Posts with the label plays
Showing posts with label plays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label plays. Show all posts
Friday 7 July 2023
Matthew Kelly and Denise Welch to star in world premiere of The Gap at Hope Mill Theatre
Hope Mill Theatre is thrilled to announce the world premiere of a captivating new play, titled The Gap, written by Jim Cartwright and featuring the talented duo of Matthew Kelly and Denise Welch. Directed by Anthony Banks, this highly anticipated production will grace the stage of Hope Mill Theatre from February 9th to March 9th, 2024, for a limited engagement. Mark your calendars as tickets go on sale starting July 8th.
The Gap delves into the audacious adventures of Walter and Corral, two individuals who haven't crossed paths in half a century. Once inseparable during the vibrant '60s in Soho, Walter finds himself up north while Corral remains down south. However, a chance phone call reunites them for one magical night, and before they know it, they're immersed in their old tricks once more.
Matthew Kelly, renowned for his exceptional performances on both stage and screen, graces us with his presence in this production. With an illustrious career that includes memorable roles such as the original Stanley in Funny Peculiar, Waiting For Godot alongside Ian McKellen and Roger Rees, and a captivating portrayal of Lennie in Of Mice and Men, for which he earned an Olivier Award for Best Actor, Matthew Kelly's talent shines brightly. His recent theatre credits include Noises Off, The Habit Of Art, and The Dresser, among others, showcasing his remarkable versatility. Not only a master of the stage, Matthew has also made his mark on the screen, with notable appearances in various TV shows and presenting credits on beloved programs such as You Bet! and Stars in their Eyes.
Joining Kelly is the esteemed actress Denise Welch, whose upcoming engagement in Diana: The Musical at The Eventim Apollo has already garnered significant attention. Denise's theatrical repertoire boasts impressive performances in productions like Calendar Girls the Musical, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, and Steel Magnolias, to name a few. Her television career includes series regular roles in shows like Coronation Street, Waterloo Road, and Hollyoaks, solidifying her presence in the industry. As a regular panellist on ITV's Loose Women since 2001, Denise continues to captivate audiences with her engaging presence and insightful commentary.
Playwright Jim Cartwright and director Anthony Banks express their excitement about collaborating once again after their successful ventures with Mobile Phone Show in 2013 and Raz in 2016. They eagerly anticipate witnessing the extraordinary lives of Walter and Corral come to life through the exceptional talents of Denise Welch and Matthew Kelly, spanning five decades of change.
Matthew Kelly, filled with anticipation and enthusiasm, exclaims, "Dear Manchester, I'm coming home, and what better reason to return than with actress Denise Welch and playwright Jim Cartwright. We will star in the world premiere of Jim's remarkable new play, THE GAP, at Manchester's prestigious venue, Hope Mill Theatre. This funny, moving, and exquisitely crafted play will showcase the superb talents of Denise Welch, and I will be right by her side, shining throughout. Directed by Anthony Banks, this top-tier team embarks on an exceptional project at an extraordinary venue. I couldn't be more thrilled and excited. I invite you all to join us and be a part of this unforgettable experience. Sincerely, Matthew Kelly off the Telly."
Denise Welch expresses her elation, stating, "I am incredibly excited to return to my first love, theatre, and collaborate with the fantastic team at Hope Mill Theatre next year. Working opposite Matthew Kelly in a new play by Jim Cartwright is truly a dream come true. I hope each and every one of you will come and witness what promises to be an outstanding production."
The Gap is produced by Hope Mill Theatre
photo credit:
Wednesday 31 May 2023
Unmissable Summer Theatre Ticket Sale From London Box Office | ad
*this post contains sponsored content*
As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, the vibrant spirit of summer fills the air. And what better way to embrace the season than by indulging in the magical world of theatre? London Box Office, the hub for all things stagey, and trusted ticket provider has announced an unmissable summer theatre ticket sale that will have you seeing your favourite shows for less. Whether you want to see something new or visit an old faithful, London Box Office's summer sale promises to get you there with the best prices.
The Summer Theatre Ticket Sale which runs from 29th May to 11th June brings you a host of incredible shows that promise to leave you spellbound. From iconic long-running musicals to critically acclaimed plays, they've curated a selection of the best performances the West End has to offer. Whether you're a fan of heartwarming stories, adrenaline-pumping dramas, or toe-tapping musical numbers, there's something for everyone.
London Box Office is committed to making theatre accessible to all, and their Summer Theatre Ticket Sale ensures that you can witness these world-class productions without breaking the bank. With exclusive discounts and tickets from £25, you can enjoy incredible savings. Don't miss out on this chance to experience the magic of the West End - book your tickets today and get ready for an unforgettable summer of entertainment!
