tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39757132084951357402024-03-28T08:04:30.180+00:00Spikemike...is breaking a legTheatre and Arts review blog for the North East and London areasMichael Hunterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01275254793604286461noreply@blogger.comBlogger639125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-52714377665771804102024-03-17T09:37:00.000+00:002024-03-17T09:37:01.888+00:00Preview - Out Of Sight...Out Of Murder - Little Theatre <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkjK4FfWhqJ9KiF0jf48WF2fbhStyHxLgoHVh1r3l1x2D6LLRAl5IOh4nwkurBhOme5P0W9_VdgJssVXYotBlzHDOzFiyv1gmU5C9kl_dlDAJ933r32o8COFXxq5wSq7HsMwVkEDdc-fyEsRUhXb17NedHAizTDha4uCnVnoMA3H9gpwb1azDwcbhWh89/s1096/OoSOoM-poster.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1096" data-original-width="794" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkjK4FfWhqJ9KiF0jf48WF2fbhStyHxLgoHVh1r3l1x2D6LLRAl5IOh4nwkurBhOme5P0W9_VdgJssVXYotBlzHDOzFiyv1gmU5C9kl_dlDAJ933r32o8COFXxq5wSq7HsMwVkEDdc-fyEsRUhXb17NedHAizTDha4uCnVnoMA3H9gpwb1azDwcbhWh89/s320/OoSOoM-poster.png" width="232" /></a></div><p>The next production from the Progressive Players at the Little Theatre, Gateshead is Out Of Sight...Out of Murder, by American playwright Fred Carmichael. Carmichael was a prolific writer, penning over 50 plays during his career. His works are noted for their many twists and turns and Out of Sight...Out of Murder promises to more than deliver on that score! </p><p>Peter Knight, a crime author, takes himself away into seclusion to a house where a crime author was murdered to try and break his writer’s block and finish his latest novel. When his characters appear before him, Peter is thrown into the action as his characters take his story to a truly dramatic ending. Will Peter make it to the end of his own story? A supernatural crime comedy – a real twist of genres guaranteed to delight and keep you guessing!</p><p>Tickets can be booked online from <a href="https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/gateshead-little-theatre/out-of-sight-out-of-murder/e-jdarmj" target="_blank">Ticketsource</a> or from the box office:</p><p>0191 4781499 (Box Office answerphone)</p><p>Box Office opening hours</p><p>Monday to Saturday 6.30pm to 9pm. </p><p>The play runs from 18th-23rd March, doors are open from 6.30pm giving you plenty of time for a drink in the bar before curtain up at 7.15!</p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-68396888455662921152024-03-15T22:52:00.003+00:002024-03-15T23:03:43.601+00:00North East Playwriting Awards - Live Theatre<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOCt9jRcNbHEdAMBY3e7UIK9_XoBZG659e_AXIfnTmR13esUYJqEklIT8tGvBWNB86KFo79a13vrvw_-Y0fIvwKgzwcVulFRSgSlgKfwwteFmwdRfSTGAJk7AanHLnPrW9bQY0CX2Nw9hqVxKn5LznX3qplErNDjvUqqU0I4pRP1wD_GxgA6T9aCuXBVS/s1920/NE%20Playwriting%20Award%20Title%20Slide.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOCt9jRcNbHEdAMBY3e7UIK9_XoBZG659e_AXIfnTmR13esUYJqEklIT8tGvBWNB86KFo79a13vrvw_-Y0fIvwKgzwcVulFRSgSlgKfwwteFmwdRfSTGAJk7AanHLnPrW9bQY0CX2Nw9hqVxKn5LznX3qplErNDjvUqqU0I4pRP1wD_GxgA6T9aCuXBVS/s320/NE%20Playwriting%20Award%20Title%20Slide.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>EMILIE ROBSON AND CONNOR DORRIAN WIN THE INAUGURAL </b><b>NORTH EAST PLAYWRITING AWARD AT LIVE THEATRE</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5XCMVTtRqZzFX8PztR9P7IS8oLmw-FWZKYJDqL8O3wyl6Wt9tcpiXvMEPp_659oIcG9ExWJObZbU6wVl6FDa53kJDz5PoX7M6ocPgkaFHGXBLmos9NAdIEIn_oNg5c4IrXi9ZKqxALnS8NggazlaR2NdBeuvDiNXp5x_xZhtHW8Hh0ifLk517z6pOJDr/s1800/L-R%20Emilie%20Robson,%20Connor%20Dorrian%20&%20Pauline%20Trotry%20at%20North%20East%20Playwriting%20Award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1800" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5XCMVTtRqZzFX8PztR9P7IS8oLmw-FWZKYJDqL8O3wyl6Wt9tcpiXvMEPp_659oIcG9ExWJObZbU6wVl6FDa53kJDz5PoX7M6ocPgkaFHGXBLmos9NAdIEIn_oNg5c4IrXi9ZKqxALnS8NggazlaR2NdBeuvDiNXp5x_xZhtHW8Hh0ifLk517z6pOJDr/s320/L-R%20Emilie%20Robson,%20Connor%20Dorrian%20&%20Pauline%20Trotry%20at%20North%20East%20Playwriting%20Award.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p></p><p>Winners of Live Theatre’s inaugural North East Playwriting Award were announced at a ceremony last night (Thursday 14 March) at Live Theatre. Newcastle writer Emilie Robson won the main prize for her play Dogs On The Metro with Sunderland writer Connor Dorrian winning the Under 26 Award for his play A Moving Still. Both will receive a commission fee for their plays with the intention of a full staging at Live Theatre. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfkGLf6Utw-EuIvRRC2wmKjtl2dwhjkbzFwUu3z1BSY7sJSs95GkLkyX_pS-qwYWT3g_kemxHNy6eU15VDJyd9ORudeorpf3i6FDkWY7-QYLh2qmH5MqKyBatlZPa24oxB0qDwYxCuF5jblisix1OJPi4uDqSKzE580ROzvt3wxh9cKO0c9NAkCFWUOdN-/s1800/Connor%20Dorrian%20-%20WINNER%20of%2026%20&%20Under%20North%20East%20Playwriting%20Award.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1800" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfkGLf6Utw-EuIvRRC2wmKjtl2dwhjkbzFwUu3z1BSY7sJSs95GkLkyX_pS-qwYWT3g_kemxHNy6eU15VDJyd9ORudeorpf3i6FDkWY7-QYLh2qmH5MqKyBatlZPa24oxB0qDwYxCuF5jblisix1OJPi4uDqSKzE580ROzvt3wxh9cKO0c9NAkCFWUOdN-/s320/Connor%20Dorrian%20-%20WINNER%20of%2026%20&%20Under%20North%20East%20Playwriting%20Award.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Laurie Ward also received a Research Award supported by Northumbria University for her play Real Mad World about the joys, heartbreaks and absurdities of trans life. </p><p>Pauline Trotry’s Shards was named runner up for the main award with Wambui Hardcastle’s Up And Down The Tap Line named as runner up for the Under 26 award. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEOzv4o86itX6mjpA6fawuSl7V-OW94g8217GneEvXzpAM77chQU-3_uZCztaT97rufa_YIWJFA0G19JDeVgtJBqnUk-43zrY6ISqRggy6l4gSe2TJLqiniHT21zk7hnAfXAuxs3AwTuxpcQJAICr00JfXUmzD0KWllHyuEo54VHiOHsUfT5Z5aYAS4U1w/s1800/Pauline%20Troty%20-%20RUNNER%20UP%20of%20North%20East%20Playwriting%20Award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1800" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEOzv4o86itX6mjpA6fawuSl7V-OW94g8217GneEvXzpAM77chQU-3_uZCztaT97rufa_YIWJFA0G19JDeVgtJBqnUk-43zrY6ISqRggy6l4gSe2TJLqiniHT21zk7hnAfXAuxs3AwTuxpcQJAICr00JfXUmzD0KWllHyuEo54VHiOHsUfT5Z5aYAS4U1w/s320/Pauline%20Troty%20-%20RUNNER%20UP%20of%20North%20East%20Playwriting%20Award.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>The main award winning play, Dogs On The Metro, follows plucky teenagers Jen and Dean, over months, years and even alternate realities, as they travel back and forth on the Tyne and Wear Metro line, as what seems to begin as a coming of age tale slowly twists into a painful meditation on consent, toxic masculinity and conflicting ‘truths’ as they unpack their differing versions of the same, pivotal event that changes their lives forever. </p><p>One of the play’s judges was playwright Shelagh Stephenson who said of it: “Half down page one I knew we’d found a new voice. Sharp, funny, true and precise. I’m thrilled it has won”.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_9HO-y6_hsXTa57sRwTJnnoMitBKwYOXvFL8HV7kQH2dDRCoP9NUsztxtytuWhOtfx4rbAbxA35YHJa9XPDscxaXJ6xg7r1CXKlRMhCQEH_GO-xK6wz5OHMIh44Z4Lq0dt0oHflhfh6K7np0PveOrtKwEbjOeKjcudRJcMLPRRVXFmvwbjsyLouj1Xjb/s1800/Emilie%20Robson%20-%20WINNER%20of%20North%20East%20Playwriting%20Award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1800" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_9HO-y6_hsXTa57sRwTJnnoMitBKwYOXvFL8HV7kQH2dDRCoP9NUsztxtytuWhOtfx4rbAbxA35YHJa9XPDscxaXJ6xg7r1CXKlRMhCQEH_GO-xK6wz5OHMIh44Z4Lq0dt0oHflhfh6K7np0PveOrtKwEbjOeKjcudRJcMLPRRVXFmvwbjsyLouj1Xjb/s320/Emilie%20Robson%20-%20WINNER%20of%20North%20East%20Playwriting%20Award.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>The winning writer Emilie Robson said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have won the Live Theatre North East Playwriting Award. I feel very privileged to be from the North East and to reflect the region in my work. I’m a huge admirer of Live Theatre and its commitment to great storytelling (I genuinely wrote Dogs On The Metro with them in mind!) and so any nod of approval from them is truly humbling.”</p><p>The Under 26 winning play A Moving Still is a North East coming of age story. With troubled young lad ‘Lucas’, trapped in a life of drug dealing at its centre. After his brother’s arrest he starts to explore his youth as newly presented options open up. One of the award judges Robson Green, himself a former Live Youth Theatre member, presented the Under 26 Award. He said that the play offered “a message of resilience, the potential for change, a story about the importance of supporting one another in the face of adversity.”</p><p>The 22 year old winner Connor Dorrian said: “I can’t believe I won! I’m so thankful to Live Theatre for this opportunity and those who read my play and chose it to win. This will help me so much and project my career to a height I didn’t know was possible at this stage. It’s amazing we have the playwright awards to champion new writing in the region.</p><p>Especially for early career artists such as myself. My play ‘A Moving Still’ means so much to me as a working class creative and I can’t wait to share it!”</p><p>The ceremony was attended by many special guests including David Byrne, the new Artistic Director of the Royal Court, who gave the ceremony’s opening address about the importance of having a thriving new writing scene. This first Award is supported by the Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust and aims to be a biannual event for the region.</p><p><br /></p><p>*Photography by Mark Savage </p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-35995808141961291962024-03-14T06:57:00.003+00:002024-03-15T23:00:51.962+00:00Preview - Entertaining Mr Sloane - People's Theatre <p><b style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Carry On meets The League of Gentlemen next week at the People’s Theatre in Heaton</b><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNahUKMpktWFX3h2wKL5sW3tmIa3ajR98i27hsk7ydUir82JU14FmpXFATASpQOXeP7jWNBUwx86LDE3TN_wAScStxeQsU507qcZZN-MauDYDQUzdv-vkxta4Ua4bcoRV59dw7LHHwnThVJSc6UDA_F2clSNNeN-k6Jz6oHs9d4UnUpk6-LhpVD8ZY1bd/s1000/NO%20TEXT%20Entertaining%20Mr%20Sloane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNahUKMpktWFX3h2wKL5sW3tmIa3ajR98i27hsk7ydUir82JU14FmpXFATASpQOXeP7jWNBUwx86LDE3TN_wAScStxeQsU507qcZZN-MauDYDQUzdv-vkxta4Ua4bcoRV59dw7LHHwnThVJSc6UDA_F2clSNNeN-k6Jz6oHs9d4UnUpk6-LhpVD8ZY1bd/s320/NO%20TEXT%20Entertaining%20Mr%20Sloane.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Joe Orton’s bitingly funny black comedy ENTERTAINING MR SLOANE sees the titular sly and handsome conman rent a room from lonely widow Kath.