Bill Kenwright is proud to present the third Theatre Royal Windsor Summer Season under the Directorship of Sean Mathias.
The season will comprise of two world premieres Frank and Percy by Ben Weatherill starring Ian McKellen and Roger Allam (Theatre Royal Windsor Friday 9 June – Saturday 22 July 2023 and Theatre Royal Bath Tuesday 25 July – Saturday 5 August 2023) and Alone Together by Simon Williams, with casting to be announced, (Friday 4 August 2023 – Saturday 19 August 2023).
2023 will be Sean Mathias’ third summer season at Theatre Royal Windsor. 2021 saw two classics with Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard. The 2022 season had two modern classics including Frederick Knott’s Dial M for Murder, Enid Bagnold’s The Chalk Garden. The 2023 season will be focussed on new writing.
Director Sean Mathias said:
“I cannot believe my luck in finding not one but two charming and original new plays for the season. Ben Weatherill (Frank & Percy) is a true young talent in the theatre. And to have reunited Ian and Roger after almost 20 years since we all did Aladdin together at the Old Vic is a real coup. Both Frank and Percy, and Alone Together explore the fragility and joy of relationships in all their different forms, and what forges and strengthens bonds between humans, at a time when more than ever, we all need to love and support one another.
Producer Bill Kenwright said:
“Sean has firmly established the summer season at Theatre Royal Windsor as the highlight of our dramatic theatrical year. (We should never forget our hugely loved and much needed record-breaking annual panto!). This year it is great to be exploring two new plays from an exciting new playwright (Ben Weatherill), and a dear friend of mine and of Theatre Royal Windsor (Simon Williams) whose writing skills get better with every play of his I read.
I love for us to present new plays at Windsor, although to be honest it’s not always easy in a regional theatre with no subsidy whatsoever. so I’m particularly pleased that Sean and I have chosen these two as our new adventures.”
Frank and Percy is a poignant and witty take on the unexpected relationship that blossoms between two men.
Ever seen a couple of old boys on a park bench and wondered what they are chatting about?
In his new play Ben Weatherill lets us overhear Frank and Percy as they discuss the weather, then their dogs and then each other and so much more. Will the widowed schoolteacher and the elder statesman dare to risk changing their lives or let sleeping dogs lie?
Old friends, three-time Olivier Award winner Roger Allam, and one of our greatest stage and screen actors, Ian McKellen, re-unite with Director Sean Mathias, for this witty, poignant two-hander.
Alone Together
Driven by the loneliness of a dismal marriage to Colin, Angela finds comfort in a chance meeting with Jonty, a young novelist. Each have secrets to protect and pasts to work through, was it really a chance encounter?
In a world where you can be anyone online, can you really escape reality?
Casting to be announced.
Ian McKellen, the first actor ever to top The Stage 100 list of the most influential people in British theatre, returns to Windsor following his critically acclaimed performance in the titular role in Hamlet, followed by Firs in The Cherry Orchard in Sean Mathias’s inaugural summer season at Theatre Royal Windsor.
Ian’s unsurpassed performances as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings films made him one of the world’s biggest film stars, but in spite of that and his further iconic screen performances in such box office hits as The X-Men Trilogy he has never forsaken his first love – theatre.
His performances have won him countless awards, but most importantly to us, Ian made his Theatre Royal Windsor debut in 2019 with his one-man show Ian McKellen On Stage (also directed by Sean Mathias), which toured to 80 UK venues to mark his 80th birthday and concluded with a West End run. The tour and London performances raised more than £4m with profits being donated to venues and theatre charities.
Roger Allam has been one of this country’s favourite actors for the past three decades thanks to his many starring appearances on stage, tv, film, and radio.
He has been nominated for six Olivier Awards winning three. His many memorable performances include the role of Javert in the original production of Les Misérables Michael Frayn’s Democracy and the hugely successful revival of Boeing Boeing opposite Mark Rylance, as well as extensive work at the Royal Shakespeare Company (of which he is an associate artist), The National Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the West End.
He has become one of our biggest tv stars appearing in the first series of Game of Thrones, the last series of The Thick if it and of course ten years as DI Thursday in Endeavour which aired its final episode this month.
On film he has featured in Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lady in the Van and two Stephen Frears hits The Queen and Tamara Drew and his many radio roles including his hit series with Joanna Lumley Conversations from a Long Marriage.
Sean Mathias is a leading British Theatre Director, Film Director, and Writer with numerous awards to his name including the WhatsOnStage Award, Evening Standard Theatre Award, the Critics’ Circle Theatre Award, a Fringe First at Edinburgh, and the Prix de la Jeunesse at Cannes. His multi-award-winning career includes productions at the Royal National Theatre, The Kennedy Centre, The Mark Taper Forum, Paris, Sydney, and Cape Town, including many productions on Broadway.
In 2009/10 Sean was the Artistic Director of Theatre Royal Haymarket where his legendary production of Waiting for Godot played two seasons, as well as touring the UK and internationally. In 2013 Sean directed and co-produced Two Plays in Rep of Broadway, comprising Beckett’s Godot and Pinter’s No Man’s Land. His production of No Man’s Land, starring Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart, was the highest grossing play in the history of the Wyndham’s Theatre.
The plays are produced by Bill Kenwright, who, as a young actor in the 60’s and 70’s had been so encouraged by Theatre Royal Windsor’s John Counsell, he eventually bought the famous theatre’s lease when it was on the brink of administration in 1997. His company Bill Kenwright Limited has been looking after the future of this beautiful (unsubsidised) producing theatre ever since.
Further star casting for Alone Together will be announced soon.
THE UK TOUR OPENS 20 NOVEMBER 2023 AT THEATRE ROYAL PLYMOUTH AHEAD, OF A 7 WEEK CHRISTMAS SEASON
AT SADLER’S WELLS, LONDON
New Adventures, Martin McCallum and Marc Platt are delighted to announce that EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, devised, directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne will return in 2023.
Credit: Johan Persson/
The tour opens at Theatre Royal Plymouth on Monday 20 November and runs until Saturday 25 November before going to The Lowry, Salford from Tuesday 28 November to Saturday 2 December, ahead of a seven-week Christmas Season at Sadler’s Wells, London from Tuesday 5 December 2023 to Saturday 20 January 2024.