To find out all the shows included in this stagey sale, click here
2:22 A Ghost Story at the Apollo Theatre review: A tremendously tense night out
2:22 A Ghost Story
Apollo Theatre
★★★★
2:22 A Ghost Story is quickly carving its name out in the UK theatre scene. Having played a number of runs at various West End theatres to much acclaim and with a touring version coming up, it's certainly a show which knows how to spook and entertain audiences.
Based on experiences had by the play's writer, Danny Robbins, this haunting production takes you on a thrilling journey into the supernatural, exploring themes of love, loss, and the unbreakable bonds that transcend time. The storyline is quite masterfully crafted, keeping you on the edge of your seat but equally including lots of humour which really works well and in fact makes the whole thing feel even more realistic. The pacing is solid, with suspense building at the right moments, and unexpected twists that keep you guessing. Sometimes the sound effects are a bit over obvious and aren't particularly scary but as a whole this is a really solid production.
Set at a dinner party, with minimal set or moving pieces, this really is a character driven piece and the cast do well at creating a truthful atmosphere that perfectly portrays a boozy evening. Sophia Bush's performance as Lauren is a really wonderful one; she is effortlessly sarky and charming and also has some tender moments that bring layers of complexity to the role. Ricky Champ plays her partner, Ben and is absolutely fantastic, his comedic timing is perfect and his intriguing character is so enjoyable to watch and try to work out. Taking on the role of Jenny, the tormented protagonist, Jamie Winstone brings depth and vulnerability and comes across quite genuinely terrified, with Clifford Samuel as her husband Sam the pair showcase an interesting dynamic which really takes you on a journey and shows you that families aren't always what they seem on the outside.
Whats great with this show is that it's more than a surface level thriller; it also comments on social and economic issues, as well as beliefs and science vs supernatural. There are times when the commentary comes across as a bit forced and out of left field but for the most part, topics are broached well and really elevate the production to be more socially nuanced and topical. The chemistry among the whole cast is palpable, adding an extra layer of realism to the relationships portrayed on stage.
Anna Fleischle's set design leaves space for lots of spooky moments but is also perfectly mundane and fitting for the setting of the show. The Apollo Theatre really looks like it's had an open plan kitchen dropped into it and the attention to detail really captures the essence of a family home. Combined with atmospheric lighting by Lucy Carter, the ghostly tale has a perfect backdrop.
If you're a fan of thought-provoking theatre 2:22 A Ghost Story is a definite must-see. From the superb performances to the captivating storyline, this play transports you to a realm where the lines between the living and the dead blur, and where love and loss intertwine in ways you never thought possible. Running for two hours which fly by, this is theatrical experience that will linger in your mind like a persistent ghost long after the final curtain falls.
Reviewed on Tuesday 30th May 2023
photo credit: Helen Murray
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday 12 April 2023
The Mousetrap (Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
The Mousetrap (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
★★★★
“The World’s longest running play”, The Mousetrap is a classic whodunit play that has been running for 70 years in London’s West End and is now embarking on a UK tour. Seeing this touring iteration, it's easy to see why it has stood the test of time and continues to charm audiences.
The play is well-written and tightly plotted, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the audience guessing until the very end; Agatha Christie proves again why she continues to be one of the most lauded and loved mystery writers. The characters are interesting, and the performances by the cast are generally strong. Todd Carty as Major Metcalf and Kieran Brown as Mr Paravicini give especially strong performances and really engage the audience.
One of the things that impressed me about The Mousetrap is how it manages to keep you engaged and guessing throughout the entire performance. The play does an excellent job of setting up the mystery and then slowly unraveling it, with each new revelation leading to more questions and intrigue. Not only this, but sprinkled amongst the mystery of it all, are some really humorous moments which go down very well and make the pacing really work.
The set design and staging of the play are simple yet effective, and the use of lighting and sound helped to create a suitably ominous atmosphere, without being gimmicky or over the top.
Overall, The Mousetrap is a fantastic play that is definitely worth seeing for two hours of escapism. Whether you're a fan of murder-mysteries or just enjoy a good story, this play will not disappoint. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thrilling and entertaining night out at the theatre. Find out for yourself Whodunit at your local touring theatre!
Reviewed on Tuesday 11th April 2023 by Valerie Field
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday 4 April 2023
Vikki Stone on her Olivier Award Win | Hey Duggee Live | Interview
Vikki Stone is a British composer, comedian, actress and musician who has had huge success in tv, radio and theatre. She recently won an Oliver Award for her adaptation of the popular children's TV show, Hey Duggee. Vicki sat down to talk to us about her process when taking something from screen to stage, and how important it is for young people to experience theatre...
Firstly, congratulations on being an Olivier Winner 2023! Where were you when you found out you were nominated?
I was at the gym. (I didn’t share my excitement with anyone around me, as I’m not sure they’d have fully understood what I was excited about.)
