest Kindness ambassador.

The London-born comedian has performed his stand-up routines all over the world including: Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, New York, Indonesia and the UK – including regular performances at the London Comedy Store.

He also wrote and starred in the 2019 short film Dad Joke which premiered at 2019’s BFI London Film Festival. The film is due to be released on-line by BFI network on Fri 12 June.

Joshua appeared in BBC Three’s Amazing Humans web series in 2017 which showcased the inspiring journey of how life-changing injuries he sustained as a child, which left him unable to walk or talk for two years, didn’t stop him from fulfilling his dreams.

After a serious motorbike crash at the age of 11 left him in a coma, Joshua now lives with a physical disability and as such, is a strong advocate for the power of kindness.

Be Kind Movement was established with the aim of celebrating and amplifying the power of kindness through education. Since 2015, the UK registered charity has been providing educational opportunities to empower children and young people.

Joshua will work with the charity to promote their educational programmes that develop emotional intelligence (EQ) skills for young people and adults through acts of kindness.

On becoming an ambassador for Be Kind Movement, Joshua Robertson said: “I am very proud to become an ambassador for Be Kind Movement to help raise awareness of the important work they do and through their message of the power of kindness help the wellbeing of young people and adults.”

Be Kind Movement Founder, Premila Puri added: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Joshua as an ambassador for Be Kind Movement. Overcoming many challenges throughout his life, his is an extraordinary story of strength, determination and resilience; an inspiration and positive role model to others and we look forward to working with him.”

The charity also reveal details of a new series of upcoming digital webinars featuring screenings of their award-winning short film ITSY.

Dates have been confirmed for the first two of the new monthly webinar series – Thursday 18 June and Thursday 9 July, with more dates to be announced in the coming weeks.

Each live webinar will include a virtual screening of the 12-minute short ITSY, as well as discussion with the film’s creative team, guest speakers and moderators, and a Q+A for viewers.

The short film, which explores mental health themes of loneliness and anxiety also celebrates friendship, acceptance and tolerance, is a key component of the charity’s Kindness workshop for children and young people.

Since its premiere in 2019, ITSY has been screened globally at nineteen international film festivals and is the winner of six film awards.

The first webinar event on Thursday 18 June, which is presented in association with their wellbeing partner Calmer, will include the screening of ITSY, a discussion with Be Kind Founder and ITSY producer and co-director Premila Puri as well as Calmer Founder and Director, Tania Diggory.

On Thursday 9 July the second event in the series will feature ITSY, plus a screening of 2018 short film Only The Lonely. Joining the panel will be Premila Puri, plus Only The Lonely co-writer and executive producer Veronique Christie.

Future dates in the series will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets for the webinars are priced at just £10.

Visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/changing-the-world-through-kindnessone-itsy-bit-at-a-time-tickets-107920023696?aff=ebdssbonlinesearchfor more information about the events and to buy tickets.

All money from ticket sales go towards funding future Be Kind projects including their Kindness Workshops which are delivered to primary schools across the country.

For all the latest news follow Be Kind Movement on social media:

Facebook: @bekindmovement

Twitter: @bekindmovement1

Instagram: @bekindmovementuk             

EVENT DETAILS

ITSY Digital Screening Webinar

Thursday 18 June

5pm

Tickets: £10 (plus £1.37 event fee)

Book tickets at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/changing-the-world-through-kindnessone-itsy-bit-at-a-time-tickets-107920023696?aff=ebdssbonlinesearch

THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED PRODUCTION OF

BIRDSONG

ADAPTED BY RACHEL WAGSTAFF

FROM THE SEBASTIAN FAULKS NOVEL

TO BE SPECIALLY STAGED IN COSTUME AND WITH DIGITAL SCENIC DESIGN

FOR ONLINE STREAMING ON 1 JULY 2020

TO MARK THE 104TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF THE SOMME

There will be a fully cast, abridged virtual production of Rachel Wagstaff’s highly acclaimed adaptation of Sebastian Faulks’s best-selling novel BIRDSONG, streamed online on 1 July 2020, the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme.  Told using video technology, live performance, sound design and music, all weaved together to create a unique portrayal of one of the greatest love stories in modern literature, the cast will be in full costume, with digitally designed scenes and lighting, making this the most ambitious online production yet.  The performance will be introduced and narrated by Sebastian Faulks, with a special reading by him from his novel during the interval.  The whole experience should last under two hours.  The show will be released online via www.birdsongonline.co.uk at 7pm on 1 July and will then be available for a further 72 hours.