The four-month UK tour continues in 2024 and will visit The Marlowe, Canterbury from Tuesday 23 to Saturday 27 January and Birmingham Hippodrome from Tuesday 6 to Saturday 10 February. Full tour dates until May 2024 to be announced soon.
Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production of EDWARD SCISSORHANDS has carved a place in the hearts of audiences world-wide since its premiere in 2005. Following sell out performances in America, Australia, Korea and Japan and Europe, it had its first major revival in 2014 and now returns to UK theatres for the first time in 9 years.
Based on the classic Tim Burton movie and featuring the hauntingly beautiful music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, Bourne and his company, New Adventures return to this witty, bittersweet story of an incomplete boy left alone in a strange new world.
In a castle high on a hill lives Edward; a boy created by an eccentric inventor. When his creator dies, he is left alone and unfinished with only scissors for hands until a kindly townswoman invites him to live with her suburban family. Can Edward find his place in the well-meaning community which struggles to see past his curious appearance to the innocence and gentleness within?
Matthew Bourne said: “I’ve always been attracted by ‘outsider’ stories in my work and Edward Scissorhands is the ultimate ‘outsider’ story. Its tale of how we treat people who we perceive as being ‘different’ in our communities has never been more timely, so I’m delighted to be bringing it back after an absence of 9 years to theatres throughout the UK. What I particularly love about this modern-day fairy tale is that although it does have an important message to convey, and a bitingly satirical look at American society, it is also the most wonderful fun you could possibly have in a theatre! Add to that a touching love story, the magical music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, the spectacular lighting of Howard Harrison, the genius of Lez Brotherston’s witty designs …. plus a mini ballet of dancing topiary people and you have an unbeatable and unique theatrical treat! I’m grateful, as ever, for the trust that Tim Burton, Danny Elfman and Caroline Thompson had in New Adventures to grant permission for us to make our version of their now classic tale – the only company in the world to perform Edward Scissorhands as a live theatrical experience.”
EDWARD SCISSORHANDS is devised, directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne, with new music and arrangements by Terry Davies based on themes from the motion picture score composed by Danny Elfman. The show is based on the original motion picture by arrangement with 20th Century Studios, with original story and motion picture directed by Tim Burton, and original screenplay, story and co-adaptation by Caroline Thompson. The set and costumes designed by Lez Brotherston, lighting designed by Howard Harrison and sound designed by Paul Groothuis. By Special Arrangement with Buena Vista Theatricals.
Cast announced for the world premiere of NUL POINTS! A new Eurovision comedy by Martin Blackburn
Adèle Anderson, Charlotte East, Marcus J. Foreman, Sean Huddlestan, Kane Verrall
Union Theatre Arch 22 & 23 Old Union Yard Arches 229 Union Street London SE1 0LR
26 April – 20 May 2023
Adèle Anderson, Charlotte East, Marcus J. Foreman, Sean Huddlestan and Kane Verrall are to star in the world premiere of NUL POINTS!, a new Eurovision comedy by Martin Blackburn.
Josh loves Eurovision. He knows every insane figure and fact. Ukraine entering a guy in a hamster wheel. Ireland with Dustin the Turkey. The Russian grannies. And each May he hosts a Eurovision party – the highlight of his year. Join this hilarious rollercoaster of a journey over 10 years of Eurovision Parties from 2012 to 2022 as Josh bestows his guests with Bucks Fizz, Euro-V trivia and games of Eurovision truth or dare. Will they Rise Like a Phoenix, get Ooh Aah, Just a Little Bit…or meet their Waterloo with NUL POINTS!?
The performance on Saturday 13 May will start at 5.00pm to be followed by a Eurovision party including a screening of the Eurovision Final live in the theatre.
Creative Team: Director William Spencer, Designer David Shields, Producer Peter Bull Associate producer Conor Dye.
Adèle Anderson Adèle is best known as a member of the acclaimed cabaret group Fascinating Aida and co-writes much of their material with founder member Dillie Keane. Fascinating Aida have been nominated for the Perrier Award, the Olivier Award (three times) and the New York Drama Desk Award. Theatre credits include: ‘She Loves Me’ (Sheffield Crucible), ‘Closer To Heaven’ (Above The Stag), ‘Doctor Dolittle (UK Tour), ‘Follies’ (Landor), ‘Into The WOODS (Derby Playhouse and The Forum, Wythenshawe), ‘Ken Hill’s Phantom of the Opera’ (National Tour), ‘Salad Days’ (National Tour), ‘Plan 9 From Outer Space – The Musical’ (National Tour), ‘Sunset Boulevard’ (Sydmonton Festival).
Charlotte East Charlotte graduated from The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in 2020 as one of the BBC Radio Drama Carleton Hobbs Winners. Theatre credits include: ‘Earthquakes In London’ (Bristol Old Vic Studio) ‘Love Song’ (BOVTS) ‘The Tempest’ (Nottingham Playhouse) ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ (Nottingham Playhouse).
Marcus J. Foreman Theatre credits include: ‘Alright B*tches!’ (Above the Stag), ‘Gatsby’ (Southwark Playhouse), ‘Boy Toy’ (Above the Stag), ‘Top Hat’ (Upstairs at the Gatehouse), ‘Mack and Mabel’ (Hackney Empire), ‘West End Women’ (Orchard Theatre), ‘The Wizard of Oz’ (Birmingham Rep).
Sean Huddlestan Theatre includes: Eddie in ‘Three Wise Monkeys’ (Turbine Theatre) Andy in ‘Happy Ending’ (Garden Theatre) Roy in Jonathan Harvey’s ‘Boom Bang-A-Bang’ (Above the Stag) Ghost in ‘The Inheritance’ (West End) Max in ‘Time For Tea (Etcetera) Joe in ‘Bluethroat’ (Arcola). Off Broadway: Micah in ‘Asking for Trouble’ and Philly in ‘True Hollywood Story’ (Ensemble Studio Theatre). Kane Verrall Theatre credits include: Blaine in ‘Club Tropicana’ (UK & Ireland tour), Rolf Gruber & Dance Captain in ‘The Sound of Music’ (UK Tour), Neil Kellerman in ‘Dirty Dancing’ (UK Tour), Fanny in ‘Fanny & Stella’ (Garden Theatre), Will Scarlett in ‘TWANG!!’ (New Union Theatre), Spirit of the Beans in’ Jack and the Beanstalk’ (Everyman Theatre), Various roles in ‘Tweedy’s Reduced Pantomime’ (Everyman Theatre), Dandini in ‘Cinderella’ (Everyman Theatre), Dandini in ‘Cinderella’ (Civic Theatre, Chelmsford), Dick Whittington in ‘Dick Whittington’ (Yvonne Arnaud), Gregory in ‘Free as Air’ (Finborough).
