Home

Gala Premiere of LS Lowry biopic to take place at The Lowry in Salford.

The Lowry arts centre in Salford is to host a special ‘Gala Premiere’ of the upcoming LS Lowry biopic, Mrs Lowry & Son, on Tuesday 27 August.

The film, which stars Academy Award® winner Vanessa Redgrave and BAFTA® Nominee Timothy Spall in the title roles, depicts the complicated relationship between the two in 1930s Salford.

Tickets for the red carpet event have gone on sale today priced at £15.

Spall will be among those attending the premiere in the venue’s Lyric Theatre and will take part in an on-stage ‘In Conversation’ with the film’s director, former Royal Shakespeare Company director, Adrian Noble, after the screening.

Commenting on their hosting of the Gala Premiere, Julia Fawcett OBE, chief executive of The Lowry, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to showcase this very powerful yet humorous insight into the relationship between Lowry and his mother to a home audience here in the heart of Salford

“Lowry is a much-loved artist but there’s so much more to him than many people know. I think cinemagoers will be surprised to see some of the struggles he faced throughout his career, not least of all his mother’s criticism of his work.”

Timothy Spall said: “I’m delighted to be bringing this film back to Lowry’s hometown of Salford, and am thrilled that the premiere is taking place in the building where his work is on display for all to enjoy.”

Mrs Lowry & Son opens in cinemas nationwide on Friday 30 August

The Lowry is home to the world’s largest public collection of paintings and drawings by the Salford artist. It provides critical and curatorial analysis of his work and seeks to raise his profile as an artist of international stature.

Their permanent exhibition, LS Lowry: The Art & The Artist, features more than 160 paintings and drawings from a collection of over 300 works held in trust on behalf of the people of Salford.

Open daily and free of charge, it currently features a display dedicated to Mrs Lowry & Son, including behind the scenes photographs, props, film clips, mood boards, shooting schedules and the final screenplay signed by the cast.

Listing information:

Mrs Lowry & Son – Gala Premiere & In Conversation
Tuesday 27 August 2019, 7.30pm
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ
Tickets: £15 (Box Office: 0343 208 6000 / Website: www.thelowry.com)

CAMERON MACKINTOSH INTRODUCES

SHAN AKO AND LILY KERHOAS TO JOIN THE PRINCIPAL CAST OF

L E S   M I S É R A B L E S  

THE STAGED CONCERT

FULL CAST ANNOUNCED AS REHEARSALS BEGIN

As rehearsals begin for Les Misérables –The Staged Concert, Cameron Mackintosh introduces Shan Ako and Lily Kerhoas who complete the principal casting as Éponine and Cosette respectively.  They join the previously announced Michael Ball as Javert, Alfie Boe as Jean Valjean, Carrie Hope Fletcher as Fantine, Matt Lucas as Thénardier, Rob Houchen as Marius, Bradley Jaden as Enjolras, Katy Secombe as Madame Thénardier and, for three performances a week,John Owen-Jones as Jean Valjean. 

This spectacular staging of the legendary concert, with a company of over 65, will run from 10 August – 30 November 2019 at the intimate Gielgud Theatre, next door to the home of Les Misérables at the recently re-named Sondheim Theatre, previously the Queen’s.

The Company also includes Rosanna Bates, Adam Bayjou, Ciarán Bowling, Simon Bowman,Oliver Brenin, Earl Carpenter, Vinny Coyle, Samantha Dorsey, Tamsin Dowsett, Nicola Espallardo, Celia Graham, Barnaby Hughes, Holly-Anne Hull, Oliver Jackson, Christopher Jacobsen, Gavin James, Will Jennings, Ciaran Joyce, Katie Kerr, Sarah Lark, Joanna Loxton, Craig Mather, Stephen Matthews, James Nicholson, Rosa O’Reilly, Claire Parrish,Sophie Reeves, Grainne Renihan, Leo Roberts, Raymond Walsh, Gemma Wardle andAndrew York. 

Les Misérables‘’ much celebrated score includes the songs I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, Stars, Bring Him Home, Do You Hear the People Sing?, One Day More, Empty Chairs at Empty Tables, Master Of The House and many more. 

Les Misérables is written by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg and is based on the novel by Victor Hugo. It has music by Claude-Michel Schönberg, lyrics by Herbert Kretzmerand original French text by Alain Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel with additional material by James Fenton and adaptation by Trevor Nunn and John Caird.

Produced on stage by Cameron Mackintosh, Les Misérables is the world’s longest running musical now in its 35^th year in London.  Produced on screen also by Mackintosh (along with Working Title and Universal), Les Misérablesis now the most successful movie of an original stage musical.  The new production of Les Misérables, with a separate company, is currently on a sold-out international tour which has recently been extended to Autumn 2020.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Les Misérables – The Staged Concert

Theatre:                    Gielgud Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 6AR

Dates:                       10 August – 30 November 2019

Performances:           Monday – Saturday at 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday at 2.30pm

                                At certain performances John Owen-Jones will be performing the role of Jean Valjean

Les Misérables – The New Production

Theatre:                    Sondheim Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 6AR

Dates:                       From 18 December 2019

Performances:           Monday – Saturday at 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday at 2.30pm

Booking details

Website:                    https://www.lesmis.com/london

Box Office:                0844 482 5151

Facebook:          https://www.facebook.com/lesmisofficial/          

Twitter:                     https://twitter.com/lesmisofficial

Instagram       https://www.instagram.com/lesmizofficial/

Previews begin tomorrow for Sally Cookson’s magical retelling of Peter Pan at Troubadour White City Theatre, a brand new state-of-the-art venue in West London.