The virtual production is taking place in association with The Royal British Legion, who have, for nearly 100 years, helped all those who have served, or are serving, in the British Armed Forces and their families. Their work is as vital today as it was back in 1921, when they helped those suffering from the aftermath of the First World War. For more information, visit www.britishlegion.org.uk.

BIRDSONG tells a mesmerising story of love and courage, before and during the war. In pre-war France, a young Englishman, Stephen Wraysford, embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their worlds upside down. As the war breaks out, Stephen must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme and through the sprawling tunnels that lie deep underground beneath the battle fields.  Faced with the unprecedented horror of the war, Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle and the idyll of his former life as his world explodes around him.

The critically acclaimed Original Theatre Company and Birdsong Productions production toured between 2013 and 2018, receiving 4- and 5-star reviews, with audiences calling the show ‘simply stunning’.  It was seen by over 250,000 people in over 75 theatres across the UK and in Ireland. 

The cast for the virtual production, made up from members of the previous four companies, will be Tom Kay (Stephen Wraysford), Madeleine Knight (Isabelle Azaire), Tim Treloar (Firebrace), Liam McCormick (Arthur Shaw), Malcolm James (Captain Gray), Poppy Roe (Jeanne Fourmentier), Jeffrey Hamer (Colonel Barclay), Stephen Boxer (Rene Azaire), Olivia Bernstone (Lisette Azaire), Samuel Martin (Evans), Max Bowden (Private Tipper), Christopher Harper (Levi), James Findlay (Cartwright) and Tony Green (Military Policeman), with narration by Sebastian Faulks.

Sebastian Faulks said of the virtual production, “This is a great initiative from The Original Theatre Company and technically very ambitious.  The adaptation of novel to play continues to evolve and I’m confident it has reached its best incarnation yet.  Some of the best actors in its long life have signed up.  Should be enormous fun.”

Rachel Wagstaff said, “I am thrilled to see our show taking life in this new online format. I have really enjoyed re-working it with Sebastian Faulks’s ongoing support and participation and in these challenging times, the story seems to mean more than ever.”

She continued, “I’m also really pleased to be teaming up again with directors Alastair Whatley and Charlotte Peters and The Original Theatre Company.  Their work means a great deal to me and I’m very glad to be able to both support and promote it.  I’m also very impressed that they have found a new way of making and creating work which, with theatres being closed for the foreseeable future, will be so essential for many of us.With the support of audiences around the world, I hope we can continue Birdsong’sjourney from page to stage to being made online, and keep alive the flame of theatre, storytelling, and the sacrifices of so many, for us.”

The Original Theatre Company’s Artistic Director and Director of BIRDSONG, Alastair Whatley, said, “Birdsong is a story that explores the endurability of the human spirit and above all the power of love. Sebastian’s novel highlights how, even in times of unimaginable horrors and hardships, there is more that binds us together than breaks us apart; that we are all part of something bigger.” 

He went on, “Never has this incredible story had more to offer and we wanted to find a way to share it at what is a very difficult time for so many people. The Battle of the Somme began on 1 July 1916, and, 104 years later to the day, we hope people will join with us and come together to remember, reflect and experience something we hope will be a little bit special.”

Playwright Rachel Wagstaff wrote the book for the multi award-winning musical Flowers for Mrs Harris (Best Musical, UK Theatre Awards 2016), which played Sheffield Crucible and Chichester Festival Theatre, and a new adaptation of Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d (UK Tour).  With Duncan Abel, she adapted Paula Hawkins’s The Girl on the Train (UK Tour and West End) and wrote the BBC Radio 4 Afternoon Play When I Lost You.  Also for radio, Rachel adapted Sebastian Faulks’s novel The Girl at the Lion d’Or for Woman’s Hour on BBC Radio 4.

Sebastian Faulks’s most recent novel, Paris Echo, is published by Hutchinson.  HIs new novel, provisionally entitled Snow Country, is due out in 2021. 

The virtual production of BIRDSONG is directed by Alastair Whatley and Charlotte Peters, with digital production design by David Woodhead, costumes by Siobhan Boyd, sound by Dom Bilkey and musical direction by James Findlay. It will be edited by Tristan Sheppard.