Martin Blackburn – Writer Martin is an avid theatregoer and mega fan of the Eurovision Song Contest. His previous plays include the Bitches Trilogy (‘Alright Bitches!’, ‘Bitches Ahoy!’ and ‘Bitches Down Under!’) all originally produced by Peter Bull at the Above The Stag Theatre as well as ‘Last One Here’ (White Bear Theatre).
William Spencer – Director William trained at Bird College and as an intern/student ambassador to the McOnie Company. Alongside this, he has had the pleasure of working with West End and internationally renowned creatives such as Carole Todd, Nick Winston, Steven Dexter and Bronagh Lagan. Recently, he was twice Offie nominated for Best Choreographer for ‘[Title of Show]’ and ‘Boy Toy’. His two all male narrative ballets ‘Coppelia’ and ‘The Supermarket Suite’ received seven 5 star reviews along with an Offie Commendation Award. Other choreographic and directorial credits include: ‘A-Typical Rainbow’, ‘LOL Surprise’, ‘Next Thing You Know’, ‘Frostbite’, Gradfest’s Showcase, ‘Black Magic Woman’, ‘Queereteria TV’, ‘Diary of a W*nky Actor’ and the cabaret show ‘Cut Before Curtain Up’. Assistant choreographer/director credits include the following Offie nominated productions: Pippin’, ‘Romance Romance’, ‘Musical of Musicals (The Musical!)’, ‘Mother Goose’ and ‘Cynthia’s Girls’.
Peter Bull – Producer Peter founded Above The Stag Theatre where he was artistic director for 11 years until 2019. He has produced over 100 Off West End plays, musicals and pantomimes as well as cabaret and stand up performances. His outdoor production of ‘Fanny & Stella’ was the first musical to open in the UK after the first Covid 19 lockdown. Highlights of his career include the 25th anniversary production of Jonathan Harvey’s ‘Beautiful Thing’, the Pet Shop Boys’ musical ‘Closer to Heaven’ and ‘Silence! The Musical’ as well as his legendary Above The Stag adult pantos. In addition he has directed in London, New York, Milwaukee and Chicago.
LISTINGS INFO
Peter Bull presents Nul Points!
A new Eurovision comedy by Martin Blackburn
Director William Spencer
UNION THEATRE Arch 22 & 23 Old Union Yard Arches 229 Union Street London SE1 0LR
Tickets : £15 / £20 / £25 Wednesday 26 April : £15 Thursday 27 April : £15 Friday 28 April : £20 Saturday 29 April : £20 Sunday 30 April : £20 Tuesday 2 May – Saturday 20th May : £25 Saturday 13 May: £30 to include a glass of bubbles and Eurovision party
A Northern Broadsides and New Vic Theatre Co-production Cast announced for the tour of J.M. Barrie’s acclaimed regency comedy Quality Street UK Tour – March to July 2023
The cast has been announced for the delicious Regency farce Quality Street, touring the UK this year. From the beloved writer of Peter Pan, the acclaimed original run in 2020 was cut short by the pandemic and has now been revived for 2023. The popularity of J.M. Barrie’s romantic comedy was such a sensation in its day that it gave its name to the UK’s most loved chocolates: Quality Street™.
The lead, Phoebe Throssel, this time will be played by Calderdale’s very own Paula Lane, who will be familiar to audiences for her 6 years in Coronation Street as Kylie Platt, as well as her work in Call The Midwife, Father Brown and Kinky Boots.
In a co-production with New Vic Theatre, Northern Broadsides is reviving their delectable production of Quality Street, stirring in a good helping of Yorkshire wit in a new version for 2023. This sweet and sumptuous show was created with a team of retired workers from the Halifax factory where Quality Street™ chocolates have been proudly made since 1936, wrapping the action in their witty and outrageous observations.
Two of the cast are returning from the orginal run: Alicia McKenzie (Small Island, National Theatre; Bleak Expectations, The Watermill Theatre) as Mary Willoughby / Lotte and Louisa May Parker (Coronation Street, ITV; Sitcom Stories, Edinburgh Fringe) as Susan Throssel.
Alicia McKenzie
Louisa May Parker
They are joined by Paula Lane (Coronation Street, ITV; Road, Oldham Coliseum), as heroine Phoebe Throssel, Jelani D’Aguilar (My Voice Was Heard But It Was Ignored, Red Ladder Theatre Company; Planet Caravan, People Zoo) as Fanny Willoughby / Isabella / Sandra, Alice Imelda (Stick Man, Freckle Productions; I Spie, The Telling) as Charlotte Parratt / Jo, Aron Julius (As You Like It, Northern Broadsides; A Christmas Carol and Love, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse) will be Captain Valentine Brown and Alex Moran (War Horse, National Theatre; A Clockwork Orange, Volcano) as Ensign Blades / Arthur / Brenda
Paula Lane
Jelani D’Aguilar
Alice Imelda
Aron Julius
Alex Moran
Jamie Smelt (Macca & Beth, Royal Court Liverpool; Ackley Bridge, Channel 4) is Recruiting Sergeant / Georgy / Lieutenant Spicer and Gilly Tompkins (Murder, Margaret & Me, Tilted Wig Productions; Gangsta Granny, National Tour and Garrick, West End) completes the cast as Patty / Barbara.