The National Theatre production of Sally Cookson’s magical retelling of Peter Pan takes flight tomorrow night at Troubadour White City Theatre, London’s newest theatre, located just minutes from Westfield in West London. Peter Pan runs until 27 October

Peter Pan, first seen at Bristol Old Vic and reconceived at the National Theatre in 2016, is a thrilling story suitable for all ages. Devised by the companies and directed by Olivier Award-winner Sally Cookson (The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Jane Eyre, A Monster Calls), the production features innovative aerial acrobatics and live music from an on stage band. Bursting with magic, mischief, music and make-believe, this wondrously inventive Peter Pan is a funny and moving version of a much-loved story.

Troubadour White City Theatre opens for the first time tomorrow at White City Place, the former BBC Media Village in West London. The venue consists of two fully flexible spaces including a 1,200 seat theatre where Peter, Wendy and the lost boys will soar over the audience in the fully flexible space, and an 800-seat multi-purpose state-of-the-art theatre. White City Place is a joint venture development between Stanhope, Mitsui Fudosan and AIMCo.

John Pfumojena, who played Michael Darling in the 2016 production at the NT leads a 24-strong company as Peter Pan, alongside Daisy Maywood as Wendy Darling and Kelly Price as Captain Hook, who also plays Mrs Darling. They are joined by: Greg Bernstein (Ensemble), Matthew Churcher (Ensemble), Raffaella Covino (Swing & Dance Captain), Josh Donovan (Swing), Ammar Duffus (Michael Darling/Pirate), Jemma Geanaus (Swing), Philippa Hogg (Ensemble), Mark Kane(Nana/Tootles/Pirate), Richard Kent (Ensemble), Cora Kirk (Jane/Nibs/Pirate), David Langham (Mr Darling/Smee/Lost Boy (Twin Two)), Nadine Lee (Band), Iniki Mariano (Ensemble), Harry Miller(Band), Jessica Murrain (Tiger Lily/Slightly/Pirate), Loren O’Dair (Twin One/Pirate/Ensemble), Miles Paloma (Swing), Luke Potter (Band), Shiv Rabheru (Tinkerbell/Curly/Pirate), Jools Scott (Band) and Alistair Toovey (John Darling/Pirate).

Peter Pan is designed by Michael Vale with costume design by Katie Sykes, dramaturgy by Mike Akers, lighting design by Aideen Malone, and sound design by Dominic Bilkey. Peter Pan features original music by Benji Bower, with movement direction by Dan Canham, puppetry design and direction by Toby Olié, aerial direction by Gwen Hales, fight direction by Rachel Bown-Williams andRuth Copper-Brown of RC-ANNIE Ltd, and Aerial Rigging Direction by John Maddox. Casting is bySam Stevenson CDG.

Sally Cookson trained at LAMDA and worked as an actor for ten years before embarking on a freelance directing career. Her theatre credits include The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (West Yorkshire Playhouse); Jane Eyre and Peter Pan (Bristol Old Vic/National Theatre). She is an associate artist at Bristol Old Vic, where other productions include Sleeping Beauty, Treasure Island,The Boy Who Cried Wolf, Papa Please Get the Moon for Me, Clown, Strange Case, Pericles, Pains of Youth and The Visit. Her numerous collaborations with Travelling Light theatre include Strictly Balti,The Ugly Duckling, Boing!, How Cold My Toes, Shadowplay, Cloudland, Lenny and Bob the Man on the Moon. Other theatre includes One Hundred and One Dalmatians, Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves,Cinderella – A Fairytale (Tobacco Factory Theatre, Olivier Award nomination); La Strada, Hetty Feather (Olivier Award nomination); We’re Going On A Bear Hunt (Kenny Wax Productions); Romeo and Juliet (The Rose Theatre); Stick Man and Tiddler (Scamp Theatre).

Peter Pan is a National Theatre co-production with Bristol Old Vic.

Presented by special arrangement with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity and Samuel French Ltd.

Peter Pan at Troubadour White City Theatre is supported by American Express, the National Theatre’s preferred Card Partner.

DRYWRITE, SOHO THEATRE AND ANNAPURNA THEATRE PRESENT

FLEABAG

Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge
Directed by Vicky Jones   

• THREE BRAND NEW WAYS TO SEE FLEABAG IN THE WEST END

• FLEABAG WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE TO CINEMAS AROUND THE UK AND INTERNATIONALLY ON 12^TH SEPTEMBER WITH NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE  
   
• ONLINE LOTTERY: 50 SEATS AT £15 WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR EVERY PERFORMANCE VIA TODAYTIX
   
• A LIMITED NUMBER OF £10 STANDING TICKETS ARE SET TO BE AVAILABLE FROM THE WYNDHAM’S THEATRE BOX OFFICE ON THE DAY OF EACH PERFORMANCE
   
• PHOEBE WALLER-BRIDGE’S MULTI AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTIONFLEABAG RUNS AT WYNDHAM’S THEATRE FOR A STRICTLY LIMITED SEASON FROM 20 AUGUST – 14 SEPTEMBER

​DryWrite, Soho Theatre and Annapurna Theatre have today announced three brand new ways to see the critically acclaimed, multi-award-winning FLEABAG in the West End this summer. There will be a live cinema broadcast of the production on 12th September, an online lottery for £15 tickets to every performance of the show and £10 standing tickets which are to be made available at box office daily. The production runs at Wyndham’s Theatre from 20^th August – 14^th September.