</span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">As Kath and her controlling brother Ed vie for the shady young lodger’s attention, he thinks he has them wrapped around his little finger.</span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQtnt-GyZFgCuN-4dgk3lQBz8h9zrUphKHaPSID9DmRUKKyflWD-AlxKMBLtWOVMEHMqBk2xyZRQmp-xza2GswkB5z2aBL36BnAF531DKOT0Od3PXKe9oyTl1pAwwGvXChynjR4rpY2YUTEvQuEniqSnqipPDfvrvlBjttT53mdFPtk-BzqpPb6DNh1Vw/s4055/SamBurrell_MrSloane_photoPaulHood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4055" data-original-width="3244" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQtnt-GyZFgCuN-4dgk3lQBz8h9zrUphKHaPSID9DmRUKKyflWD-AlxKMBLtWOVMEHMqBk2xyZRQmp-xza2GswkB5z2aBL36BnAF531DKOT0Od3PXKe9oyTl1pAwwGvXChynjR4rpY2YUTEvQuEniqSnqipPDfvrvlBjttT53mdFPtk-BzqpPb6DNh1Vw/s320/SamBurrell_MrSloane_photoPaulHood.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But soon Mr Sloane finds himself entangled in a dangerous game of sex, desire, blackmail and violence.</span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">When it premiered in 1964, this provocative satire on social and sexual hypocrisy stirred up much controversy. And this wickedly sharp and hilarious black comedy still has the power to shock!</span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><b>ENTERTAINING MR SLOANE </b>runs from Tuesday 19 to Saturday 23 March on the Main Stage.</span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Tickets are available from the People’s Theatre Box Office on 0191 265 5020 (option 2) and online at <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk&source=gmail&ust=1710327054038000&usg=AOvVaw3vgBgkU0IMzQO0OvLgJB4E" href="http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk/" rel="noreferrer" style="color: #4285f4; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">www.peoplestheatre.co.uk</a></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">___</span></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-89065738395487785022024-03-07T20:25:00.004+00:002024-03-07T20:25:44.060+00:00Review - Blue Stockings - People's Theatre <b>Blue Stockings <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSGrZrhyphenhyphenrgOAWlTlSzq4Vax_-xsDnvnFFmqIMNya1QXVrnQKjRrNNSkRaFxRDcKI2b2vXx3Oxca50Fm1VEz0JdOfo944JwBuLeh577uMw8yUjzxOEixFHKfp-Czi2qZr9Y1z-37T7gXbT4Zl3wFyjgYzothN7XKDvnUrdR30mvUTCQFuINiIDWUKtDxtkV/s1000/NO%20TEXT%20Blue%20Stockings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSGrZrhyphenhyphenrgOAWlTlSzq4Vax_-xsDnvnFFmqIMNya1QXVrnQKjRrNNSkRaFxRDcKI2b2vXx3Oxca50Fm1VEz0JdOfo944JwBuLeh577uMw8yUjzxOEixFHKfp-Czi2qZr9Y1z-37T7gXbT4Zl3wFyjgYzothN7XKDvnUrdR30mvUTCQFuINiIDWUKtDxtkV/w200-h200/NO%20TEXT%20Blue%20Stockings.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></b><div><b>People's Theatre</b></div><div><b>5th March, 2023</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Written by Jessica Swale</b></div><div><b>Directed by Sam Hinton </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>It has been quite a while since I have left a theatre with such a mix of emotions. The People's Theatre's production of Blue Stockings left in me awe - it s a tour de force. All the elements come together in an almost perfect production to tell this astonishing story. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikY3cODctJoB7Gb2uIoTd_8H5VQDcPqVpOsFmb-cwa8lhiGeBwcKDwcecCmkCCRYqJHjHOv0p-FvGuFHD7TObVJU-QenULnLRBcqJOSPXNyt2EjGfWdR50k_ebcmJG_9c3BQMrt7zoyrnpcfm6HyrgBo1tGXFPbTNAazFwBqfn12pHRfaiyeZJnj13Zy-a/s6240/BS_Girls&MissBlake_photoPaulHood%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3510" data-original-width="6240" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikY3cODctJoB7Gb2uIoTd_8H5VQDcPqVpOsFmb-cwa8lhiGeBwcKDwcecCmkCCRYqJHjHOv0p-FvGuFHD7TObVJU-QenULnLRBcqJOSPXNyt2EjGfWdR50k_ebcmJG_9c3BQMrt7zoyrnpcfm6HyrgBo1tGXFPbTNAazFwBqfn12pHRfaiyeZJnj13Zy-a/s320/BS_Girls&MissBlake_photoPaulHood%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It's the story of the women of Girton College - fighting against the odds to be recognised for their intellect and yet constantly patronised by their male peers. The only possible goal for any decent woman is to marry, bear children and tend to her husband and family. An educated woman is unladylike, unnatural, and as such un-marriable. Despite constantly proving their intellectual abilities by matching, and even out-matching their male counterparts, the patriarchal society refuses to recognise them. The reaction to their success is shocking, they are ridiculed, vilified, diminished. And yet they carry on, their determination, occasionally dented, is never undone. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUAJOVro-BS9d6VCcaQbdqvN6dOTj23Sek4ZjXKj7SbOMN5LLpNXBfpdontr8SUw4w5exPRbTfFGLleoLgfIv8pYoaVd2kGaD4jVViGmzh2hZ0EnPK_ztYJYnTlKl1aw7SmWhSICkHUtmA8LWWJXCW-8brXLG8GtERIYkCn-DLaijtlG7d5b-KqX-PdhRm/s4618/BS_GirtonGirls2_photoPaulHood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4618" data-original-width="3694" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUAJOVro-BS9d6VCcaQbdqvN6dOTj23Sek4ZjXKj7SbOMN5LLpNXBfpdontr8SUw4w5exPRbTfFGLleoLgfIv8pYoaVd2kGaD4jVViGmzh2hZ0EnPK_ztYJYnTlKl1aw7SmWhSICkHUtmA8LWWJXCW-8brXLG8GtERIYkCn-DLaijtlG7d5b-KqX-PdhRm/s320/BS_GirtonGirls2_photoPaulHood.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>We begin with incredulous amusement at the ridiculous notions so called intelligent men voice about affect of education on a woman's anatomy, but as the play progresses it becomes clear that these attitudes present not only a hindrance, but a very real danger to the women, and our amusement is tempered. By the climax of the second act we are no longer amused. We are furious! </div><div><br /></div><div>Brilliantly staged and directed, with an ingenious set - even the props at times have attitude. Each member of the cast performs with such integrity, there is not one character that is not entirely credible, from the disdainful Cambridge professors, to the eager and enthusiastic Girton girls, to the indomitable chaperone, Ms Bott. </div><div><br /></div><div>Friday is International Women's Day. If you have ever wondered why such a day is necessary, you need to see this play. It's set in 1896 and we are still fighting some of these battles over a hundred years later. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ktyfFVcRkbKD0aVAqFB6l6hl00bhN_vO90jW1p0o0MZE9OCSRLBuPXEjqY-BoMFvR-oFC6YFDSvsV1qIt7yMWN7H3QDhyphenhyphenrfaMxqEUugJhyPO9rf6qjqAg6KVaPmjylRR5skD7WidEgXQUw8UEF-tkfONiJisWk1HRqzzmBx65nvMUohs0GSGJGCD6c2U/s5854/Blue%20Stockings%20Lit%20and%20Phil--8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3293" data-original-width="5854" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ktyfFVcRkbKD0aVAqFB6l6hl00bhN_vO90jW1p0o0MZE9OCSRLBuPXEjqY-BoMFvR-oFC6YFDSvsV1qIt7yMWN7H3QDhyphenhyphenrfaMxqEUugJhyPO9rf6qjqAg6KVaPmjylRR5skD7WidEgXQUw8UEF-tkfONiJisWk1HRqzzmBx65nvMUohs0GSGJGCD6c2U/s320/Blue%20Stockings%20Lit%20and%20Phil--8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>At the end of this play I was elated, and furious, and proud to be an educated woman, but prouder still of the women who went before me and made my college graduation possible. </div><div><br /></div><div>Blue Stockings plays at the People's Theatre till Saturday. Book a seat. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">*Images by Paul Hood</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Denise Sparrowhawk</b> </div><div><br /></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-1703187547658080012024-02-19T21:40:00.003+00:002024-02-19T21:40:32.111+00:00Dancing at Lughnasa - The Little Theatre <div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKDw6Ks9w3Gn5__IdRulftDGTPLusMWPlrQB0odtRlGihR1-95oKHQ5-N_qOkoio1LEAQGxFxVYtHfVq3V1Hz-nIh-20BCJ6tYCEPl14HFxhUzdFQPHShvsMtTqorI7HlV6uJneVUqss9y7t6Bc8w43YpRnkbyP6QbpYz0IFY8uUbOlugYz61ETeO18dS/s1096/Dancing-at-Lughnasa-Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1096" data-original-width="794" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKDw6Ks9w3Gn5__IdRulftDGTPLusMWPlrQB0odtRlGihR1-95oKHQ5-N_qOkoio1LEAQGxFxVYtHfVq3V1Hz-nIh-20BCJ6tYCEPl14HFxhUzdFQPHShvsMtTqorI7HlV6uJneVUqss9y7t6Bc8w43YpRnkbyP6QbpYz0IFY8uUbOlugYz61ETeO18dS/s320/Dancing-at-Lughnasa-Poster.jpg" width="232" /></a></div><b>Dancing at Lughnasa <br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Little Theatre </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>19-24th February, 2024</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Following on from POD, this week the Progressive Players present Dancing at Lughnasa at the Little Theatre, Gateshead. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Set in the fictional village of Ballybeg, the story follows the fate of five sisters who are struggling to survive as change comes to the village. The eldest sister Kate is a school teacher, and the only permanent wage earner in the family, Agnes and Rose knit gloves to sell in the town - these are the only sources of income for the girls. Their father is a travelling salesman who appears rarely and randomly, leaving his daughters to fend for themselves and raise their younger brother, as well as look after their elder brother Jack. Jack is a priest who has returned from a leper colony in Uganda. He suffers from malaria and has difficulty remembering many things, including his sisters' names. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Set against all of this is the Festival of Lughnasa - the celebration of the harvest - where Christian and Pagan beliefs meet and clash - there is tension, and conflict but this is the highlight of the year in the village so there is also dancing and singing! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Told from the view point of the brother, Michael, as he looks back on his life and remembers, this pastoral drama is bound to bring smiles and tears. It plays until Saturday 24th February. Tickets are available from the box office on 0191 4781499 or <a href="https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/gateshead-little-theatre/dancing-at-lughnasa/e-raoljj" target="_blank">online here</a> - prices start at just £10. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-49664269288079718492024-02-08T08:43:00.002+00:002024-02-08T08:44:46.998+00:00Review - Breath of Spring - Royalty Theatre<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_pXZKWYmmXsTBAB08vzlZWWrw0NLmOB3TNLPSw47fl6eCAGMefs9SC2-pMF_02zcHCAFMQ3uY0DIYJdyRZJAafPeVMYOK3uvynh9mm3M8BtllU57CxOwJkfT5MWc506_TgOOfcVze2YABkLi49RZI9sWbidp1DtwWukuQTBJrgROqIgc7g0_AHKzlvF2/s1217/PXL_20240206_230944199.