Jamie Smelt
Gilly Tompkins
Laurie Sansom, director of Quality Street and Artistic Director / CEO of Northern Broadsides comments,
“It was heart-breaking to have to abandon this production in 2020 when it was being enjoyed by so many. We are thrilled to be working with our wonderful partners at New Vic Theatre to bring it back to stages up and down the country with a fantastically playful company. They capture the wit and wisdom of J.M. Barrie’s delightfully comic creation, as well as the Halifax women who helped us make the original show. We can’t wait to get it back on the road.”
Theresa Heskins, Artistic Director of New Vic Theatre, comments,
“It is a real treat to be working with Northern Broadsides on Quality Street. We were eagerly anticipating the show in 2020 when it was cut short due to Covid, so we couldn’t be happier that we’re now collaborating in our workshops and rehearsal rooms once again on this delightful romantic comedy. We can’t wait to finally be able to share it with our audiences after almost three years of waiting.”
Phoebe Throssel runs a school for unruly children on Quality Street. Ten years after a tearful goodbye, her old flame returns from fighting Napoleon. But the look of disappointment on Captain Valentine’s face when he greets an older, less glamorous Phoebe spurs the determined heroine to action, becoming the wild and sparkling Miss Livvy, a younger alterego who soon beguiles the clueless Captain. As their romance is rekindled, and Miss Livvy melts the Captain’s heart, Phoebe must juggle both personas while trying to avoid scandalizing the town with her deception, or wrecking her future with the man she loves.
Quality Street will open in March at the New Vic Theatre and then visit Devonshire Park Theatre, Royal & Derngate, Richmond Theatre, Octagon Theatre Bolton, Leeds Playhouse, York Playhouse, Crucible Theatre, Hull Truck Theatre, Stephen Joseph Theatre, Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Theatre by the Lake, Blackpool Grand Theatre and The Victoria Theatre, Halifax. The tour will conclude on World Chocolate Day.
Previous Praise for Quality Street
★★★★ A sweet and slightly nutty confection, The Mail on Sunday
★★★★ A lot of giddy fun, The Telegraph
★★★★ J.M. Barrie’s frothy confection is mined for all its comic potential, The Stage
LA BAMBA! – A BRAND NEW DANCE MUSICAL – HEADS TO LONDON’S WEST END THIS AUGUST
· FURTHER TOUR DATES ANDOPEN CASTING CALL ANNOUNCED FOR LA BAMBA!
Paul Morrissey Ltd is thrilled to announce that the world premiere of the explosive new musical, La Bamba! is heading to London’s West End this summer.
Featuring breath-taking Choreography from Strictly Come Dancing favourite and Italian Latin champion Graziano Di Prima, La Bamba! will open at London’s Peacock Theatre, Sadler’s Wells West End theatre, for a limited seasonon Tuesday 22 August 2023until Saturday 2nd September 2023, with tickets on general sale on Monday 27th March 2023.
Graziano Di Prima will work alongside Commercial Latin Choreographer Erica Da Silva.
Inspired by the unbelievable life and legacy of Rock ‘n’ Roll legend, Ritchie Valens, and featuring some of the most iconic songs of all time, La Bamba! is a jaw-dropping new musical that mixes Latin, R & B and timeless rock and pop to tell the ultimate feel-good story of a young girl with a big voice, big dreams, and an even bigger heart. A story of passion and pride and the discovery that every journey starts with that first step.
Directed by multi-award-winning American director RayRoderick, with music by award-winning Alfonso Casado-Trigo, an associate choreography by Giada Lini,La Bamba! is a pulsating dance musical that will open at Curve in Leicester on Tuesday, 1st August 2023.
La Bamba! will then travel to cities across the UK including Swansea, Cardiff, Swindon, Dartford, Coventry and High Wycombe. Tickets on sale soon.
The producers are searching for their leading lady and other cast members, they will be holding open-call auditions in London on Thursday 30th March 2023. Applicants must be 18 years or older and eligible to work in the UK. For casting breakdowns and further information, please visit the La Bamba! website.
THE ALHAMBRA BRADFORD, MANCHESTER OPERA HOUSE, SHEFFIELD LYCEUM, PETERBOROUGH NEW THEATRE, WOLVERHAMPTON GRAND, LEICESTER CURVE AND HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE ABERDEEN.
Showpath Entertainment are delighted to announce that television star Tom Read Wilson will star as Squidward in the UK Premiere of THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL, joining the previously announced Divina de Campo as Plankton. Tom will play the role in Bradford, Manchester, Sheffield, Peterborough, Wolverhampton, Leicester and Aberdeen.
Tom Read Wilson (Squidward)is probably best known as the receptionist on Channel 4’s Celebs Go Dating. He studied at Rose Bruford College and the Royal Academy of Music before performing in Sleeping Beauty at Wellingborough Castle Theatre, Alice in Wonderland at Madinat Theatre, Dubai, the UK Tour of Cat in the Hat and in Sweet Revenge at Theatre Royal Windsor.
As previously announced, Gareth Gates will play the role of Squidward in Southampton, Birmingham, Oxford, Dublin, Belfast, Cardiff, Blackpool and Norwich.
Further casting for the production’s run at Southbank Centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall, in Plymouth and Newcastle to be announced. Full tour details and listings below www.spongebobstage.com
THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL cast is completed by Lewis Cornay (he/him) as SpongeBob, Irfan Damani (he/him) as Patrick, Chrissie Bhima (she/her) as Sandy, Richard J Hunt (he/him) as Mr Krabs, Sarah Freer (she/her) as Pearl, Eloise Davies (she/her) as Mrs Puff, Hannah Lowther (she/her) as Karen and Rebecca Lisewski (she/her) as Mayor. They are joined by Sam Beveridge (he/him), Jeremiah Olaleye (he/him), Eleanor Turiansky (she/her),Rhys Batten (he/him) and Reece Kerridge (he/him).
Gareth Gates (Squidward) shot to fame in 2002, coming runner up in the UK’s first Pop Idol. He went on to sell over 5-million records worldwide including five UK number-one singles. His theatre credits include playing Marius in the both the West End and 25th Anniversary Tour of Les Misérables, Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in the West End and on tour, Warner in the UK tour of Legally Blonde and Willard in the UK tour of Footloose.