FLEABAG will be broadcast live to venues around the UK and internationally on 12^th September at 7.30pm with National Theatre Live. For more information on where to watch and how to buy tickets, audiences are advised to check with their venue or the NT live website.

A digital lottery will be available through the TodayTix app. A total of 50 tickets for each of the 30 performances (1,500 in total) will be available for £15. The FLEABAG lottery will be held weekly during the season, with the first one opening on Monday 12 August and closing on Wednesday 14 August, enabling users to apply for multiple performances at the same time. To enter the lottery, users must download the free TodayTix app, and register. All TodayTix users will be notified when the lottery opens and winners will have the choice to purchase either one or two tickets. Seats allocated for the lottery will include prime positions in the front row. Please see the ‘Listings’ section below for the full lottery schedule.

There will also be a limited number of £10 tickets will be available to purchase each morning in person from 10am at the Wyndham’s Box Office. Each person will be permitted to purchase one ticket each and are subject to availability.

The critically acclaimed, multi-award-winning FLEABAG will play the West End for a strictly limited four week run this summer. Written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and directed by Vicky Jones, the one-woman show recently played to a sold-out house Off-Broadway in New York, and premiered its second season on BBC Three to universal acclaim. The homecoming run will be the last time Waller-Bridge will perform the piece. The play will begin previews on 20 August 2019 with an opening night on Wednesday 28^th August 7:30pm at Wyndham’s Theatre.

FLEABAG was originally produced by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Vicky Jones and producer Francesca Moody’s company DryWrite. It previewed at Soho Theatre before its Edinburgh Festival debut in 2013, winning rave reviews and a Fringe First Award. It returned to play the Soho Theatre in London that autumn and was revived by DryWrite and Soho Theatre in 2014 and 2016, as well as touring the UK (2015 and 2018), South Korea (2014) and Australia (2018) and an Edinburgh Festival revival as part of the British Council Edinburgh Showcase (2017). The production also won The Stage Best Solo Performer Award, the Off-West End Award for Most Promising New Playwright and Best Female Performance, and was nominated for an Olivier Award and an Evening Standard Award. In 2019, Annapurna Theatre produced the New York Off-Broadway premiere, co-produced by DryWrite and Soho Theatre. The extended, sold-out New York run earned Waller-Bridge a Drama League Award nomination for Distinguished Performance, a Lucille Lortel Award nomination for Outstanding Solo Show, and a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Solo Performance. 

FLEABAG was adapted into a BBC Three Television series in partnership with Amazon Prime Video in 2016 and earned Phoebe a BAFTA Award for Best Female Comedy Performance. The series was also nominated for a Gotham Independent Film Award, Television Critics Association Award and Critics Choice TV Award, among other accolades. The BBC and Amazon renewed the series for a second season, which premiered on BBC Three and Amazon Prime Video earlier this year. Waller-Bridge also created and wrote the first season of the celebrated BBC America television series “Killing Eve,” which was nominated for an Emmy, Golden Globe and 15 BAFTA TV Awards. FLEABAG and Phoebe Waller-Bridge received several 2019 Emmy nominations on Tuesday, including Outstanding Comedy Series, Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.

FLEABAG is a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. Fleabag may appear emotionally unfiltered and oversexed, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose.

FLEABAG is produced by DryWrite, Soho Theatre and Annapurna Theatre.

INITIAL WEST END CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR “THE PRINCE OF EGYPT”

LUKE BRADY, LIAM TAMNE, CHRISTINE ALLADO AND ALEXIA KHADIME TO LEAD

 THE CAST OF THE NEW MUSICAL BASED ON THE DREAMWORKS ANIMATION FILM

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT BEGINS 5 FEBRUARY 2020 AT

LONDON’S DOMINION THEATRE

THE PRINCE OF EGYPT, the brand-new stage musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Godspell) and a book by Philip LaZebnik (Mulan, Pocahontas) and based on the celebrated DreamWorks Animation film, today announces initial casting for its West End premiere production.  Luke Brady and Liam Tamne will lead the cast as ‘Moses’ and ‘Ramses’ respectively, with Christine Allado as ‘Tzipporah’ and Alexia Khadime as ‘Miriam’. Further casting to be announced.

Luke Brady (Moses) trained at RADA and is best known for playing ‘Anthony Hope’ in Jonathan Kent’s acclaimed production of Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd (West End and Chichester Festival Theatre). His other credits include: The Merchant of Venice, Twelfth Night and The Taming of the Shrew (Shakespeare’s Globe and Tour); and St George and the Dragon (National Theatre).

Liam Tamne (Ramses) most recently starred as ‘Guiseppe Naccarelli’ in The Light in the Piazza at the South Bank Centre. He has also appeared in: Working (Southwark Playhouse); Spamilton (Menier Chocolate Factory); The Rocky Horror Show (UK Tour); The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables and Wicked in the West End. He appeared on The Voice (Series 2) and Eurovision: You Decide.