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1217" data-original-width="1061" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_pXZKWYmmXsTBAB08vzlZWWrw0NLmOB3TNLPSw47fl6eCAGMefs9SC2-pMF_02zcHCAFMQ3uY0DIYJdyRZJAafPeVMYOK3uvynh9mm3M8BtllU57CxOwJkfT5MWc506_TgOOfcVze2YABkLi49RZI9sWbidp1DtwWukuQTBJrgROqIgc7g0_AHKzlvF2/s320/PXL_20240206_230944199.jpg" width="279" /></a></div><b>Breath of Spring</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Royalty Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>6th February, 2023 </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Written by Peter Coke</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Directed by Corinne Kilvington </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Cast </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Liz Henderson</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Jacob Hughes</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Emma Thompson</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Emma McGhee</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Lynn Huntley</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Caroline Chapman</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Matthew Mason</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Julie Carney</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">You might expect A Breath of Spring to be a springtime romance full of sunshine and snowdrops, but in actual fact it is a very funny comedy about fur coats, and a group of people in the "teatime" of their lives. The breath of spring in question is actually a beautiful fur, and is the a life changing catalyst for this gaggle of unlikely acquaintances. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The fur in question is "acquired" by Lily as a thank you to her employer - Dame Beatrice Appleby - who took on Lily despite her recent stay in Holloway. Not wanting to get Lily into trouble, Dame Beatrice, her friend Alice Lady Miller, and three lodgers (guests) come up with an ingenious plan to return the fur to its rightful owner. The plan is a huge success and the gang are thrilled by the experience. They realise that they could spice up their rather mundane lives by using their newly discovered skills to acquire things rather than return them. And so begins their adventure... </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The action takes place in Dame Beatrice's living room over the course of a year. The gang have developed their skills and use their ill gotten gains to help people less fortunate - much like Robin Hood. All is going well until the call from Scotland Yard! How will they manage to hide the truth from the inspector? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A fabulously funny play with lots of twists along the way as these characters find a way to liven up their twilight years. The cast are brilliant - from the regimental Brigadier (Jacob Hughes) to the streetwise and savvy Lily (Emma Thompson) their timing is perfect, and body language and facial expressions say so much more than words at times. All the cast are excellent but special mention has to go to Lynn Huntley as Dame Beatrice who brings such an energy to the role, as she concocts her daring schemes and sells them to the rest of the gang. Just brilliant. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Of course on the opening night the props had to have their moment too, and the cast did their utmost to cope with the recalcitrant painting and unexpected step! It's a credit to them that they dealt with it so professionally and gave the audience some extra laughs - mind the step, Inspector!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is such a feel good play - silly and funny but with some serious themes behind the humour. We can all grow old a little disgracefully, but perhaps not take up burglary! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well worth going to see, tickets are available from <a href="http://www.royaltytheatre.co.uk">www.royaltytheatre.co.uk</a> or on the door. Curtain up is at 7.30pm - get there early and have a drink in the bar first, for a great night out on your doorstep! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Denise Sparrowhawk</div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-89725779456822741112024-01-23T08:14:00.002+00:002024-01-23T08:14:44.357+00:00Review - Pod - Little Theatre<div style="text-align: left;"><b style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8uGTN0Z8ixGuMb9J-vU9dlrUhoqNWlNEpStlZg_GwGMc4JvDtl1duXDdPsYdjl4Dn5cl9o-6WpzvYdPjcffKWzfOgvfF-hsk14V5QhL-HQGPfEIfyPym-oMgLLSJ-hYlku-_W0B7i6Gn-ArX76U0XV9pBksNXxrPolSXMR8RjF2Fi4vnundOa2CwLGIM/s320/POD%20SQ.jpg" width="320" /></b><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>POD<br /></b><b>The Little Theatre<br /></b><b>22nd January 2023</b></h4></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Written by Arabella Arnott</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Presented by Progressive Players</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Directed by Louise Wright </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Cast </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Cathy Williams</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Jim McGrath</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Laura Boxleitner</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Val Neal</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Set in a glamping pod over the course of one weekend, this play by local writer Arabella Arnott explores the themes of grief, family, truth and honesty (which I think are not always the same thing). It is a gentle, humorous look at how families interact with each other, how we deal with grief, and how everything we do impacts the other members - even unintentionally. We develop ideas and beliefs based on our own perceptions, and these may not be accurate, or even true at all. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Rose and Dan have arranged a family weekend away to commemorate and celebrate the life of their father on his birthday. From their conversation we can glean that relationships within the family may be a little strained, so by the time the mother Iris, and sister Daisy arrive we are already anticipating some friction. As the play progresses some of the source of the friction becomes clear - sibling rivalry, the attitude of the youngest to ageing and growing old. All of which leads to tensions, but also much gentle humour. Added to this the reason for the weekend - a deceased father - and the tensions are heightened even more. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6yflnDKvMf_EAumiavlHaI5OK1mshW2mgAO0VhC_XREUhX3pgJJELQ7LKZDuZJkjqIk4oTrfvX7h3fMYPqnYC2_5-JmtH16nzi1d-GLUq4iXsZlrM55IqXSevwqvgzMx3Y0w15zEYrdcy1TmN-g_8oMU2KCk0nAS0KnCoMxFJJOEwVB76id66xZoecQ4/s2000/POD-50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1331" data-original-width="2000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6yflnDKvMf_EAumiavlHaI5OK1mshW2mgAO0VhC_XREUhX3pgJJELQ7LKZDuZJkjqIk4oTrfvX7h3fMYPqnYC2_5-JmtH16nzi1d-GLUq4iXsZlrM55IqXSevwqvgzMx3Y0w15zEYrdcy1TmN-g_8oMU2KCk0nAS0KnCoMxFJJOEwVB76id66xZoecQ4/s320/POD-50.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Secrets are hinted at, and some are voiced - not all are welcome! I can't say much more than that without spoiling the plot - so you will have to go along to the Little Theatre this week to find out the whos, wheres and whys! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The set for this play is astounding - the pod, complete with fire pit and outdoor dining set is almost a character in itself. The backdrop of pastel trees changes subtly to signify the time of day from pale orange to a deeper mauve, and scenes are separated with lighting and music - Lazing on a Sunny Afternoon, We are Family, and Morning Has Broken - and the Piece de Resistance at the end - Zorba's Song. All very fitting for the story. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The cast do an excellent job portraying this grieving family but I especially liked Val Neal as Iris - "Wait till you hear this one!" - her mantra throughout the play. Her timing is spot on, and she is constantly reacting to the other characters even when the focus is not on her - never not acting her part. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a funny, poignant play, well presented and directed. It is definitely worth going to see - and it gives a bit of summer sunshine in January - what could be better? I defy anyone not to do the dance up the aisle on the way out...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Denise Sparrowhawk </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">*images courtesy of Progressive Players </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p><br /></p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-68141273430434236622024-01-17T23:41:00.000+00:002024-01-17T23:41:02.151+00:00Review - A Poirot Double Bill - People's Theatre <div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRdchZ3_3Ou9aIRfck8uUH6zfiROcemEMR6Tpatpv78taCgZqQWS466k1Joyg2dRF6PRHyZqikZ2GWc38pS6f5onbYOpZKa5qaZcQ-vqjQ8CuEW-CMa4I7nLDYp2-XgZkdHjqGRzjDhiir3HhXhaIBClf-P40lqkU-S7JGjLkt2BFbKuNTAQJB5i8MKOi/s1000/DETAILS%20-%20A%20Poirot%20Double%20Bill%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRdchZ3_3Ou9aIRfck8uUH6zfiROcemEMR6Tpatpv78taCgZqQWS466k1Joyg2dRF6PRHyZqikZ2GWc38pS6f5onbYOpZKa5qaZcQ-vqjQ8CuEW-CMa4I7nLDYp2-XgZkdHjqGRzjDhiir3HhXhaIBClf-P40lqkU-S7JGjLkt2BFbKuNTAQJB5i8MKOi/s320/DETAILS%20-%20A%20Poirot%20Double%20Bill%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>A Poirot Double Bill<br /><div>People's Theatre</div><div>16th January, 2024 </div><div><br /></div><div>The Wasp's Nest</div><div>The Yellow Iris</div><div><br /></div><div>Directed by Ben Watkins</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The People's Theatre have launched their 2024 season with some classic Agatha Christie, continuing the longstanding tradition of starting the new year with a bit of murder and sleuthing. </div><div>This particular offering is of two early works by Christie, featuring the dapper Belgian Detective Hercule Poirot. </div><div><br /></div><div>Both differ from later mysteries with the sleuth, in that in these tales he is endeavoring to prevent a murder rather than solve one. Of course to do this he must not only work out who the potential murderer is, but also the potential victim, and then devise a plan to obstruct the murderer and save the victim. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6QwLp39jjJUQTHQe04uylaf1L25eOV5ytey6sxBd7n3X9MWBEVWa-6TGvUwuvd_54lEnvINVQHH1Im28HdFZVxYjNseTy4HPUErazcp40rLV1tlA3XEQUohvMBu1-Sq2c6TIZekxwt2KXDwjqDZ7io-79VeR0jKyuAqEufYu2SfbCpaD6I8YKF0xQQOk/s5200/KarenElliott_AgathaChristie_photoPaulHood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="5200" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6QwLp39jjJUQTHQe04uylaf1L25eOV5ytey6sxBd7n3X9MWBEVWa-6TGvUwuvd_54lEnvINVQHH1Im28HdFZVxYjNseTy4HPUErazcp40rLV1tlA3XEQUohvMBu1-Sq2c6TIZekxwt2KXDwjqDZ7io-79VeR0jKyuAqEufYu2SfbCpaD6I8YKF0xQQOk/s320/KarenElliott_AgathaChristie_photoPaulHood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The plays are introduced by Agatha Christie herself, who addresses the audience directly and gives some background to the plays. Karen Elliott plays a convincingly witty Christie. </div><div><br /></div><div>The first of the plays - The Wasp's Nest - has just three characters in addition to Hercule Poirot and all the action takes place in the garden of Charles Harborough - an acquaintance of Poirot, recently engaged. For a murder mystery this has a surprisingly lighthearted feel with a lot of humour - Poirot hides in the garden to observe his suspects and quickly deduces dangerous plot that is afoot! But will he succeed in averting disaster? <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivNZeP9b-31xHZV0KjcVe-7xeRhriiyNZU-kwObln-VcK0okuK1JJ-sJmNZWPUlu2iNsH5PCHMSiCTp7LxXOH7aPXR7eXefn95EpJ9VTKTmg5oszbs2cEhohd0adIVE7Ke-YZi1Uu7nA-CPAq-UsLzpWm_VSPvLKCJdfIO8K-KaYnoAoeJ3Pf5-ozNhqe/s6240/IanWillis2_Poirot_photoPaulHood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivNZeP9b-31xHZV0KjcVe-7xeRhriiyNZU-kwObln-VcK0okuK1JJ-sJmNZWPUlu2iNsH5PCHMSiCTp7LxXOH7aPXR7eXefn95EpJ9VTKTmg5oszbs2cEhohd0adIVE7Ke-YZi1Uu7nA-CPAq-UsLzpWm_VSPvLKCJdfIO8K-KaYnoAoeJ3Pf5-ozNhqe/s320/IanWillis2_Poirot_photoPaulHood.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>The second play has a larger cast and a more involved plot. There are more suspects, and more potential victims. Set in a restaurant with cabaret singers and a roomful of guests, there is a lot more going on on the stage and you need your wits about you to keep up with the action! In each corner of the stage there seems to be some small but significant incident - a conversation at the bar, a look exchanged between dance partners, even the lyrics being sung by the cabaret artists could be relevant to the crime... how will Poirot solve it all? And who made the mysterious call that lured him out to investigate? </div><div><br /></div><div>The set and costumes are exquisite. The ladies wear beautiful gowns and the men are smart in tuxedos - all very appropriate for a Christie setting. Wisteria drapes along the arbour through the french windows, and tables are adorned with pristine tablecloths and sparkling champagne glasses. The two plays are short - not much more than 30 mins each, but the encompass everything you would expect of an Agatha Christie mystery. Beautiful people, fatally flawed. Ian Willis captures the character of the fastidious Hercule Poirot beautifully, commanding the attention of his audience on stage and in the auditorium.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of the two short plays, I enjoyed The Wasp's Nest best - it's simplicity and humour is engaging, and I liked the characters much more than those of The Yellow Iris. The second play took a lot more concentration to keep track of what all of the characters were up to on stage - there are lots of distractions that take your attention away from the important little moments that would help you work out the plot. This, of course is all part of Christie's skill - to keep her audience guessing to the end! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtZQ3gK_qwUWq6PeXTvLh3nBFMbnsC-lHpRYQoJ6b2ynhAQCII6PACGetpyJR0eS8IMlNGb_STMeOaCzKCtKDU1WUlVGxqJPCuChBVVo7ZJ__L9QVWOoAOtUA3lJl5JsroyPEl7MPIHSF6WZNDdHryEhu5IwaKLGU4AgNx7YTbDaOdnnbFrJiZYn7Ry0L/s6240/IanWillis_Poirot_photoPaulHood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtZQ3gK_qwUWq6PeXTvLh3nBFMbnsC-lHpRYQoJ6b2ynhAQCII6PACGetpyJR0eS8IMlNGb_STMeOaCzKCtKDU1WUlVGxqJPCuChBVVo7ZJ__L9QVWOoAOtUA3lJl5JsroyPEl7MPIHSF6WZNDdHryEhu5IwaKLGU4AgNx7YTbDaOdnnbFrJiZYn7Ry0L/s320/IanWillis_Poirot_photoPaulHood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>It is a beautifully put together production - from the costumes, to the music, and especially the scene change between the two plays - the head waiter and his minion setting the tables is almost as entertaining as the two plays themselves - a clever little vignette to keep the audience entertained in the interval. </div><div>The Poirot Double Bill plays until Sat 20th January and is a pleasing distraction from the dreariness of a cold, damp January! Tickets are available online from <a href="http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk" target="_blank">wwww.peoplestheatre.co.uk</a> and I would recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment!</div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo credit: Paul Hood</span> </div><div><br /></div><div>Denise Sparrowhawk</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-64994252050326244992023-12-17T16:39:00.001+00:002023-12-17T16:41:21.745+00:00Beauty and the Beast - Review - Little Theatre <div style="text-align: left;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8gZCkyCSPJZpRPfq8or0iGy9NC0i6EIVPr_gWRnhivaRga87AtYQkmoUv09fSBtE_07lzBM3qFmfMo3Wnvq0INbhTlTZ-6GvyhJqLz4hqMIeep8mlsIFU_nh9fNUxiBnOMxRLDbHAJPsOTs1ToO94rylbDz4SUEtTOlp2P075uGg7NQik_hBPntql6QQ/s1970/beauty%20and%20the%20beast.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1970" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8gZCkyCSPJZpRPfq8or0iGy9NC0i6EIVPr_gWRnhivaRga87AtYQkmoUv09fSBtE_07lzBM3qFmfMo3Wnvq0INbhTlTZ-6GvyhJqLz4hqMIeep8mlsIFU_nh9fNUxiBnOMxRLDbHAJPsOTs1ToO94rylbDz4SUEtTOlp2P075uGg7NQik_hBPntql6QQ/s320/beauty%20and%20the%20beast.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>Beauty and the Beast </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Little Theatre </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>16th Dec 2023</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Presented by Dress Circle Entertainment </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Produced and directed by Lee Brannigan</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Beauty and the Beast - that tale as old as time - conceited prince pees off a fairy, gets himself cursed, turned into a hideous monster then has to find a true love to save himself. Tricky to find true love when you're a real old grouch and look and act so scary that everyone runs away from you. Even trickier when there is another odious character trying to muscle in on the beautiful person who is meant to save you. What's a beast meant to do? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Fortunately for our Beast (Chris McCreery) in Cannyville (where else?) the Enchantress of the North (Melissa Cavanagh) who cursed him in the first place feels a bit guilty about it and decides to help him out. Well, it was her fault after all - she was just trying to teach him a lesson in humility and if she hadn't been so cross in the first place the her spell might have worked properly, she wouldn't have lost her wand and he wouldn't find himself in quite such a predicament! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Then there's the other odious dude, Gastrix (Harry Hudson) - son of the Mayor of Cannyville - who, along with his two horrible scheming sisters, is taking advantage of the townsfolk's fear of the Beast to line his own pockets, well, stomach actually. Once he realises the Beast might be saved and he will have to start actually working for a living, he concocts a plan to find the Enchantress's lost wand, slay the Beast and take over his castle and all of the kingdom. Muahahaha! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In the meantime, the beautiful Belle (Kayt Berrich) is gradually breaking down the walls the Beast has built up around himself and the two are falling in love - if only the Beast would admit it! They don't have much time - only one petal left on the enchanted rose, if that falls before he declares his love to Belle and she to him, then all will be lost and he will be cursed forever. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Are you keeping up? That's the serious bit - love and a generosity of spirit have to overcome conceit and greed and meanness, so that good overcomes evil and everyone can live happily ever after. </div><div style="text-align: left;">That's also the easy bit, that everything else is hung on to. </div><div style="text-align: left;">The everything else being Panto mayhem! Bad jokes (seriously, bad jokes!), some really silly jokes, some booing and hissing of bad guys, some shouting and screaming "oh yes it is!" and "it's behind you!" Actually there was quite a lot of that shouting and screaming going on - I think some of the kids may have had no voices left by the end of the show! Or maybe it was the mams and grans that were doing all the shouting? Hard to say - but they were all certainly enjoying themselves! One thing that this panto has lots of, is audience participation - everyone is 100% involved and engaged in this from the minute the curtain goes up. </div><div style="text-align: left;">But, I digress - I was talking about panto mayhem, and the epitome of this is the 12 days of Christmas - if you've never experienced this before then be warned - you may die laughing. You may also be concussed by five toilet rolls (sing it) if you aren't paying attention. And if you're in the front rows, you may want to take a brolly - that's all I am saying! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Of course it is not all mayhem, there are also glorious musical numbers, from foot stamping, hand clapping everyone join in bangers to beautiful, tender solos and duets. All beautifully directed and choreographed by John Hudson and Chantal McCartney. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This was my third time experiencing this company's panto and, despite the old jokes, it never gets old - the production is first class. So much so that even when things seem to not quite go to plan, I'm never sure that it isn't actually scripted - though the level of corpsing on Saturday afternoon might suggest not? And isn't that part of the panto experience - that things may not go perfectly to plan, but it all works out in the end, and everyone has a whole load of laughs along the way? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The entire cast put everything they have into making this show a success. Their energy and enthusiasm is amazing to watch, whether dancing, singing, being slapped and falling down, (getting up to be slapped down again) they give 100%. And it is infectious - the more they give, the more the audience gives back. I hesitate to single out individuals because all of the performances were brilliant, but (you know there was a but coming) I do love Brodie Daniel for the sheer energy and versatility he brings, his rapport with the audience is second to none. I also loved the ludicrously over the top twins, Burtie and Gurtie from Megan Laing and Laura Fulgenzi. Their facial expressions were class! It goes without saying, but I 'll say it anyway - Bella Bluebell as Madame Bon-Bon is the most glamorous panto dame, bar none. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Beauty and the Beast is two hours of high energy, fast paced, fun. No matter what age you are you will leave the theatre well entertained, and full of the joy that only a really good Panto can bring. </div><div style="text-align: left;">It's plays until Christmas Eve, and if you're lucky you might still be able to snag a ticket - but if not I highly recommend you book now for next year! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Denise Sparrowhawk</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-155967036360678362023-12-10T16:18:00.005+00:002023-12-10T16:20:41.880+00:00Peter Pan - Review - People's Theatre<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9UPqIsKmBbAanpip7_FszlHaZrB5uJNoXOhUUnp_x3qwJM9MW4BN4m-aXHbAFHeJE9YVBUsjJb3gTf6N9KmB8T4HfqeebmMAKoOwZ419oyAhnskkdNrBb446Wg6Rv5GF9lxPi6RiYZ1k1Yn8eY-qrxPYmXTW2rhyphenhyphenF69kubRGc2kWaMCpDgM1b10pQX-DH/s1280/Peter%20Pan%20-%20socials%20-%20details%20WEB.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9UPqIsKmBbAanpip7_FszlHaZrB5uJNoXOhUUnp_x3qwJM9MW4BN4m-aXHbAFHeJE9YVBUsjJb3gTf6N9KmB8T4HfqeebmMAKoOwZ419oyAhnskkdNrBb446Wg6Rv5GF9lxPi6RiYZ1k1Yn8eY-qrxPYmXTW2rhyphenhyphenF69kubRGc2kWaMCpDgM1b10pQX-DH/s320/Peter%20Pan%20-%20socials%20-%20details%20WEB.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>Peter Pan </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>People's Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>9th December, 2023<br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Based on the novel by J M Barrie</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Adapted by Tom Whalley</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">December has been a bit dismal so far this year, hasn't it? Bus strikes, train strikes, rain.A little bit of snow added a hint of wintry sparkle for s few days and then more rain, and my goodness, such greyness! So it was good to get out of the rain on Saturday afternoon for a burst of colour and some seasonal silliness at the People's Panto. </div><div style="text-align: left;">This year thye are off on a grand adventure to Neverland with Peter Pan and the Lost Boys. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgclRG1pfv5RJI40QYOg-3fezeRgp3w3Y6DOKH7-SHSdr13Wj5-Grh8X5a2tGIvX1zzD82vk-LAPqY6dPLZKsoBqRU1r2w3tpdjfoNL3gZg96TBfpBBJY8n2W0sJJAoQ3nMthUdS-_63-Bq0BGx3B1wnjCLcV-M7bR-NhACGWVvACsN5z6MxNztW50VWBjb/s5053/Tinkerbell_Dancers.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4042" data-original-width="5053" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgclRG1pfv5RJI40QYOg-3fezeRgp3w3Y6DOKH7-SHSdr13Wj5-Grh8X5a2tGIvX1zzD82vk-LAPqY6dPLZKsoBqRU1r2w3tpdjfoNL3gZg96TBfpBBJY8n2W0sJJAoQ3nMthUdS-_63-Bq0BGx3B1wnjCLcV-M7bR-NhACGWVvACsN5z6MxNztW50VWBjb/w200-h160/Tinkerbell_Dancers.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">It starts with lots of sparkle as the glitterball spins and the lights is reflected around the auditorium like so much fairy dust, enough to completely entrance the little girl sitting next to me! But keep a tight hold of your drink and your popcorn (ok, not popcorn, but maybe your 20p mix-up) as Tinkerbell makes her flashbang entrance. This is no delicate Disneyfied Tink though, this one - played ferociously by Rhiannon Wilson - comes with Doc Martens and an attitude to match! She certainly got the Panto started!</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiATXUTZBRLEzL-R76xu4-kUfIyZetwsFP6sBot5aL4oKVybjgXzTK2Kx3IGcmGA90qOCI1RF3WXEDyjNGQHr8p0GaW_l2g4IqqRH99Wy4FCb6ENMFvJLxcxVGO2GL_Gt3NvQ1cTvpOFD6X_LCtc4umvq1TQoTF03fksGIx1lB3DjLld5eBwGraPugj_dtA/s3270/Wendy.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3270" data-original-width="3263" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiATXUTZBRLEzL-R76xu4-kUfIyZetwsFP6sBot5aL4oKVybjgXzTK2Kx3IGcmGA90qOCI1RF3WXEDyjNGQHr8p0GaW_l2g4IqqRH99Wy4FCb6ENMFvJLxcxVGO2GL_Gt3NvQ1cTvpOFD6X_LCtc4umvq1TQoTF03fksGIx1lB3DjLld5eBwGraPugj_dtA/w199-h200/Wendy.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>And then we are transported to London and the home of the Darlings, where the children are getting ready for bed, and Mr and Mrs Darling are preparing for a night out. Mr Darling is impatient and grumpy, and not prepared to listen to the stories the children have to tell - an finally announces that it's high time Wendy grew up and left the nursery. And so begins the adventure with the boy who never grows up... An adventure with fairies, and pirates, and mermaids, with kidnappings and skulduggery, with friendships, loyalty, betrayal and forgiveness. And maybe some tough justice for the bad guys. Maybe - I don't want to give too much away. Tick, tock...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-sfZG4DMV_h-g6jyKaswRf8dVDE56f9KITXNDXyJWzJnIxlp8olonicnV_nHbnMBM_BqHGWSgHP5srJAdwuGHf4Vkb2vcdxFYLnyRGOe9nfjFJSlldZPWe1vqwuHMOePqwiCZkF0li1szFo8ml1CEJyA9RbykpIZLdfJwB6iCtGcxngVoKYV7BqmRQjz/s5103/LostBoys_PantoPP.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4082" data-original-width="5103" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-sfZG4DMV_h-g6jyKaswRf8dVDE56f9KITXNDXyJWzJnIxlp8olonicnV_nHbnMBM_BqHGWSgHP5srJAdwuGHf4Vkb2vcdxFYLnyRGOe9nfjFJSlldZPWe1vqwuHMOePqwiCZkF0li1szFo8ml1CEJyA9RbykpIZLdfJwB6iCtGcxngVoKYV7BqmRQjz/w200-h160/LostBoys_PantoPP.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's a fun romp with all the usual bad jokes, fabulous musical numbers and dance routines, and lots of audience participation - though on Saturday the cast had their work cut out to keep the audience involved - I think one or two of the grown-ups weren't paying proper attention at times! </div></div><div style="text-align: left;">This year the musical numbers were more modern - a move away from the obvious and familiar chart toppers of the past, which gave the singers a chance to show off their indivudual range and talents, but was perhaps a little less easy for the audience to join in and sing along (or maybe that's just my age showing?) </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmQmcWcE342COvGX3ny336n-Z_-r3cTEdqEsH29WtRXBcwoNg7YVB7bUzhyH0PVTsBTAgvaWl87aNSEDk0bj3Rx5ilheSjmudOxmH8TBlhdVCRM7wairvRA79rYLdiMufljjRGzO5xnpqJKebAWP9abLUp97em1nlc4U5uFJHH647dJFwVU-_-Y2rVw8F/s5009/Cheryl_Dancers.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4007" data-original-width="5009" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmQmcWcE342COvGX3ny336n-Z_-r3cTEdqEsH29WtRXBcwoNg7YVB7bUzhyH0PVTsBTAgvaWl87aNSEDk0bj3Rx5ilheSjmudOxmH8TBlhdVCRM7wairvRA79rYLdiMufljjRGzO5xnpqJKebAWP9abLUp97em1nlc4U5uFJHH647dJFwVU-_-Y2rVw8F/w200-h160/Cheryl_Dancers.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>There's a lot of girl power in this Panto - Wendy (Daisy Burden) holds her own against the Neverlanders and the Mermaids, and the Chief's daughter, Cheryl (Minnie Dobson) is a full on Geordie lass who you'd not mess with down the Bigg Market! There are none of your simpering heroines here justwaiting to be rescued - though Cheryl does have to be rescued from drowning, obviously, otherwise there'd be a big hole in the plot at one point! Watch out for some tough girl routines - with some subtle body language between Cheryl and Wendy - unusual in a panto and easy to miss! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHfXdos0gl0d8zpB-EVP-c5gTROIe2qyDoaE_r7o2cXSgvmA8jMcHimR4z0YKiB60a-DFD_Rec4deRbCdcnBk_yn98lzsbR8wW3Tr1vmbypOCWmQkKtr8T_sxufse787OVtkIyumv4cS6JW7xleRqe9LO2qGT65ll767hIOGfe6-vduCiThyBa1y8uMZF/s5200/PeterPan.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5200" data-original-width="4160" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHfXdos0gl0d8zpB-EVP-c5gTROIe2qyDoaE_r7o2cXSgvmA8jMcHimR4z0YKiB60a-DFD_Rec4deRbCdcnBk_yn98lzsbR8wW3Tr1vmbypOCWmQkKtr8T_sxufse787OVtkIyumv4cS6JW7xleRqe9LO2qGT65ll767hIOGfe6-vduCiThyBa1y8uMZF/w160-h200/PeterPan.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>Stirling performances all round from the cast and the dancers, but especially from Joe Robson as Peter Pan, who has such presence on stage and, and Luke Newey as Smee - who does a grand job of keeping the audience engaged, despite their reluctance at times! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Lots of laughs - some audible sobs when Tinkerbell drinks the poison! - and plenty of boos for the baddy! And, of course, there's a man in a frock...What more could you ask for in a panto? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Peter Pan flies until the 17th and there are still a few seats available but be quick before they disappear like lost boys from their prams! Book online at <a href="http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk" target="_blank">www.peoplestheatre.co.uk</a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*photo credit: Paul Hood</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Denise Sparrowhawk</b></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-91079747796044282312023-12-09T12:03:00.003+00:002023-12-09T12:10:29.719+00:00Three Acts of Love - Review - Live Theatre<div style="text-align: left;"><b>Three Acts of Love <br />Live Theatre</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5th December, 2023</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2y2dZwE2WdlBCirbp4REzu3wSgF2wferxALiZxhkFpfCk0YGscO1zaAaEJO_Gonx9Cftmk9UZ4M0-h9An5JlAlHDrwf1cDHyRDghldDU2C1HI92jEvDJSsQnUV0gmk3N4h44Bg3ZE1yVY1nVMh6yDlh1xS-aQxi33zDaJeFlipap6Z4W0mvIezIwfRUQ7/s1500/WEB%20image%201500x1080%20B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="865" data-original-width="1500" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2y2dZwE2WdlBCirbp4REzu3wSgF2wferxALiZxhkFpfCk0YGscO1zaAaEJO_Gonx9Cftmk9UZ4M0-h9An5JlAlHDrwf1cDHyRDghldDU2C1HI92jEvDJSsQnUV0gmk3N4h44Bg3ZE1yVY1nVMh6yDlh1xS-aQxi33zDaJeFlipap6Z4W0mvIezIwfRUQ7/s320/WEB%20image%201500x1080%20B.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><br /></b></div><!--StartFragment-->
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Love is not all hearts & flowers. These
three short plays deliver a beautifully crafted glimpse into its many facets.