Divina De Campo (Sheldon J. Plankton) is a seasoned British drag queen and singer who was recently crowned runner up on the first Series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Known for her high soprano and four -octave range, Divina has been featured on ITV’s The Voice and the BBC’s All Together Now. Her critically acclaimed theatre credits include Mary Sunshine in Chicago and most recently her award nominated performance as Hedwig in Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
Lewis Cornay (SpongeBob) was most recently seen as Amos in Whistle Down The Wind at The Watermill. His West End credits include The Book of Mormon, The King and I, The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins. As a writer, Lewis had his debut play Daddy Issues premiere at the Seven Dials Playhouse last year.
Irfan Damani (Patrick Star) was most recently seen in The New Musketeers and The Aliens Who Saved Christmas as part of Trinity Theatre Christmas Rep. His West End credits include Raj in Billionaire Boy at the Garrick Theatre and Father in Ishq the Musical at Sadler’s Wells Theatre. On television he has appeared as Saleem in BBC One’s EastEnders and on film in Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again.
Chrissie Bhima (Sandy) graduated from ArtsEd in 2022. Her theatre credits include Candy in Whistle Down The Wind at The Watermill, Jennifer in The Witches of Eastwick in Concert at the Sondheim Theatre and Avatar in Lift at the Southwark Playhouse.
Richard J Hunt (Mr Krabs) most recently appeared as Mudge in Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol at the Southbank Centre. His other theatrical credits include Bromance The Dudesical at The Other Palace, the UK and European Tour of Jesus Christmas Superstar, Mack and Mabel at the Southwark Playhouse, Me and My Girl at the London Palladium and the UK and European Tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. On television he has been seen BBC2’s Beautiful People, RTE’s The Late Late Show and Channel 4’s Teachers.
Sarah Freer (Pearl) has recently appeared in Jack and the Beanstalk at Sheffield Lyceum as well as in the UK Tour of Zog and the Flying Doctors. She has also appeared in The Color Purple at Cadogan Hall.
Eloise Davies’ (Mrs Puff) West End credits include 42 Balloons at the Vaudeville Theatre, Grease at the Dominion Theatre, Bonnie & Clyde in Concert at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Taboo 10th Anniversary at The London Palladium, Be More Chill at The Other Palace, and West End Heroes at the Dominion Theatre.
Hannah Lowther (Karen) has most recently appeared in the West End concerts for Emojiland at the Garrick Theatre and Kinky Boots at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. She has also appeared in Millennials in The Other Palace Studio and Heathers The Musical at The Other Palace where she made history as the first actress to play all three Heathers in Heathers The Musical and went on to win three West End Wilma Awards including Best Understudy.
Rebecca Lisewski (Mayor)most recently appeared in the West End in Strictly Ballroom at the Piccadilly Theatre. Her other West End credits include Mamma Mia! And Carousel. She has also appeared in the UK Tours of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Tango Moderno, The Last Tango, and Starlight Express.
Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? SpongeBob SquarePants! Plunge into this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show!
When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world!
With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up. The power of optimism really can save the world! An exciting new production featuring irresistible characters, magical choreography and dazzling costumes; this deep-sea pearl of a show is really set to make a splash with audiences young and old as the must-see musical of 2023. The future is bright, the future is bold, the future is THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL.
THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL is based on the series by Stephen Hillenburg, with book by Kyle Jarrow and featuring original songs by Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alex Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I. and songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics by Jonathan Coulton. Additional music by Tom Kitt. Musical production conceived by Tina Landau.
THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL will be directed by Tara Overfield Wilkinson (she/her), with choreographer Fabian Aloise (he / him), designer Steve Howell (he / him), Musical Supervisor Mark Crossland (he / him), Musical Director Marcus Carter-Adams (he/him), Costume Designer Sarah Mercade (she / her), Lighting and Video Designer Ben Bull (he / him), Sound Designer Ben Harrison (he / him), Costume and Wig Supervisor Megan Rarity (she / her), Associate Choreographer Paris Green (she/her) and Casting Director Harry Blumenau Casting (he / him). Selladoor Worldwide General Management.
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INITIAL CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR AWARD-WINNING HIT MUSICAL
EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE
2023-24 UK & IRELAND TOUR
The smash-hit and critically acclaimed musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie announces initial casting for its second UK & Ireland tour.
The cast includes Ivano Turco (Get Up, Stand Up!, Cinderella) as Jamie New, Rebecca McKinnis (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie West End, Dear Evan Hansen, We Will Rock You, Les Misérables) as Margaret New, Shobna Gulati (The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie West End and Film, Coronation Street, Brassic) as Ray, Talia Palamathanan (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie Tour and film) as Pritti, with John Partridge (Eastenders, The View Upstairs, La Cage Aux Folles, Chicago, A Chorus Line, CATS) as Hugo/Loco Chanelle (7 September until 11 November 2023 and 16 January until 16 March), Further casting to be announced.
Nica Burns, Producer of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie said: “We are absolutely delighted to be announcing a cracking cast for our second national tour. A huge welcome two new talented stars to the cast of Jamie: Ivano Turco in the title role and John Partridge as his mentors, Hugo/Loco Chanelle. They join two superlative fan favourites from the West End cast, Rebecca McKinnis as mum Margaret and Shobna Gulati also reprising her role in the film as Ray. Talia Palamathanan who was such a hit in the ensemble steps up to the lead role of Pritti.
We thank all our audiences for the incredible reception they have given us and look forward to sharing our joyful musical once again on tour round the UK”.
Following a record-breaking three-year West End residency, sold out UK & Ireland Tour and Amazon studios award-winning film the show opens at The Lowry on 7 September 2023 before visiting Sunderland, Nottingham, Bromley, Birmingham, Cardiff, Brighton, Leeds, Blackpool, Llandudno, Oxford, Newcastle, Wolverhampton, Woking, Sheffield, Liverpool and Glasgow with further tour dates to be announced.
Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn’t quite fit in. Jamie is terrified about the future. Jamie is going to be a sensation. Supported by his brilliant loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness, into the spotlight.
This ‘Funny, outrageous, touching’ (Daily Telegraph) musical sensation is to be experienced by all the family and not to be missed!