Christine Allado (Tzipporah) starred in the dual role of ‘Peggy Schuyler’ and ‘Maria Reynolds’ in the original London cast of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton. Her additional theatre work includes: In The Heights (Kings Cross Theatre); Here Lies Love (National Theatre); and Sweet Charity (Manchester Royal Exchange). Christine has also toured internationally with Andrea Bocelli as a guest artist and sang the role of ‘Maria’ in the BBC’s acclaimed documentary West Side Stories: The Making of a Classic.

Alexia Khadime (Miriam)has played leading roles in multiple West End musicals including: ‘Elphaba’ in Stephen Schwartz’s Wicked; ‘Nala’ in Disney’s The Lion King; ‘Eponine’ in Les Misérables and ‘Nabulungi’ in the original London cast of The Book of Mormon. Her additional theatre work includes: Welcome To Thebes (National Theatre); Ordinary Days (Trafalgar Studios); and ‘Rita Marley’ in One Love: The Bob Marley Musical (Birmingham Rep).

THE PRINCE OF EGYPT is directed by Scott Schwartz with choreography by Sean Cheesman;set designs by Kevin Depinet; costume designs by Ann Hould-Ward; lighting design by Mike Billings; sound design by Gareth Owen; projection designs by Jon Driscoll; illusion designs by Chris Fisher; orchestrations by August Eriksmoen; musical supervision and arrangements by Dominick Amendum; musical direction by Dave Rose and casting by Jim Arnold CDG.

Performances begin at London’s Dominion Theatre on Wednesday 5 February 2020, with an official West End premiere on Tuesday 25 February 2020, for a limited 32-week engagement. Tickets are now available via www.ThePrinceofEgyptMusical.com

THE PRINCE OF EGYPT has music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Philip LaZebnik and features 10 new songs written by Stephen Schwartz, together with 5 of his acclaimed songs from the DreamWorks Animation film, including Deliver Us, All I Ever Wanted, Through Heaven’s Eyes and the Academy Award®-winning When You Believe.

Journey through the wonders of Ancient Egypt as two young men, raised together as brothers in a kingdom of privilege, find themselves suddenly divided by a secret past. One must rule as Pharaoh, the other must rise up and free his true people; both face a destiny that will change history forever.

A milestone in cinematic achievement, DreamWorks’ The Prince of Egypt captivated audiences across the world and recently celebrated its 20^th Anniversary. Hailed as “an outstanding artistic achievement” (Variety) and “a stunning film” (The Guardian), it remains one of the most beloved and acclaimed animated feature films of all time.

The Academy Award®-winning song When You Believe, recorded by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey in 1998, went on to become a global hit. In 2007, Simon Cowell selected it as the winner’s single for the UK’s popular TV show The X-Factor, spending three weeks at the top of the UK charts.

Developmental productions of THE PRINCE OF EGYPT were presented at TheatreWorks Silicon Valley (winner of the 2019 Regional Theatre Tony Award®) and Fredericia Teater Denmark.

The West End premiere production of THE PRINCE OF EGYPT is produced by DreamWorks Theatricals (a division of Universal Theatrical Group), Michael McCabe and Neil Laidlaw.

Official website: www.ThePrinceofEgyptMusical.com

Twitter, Facebook, Instagram: @PrinceOfEgyptUK

LISTINGS INFORMATION

THE PRINCE OF EGYPT – A NEW MUSICAL

DOMINION THEATRE

268-269 TOTTENHAM COURT ROAD

LONDON W1T 7AQ

The theatre is adjacent to Tottenham Court Road Underground Station.

BOOKING:

TICKETS NOW ON SALE

www.ThePrinceOfEgyptMusical.com

Telephone bookings: 0345 200 7982 (or +44 161 876 2405 if dialling from outside the UK).

Operated by Quay Tickets, 9am-9pm, 7 days a week. No booking fees online, by telephone or in person.

£2.50 transaction charge for online and telephone bookings.

Groups and Schools (10+): www.ThePrinceofEgyptGroups.com or call 0344 847 2311 

Dominion Theatre Groups Department open 10am-5.30pm Monday-Friday (closed Bank Holidays).

Access:  020 7927 0929 or [email protected]

Ticket prices from: £19.50

Ticket prices include a £1.50 theatre restoration levy.

DATES:

32 WEEKS ONLY from Wednesday 5 February until Saturday 12 September 2020.

REDUCED PRICE PERFORMANCES WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY – FRIDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2020.

London Premiere Tuesday 25 February 2020.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Monday-Saturday 7.30pm*

Matinees Thursday** & Saturday 2.30pm

Running time: TBC

*London Premiere Tuesday 25 February 2020 at 7.00pm

**First Thursday matinee: 20 February 2020 at 2.30pm (Half Term)

Please note that there is no performance on Monday 10 February 2020

The production is recommended for ages 7+. Children under 5 cannot be admitted.

Extra shows added: Tuesday 14 April, Tuesday 11 August and Tuesday 25 August 2020, all at 2.30pm

ACCESS PERFORMANCES

Captioned: Saturday 16 May 2.30pm

Audio Described: Thursday 21 May 7.30pm

British Sign Language: Thursday 4 June 7.30pm

Official website: www.ThePrinceofEgyptMusical.com

Twitter, Facebook, Instagram: @PrinceOfEgyptUK

Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, Chester – until 24th August 2019

Reviewed by Julie Noller

4****

The Open Air Theatre is as well known around Chester as The Cathedral or the Roman Legion who marches masses of school children through the streets. However you could be forgiven for thinking it had been a summer mainstay for longer than it’s celebratory 10 years in 2019.