The virtual production of BIRDSONG is produced by The Original Theatre Company and is based on the original touring production produced by Anne-Marie Woodley and Jon Woodley for Birdsong Productions Ltd and The Original Theatre Company.

Age guidance 12+

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Online Performances:

Available from Wed 1 July 7:00pm to Sat 4 July 11:59pm via www.birdsongonline.co.uk

Ticket Prices (including a donation to The Royal British Legion):

Early bird – £10 – if booked before 15 June

Standard – £12.50

Premium – £15

Includes:

• A digital copy of the programme for Birdsong

Supporter – £25

Includes:

• Your name added as thanks on the credits
• A digital copy of the programme for Birdsong

Must be purchased per credited name and before 21 June

Benefactor – £100 

Includes:

• A personalised and signed copy of Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks
• Your name added as thanks on the credits
• A digital copy of the programme for Birdsong

Must be purchased per credited name and before 21 June

Executive Producer – £1000

Includes:

• An Executive Producer credit 
• A personal thank you from our director
• A personalised and signed copy of Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks
• A digital copy of the programme for Birdsong

Must be purchased per credited name and before 21 June

THE NEW PRODUCTION OF

MARTIN McDONAGH’S THE PILLOWMAN

IS DELAYED

The Pillowman, written by the multi Olivier, BAFTA and Academy Award-winning playwright and screen-writer Martin McDonagh, which was due to make it West End premiere this Summer, is to be delayed.

The Pillowman was due to begin performances at the Duke of York’s Theatre on Friday 24 July, for a 12-week season. Due to the current global situation, the production is now postponed and new season details and all further information will be announced at a later date.

Ticket holders do not need to do anything, the point of purchase will be in touch with ticket holders soon.

McDonagh and director Matthew Dunster said: “Whilst we are naturally disappointed that The Pillowman can’t go ahead this Summer, we are fully committed to realising this new production in the near future. We have an extraordinary cast and creative team and can’t wait to bring this new vision of the play to audiences.”

The Pillowman will star Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Golden Globe Award winner, Nocturnal Animals) and Steve Pemberton (Bafta Award winner, The League of Gentlemen).

Taylor-Johnson said: “I’m excited to hold the promise of a return to theatre, a place of magic, creativity and Unity.”

Pemberton said: “It’s been a dark time for the performing arts and I can’t wait to have the theatres open again.  Unfortunately The Pillowman has to be put to bed for now, but I very much hope that we’ll be able to bring Martin’s dazzling play to the West End before too long.”

James Bierman,the producer of The Pillowman, said:“Postponing The Pillowman until 2021 due to Covid -19 related issues is, sadly, the right thing to do. Since we announced the show, we have been blown away by the public response and all of us are really looking forward to being able to finally deliver the great play to audiences next year.”

Yamin Choudury: In Conversation With…

With theatres across the country closed under government guidance, Hackney Empire is producing new online content to connect with its community and attempt to process what is happening in the world. Alongside free online workshops and masterclasses is a new video series titled Yamin Choudury: In Conversation With…

Throughout lockdown, Hackney Empire’s Artistic Director Yamin Choudury will be regularly joined by a new guest from the creative industries to have a frank, open discussion about how the global pandemic is reshaping how we make art, the purpose of art at time like this and what it means to be an artist or creative right now. These conversations, dealing with the physical, emotional and mental realities of the Covid-19 crisis and offering practical advice for when a “new normal” emerges, are streamed for free online.

Guests so far have included songwriter, composer and producer Renell Shaw; Haydn Corrodus from career progression, mentoring and coaching company WeAreStripes; poet, academic and writer of the Royal Court’s Poet in Da Corner Debris Stevenson and her collaborator, MC and record producer, Jammz; founder of the Hackney-based charity Safe House London Bisola Popoola and founder of creative recruitment agency LEVILE Ola Christian. New videos are released on Hackney Empire’s Instagram and YouTube channel regularly, with more guests to come in future weeks.

In Conversation With… has been created as part of Hackney Empire’s Creative Futures programme. Hackney Empire’s Creative Futures programme is designed to nurture and provide support for free, fuelling the next generation of artists, activists and creative entrepreneurs. Regardless of background or ability, Hackney Empire’s Creative Futures programme offers young people a chance to have their voice heard.