Set to an original score of catchy pop tunes that will ‘blow the roof off the theatre’ (Mail on Sunday) by lead singer-songwriter of The Feeling, Dan Gillespie Sells and writer Tom MacRae (Doctor Who). Choreographed by Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Kate Prince (Into The Woods, Some Like It Hip Hop, SYLVIA, Message In A Bottle). This ‘sparkling coming-of-age musical’ (The Times) will have everybody talking about Jamie for years to come.
Sixteen: the edge of possibility. Time to make your dreams come true.
Watch the Everybody’s Talking About Jamietrailer
Music by Dan Gillespie Sells
Book and Lyrics by Tom MacRae
From an idea by Jonathan Butterell
Directed by Matt Ryan from original direction by Jonathan Butterell
Design by Anna Fleischle
Choreography by Kate Prince
Lighting design by Lucy Carter
Sound design by Paul Groothuis
Video Design Luke Halls
Casting by Will Burton
Musical Supervisor Theo Jamieson
CAST BIOGRAPHIES
Ivano Turco plays Jamie New. Early training: Arts 1 School of Performance, The Urdang Academy. Credits while training: Sleeping Beauty (Belgrade Theatre, Coventry). Upon graduating in 2020 he debuted in the Original West End cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella starring as Prince Sebastian (Gillian Lynne Theatre). He was a part of ALW’s Cinderella Original Album Cast Recording which received a GRAMMY Nomination for Best Musical Theatre Album in 2021 with Ivano further receiving a nomination as a Featured Artist. In 2021 he was the winner of the Black British Theatre award for Best Male Actor in a Musical for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella, sharing the same nomination at the WhatsOnStage Awards 2021. In 2021 he starred as Mordred in Lambert Jackson’s CAMELOT: In Concert (London Palladium); he was a part of the original London workshop cast of FANGIRLS as Salty/Dance captain. He also appears on the studio album of Footballer’s Wives as Salvo, featuring on the singles ‘Lonely Moon’ and ‘Let’s Dance’. Most recently Ivano was the alternate Bob Marley in Get Up! Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical. (Lyric Theatre).
Rebecca McKinnis plays Margaret New. Her theatre credits include Tessa in Wish You Were Dead (UK Tour), Heidi Hansen in Dear Evan Hansen (Noël Coward Theatre); Joan in You Are Here (Southwark Playhouse); Bridget in St Anne Comes Home (The Actors Church); Margaret in Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (Apollo Theatre); Christina in Women on the Verge of a NervousBreakdown (Playhouse Theatre); Tina Ruston in A Small Family Business (National Theatre Olivier); u/s and Lauren in Viva Forever (Piccadilly Theatre); Les Misérables (25th Anniversary Tour); Teacher and u/s Killer Queen in We Will Rock You (Dominion Theatre); u/s Jeanie in Fat Pig (Trafalgar Studios); Susannah Townley in Three Hours After Marriage (Union Theatre); Grumio in The Taming of the Shrew (Changeling Theatre Company); Lucy Lockett in Beggar’s Opera (Changeling Theatre Company); u/s and Donna/Tanya in Mamma Mia! (Prince of Wales); Virus/cover Kim and Big Sue in Taboo (UK Tour); Starting Here Starting Now (Upstairs at the Gatehouse); Kitty in Charley’s Aunt (CMC). Other credits include: Sound of Music Live (ITV); Comedy Cuts (ITV2) and Beauty and the Beast (Disney).
Shobna Gulati plays Ray. Shobna will soon be seen returning to the role of Nima in the upcoming second series of Channel 4’s Hullraisers. She became a household name for her role as Anita in Victoria Wood’s dinnerladies and as Sunita, in Coronation Street. She trained at Manchester University, Trinity Laban, Goldsmith’s College, London, Darpana Academy for Performing Arts, India and has a postgraduate in teaching dance from Middlesex University. Theatre credits include The Rise and Fall of Little Voice (UK Tour); Cinderella (Lyric Hammersmith); Richard II (The Globe); Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (The Apollo Theatre and tour ); Daisy Pulls It Off (The Park); Anita & Me (Birmingham Rep/Touring Consortium); Grease (Leicester Curve); Mamma Mia International Tour 2015- 2016, Jon Godber’s April in Paris (Derby Playhouse/ National Tour); B!rth, Hunger for Trade, Come CloserPretend You Have Big Buildings, Cafe Vesuvio (Royal Exchange, Manchester); How High is Up?, The Jungle Book, (West Yorkshire Playhouse); dinnerladies, Girl’s Night (National Tour), The Vagina Monologues (Mark Goucher Ltd); Romeo and Juliet, Crazy Lady (Leicester Haymarket, Contact Theatre ); The Mikado (New, Vic Stoke and Stephen Joseph Theatre) A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Tara Arts/National Tour) , Moti Roti Puttli Chunni, Blaggers, and D’yer Eat with Your Fingers? (Theatre Royal, Stratford East). Film credits includeEverybody’s Talking About Jamie (New Regency/Film4/Warp Films); Finding Fatimah (British Muslim TV); Junkhearts, (Dir. Tinge Krishnan) and BAFTA award winning short film, Shadowscan (BFI/Channel4/Disruptive Element Films). She has also written and directed the critically acclaimed comedy show for young women The Masala Girls. Television credits include Brassic (Sky); Inside No 9 (BBC); My Name is Leon (BBC); Midsomer Murders (ITV); Murder They Hope (UKTV); 4Stories – On the Edge (Blacklight Productions); Doctor Who (BBC); Moving On (LA Productions); River City (BBC Scotland); Treasure Champs (CBeebies) Casualty (BBC); Doctors (BBC); Coronation Street (ITV), Hold The Sunset (BBC), In the Club (BBC), Eastenders (BBC), New Street Law (BBC), Magnolia (BBC), Paranoid (ITV1/Red/Netflix), You, Me and Them (UKTV Gold), The Slammer (CBBC), Jackanory (CBBC), Bedtime Stories (Cbeebies), Coming Up (Channel 4), Where The Heart Is (ITV1)and dinnerladies (BBC). As a panellist she was seen on Call My Bluff, Have I Got News For You, Countdown and was a regular on ITV’s Loose Women until 2014. She appeared in Best Home Cook and was a semi- finalist in Celebrity Masterchef for the BBC and has appeared in Soapstar Superstar and Stars in their Eyes for ITV. Documentaries include: RTS award winning, River Walks, BBC1, Empire’s Children, Channel 4, Back In Time For Tea BBC2, Disappearing and Discovering Britain, More4. Shobna has also worked extensively as a dancer and choreographer in regional theatres and also in community and education settings across the UK. Between 1992 and 1994 she was a dance animateur for Yorkshire and Humberside. She has written her critically acclaimed memoir, REMEMBER ME? Discovering my mother as she lost her memory, published by Octopus Books in September 2020. She is a Doctor from Bolton University, University of Huddersfield, and Sheffield Hallam, and is Chancellor of The Children’s University, Oldham. She is also a Deputy Lieutenant for Greater Manchester.