I am ashamed to say for many reasons I have never ventured inside the wooden gates, perhaps more to do with the fact I am a wuss when it comes to the great British weather. However fear not, for it’s a whole experience unlike any other theatre you may visit. There’s a check list I feel I must share, you will be offered depending upon ticket either a directors style chair or perhaps like us sat up under cover (phew) a folding seat back (it’s a god send). Most importantly take a cushion, do not look at the rain and leave it in your car, you will not forgive yourself and neither will your derriere. The staff on duty are warm and friendly, if you have any issues they will quickly resolve them. Picnics are welcome and as throughout the 3 hour performance we heard plenty of corks popping, there’s a sense that it’s more of a social inclusion theatre experience. You may if the performance finishes late and ahem mother nature has been stamping her feet again, take a blanket. There were plenty of ponchos purchased because the front rows including those directors chairs are completely open to the elements.

There’s a sense with an open air production that you could be anywhere around the world, transported into an imaginary land and time, I loved the immersive atmosphere, striped back stage setting, lack of technology – after all Shakespeare didn’t have the use of sound decks and flashy lights. I’m a history buff and so I wondered if this is what it would’ve have been like to sit in The Globe Theatre, albeit they were a far harsher naughtier audience. Shakespeare the man, the genius. I’m sure when his plays were written he never believed hundreds of years from now, school children will have to study me. I’m sure if like me you were put of having to listen to others opinions of what you should interpret instead of like I did last night just sit and watch and enjoy a story that’s funny, naughty and full of slapstick humour.

Twelfth Night packs it in, each character full of depth and well rounded. I came to realise that it is the performer who must bring their interpretation of those words to life, I really feel there could be no stopping as to the fun they could have. The history of Twelfth Night is that it was written after the death of one of his twins, Hamnet in 1596. Some will say the story of twins separated in a shipwreck, where waves wash over you like grief washes over you may be a gentle look at grief and loss a child. You don’t need to have studied history to enjoy this performance just a love of humour and theatre. When Shakespeare himself passed away in 1616 he bequeathed many things but to Judith his surviving daughter (and twin) he left Twelfth Night, perhaps there’s a message in there and the story contains words that he was unable to say in life.

I may have mentioned Twelfth Night was written by Shakespeare, It’s one I didn’t fully understand and hadn’t read or even seen before. So the whole experience was an exciting one for me, thoroughly enjoyable and a night I would like to repeat again – perhaps with better weather though; damp as the night was it didn’t ruin the performance.

Marc Benga and Whitney Kehinde are our twins Sebastian and Viola/Cesario; they become separated in a shipwreck each fearing the other dead. Viola carves a life for herself as the male Cesario pursued by Olivia (Sarah-Jane Potts) who in turn is pursued by Count Orsino (Steven Elliott). Viola herself has a crush on the Count and the whole love triangle situation becomes a tad confusing and takes on a Benny Hill vibe. Some of the actors on stage are better at projecting their voices than others and if they turn their backs towards you then you may struggle to hear words clearly, some speeches do take a good ear to understand but not grasping every word doesn’t deflect from the story and somewhat chaotic scenes unfolding on stage.

Within the cast there are many who deserve a mention, Chris Wright as the mostly drunk Sir Toby Belch – even his name suggests a man of low morals. Seren Vickers, who sings and whips her guitar around the arena delighting us as Curio. The audience favourites as always are the camp and extremely amusing Malvolio (Samuel Collings) all I can say is wow those Yoga moves, wow those very very yellow stockings and whit woo that silky gown. Mitesh Soni as the equally camp and somewhat trying to be very manly yet failing Sir Andrew Aguecheek. We spend far too much time these days discussing gender and how we are perceived as if it’s a modern concept, yet here was Shakespeare over 400 years using gender fluidity and bringing those differences to life.

As always with Shakespeare he kept the masses happy, there’s some naughty words, sexual suggestion, hip flexes and wanton desire. But in equal measures there’s comedy, fun and laughter and the deep message of forbidden love, unrequited love but better still there’s a happy ever after ending. We left smiling not just at a great story brought to life but the rain had stopped!

Totally Thames 2019 announces full
festival programme
Sunday 1st – Monday 30th September 2019

Totally Thames 2019 has announced the incredible full programme of events for this year’s festival, exploring the environmental importance and the rich and varied cultural heritage of the capital’s river. Totally Thames encourages visitors from London and further afield to participate in artistic, historical and musical events in celebration of this iconic landmark

This year four amazing highlight events commemorate the river as the vital cultural centre of the city. The Ship of Tolerance, by renowned artists Ilya and Emilia Kabakov, brings together the works of 1000 children in the sails of a stunning ship, celebrating unity and diversity in the heart of London. Navigating the tides of history, Foragers of the Foreshore is the most significant exploration of mudlarking ever held. The Barking Stink tackles the rich, pungent history of London, diving nose-first into the infamous odours that used to emanate from Barking Creek. Tideway’s trailblazing Regatta London is coming to London at the end of September, an exciting mass participation event fundraising for local and national environmental causes as boaters of all kinds gather to race.