You won for Hey Duggee which is a show that entices young audiences/families to the theatre, perhaps for the first time. What was the process like for creating a show, made to entertain and engage children?
Hey Duggee is a well loved kids TV programme, and there are 300+ episodes, so the very first thing myself and co-adaptor Matthew Xia did was sit down in a room with a massive whiteboard and write down all the things that audiences would expect to be in the show. We also wanted to surprise audiences, and deliver an experience that lifts the 2D cartoon into a 3D theatre world. We were also aware that this show would be many people’s first time in the theatre, so we wanted to make it magical and memorable too. We kept that list of audience expectations in our minds throughout the whole process and I think it paid off.
Why do you think it’s so important to involve people of all ages in theatre?
Family co-viewing, which is where Hey Duggee Live sits, is such an important genre of theatre. Those shows where 3 year olds can sit* down with parents, and grandparents and everyone has a good time.
*In Hey Duggee Live there’s no pressure that the under fives have to sit. There’s probably more bouncing around with joy, than sitting.
Within theatre you’ve had a pretty diverse career, what draws you to a project?
When I first started writing theatre it was whoever would pay me! There’s an advantage in the arts for those that can write without the pressure of needing to earn a living, and they can afford to be more choosy, I was not one of those people. I don’t think we talk about that enough in the arts. I wrote anything and everything. These days I do have passion projects that I’m working on that don’t have any finance attached, and you have to believe in those much more, and hope that at some point in the process someone will come along and help get it off the ground.
If you could create your next dream job, what would it include?
I’ve got something “in development” that is pretty much my dream job. I’d really like to work on an on-screen musical theatre show next! Watch this space.
What advice would you give to other female writers who want to break into the industry and forge out a path like yourself?
My advice would be to keep pushing and pivot if necessary. My whole career has been formed out of pivoting, and all the skills I gathered along the way - classical music, stand-up, composing - all form part of who I am as a writer now.
Thank you so much, congratulations on the award!
Sunday 2 April 2023
For Black Boys..., Apollo Theatre | Review
For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy
Apollo Theatre
★★★★
For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy is powerful and thought-provoking production which offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by young black men in today's society. The exceptionally strong play tackles heavy topics such as mental health, racism, and police profiling, all with a skilful blend of humour and heart that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. For Black Boys... is a must see in its limited run.
The performances from the cast, made up of Mark Akintimehin, Emmanuel Akwafo, Nnabiko Ejimofor, Darragh Hand, Aruna Jalloh and Kaine Lawrence are universally strong, with each actor bringing a unique and enticing angle to their role. Ryan Calais Cameron's writing is equally impressive, with sharp dialogue and powerful monologues that strike you whilst watching and also stay with you long after the play has ended. What's so effective is how the show flawlessly integrates spoken word, music, and dance to create an immersive and multifaceted experience. The whole thing is utterly seamless and flows with such a strong balance of urgency and intimacy.
The set design (Anna Reid) and lighting (Rory Beaton) add to the immersive experience, transporting the audience to the therapy room, without feeling basic; and the use of multimedia elements and striking choreography (Theophilus O. Bailey) add extra layers of depth to the production. As a whole it feels incredibly modern, relevant and powerful; a stunning representation of why new British Theatre is so necessary.
The show tackles important and sometimes taboo topics surrounding mental health, masculinity, and the experiences of young Black men and it's often incredibly moving; but what works so well is how these important social issues are balanced with humour and light. The authenticity which runs through the piece makes it feel so personal, and the audience really go through the journey with the performers.
For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy is a deeply moving and important work of art that, is a must-see for those interested in social justice, mental health, and ultimately, the power of storytelling. When the ensemble come together, they create some of the most powerful theatre seen in the West End in a long time.
Reviewed on Saturday 1st April 2023 by Olivia Mitchell
photo credit: Ali Wright
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday 22 March 2023
The Way Old Friends Do, Park Theatre | Review
The Way Old Friends Do
Park Theatre
★★★★
The Way Old Friends Do is a heartwarming play set to the backdrop of ABBA, that has you feeling an array of emotions and having a really good time. Written by Ian Hallard and under the expert direction of Mark Gatiss we are taken on the journey of music, friendship and found family.
The talented ensemble cast that bring each character to life in a charming way. Rose Shalloo is a complete stand out, continually bringing an infectious energy and providing some of the most endearingly humourous moments. James Bradshaw and Ian Hallard give well thought out performances and have an excellently witty chemistry with one another.
Janet Bird's set design is simple but effective, allowing the focus to remain on the actors and their performances. The revolving set cleverly transforms to a number of rooms whilst maintaining the ABBA-ness of it all.
This is a heartfelt play explores themes of love, loss, and friendship in a way that feels both universal and deeply personal. The story is filled with moments of both joy and sadness, that feel mostly natural and have you invested in the lives of the characters. The second act does suddenly take a turn to drama and comes across somewhat rushed, without enough development to truly hit home but overall things are well paced, and it's a sweet tale that celebrates friendship.