Talia Palamathanan plays Pritti Pasha. Talia trained at The Brit School and part time at the Laura Bruce Dance Academy and Flawless Dance School. Her theatre credits include Stacey in Pump up the Volume for MTFest (Turbine Theatre), Lizbeth in Original London Cast of Cages (Riverside Studios), Becca/Understudy Pritti Pasha in Everybody’s Talking about Jamie (Original UK Tour, Ahmanson Theatre Los Angeles), Anne Margaret in Teenage Dick (Donmar Warehouse), West End Musical Celebration (Palace Theatre), Hortensia in RSC’s Matilda: the Musical (Cambridge Theatre). Her TV credits include The Late Late Show with James Corden performing with Everybody’s Talking about Jamie (CBS), Pav in Hank Zipzer (CBBC), and Children in Need performing with the cast of Matilda: the Musical (BBC). Her film credits include Everybody’s Talking About Jamie: The Film (Warp Films). Workshops include: Sharmina in Soho Dreams (The Lowry). Music Videos include: Michael Bublé & Idina Menzel ‘Baby it’s Cold Outside’. Other Work Includes: Soho Dreams Cast Workshop Recording, The Evening Standard Theatre Awards 2019 with Drew Mconie & Cush Jumbo, Dancer in Flawless: Chase the Dream Tour, Various Hip-Hop/ Commercial dance works for Flawless, Aston Merrygold, Dance Proms & MOVEIT.
John Partridge plays Hugo/Loco Chanelle. John is a British actor, singer, presenter and writer. John initially trained in ballet at the Royal Ballet School and went on to train in musical theatre at the Bush Davies School of Theatre Arts and Doreen Bird College of Performing Arts. At the age of 16, John left college to join the cast of the original UK tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical CATS. He went on to join the West End production of the show at the New London Theatre, to star as Rum Tum Tugger. John was subsequently asked to play the role in the official film of the show, opposite Elaine Paige and John Mills. Other West End credits include: Zach in the London revival of A Chorus Line (London Palladium); Robert Martin in The Drowsy Chaperone (Novello Theatre); Gringoire in Notre-Dame de Paris (Dominion Theatre); The Fix (Donmar Warehouse) directed by Sam Mendes; Hawker/Captain Walker in Tommy (Shaftesbury Theatre); Grease (Dominion Theatre); Electra in Starlight Express (Apollo Victoria Theatre); and The Butcher in The Hunting of the Snark (Prince Edward Theatre), Taboo 20th Anniversary Concert (London Palladium) and Daryl Van Horne in The Witches of Eastwick in Concert (Sondheim Theatre). John most recently played Maitland in The Chalk Garden (Theatre Royal Windsor & Yvonne Arnaud Theatre); led the National Theatre & CAST Doncaster production of The Doncastrian Chalk Circle as Azdak; toured the UK as The Emcee in the Rufus Norris production of Cabaret; played Buddy in The View Upstairs (Soho Theatre); Turai in Tom Stoppard’s Rough Crossing (UK Tour); and Chief Superintendent Tanner in The Case of the Frightened Lady after having starred as Albin, who moonlights as star drag act Zaza, in a brand new version of La Cage Aux Folles. He played Billy Flynn in Chicago (UK Tour); Prospero in The Tempest (Northcott Theatre); John in Miss Saigon (UK Tour); Roger in Rent (European Tour); appeared in Black Goes With Everything (Churchill Theatre, Bromley); and Marilyn in Boy George’s musical Taboo (The Venue). Screen credits includes: Julius Caesar in African Queens (Netflix), Felipe in Involuntary Activist (Iris Prize/BBC); and the long-running and much-loved role of Christian Clarke in EastEnders (BBC, 2007-2016). A well-known TV personality, John was crowned Winner of Celebrity MasterChef (BBC); bared all on The Real Full Monty (ITV); was a judge on Taking The Next Step (CBBC); competed in Battlechefs with Marco Pierre White (Watch) and gymnastics show Tumble (BBC). John was a celeb judge on the hugely successful Over the Rainbow (BBC); regular guest host of The National Lottery Draws (BBC); and is frequent guest contributor on Jeremy Vine (Channel 5). John has worked with several rock and pop acts, including: U2, Pet Shop Boys, Kim Wilde, Neneh Cherry, Pete Townshend, Mica Paris and Ultra Naté. In 2009, John won the Inside Soap Award for the Sexiest Male and, in 2010, he was awarded the Entertainer of the Year Award at the annual Stonewall Awards ceremony. In 2013, John performed his first live one-man show Dames ‘n’ Dudes at The Matcham Room, Hippodrome. Following its success, John released Dames, Dudes + Cowboys Too, his debut album featuring original songs alongside classic covers. In 2018, he premiered his all-new live show John Partridge: Stripped at The Other Palace Studio. Following its success, he revived the show in August 2018 at Assembly Checkpoint, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, returning back to London for a final performance at The Pleasance. Following his Celebrity MasterChef win, 2020 saw the release of his debut book, There’s No Place Like Home.
York Theatre Royal – until Saturday 18th March 2023
Reviewed by Michelle Richardson
3.5***
I must admit that generally, every show I go to see I do not read anything about it before hand. I like to go into a theatre and watch any show with an open mind. With the title of The Time Machine, though I have never read the book I have seen the 1960 film adaptation numerous times, I thought I had a rough idea of what the show was going to be about, even with the added “A Comedy” adorning the posters a programme. I’d left my reading glasses at home and couldn’t read the programme until I got home if I had I would have had more idea what to expect.