Totally Thames will see artistic, musical, dance and literary events celebrate the river this September with the return of the sensational Rivers of the World and the introduction of My Story of Water, an impactful new exhibition of jerry cans painted by children from Lagos, highlighting the importance of water itself. An exciting evening of tangoing on the Thames awaits with Mid-River Milonga, and the magic of the Bascule Chamber Concerts returns to this year’s festival. Thank You For Having Us is an adrenaline-filled performance challenging audiences to think about the impact of plastics on our natural environment, and Giles Walker’s Monster asks if the Thames could disappear under the weight of the capitalist machine.

Championing the heritage of the river as the vital centre of London’s history, its diverse culture and its connection to the rest of the world, Totally Thames 2019 is jam-packed with amazing events bringing together local communities with visitors from across the globe.

The Vaults, London – until 20 July 2019

Reviewed by Lisa Harlow

3***

Chaos theory is part of mathematics which demonstrates how a small change in the starting position of a chaotic system can make a big difference after a while.

This idea is explored in this Robbi Stevens The Chaos Theory Play through the eyes of three women who are led to breaking point by life’s traumas and trapped within destructive patterns of behaviour. Each are given the chance to go back to a particular moment in time to make a different choice. And haven’t we all had times in life where we had wished for the same grace?

The introduction is Hollywood movie style drama, with its use of cinematic style imagery and soundtrack. The tunnel venue shrouds the stage with ominous darkness and the regular booming of train wheels above add to the atmosphere and tension.

All of the issues tackled within this play are hard hitting and deeply embedded in a modern London cityscape: mental health, poverty, drug addiction, domestic abuse and sexual assault. Real life traumatic events from London’s history are also included.

The interrelationships of the characters are cleverly woven together as each of the women revisit an earlier decision which impacts on the others.

Becca (Shelley-Ann Harrison) and Aiden’s (Sam Londt) sugary sweet beginnings to their life together hold no clues to the thorny and abusive underbelly to their relationship and how this poison gradually pollutes the air and relationships around them.

Kieran E Sims, playing Becca’s brother and Caroline’s dad, and Kandice Morris as Alesha and Grace, bring the few welcome spells of humour. Kandice’s stage presence is powerful and she always raises a smile in the right places. Rory Kennedy multi-tasking as Mike, Harry and Paul also brought a lot of flair and fear each time he erupted on the stage.

This is not for the faint hearted. This is a play for those seeking a deeper exploration of an inner city’s darker underside and how many can seemingly get entrapped in its spider web of power dynamics, abuse and manipulation. The performances are convincing and the venue well suited for this purpose. Billed as 90 minutes, this actually ran for two hours: too long and my investment in its plotline began to fray.

However, at the heart of this seemingly dark play is a shaft of light: a message of how connection, love and hope can redeem anyone no matter how far gone.

This was a message worth waiting for.

Mayflower Theatre, Southampton – until 20 July 2019

Reviewed by Jo Gordon

4**** 

Rock of Ages just about covers all that was wonderful about 80s – rock music, big hair, big sounds, big rock Gods and tiny tiny rock chick shorts!

Every classic rock anthem you can think cleverly entwined within the story about southern belle Sherries (Jodie Steele) new adventures on LA’s Sunset Strip. After gaining a job in the famous Bourbon Club owned by Dennis (Kevin Kennedy), she meets wannabe rock star Drew (Luke Walsh) in a boy-meets-girl will-they-won’t-they scenario which is thread throughout the whole show and keeps us guessing till the end.  After an incident with the superstar known as Stacee Jaxx (Kevin Clifton) things take a turn for the worst and Sherrie ends up working in a local strip joint. Meanwhile the areas club owners have a fight on their hands as German developer Hertz (Vas Constanti) and his son Franz (Andrew Carthy) plan to bulldoze the strip and rebuild it as a classier area. With the organisation of protests by local hippy Regina (Rhiannon Chesterman) just maybe it could all be saved.

A simple but effective backdrop of neon lights, industrial buildings and rugged rock club set the scene well and true to most rock dens I may have frequented on occasion in the early 90’s! 

The highlight for me was the shows narrator Lonnie (Lucas Rush), very funny at times and got the audience revved up at all the right points. On a whole its a strong cast that carry the predictable story well and all the popular tunes keep the audience playing air drums and signing along. I personally feel that the choreography of the dancing girls at times could be toned down a little and some of the “action” Jaxx received at times was a bit much in parts but that aside its a great easy watch, toe tapping production that appeared to bring in those who wouldn’t normally frequent a theatre which can only be a good thing!

Be warned though, after watching it you will be digging out the classic rock compilations and releasing your inner rocker in the car to work the next day…or maybe that’s just me!

Jenny King, Jonathan Church, Matthew Gale and Mark Goucher present

STEPHEN MANGAN

KARA TOINTON and SUE JOHNSTON

 in

The Man in the White Suit

Written and Directed by Sean Foley

Based on the play The Flower Within the Bud by Roger MacDougall and Screenplay by Roger MacDougall, John Dighton and Alexander Mackendrick.  