Watch Yamin Choudury: In Conversation with on Hackney’s Empire’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/TheHackneyEmpire, or visit hackneyempire.co.uk for the latest updates.

Website: www.hackneyempire.co.uk
Facebook – /HackneyEmpire
Twitter – @HackneyEmpire
Instagram – @HackneyEmpire
YouTube – TheHackneyEmpire

DAVID IAN

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BARRY AND FRAN WEISSLER

PRESENT
THE 2021 UK TOUR OF

THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING

OPENING AT THE

BIRMINGHAM ALEXANDRA THEATRE

ON 12 MARCH 2021

David Ian in association with Barry and Fran Weissler announced today the 2021 UK tour of the multi award-winning musical CHICAGO. The show will open at the Birmingham Alexandra Theatre on 12 March 2021. Tour schedule below with further dates and casting to be announced soon. www.chicagothemusical.com

Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, CHICAGO is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids.

Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, CHICAGO’s sexy, sassy score includes the show-stopping songs “Razzle Dazzle”, “Cell Block Tango”, and “All That Jazz”.  Winner of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy, CHICAGO is the longest running American musical in Broadway and West End history.

Since it opened in New York in 1996, CHICAGO has played in 36 countries worldwide, and been performed in English, Dutch, German, Swedish, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, French, Danish, Japanese and Korean.  Worldwide it has been seen by an estimated 33 million people, grossed over $1.7 billion has played over 32,500 performances.

CHICAGO, which is based on the play by Maurine Dallas Watkins, has a book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb.  The 1996 Broadway revival of CHICAGO was choreographed by Ann Reinking in the style of Bob Fosse, directed by Walter Bobbie, and produced by Barry and Fran Weissler.

Richard Hadfield entertains thousands of music and theatre fans with his daily 

‘Song A Day Keeps Corona Away’ videos during lockdown,

inspiring his Crowdfunder campaign for a live tour which gives back to charity

Professional singer Richard Hadfield (formerly of the vocal group Collabro) has been releasing his ‘Song A Day Keeps Corona Away’ videos every day for over two months on Instagram and YouTube, raising the spirits of music lovers during lockdown and inspiring a Crowdfunder campaign for a tour of live shows, from which half of profits will go to charities.  

With more than 200,000 views of nearly 80 daily videos since the project started, the most popular choice with fans has been The Confrontation from Les Misérables – featuring Richard duetting with himself as both Javert and Valjean, which was no easy task to film! Other musical theatre and film favourites include Till I Hear You Sing from Love Never Dies and You’ll Be In My Heart from Tarzan (a duet with Richard’s brother James), and pop and rock hits such as Just The Two Of Us and A Thousand Years have gone down well.

Originally, Richard filmed the videos on a phone camera but in order to bring a more professional sound to his listeners he decided to start a Crowdfunder campaign which would enable him to upgrade his home studio. Richard says he was “completely blown away” by his supporters’ generosity as his initial £2,000 fundraising goal was surpassed within 12 hours. Having been heartened and encouraged by donors’ comments about how much joy and comfort his music was bringing them during these difficult times, Richard was inspired to set a revised £10,000 fundraising goal. If Richard reaches this target, he will be able to bring his music live to audiences on tour once venues reopen, and also to give back to the community by donating 50% of tour profits to charity (to be split between Music Minds Matter and Age UK). 

For more information about Richard’s Crowdfunder campaign, which closes on 1 July, visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/song-a-day-keeps-corona-away. 

Richard who originally hails from Sussex, but now lives Mitcham in South West London, found fame winning the ITV television show Britain’s Got Talent with musical theatre vocal group Collabro. He has since transitioned to a successful solo career, touring the world’s most prestigious jazz clubs. 

He said: “I started recording my videos for ‘Song A Day Keeps Corona Away’ on 23 March, after fully recovering from Coronavirus myself. I was keen to battle the pandemic of loneliness and wanted to do something proactive which would both entertain people at home and allow me to bridge the gap in these isolated times.  I’m really proud of the reach of the project, and the feedback of thousands of people who have enjoyed the series all over the world.  Hopefully, I’ll be able to able to perform to many of them in person before long.”

For more information about Richard Hadfield, visit: https://www.richardhadfield.london.