Original Theatre are currently touring with The Time Machine and are playing at York Theatre Royal this week. Directed by Orla O’Loughlin and written by Steven Canny and John Nicholson, this show is marketed to be an adaptation like no other, when the world of science fiction and science fact collide, and mind-boggling things can happen.
This adaptation starts off as three actors, Dave (Hearn), Michael (Dylan) and Amy (Revelle), switch from performing The Importance of Being Earnest and attempt to recreate HG Wells The Time Machine after being cajoled by Dave, who is the great-great grandson of HG Wells. Things soon go off kilter with technical problems, lines outs of sync, sounds of falling props off stage, very “The Play That Goes Wrong” style of theatre. This all made sense once I read the programme and saw that Dave was one of the founders of Mischief Theatre, who are experts in this field.
Whilst Amy and Michael are trying to roughly follow the script, Dave realises he has his great-great-grandfathers original “Time Machine” and is soon convinced that time travel is real, what follows is mayhem, culminating in tragedy at the end of the first half. I must admit that this was all very confusing and though at times was funny I did truly wander what I was watching. The second half was equally just as whacky, but with audience participation and a lot more laughter. With everything else happening it was extremely entertaining and took the show to another level.
This show is well cast with the confident, enthusiastic and charismatic Dave owning the stage with his energetic physical performance. Amy is spirited in her role, often exasperated when things go awry. She gives a fabulous Cher performance, wouldn’t be out of place as a Cher tribute. Michael is certainly dramatical and not only manages to do an Irish jig but delivers a soliloquy from Withnail and I. They really owned the stage with their melodramatic performances and shared great chemistry.
This show is absolutely bonkers, plain crazy, and I wasn’t sure what I was watching at first, certainly not the traditional The Time Machine. We do get to see some characters from the book, the Eloi named Weena and a Morlock, the latter resplendent in a naff costume, with a lot of hair, but we are also treated to Cher, and keeping up with current affairs, Harry and Meghan make an appearance.
The Time Machine – A Comedy, takes you on a rollercoaster of a ride and really comes into its own during the second half. Full of time paradoxes, perfect for the sci-fi geeks. I do enjoy a bit of sci-fi and this didn’t disappoint. This is an adaptation like no other, that takes you on a hilarious and unexpected journey, one that you can’t help analysing afterwards.
How Not to Drown was a different kind of theatre experience for me especially in the way ThickSkin Theatre portrayed a human story through multi-disciplined formats. The 90 minute production that has been adapted and dramatized by Nicola McCartney and innovatively directed by Neil Bettles certainly delivers a painful yet uplifting story that should not be missed.
Dritan Kastrati is a nine year old boy when he witnesses the destructive carnage of the Kosovan war with guns, dead bodies, and mass graves all around him. As a desperate act, his father decides to pay for his sons to be smuggled over to Britain starting with his eldest son Alfred and then Dritan who is aged eleven by this time.
He makes the journey all alone in the back of vans, trains and on boats arriving finally as a refugee in Britain and into their care system where he is regarded with suspicions eyes. Dritan is initially reunited with Alfred but is split from him due to suspicion of being involved in criminal activity and he has to contend alone once again with the revolving doors of foster care.
This story was first performed at the Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh in 2019 produced with Tron Theatre and Lawrence Batley Theatre and developed with support from the University of Edinburgh.
This is a fast paced drama performed by Dritan Kastrati himself alongside four other actors (Ajjaz Awad, Esme Bayley, Daniel Cahill, and Samuel Reuben) each of whom play Kastrati at some point in his journey alongside other characters such as mafia bosses, family members and foster families. The acting is superb which helped to draw out different elements of Dritan’s personality, most notably for me is his defiant ”formal complaint” that he is being ripped off having “paid all inclusive” for the journey.
The production needs special thanks to Becky Minto for the set design which included a raised revolving platform that looked like a raft, multipurpose props (steel barriers also being used as beds and doors) which were used effectively in transporting the audience across many hundreds of miles of Dritan’s journey. Neil Bettles & Jonnie Riordan for choreography, Zoe Spurr for Lighting and Alexandra
Fay Braithwaite for Sound design which punctuated key moments as well as creating a subtle atmosphere of menace and a reminder that an eleven year old boy is constantly asking himself “are these people going to feed me, beat me or rape me?”
EMPIRE THEATRE, LIVERPOOL – UNTIL SATURDAY 18 MARCH 2023
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
5*****
J.B. Priestley’s timeless crime thriller, An Inspector Calls landed at the Empire theatre last night and since Stephen Daldry’s production in 1992, has won a total of 19 major awards, including four Tony Awards and three Oliver awards. It has played to more than five million theatregoers worldwide and is also one of the most popular modern texts studied in English Literature GCSE. An Inspector Calls is the most internationally, highly praised production in the National Theatre’s history.
Set before the First World War, in 1912, we join the prosperous Birling household, where they are celebrating an engagement. The merriment is halted by the arrival of an Inspector Goole, who announces that a young woman, Eve Smith who used to work in a factory owned by the arrogant and self-important Arthur Birling has killed herself. The Inspector asks questions to uncover the truth about each character’s connection to Miss Smith. In doing so, he forces the family members to self-reflect, in turn they end up confessing to a secret they hoped no one would ever find out and lapse into self-pity. The audience is taken on a journey and learns the timeline of events which led this young woman to her end.
The magnificent staging by Ian MacNeil is genuinely striking, adding to the moral socialist piece of theatre. It is when the family secrets are revealed and their preconceptions exposed that everything, literally comes crashing down. The set is reinforced by the menacing music by Stephen Warbeck contributing to the sinister atmosphere effectively.
This production features a stellar cast and their performances are outstanding with Liam Brennan as Inspector Goole (or Ghoule), dominating the stage even when he wasn’t talking. I was particularly impressed by Christine Kavanagh as Sybil Birling, she was commanding as the icy-hearted and self-justifying matriarch.
The play forces the audience to reflect on their own actions and potential consequences. It also highlights the importance of caring for one another and accepting social responsibility! If you have seen it before, then you have not seen it like this.