By special arrangement with Studiocanal

• FULL CAST AND CREATIVE TEAM ANNOUNCED FOR THE WORLD PREMIERE STAGE PRODUCTION OF THE EALING COMEDY CLASSIC
   
• WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY SEAN FOLEY, THE PRODUCTION WILL PLAY AT THEATRE ROYAL BATH AS PART OF ITS 2019 SUMMER SEASON FROM 5TH – 21ST SEPTEMBER, PRIOR TO OPENING AT WYNDHAM’S THEATRE IN PREVIEW FROM 27TH SEPTEMBER  WITH AN OPENING NIGHT OF 8TH OCTOBER 
   

The full cast and creative team is announced for Sean Foley’s hotly anticipated stage adaptation of classic Ealing Studios comedy The Man in the White Suit, which will have a three week engagement at Theatre Royal Bath from 5th September as part of its 2019 summer season before its world premiere at the Wyndham’s Theatre, London with performances from 27th September 2019 until 11th January 2020 and opening night on 8th October 2019.

Leading the cast of The Man in the White Suit will be the previously announced  Stephen Mangan as Sidney Stratton, Kara Tointon as Daphne Birnley and Sue Johnston* as Mrs Watson.

They will be joined by Richard Cordery as Birnley, Richard Durden as Sir John, with Delroy Atkinson, Katie Bernstein, Ben Deery, Matthew Durkan, Rina Fatania, Oliver Kaderbhai, Eugene McCoy, Elliott Rennie and Katherine Toy.

The Man in the White Suit is adapted for the stage and directed by double Olivier Award-winning writer, actor and director Sean Foley and has set and costume design by award-winning designer Michael Taylor.

Brand new songs have been written for this world premiere production by Charlie Fink, known for fronting indie-folk band ‘Noah and the Whale’ as well as being a composer for theatre and film including The Lorax (Old Vic) and A Street Cat Named Bob.

Choreography will be by Lizzi Gee, lighting by the Tony Award-winning Mark Henderson, sound by brothers Ben Ringham and Max Ringham, fights directed by Alison De Burgh and songs arranged by Phil Bateman.

When Sidney Stratton develops a fabric that never gets dirty and never wears out, manufacturers and trades unions are terrified by the threat it poses to their industry and their jobs. Only Daphne, the mill owner’s daughter, shows Stratton any sympathy as his world gradually falls apart before he finally finds love and a new idea.  

The 1951 iconic Ealing Studios comedy film starred Alec Guinness, Joan Greenwood and Cecil Parker. It was directed by Alexander Mackendrick and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Writing (Screenplay).

Stephen Mangan’s theatre credits include a Tony Award-nominated performance in The Norman Conquests (The Old Vic / Broadway), Birthday and The People Are Friendly (Royal Court), Jeeves and Wooster (Duke of York’s), Hayfever (Savoy), Midsummer Night’s Dream (RSC) and Rules For Living (National Theatre). Stephen has an extensive list of television credits including Sean Lincoln in Episodes, and new comedy series Bliss. Previous TV credits include the BAFTA-winning British sitcom Green Wing, Free Agents, Dirk Gently. Film credits include Billy Elliot, Birthday, Postman Pat: The Movie (Voice), Rush, Beyond The Pole, Confetti and Festival.

Kara Tointon’s theatre credits include: Twelfth Night (RSC), Gaslight (UK Tour), Relatively Speaking (Wyndham’s), Absent Friends (Harold Pinter Theatre) and Pygmalion (Garrick). Her film work includes appearances in Let’s Be Evil, The Last Passenger, The Sweeney, Warrior Queen,Never Play With The Dead, The Football Factory and Just My Luck.  On television Kara has appeared in The Keith and Paddy Picture Show, Henry IX, The Halcyon, The Sound of Music Live,Mr Selfridge, Suntrap, Lewis, Bedlam, The Bill, Dream Team, Keen Eddie, Harry and Cosh andEastEnders.

BAFTA nominated and British Comedy Award-winning actress Sue Johnston’s theatre credits include Small Change (Donmar Warehouse), The Master Builder (Albery Theatre) and The Play What I Wrote (Wyndham’s). Sue has also played seasons at Manchester Royal Exchange, Bolton Octagon and the Bush Theatre. Best known for her television roles in The Royale Family andBrookside, other screen credits include The Cockfields, Hold the Sunset, Death on the Tyne, Murder on the Blackpool Express, Age Before Beauty, Walk Like a Panther, Good Karma Hospital, Moving On, Waking the Dead, Downton Abbey, Coronation Street, Rovers, Sex, Chips & Rock N’ Roll, Goodbye Cruel World, My Uncle Silas, Brassed Off, Little Dorrit, A Passionate Woman, Sugartown and Jam & Jerusalem amongst others. Sue was appointed OBE in the 2009 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to Drama and to Charity.

Richard Cordery’s many theatre credits include Network, Power of Yes and ‘Tis Pity She’s a Whore (National Theatre), Richard III, Henry VI, Twelfth Night, Hamlet, Merry Wives of Windsor, Volpone, Romeo and Juliet, Othello, and Henry IV part II (RSC), Sweet Bird of Youthand The Front Page (Chichester Festival Theatre), Waste (Almeida), Spring Awakening (Novello),Love Story (Duchess) and Waiting For Godot (Crucible Theatre Sheffield). Television credits include Marcella, Dickensian, Esio Trot, Inside No 9, Backup and Love Hurts. Film credits includeAbout Time, The Wife, Les Miserables and Social Suicide.