Overall, The Way Old Friends Do is a production that I highly recommend. It's a touching, well-crafted play that will stay with you after the final curtain call and have you wanting to create your own ABBA tribute group!
Reviewed on Tuesday 21st March 2023
photo credit: Tristram Kenton
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Saturday 18 March 2023
Further Than the Furthest Thing, Young Vic | Review
Further Than the Furthest Thing
Young Vic
★★
The Young Vic's current revival production of Further Than the Furthest Thing is somewhat adventurous, with some redeeming qualities; but ultimately it's piece that falls short of providing any truly moving or effective moments. The production has some visually stunning aspects and some really impressive performances, however, the pacing and overall coherence leaves much to be desired, and has you exiting the theatre feeling somewhat dazed.
Zinnie Harris’ 1999 play tells the tale of a remote island who's peaceful world is upended by the evils of the wider world. Based on the 1960s history of Tristan da Cunh, the source material provides some interesting insights but the script itself is disjointed, and often makes the story hard to follow. The themes of colonialism and displacement are important, and there are some comments which really stand out, but the overall execution lacks depth and nuance and keeps any solid points from being made. The transitions between scenes are also clunky and disrupt the flow of the play, leading to a sense of confusion and continual detachment from the characters.
Furthermore, the sound design and lighting choices are often distracting and do not add to the overall experience. At times, the sound effects are overly loud and jarring, while the lighting feels gimmicky and unnecessary. Soutra Gilmour's set offers some moments of visual excitement. The clever projections make the piece feel almost like an immersive art installation and the revolve allows all angles to be shown to the audience, but there's never enough oomph to really bring the show to life.
That's not to say the performers don't do a solid job with what they've been given. Jenna Russell especially gives a captivating performance, bursting with charm and charisma. Gerald Kyd is mysterious as Mr Hansen and Cyril Nri has some of the best character development, as well as great chemistry with Russell.
Overall, Further Than the Furthest Thing has some admirable aspects, but they are very much outweighed by the weaknesses in the production. It's truly a tale of two acts, which could work on their own but the general lack of cohesion really hinders the strong messages trying to be portrayed. While it may appeal to some theatre-goers, I personally found it underwhelming and would not recommend it as a must-see performance.
Reviewed on Friday 17th March 2023
photo credit: Marc Brenner
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday 15 March 2023
Girl From The North Country (Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Girl From The North Country (Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
★★★★★
Set to Bob Dylan’s poetic and politically charged back catalogue, Girl from the North Country introduces us to a rabble of lost souls at Nick Laine’s destitute guesthouse in 1930s Minnesota. Laine’s wife Elizabeth, adopted daughter Marianne and son Gene live alongside a host of wayward drifters, all with their own secrets and stories to share. Connor McPherson’s book is simple yet elegant; tragic anecdotes unravel across the next two and half hours, each punctuated by a song from Dylan’s discography. The musical numbers do not necessarily move the plot forward but are instead perfectly used to capture microcosmic moments in time.
Girl from the North Country is a real character piece, allowing a talented ensemble cast to individually shine. Frances McNamee gives a heartbreaking turn as Nick’s sick wife Elizabeth, masterfully shifting between moments of lucidity and child-like tantrums. Her performances of ‘Rolling Stone’ and ‘Forever Young’ are particularly spellbinding. Justina Kehinde shines as the spirited and effervescent Marianne, whilst Eve Norris (Katherine Draper) and Gregor Milne (Gene Laine) deliver an easy, understated version of ‘I Want You’ in Act one.
Dylan’s best known songs have been transformed tremendously by Simon Hale. Many take on an almost choral quality, including a stunning acapella section which closes the show and numbers lead by the soulful Maria Omakinwa as long-term resident and Nick’s lover, Mrs Nielsen. Other numbers are jaunty and percussive, creating a wonderfully varied musical landscape.
Rae Smith’s set and costume design are austere and efficient but entirely period appropriate, whilst Mark Henderson’s clever use of recurring spotlights against a backdrop of haunting silhouettes give several numbers an almost confessional feel. Time appears to stop still as interior monologues are shared under a stark beam of light. A twenty-strong ensemble fills an otherwise sparse stage; they execute Lucy Hind’s choreography with gumption, convulsing in sync as if we’re witnessing an evangelical awakening.
This production feels prophetic, visceral and cathartic all at once. Like an open wound, it pours with the voices of the lonely and disenfranchised during one of America’s darkest decades. However, there are several revelatory, uplifting moments and welcome flashes of caustic humour. Girl from the North Country is a moving testament to the tenacity of the human condition and a truly class act.
Reviewed on Tuesday 14th March 2023 by Hope Priddle
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
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