Richard Durden’s career spans 50 years with recent theatre credits including Ben Hur (Tricycle),Titus Andronicus and A Mad World My Masters (RSC), The Emperor and Gallilean (National Theatre), Shadowlands (Wyndham’s and UK Tour), Once Bitten and The Madras House (Orange Tree), Richard III and High Society (Crucible Theatre, Sheffield), and Orpheus Descending(Donmar Warehouse). Television credits include Back To Life, Ghosts, The Child in Time, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, The Last Days of Lehman Brothers, The Amazing Mrs Pritchard, andFingersmith. Film credits include Churchill, Star Wars: Episode IX, Oliver Twist, The Awakening,The Jacket and Batman.

Delroy Atkinson’s theatre credits include Sylvia (Old Vic), Present Laughter (Chichester Festival Theatre), The Firm (Hampstead), The Amen Corner (National Theatre), The Book of Mormon (The Prince of Wales), Avenue Q (Gielgud) and Five Guys Named Moe (UK Tour).

Katie Bernstein’s theatre credits include The Play That Goes Wrong (Duchess and International Tour), Allegro (Southwark Playhouse), Mrs Henderson Presents (Noel Coward and Theatre Royal Bath), Urinetown (Apollo and St. James Theatre), Rent (UK Tour), Run (Polka) and Goodbye Barcelona (Arcola)

Ben Deery’s theatre credits include King Lear, Titus Andronicus, A Mad World My Masters(RSC), The Art Of Success, The Taste Of The Town (Rose Theatre Kingston), Death of a Salesman(UK Tour) and Insignificance (Theatre Clwyd). Screen credits include Father Brown, Call the Midwife and A Street Cat Named Bob.

Matthew Durkan’s theatre credits include Rosencrantz & Gildenstern Are Dead and Housed (Old Vic), The Secret Garden (York Theatre Royal), Kiki’s Delivery Service (Southwark Playhouse), Oxy & The Morons (New Wolsey Theatre), Nell Gwynn (Apollo) and The Cherry Orchard and Doctor Selavy’s Magic Theatre (New Wimbledon Studio).

Rina Fatania’s most recent theatre credits include Dead Dog in a Suitcase (UK Tour),Approaching Empty (Kiln), The Village (Theatre Royal Stratford East), The Tin Drum (Kneehigh, UK Tour), Oliver Twist (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), Roller Disco (Soho) and Anita & Me (UK Tour). Screen credits include Wanderlust, People Just Do Nothing, Raabta and Mumbai Charlie.

Oliver Kaderbhai’s theatre credits include Margot, Dame, The Most Famous Ballerina in the World (Kings Head), The Best Man (Playhouse), Jumping on my Shadow (Lakeside Arts Centre), Hatch (Polka Theatre), One Minute (The Vaults), The Provoked Wife (UK Tour) and Go to Your God Like a Soldier (Old Vic Tunnels/The Underbelly).

Eugene McCoy’s theatre credits include La Mancha (ENO), A Christmas Carol and Groundhog Day (Old Vic), The Pajama Game (Shaftesbury/Chichester Festival Theatre), American Psycho(Almeida Theatre), Jersey Boys (Prince Edward), Little Shop of Horrors (UK Tour), They’re Playing Our Song (Menier Chocolate Factory), Oklahoma! (Chichester Festival Theatre) and Guys and Dolls (Piccadilly and Donmar Warehouse). Screen credits include Paddington 2 and Little Crackers.

Elliott Rennie’s theatre credits include Alice in Wonderland, Thumbelina and A Scarborough Christmas Carol (Stephen Joseph Theatre), Shakespeare in Love (Duke of York’s), The Jungle Bookand The B.F.G. (Derby Theatre).

Katherine Toy’s theatre credits include Coriolanus, Vice Versa and Salome (RSC), Much Ado About Nothing (Rose Theatre Kingston), As You Like It, Two Gentlemen of Verona and Stig of the Dump (Storyhouse Chester), Othello, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Cyrano de Bergerac(Grosvenor Park, Chester) and Life of Galileo, Cyrano de Bergerac and The False Servant (National Theatre). As a musician, her credits include Comedy of Errors (RSC) and Wild Orchids (Chichester Festival Theatre).

This world premiere production will reunite Stephen Mangan and Sean Foley who created the Olivier Award winning comedy Jeeves and Wooster together. Foley also teams up again with Michael Taylor with whom he created the five times Olivier Award nominated The Ladykillers. Foley’s production will feature a cast of fourteen including actor musicians and a specially written score.

Based on the play The Flower Within the Bud by Roger MacDougall and screenplay by Roger MacDougall, John Dighton and Alexander Mackendrick, this world premiere production of The Man in the White Suit is presented by Jenny King, Jonathan Church, Matthew Galeand Mark Goucher, by special arrangement with Studiocanal.

*Sue Johnston will play the role of Mrs Watson for a strictly limited engagement until the end of November, with further casting to be announced.

LISTINGS

THE MAN IN THE WHITE SUIT

Theatre Royal Bath
Saw Cl, Bath BA1 1ET
5th – 21st September 
Monday – Saturday at 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday matinees 2.30pm 
www.theatreroyal.org.uk/
01225 448844

Wyndham’s Theatre
Charing Cross Rd, Covent Garden, London WC2H 0DA
First preview: 27th September at 7.30pm
Opening night: 8th October at 7pm
Final performance 11th January at 7.30pm
Monday – Saturday at 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday matinees 2.30pm
www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/theatres/wyndhams-theatre/

@whitesuitcomedy 
maninthewhitesuit.co.uk