Performed by a stellar cast of Imogen Stubbs, Rebecca Glendenning-Laycock,
Laila Zaidi & accompanied from the minimalist stage by composer/musician Me
Lost Me (AKA Jayne Dent), we are treated to three tales as old as time that are
accompanied by some beautiful music.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The first performance is ‘The start of
space’ by Laura Lindow. An emotional piece that gives insight into the life of
Dr McGill (Stubbs). An experienced surgeon dealing with matters of the physical
heart, we watch her encounter with a sick child awaiting a transplant. Dr
McGill’s sometimes troubled & certainly tragic private life is revealed
through lively conversation with her young patient. This is a moving piece,
superbly delivered, that pulls at our heart strings.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnK7T47PRIuItoC9GgiG5qGp5vpDjI0qRsJzTG_tb9k1C_0Cn7jWSHIzsa2pM6-9taPA-xFYMWPHy7Zo1VES8PGzZrhkCuPCBS24XxP2Q-d6NvQoUdI46DlXb5-WIWHn0Hm2nUTMeAnjg-Qky3gNO6D9gz1GZXzT3adKpSN7KFFwFU1dz0-gva8QB5NsXO/s1800/IMG_2883.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1800" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnK7T47PRIuItoC9GgiG5qGp5vpDjI0qRsJzTG_tb9k1C_0Cn7jWSHIzsa2pM6-9taPA-xFYMWPHy7Zo1VES8PGzZrhkCuPCBS24XxP2Q-d6NvQoUdI46DlXb5-WIWHn0Hm2nUTMeAnjg-Qky3gNO6D9gz1GZXzT3adKpSN7KFFwFU1dz0-gva8QB5NsXO/s320/IMG_2883.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Next up is ‘fangirl, or the justification
of limerence’ by Naomi Obeng. This is a faster moving piece that looks at Clara
(Zaidi) & her infatuation with a popstar she refers to as ‘God’.
Worshipping fervently at the shrine of her musical deity (portrayed beautifully
with veils & music) Clara’s devotion is unwavering even when it comes to
light that ‘Gods’ behaviour may well be erring on the side of deviant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clara chooses to turn on his accuser. This piece
is an accurate observation of our sometimes toxic digital world. A world where
celebrity can be created overnight & torn down the next day & anxiety
is induced by separation from our devices & by being too involved with
them.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXhWcgW_1hbZBwXfRD97ciZi436b6C3CxtoUtis0Gys4KzjqHTOmxExHXlYvpq628HmD9imB2jxLusSmmWAFK3ZKW5xOfCBWnsrHX3fp7sNh1Uwt2YjG57JF82QYuQf5KhGgoYJXPtebMv41cNpaQBDYGhcc3e4nWCplUMaPuaEIVPOJoBTlwfjA5fxSVO/s1800/IMG_2289.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1800" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXhWcgW_1hbZBwXfRD97ciZi436b6C3CxtoUtis0Gys4KzjqHTOmxExHXlYvpq628HmD9imB2jxLusSmmWAFK3ZKW5xOfCBWnsrHX3fp7sNh1Uwt2YjG57JF82QYuQf5KhGgoYJXPtebMv41cNpaQBDYGhcc3e4nWCplUMaPuaEIVPOJoBTlwfjA5fxSVO/s320/IMG_2289.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Last but definitely not least, we have
‘with the love of neither God nor state’ by Vici Wreford-Sinnott. Transported
to Northvale social club (the heart of the community & firmly placed within
the community’s heart) shutting it’s doors for the last time before it reopens
transformed into a food bank. Thea (Stubbs) is trying to involve the members in
a fundraising night when 21 year old Greta Stone (Glendinning-Laycock) arrives
on the doorstep, never having been out alone at night & having been assured
Thea has a heart of gold. Clearly needing help Theas warms to the vulnerable
Greta who tells her ‘normally I am somewhere, not nowhere’ We are given insight
into their developing relationship which is beautifully bitter sweet. This
piece is a reflection of the society we now live in, with a need for food banks
& a need to understand disability (in all its forms) far better.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsENF3GuVYt4APcSAEbEHjrAjdwp90OfcIeyADDc0ZrlFxLYC2SiF_Jk7nXRtBdJ1D9lYaqhZ7BQ2LP_Y9gYiNKPBxX707oMdwxTSJuXINtQ0oXjcxlo1OZg06cfbiHpQJR5KAZNMNI4dYuuepjHrBIowLinbFODA53WJJk2vwC4kjKDXzYBlcFckq4XTi/s1800/IMG_2085.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1800" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsENF3GuVYt4APcSAEbEHjrAjdwp90OfcIeyADDc0ZrlFxLYC2SiF_Jk7nXRtBdJ1D9lYaqhZ7BQ2LP_Y9gYiNKPBxX707oMdwxTSJuXINtQ0oXjcxlo1OZg06cfbiHpQJR5KAZNMNI4dYuuepjHrBIowLinbFODA53WJJk2vwC4kjKDXzYBlcFckq4XTi/s320/IMG_2085.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">I would have loved to see more from these
characters. I became invested in their beautifully written & expertly
delivered stories & wanted to know what happened next? Each of these pieces
would, I’m sure, Make for superb full length pieces. Directors Jack McNamara
& Bex Bowsher did a good job of bringing the pieces to life. The audience
was certainly moved & given food for thought.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Three acts of love runs until Saturday
December 16<sup>th</sup>.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Images courtesy of Live Theatre</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><b>Alison Stanley</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><b><br /></b></span></p>
<!--EndFragment-->Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-31933789964948155762023-11-30T20:09:00.004+00:002023-11-30T20:09:53.085+00:00Preview - Peter Pan - People's Theatre<p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZr2WVxtim_TGbDMZw-9cx4e9N-H9ubMHWqOps-KhFmRgbES-3JFd8s9EtYiODICzf8IxZDd3gKek6-Eq6rt2gKVSUi-kIJ5QlA-Zx-uvZ43VpGwJKwgEIU4MGnb6aN6V6hUJP-ocMILEJTtWJMxXw0XCsoyG2tvD5sZs_B-fOrllvvFU-c87mzSm9513/s1280/Peter%20Pan%20-%20socials%20-%20no%20text%20WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZr2WVxtim_TGbDMZw-9cx4e9N-H9ubMHWqOps-KhFmRgbES-3JFd8s9EtYiODICzf8IxZDd3gKek6-Eq6rt2gKVSUi-kIJ5QlA-Zx-uvZ43VpGwJKwgEIU4MGnb6aN6V6hUJP-ocMILEJTtWJMxXw0XCsoyG2tvD5sZs_B-fOrllvvFU-c87mzSm9513/s1280/Peter%20Pan%20-%20socials%20-%20no%20text%20WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZr2WVxtim_TGbDMZw-9cx4e9N-H9ubMHWqOps-KhFmRgbES-3JFd8s9EtYiODICzf8IxZDd3gKek6-Eq6rt2gKVSUi-kIJ5QlA-Zx-uvZ43VpGwJKwgEIU4MGnb6aN6V6hUJP-ocMILEJTtWJMxXw0XCsoyG2tvD5sZs_B-fOrllvvFU-c87mzSm9513/s1280/Peter%20Pan%20-%20socials%20-%20no%20text%20WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZr2WVxtim_TGbDMZw-9cx4e9N-H9ubMHWqOps-KhFmRgbES-3JFd8s9EtYiODICzf8IxZDd3gKek6-Eq6rt2gKVSUi-kIJ5QlA-Zx-uvZ43VpGwJKwgEIU4MGnb6aN6V6hUJP-ocMILEJTtWJMxXw0XCsoyG2tvD5sZs_B-fOrllvvFU-c87mzSm9513/s1280/Peter%20Pan%20-%20socials%20-%20no%20text%20WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZr2WVxtim_TGbDMZw-9cx4e9N-H9ubMHWqOps-KhFmRgbES-3JFd8s9EtYiODICzf8IxZDd3gKek6-Eq6rt2gKVSUi-kIJ5QlA-Zx-uvZ43VpGwJKwgEIU4MGnb6aN6V6hUJP-ocMILEJTtWJMxXw0XCsoyG2tvD5sZs_B-fOrllvvFU-c87mzSm9513/w200-h200/Peter%20Pan%20-%20socials%20-%20no%20text%20WEB.jpg" width="200" /></a></b></div><p><b><b>An awfully big adventure is coming to the People’s Theatre this Christmas! </b></b></p><p></p><p><br /></p><p>With a sprinkling of Tinkerbell's fairy dust, Peter Pan whisks Wendy, John and Michael off to the magical Neverland – home to lost boys, mermaids and the dastardly pirate Captain Hook!</p><p><br /></p><p>Can Peter rid Neverland of Captain Hook forever? Will the Darlings find their way home to London? Will Mrs Starkey and her bumbling son Smee stick by Hook’s side? And, most importantly, do you believe in fairies?</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4oHqMVIQYQRhLM5qfME3_9xJig7OANJpX045vSrClMXUYu6kJ6hGM7S9m3bjNGryaZaPLhJ2zdVCfoYdV79fi_7z02lJQFFv1xUwRgmMAkJ1k2cZwmJvQf7ite-qZFCJ5l4nQdr6QE2nJhkWw6UJ8bGL7o7obqlnVkizAESt-WaIcs1Qw04qabcuNsB5b/s811/SteveRobertson_photobyJohnBrown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="616" data-original-width="811" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4oHqMVIQYQRhLM5qfME3_9xJig7OANJpX045vSrClMXUYu6kJ6hGM7S9m3bjNGryaZaPLhJ2zdVCfoYdV79fi_7z02lJQFFv1xUwRgmMAkJ1k2cZwmJvQf7ite-qZFCJ5l4nQdr6QE2nJhkWw6UJ8bGL7o7obqlnVkizAESt-WaIcs1Qw04qabcuNsB5b/w400-h304/SteveRobertson_photobyJohnBrown.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Audience favourite Steve Robertson returns as Dame Starkey alongside Joe Robson as Peter Pan in this tinktastic Panto full of singing, dancing, laughs and fun for the whole family!<p></p><p>The People’s are delighted to be able to once again include a relaxed performance of the show which includes a BSL interpreter. A relaxed performance can benefit audience members with learning disabilities, neurodivergent audience members, or those with sensory triggers such as flashing lights or sudden loud noises. It’s also a great option for young children visiting for the first time, and families with babies who may need to leave and re-enter the performance.</p><p>Some performances of this high-flying Panto are already full, so don’t hang about and hook your tickets now!</p><p>PETER PAN opens on Saturday 9 December on the Main Stage. Tickets are available from the People’s Theatre Box Office on 0191 265 5020 (option 2) and online at <a href="http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk">www.peoplestheatre.co.uk</a></p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-91852571387089205732023-11-29T12:54:00.000+00:002023-11-29T12:54:04.316+00:00Preview - It's A Wonderful Life - Little Theatre <div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">The Progressive Players Present </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">It's a Wonderful Life </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">A radio play by Joe Landry</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVLV99gA2wVhvv06gHPggIVEisUZR8igqdo1yDvmD0T4wyt9Rme4nWvr6YD16vEqdCp6BNKJxlfDG7e72BjXU3HFuGzj7kwy_8xfsIdz9XWARcB0qURR8z1PgWXr0bsMrD2qkey6yfwAzRoNSYgBWab1IqqBz1tHlYKEIeMbwbchvuNj_rPx6wwKB-Qmus/s2264/It's%20a%20Wonderful%20Life%20Poster%20SQ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2264" data-original-width="2264" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVLV99gA2wVhvv06gHPggIVEisUZR8igqdo1yDvmD0T4wyt9Rme4nWvr6YD16vEqdCp6BNKJxlfDG7e72BjXU3HFuGzj7kwy_8xfsIdz9XWARcB0qURR8z1PgWXr0bsMrD2qkey6yfwAzRoNSYgBWab1IqqBz1tHlYKEIeMbwbchvuNj_rPx6wwKB-Qmus/s320/It's%20a%20Wonderful%20Life%20Poster%20SQ.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you are looking for something that embodies the Christmas Spirit you can't get better than the classic story of George Bailey and his Guardian Angel Clarence. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This heartwarming tale, made famous by James Stewart on the silver screen, has been adapted as a radio play by American playwright Joe Landry. Joe has adapted other films and books in this way - including War Of The Worlds and The Great Gatsby. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With the cast performing as if they are actors in a radio play, speaking into microphones, and all the sound effects created live on stage, it promises to be an interesting and entertaining take on the original.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A story of redemption and hope, as kindness and humanity succeed against commercialism and greed, it's a perfect Christmas pick-me-up! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>It's A Wonderful Life</b> plays at the Little Theatre, Gateshead from 5th - 8th Dec. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tickets can be booked <a href="https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/gateshead-little-theatre/its-a-wonderful-life-radio-play/e-mmblvk" target="_blank">here</a> and cost just £12 (plus admin fee) - more than worth it to see an angel get his wings! </div><p></p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-24746626131894939362023-11-22T00:15:00.004+00:002023-11-22T00:17:35.493+00:00Review - A Christmas Carol - People's Theatre<div style="text-align: left;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSj9YWuAtLA2K3g4qWkEtrhgf8QLjXOJOoQYaOZ3Kx7RlbOkgwL10i00OEHcn-MmHjaRwt89E_fMOWpLhQarVTPcAK4PTfgw7cOoK5f16J9Ao5mK6wDONAyyXHI2CU4ohHkruM2wfP64M3-hiFsgJMFsytQgwwNpEVGWYyjXGgF83qZ3CkeiOzdaNI-Av2/s1000/DETAILS%20-%20A%20Christmas%20Carol.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSj9YWuAtLA2K3g4qWkEtrhgf8QLjXOJOoQYaOZ3Kx7RlbOkgwL10i00OEHcn-MmHjaRwt89E_fMOWpLhQarVTPcAK4PTfgw7cOoK5f16J9Ao5mK6wDONAyyXHI2CU4ohHkruM2wfP64M3-hiFsgJMFsytQgwwNpEVGWYyjXGgF83qZ3CkeiOzdaNI-Av2/s320/DETAILS%20-%20A%20Christmas%20Carol.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>A Christmas Carol</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>People's Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>21st November, 2023 </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Adapted by Karen Louise Hebden</div><div style="text-align: left;">Directed by Anna Dobson</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We're into the last full week of November, Christmas and Panto season are fast approaching. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Bah! Humbug! So what better way to ease into the silly season than with A Christmas Carol, Charles Dicken's tale of redemption, forgiveness and learning to understand and keep to the true heart of Christmas? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It is a glorious tale full of larger than life characters, chain rattling ghosts and a moral lesson or two. Add in some traditional carols, a cleverly constructed set, and a bunch of talented actors and you have a winning combination. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uBKl7PMiG5JrigFNVAketqAcChgDG1wd14ZyPZaxpRbq_6Jcl9qNs76zoguvVXu-Sq7bXE8vPWij5-VZaZAiCCS7XxAbbbUnZOIHYDn998Mkzws1ey4fBiusy78e1SDBudSZpQiwgcwc4Rp4OlDSP1QRZfDoNqPCKRJg_lvkKHeYhh7dfK8j6j5oyhM1/s5091/A%20Christmas%20Carol%20DR2%20(37%20of%2087)-min.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2864" data-original-width="5091" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uBKl7PMiG5JrigFNVAketqAcChgDG1wd14ZyPZaxpRbq_6Jcl9qNs76zoguvVXu-Sq7bXE8vPWij5-VZaZAiCCS7XxAbbbUnZOIHYDn998Mkzws1ey4fBiusy78e1SDBudSZpQiwgcwc4Rp4OlDSP1QRZfDoNqPCKRJg_lvkKHeYhh7dfK8j6j5oyhM1/s320/A%20Christmas%20Carol%20DR2%20(37%20of%2087)-min.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Let's start with the set - a huge clock face mounted on a raised walkway dominates the stage, and is used to great effect to show the passing of time as the three spectres of Christmas visit Ebeneezer Scrooge. Steps lead up to the platform from either side of the stage, and are used throughout by various characters, giving an extra level (pardon the pun) of visual interest and depth to the action. Various props are brought on and off the stage to create each scene - desks for Scrooge and Bob Cratchet to work at, tables and chairs to represent the Cratchet's kitchen, a headstone, a crackett, a doorway... while other props remain a constant - Scrooges bed, Tiny Tim's crutch, lanterns throwing off their soft yellow light. Each of these props add to the audience's awareness, reminding us of some aspect of the story: Scrooge's ghostly visitors, the frailty of Tiny Tim, the shortness of time... It's not a busy set, but it says more than you might realise at first glance. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's always interesting to see how ghostly apparitions are portrayed on stage, and here we have ethereal lighting and giant puppets with diaphanous, floating robes, skeletal fingers...they are beautifully and effectively created and manipulated, and the sinister silent presence of Christmas Yet to Come is awe-inspiring. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqCZJoMd1M5e5NybFp_lQQ_iLz8l01g8XtJnTS0rIaZaBwA_Ym_gayz67a9Dc3CZuMc4VFra1hRUMd_C6Rvc1m5Mc_7V-pJ5NM2YJyCmsSk-22JSo-0kad7mZE2T4dJGxTpdz_PwCxXTU_3gqC-_haxLrG1_TOPbElSSYFveOaGR1QWyth6RiJn_YSBiS6/s5135/A%20Christmas%20Carol%20DR2%20(58%20of%2087).jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2888" data-original-width="5135" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqCZJoMd1M5e5NybFp_lQQ_iLz8l01g8XtJnTS0rIaZaBwA_Ym_gayz67a9Dc3CZuMc4VFra1hRUMd_C6Rvc1m5Mc_7V-pJ5NM2YJyCmsSk-22JSo-0kad7mZE2T4dJGxTpdz_PwCxXTU_3gqC-_haxLrG1_TOPbElSSYFveOaGR1QWyth6RiJn_YSBiS6/s320/A%20Christmas%20Carol%20DR2%20(58%20of%2087).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The cast work hard with many playing several parts and switching roles seamlessly, while Roger Liddle as Scrooge grumps and bah humbugs his way to redemption and a joyous transformation in the final act, channeling just a smidgeon of Alastair Sim (the original and best Scrooge!). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This production will draw you into the Christmas spirit, it is funny, heart-rending, and ultimately uplifting. A story written in 1843 and still as relevant today as it was then. Buy a ticket and experience the most traditional Christmas story. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A Christmas Carol plays until 25th November. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">*Images by Paul Hood</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Denise Sparrowhawk</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-27194620036682684372023-11-15T14:27:00.002+00:002023-11-15T14:31:21.426+00:00Preview - A Christmas Carol - People's Theatre <p><b>A Christmas Eve</b> <b>like no other! </b></p><p><b>People's Theatre present Charles Dicken's classic festive story...</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOTFO0jW6RDJ64aKXB1jq2Z2jPNBTP6ciL2w3bNZRmA9WYMNG9spB7YU_v8v1G3r7B_2JmnWp-diu07Bv_RzOpwrbN6LP4ywl3zLL6efvfgcSHlMY6-N6p3Ye5KJHi1S9NrMEi7_JFJNflrgy-qFtC7LXL91By8BrPjYhyphenhyphenY2-hzrvO79dWvmpxqeIs4PiT/s1000/DETAILS%20-%20A%20Christmas%20Carol.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOTFO0jW6RDJ64aKXB1jq2Z2jPNBTP6ciL2w3bNZRmA9WYMNG9spB7YU_v8v1G3r7B_2JmnWp-diu07Bv_RzOpwrbN6LP4ywl3zLL6efvfgcSHlMY6-N6p3Ye5KJHi1S9NrMEi7_JFJNflrgy-qFtC7LXL91By8BrPjYhyphenhyphenY2-hzrvO79dWvmpxqeIs4PiT/s320/DETAILS%20-%20A%20Christmas%20Carol.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Miserly Ebeneezer Scrooge is about to embark on an astonishing journey through his past, present and future thanks to three ghostly visitors. Can tight-fisted, cruel and bitter Scrooge learn the error of his ways and discover the power of kindness and compassion?</p><p>Written in 1843, Charles Dickens seasonal short story A CHRISTMAS CAROL is as popular and enduring as ever.</p><p>Brought to life on stage by Roger Liddle as Scrooge and an ensemble of twenty performers, this celebrated adaptation by Karen Louise Hebden is bursting with traditional carols, live music, dance, spooky ghosts and festive cheer!</p><p>Vibrant, moving and heart-warming, this <b>A CHRISTMAS CAROL</b> promises to be a must-see for the whole family, and the perfect way to get in the mood for the festive season!</p><p>A <b>CHRISTMAS CAROL</b> <b>opens on Tuesday 21 November on the Main Stage. Tickets are available from the People’s Theatre Box Office on 0191 265 5020 (option 2) and online at <a href="http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk">www.peoplestheatre.co.uk</a></b></p><p><br /></p><p>And once Scrooge and Co have got you in the festive spirit, the People’s Panto PETER PAN will soon be swooping on to their stage! Tickets are flying for this awfully big Christmas adventure, and the run includes a Relaxed Performance on Tuesday 12 December. Hook your <a href="http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk" target="_blank">tickets</a> now!</p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-14534648548112582992023-11-14T00:26:00.001+00:002023-11-14T00:26:38.087+00:00Review - Audacity - The Little Theatre <div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbp0AWjl7867p_v66ALOxlJYRYjwnxiaFmLnVIn0h5NN6QggC3x38L7hWjIiLHIBvA-c7pt-mXSJCk4FDU8sOJf-QWcOcf763PYL9PXPUHNak6Oxe4A4Aw5pLOu9J5fy1dP4ELwJBsKvBwKgvY_Nq1krqTV180sP06SueEYCvqy6erA65RfPizKt7OrgHH/s1040/Audacity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbp0AWjl7867p_v66ALOxlJYRYjwnxiaFmLnVIn0h5NN6QggC3x38L7hWjIiLHIBvA-c7pt-mXSJCk4FDU8sOJf-QWcOcf763PYL9PXPUHNak6Oxe4A4Aw5pLOu9J5fy1dP4ELwJBsKvBwKgvY_Nq1krqTV180sP06SueEYCvqy6erA65RfPizKt7OrgHH/s320/Audacity.jpg" width="222" /></a></div><b>Audacity </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Little Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>13th Nov 2023</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Written by Simon Mawdsley</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Presented by The Progressive Players </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Directed by Denise Wilson </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This week The Progressive Players are staging Simon Mawdsley's comedy thriller, Audacity. </div><div style="text-align: left;">In a dismal basement flat in Newcastle, three salesmen plan something that will change their fortunes. Phil, recently divorced, needs to persuade John and Dave to help him rob a department store. He's already got a plan, he just needs two guys to help him put it into action. And he has chosen well: John, is out of work after 22 year's service, his wife working two jobs to keep them afloat, while Dave, is a gambler with a huge mortgage and a high maintenance wife. Phil uses all his salesman's skills to persuade them - plays on their weaknesses, appeals to their egos, convinces them, despite their doubts, that this is something they need to do. </div><div style="text-align: left;">As the day of the heist arrives, they are practiced, poised, ready. Can they pull it off? Will everything go to plan? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This starts as an apparently serious crime thriller but very quickly the humour begins to show. Trevor Whaley as Phil, the brains behind the heist, plays the straight man to Neil Radbourne and Roy Evans. Evans blusters and preens as the over-confident Dave, while Radbourne plays the nervous, self-effacing, John to perfection - coughing and spluttering and apologizing his way throughout. There are some surprises - for the characters and the audience - not everyone is quite what they seem, and more than one secret is revealed in the course of the play!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In a play set in a single room, where there is more dialogue than action, body language and facial expression are as important as the words in engaging the audience and drawing them into the story. Under Denise Wilson's direction there are some excellent, subtle moments when the audience sees a grimace or a swagger that the other characters are seemingly oblivious to, as well as some quite deliberate breaking of the fourth wall such as Gemma (Jude Downing) addressing the audience directly. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Do the guys pull off their heist? Do the wives get to the bottom of their husband's strange behaviour? Is everyone, or anyone, actually telling the truth? Maybe. Maybe not. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Great acting, clever direction, and a surprise or two in the plot make for an audaciously entertaining evening!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Audacity plays until Saturday 18th November. Tickets are available <a href="https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/gateshead-little-theatre/audacity/e-pxjrax" target="_blank">online here</a> .</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>Denise Sparrowhawk</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-63410482579434087462023-10-25T23:45:00.000+01:002023-10-25T23:45:26.495+01:00Review - Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? - Royalty Theatre<div style="text-align: left;"><b>Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? </b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeHaM_Z6gJJg9Sdhq2JxBhDasUsj5ojJyvTZhw1v7_dkhbZntekgglQKie6VhzCytOnC6OjtwD17vXVXvUt9NhBxFFhoNKFCsUiWuU-RYWQ28RqwvSfxXGCpOl-g4Vu0cC8JSqSjFc28hBLNdPKpiBjC8kuiqe9Vx_mPbjwU3ahuysWBRhxhNEV9bPeII/s768/Woolf-768x406.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><b><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="768" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeHaM_Z6gJJg9Sdhq2JxBhDasUsj5ojJyvTZhw1v7_dkhbZntekgglQKie6VhzCytOnC6OjtwD17vXVXvUt9NhBxFFhoNKFCsUiWuU-RYWQ28RqwvSfxXGCpOl-g4Vu0cC8JSqSjFc28hBLNdPKpiBjC8kuiqe9Vx_mPbjwU3ahuysWBRhxhNEV9bPeII/s320/Woolf-768x406.png" width="320" /></b></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Royalty Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>24th October, 2023</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Do you have children? That's an innocent enough question, isn't it? Yet for the four characters in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, it proves to be a particularly loaded one. There is no simple answer for either of the two couples. One replies with a simple no, the other with the cryptic, "that's for me to know and you to find out". This question of who does, or does not have children, hangs over the play like a spectre. Something is not right here, but it takes the entire play for the awful truth is revealed. It's a car crash situation - or rather a series of car crashes - and the audience can only watch as the relationships between the four characters implode in a series of disagreements and arguments, of threats that are sometimes veiled and sometimes blatant. A late night party becomes the melting pot for the ambitions, frustrations and emotional baggage of four unhappy people. Sexual tension and drunken antagonism sizzle through the play as the characters goad each other, circling like boxers in the ring, throwing verbal and physical punches. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Lynne Huntley and Jordan Carling as Martha and George, and Jamie Lowes and Emily MacDonald as Nick and Honey gave incredible performances, changing mood and demeanor like chameleons changing colour, they flipped from solicitous and apologetic, to venomously insulting and back again. Under Beth McAneny's direction the tension was constantly building throughout, leaving the audience wondering what could possible be coming next. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is the darkest of dark comedies as the tension builds between the characters, the audience is left trying to work out what is real, and what is not. Is it all just a game or is there a dangerous truth to it all? A darkly comedic exploration of the disintegration of ambitions and relationships this production will have you laughing one moment and holding your breath in disbelief the next. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Are you afraid of Virginia Woolf? You have until Saturday 28th October to find out who is afraid of her and why! Tickets are available <a href="https://royaltytheatre.co.uk/tickets/" target="_blank">here</a> or purchase on the door. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Denise Sparrowhawk</div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-45919327525356822472023-10-22T10:14:00.000+01:002023-10-22T10:14:21.046+01:00Preview - Private Lives - People's Theatre <p><b style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbCK78kB4kHWP6ebl2cRuCQe6ZLZv-Zo9ttOY85VgU5NswRhzl_Unk3n5kJ7-G-W7dgBfJHfQfWH7RLzFGtcnWktygXAD0_j4vRPnceOvWFUGwb_iMI67NnPYDbIXNQRWynEX5hqHauuljl4ykgjik5RGTs-bevMIGAIkXnkb51it-0j9xObHJPYGCSpx/s1000/DETAILS%20-%20Private%20Lives.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbCK78kB4kHWP6ebl2cRuCQe6ZLZv-Zo9ttOY85VgU5NswRhzl_Unk3n5kJ7-G-W7dgBfJHfQfWH7RLzFGtcnWktygXAD0_j4vRPnceOvWFUGwb_iMI67NnPYDbIXNQRWynEX5hqHauuljl4ykgjik5RGTs-bevMIGAIkXnkb51it-0j9xObHJPYGCSpx/w200-h200/DETAILS%20-%20Private%20Lives.jpg" width="200" /></a></b></div><b style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></b><p></p><p><b style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Join the People's Theatre for a sublimely funny and high-spirited romp!</b></p><p><br /><br /><b style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></b></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><b> </b></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><i>“We were quite ridiculously - over in love.”</i></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2NJ12Grn_QisWWxzUda3y4EuPtfj8x_tJJO_mpyQlQWK-iZtOLU4-2hHRrB1h_ZuXuiXHyQKdEE8uUYrdr_7s4muQnefdcCYI5sMfWK6HDIsV1Ssf_NrzZBuS8iblcMmChRbfnGjNE4D2UeSi_4Gn2OPBTXKDQZTi8U2zzCxAA1lp0O9bfuW5BEPNyym/s1080/PL_rehearsals_PaulHood%20(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2NJ12Grn_QisWWxzUda3y4EuPtfj8x_tJJO_mpyQlQWK-iZtOLU4-2hHRrB1h_ZuXuiXHyQKdEE8uUYrdr_7s4muQnefdcCYI5sMfWK6HDIsV1Ssf_NrzZBuS8iblcMmChRbfnGjNE4D2UeSi_4Gn2OPBTXKDQZTi8U2zzCxAA1lp0O9bfuW5BEPNyym/s320/PL_rehearsals_PaulHood%20(1).png" width="320" /></a></div><i><br /></i><p></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">Divorced couple Elyot and Amanda find themselves reunited while honeymooning with their new partners. Their unexpected meeting on adjoining hotel balconies reignites old passions … and problems!</p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">Only days after finding each other again, their fiery romance is once more lurching between love and anger. And when their wronged spouses appear, accusations are hurled, truths revealed and new alliances form.</p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">A classic comedy of manners,<b> PRIVATE LIVES</b> fizzes with sophistication, fun and sexual chemistry, and is packed with Noël Coward’s trademark wit and wordplay!</p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">2024 marks Cowards 125<sup>th</sup> birthday, and in the lead-up Concord Theatricals and the Noël</p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">Coward Foundation are commemorating all things Coward, from his most beloved plays to famous quotes and more.</p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><i>“If you’re a star you should behave like one. I always have”</i></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">Sir Noël Peirce Coward (16 December 1899 – 26 March 1973) was an English playwright, composer, director, actor, producer and singer, known for his wit and flamboyance.</p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><b>PRIVATE LIVES</b> is the perfect celebration of Coward’s work, an endlessly witty observation of sex, marriage and social convention.</p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvhyphenhyphenDlITd0B5Y7sOCVFLzisyNmScqS0WYidfEXmlEJUkkOQwl61K1ywJwsxa34lzt5I_36yY0Bf0H9LGVXTwp86EzM1-jj6DFZPQLaG9XUW6_sfP4YdMZf8fcJRZpuJ3tclbalOLcoL_YOmW4QDtpbwlg0GCliq-HiyXevuM4vYAaQokahk0-EM0g6Ydk/s1080/PL_rehearsals_PaulHood%20(12).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvhyphenhyphenDlITd0B5Y7sOCVFLzisyNmScqS0WYidfEXmlEJUkkOQwl61K1ywJwsxa34lzt5I_36yY0Bf0H9LGVXTwp86EzM1-jj6DFZPQLaG9XUW6_sfP4YdMZf8fcJRZpuJ3tclbalOLcoL_YOmW4QDtpbwlg0GCliq-HiyXevuM4vYAaQokahk0-EM0g6Ydk/s320/PL_rehearsals_PaulHood%20(12).png" width="320" /></a></div><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">Director Gordon Russell comments:</p><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><span style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">“Noël Coward wrote the script for Private Lives in the Cathay Hotel in Shanghai whilst convalescing from a bout of influenza The final draft was completed in just four days and Coward wrote the play specifically with Gertrude Lawrence in mind for the role of Amanda. As soon as he had finished the script he wired Lawrence asking her to play the part. After reading it Lawrence wired back saying there was nothing wrong with the script that couldn't be fixed. Coward responded saying that the only thing to be fixed was her performance. This was typical of the relationship that Coward and Lawrence shared, and much of this cutting wit is reflected in the play!”</p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionh3BCgTdPQSlGmxHpOL4Xx3BRR8gIRgacJub2i76S00NHq34IuviQhfDaIxAuksXTRjXE45mUPYp0MU1rZwNHpF3SJ0fcMtr1nE-zDkjftdEFg_hbmjGPfeQFvFFjxUREoVSfR1ecnA5u-juq1xi9XPU3MnQ3gnM_U1xyKie0TE0a-NFSDfxYnic-FtJ/s1080/PL_rehearsals_PaulHood%20(3).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionh3BCgTdPQSlGmxHpOL4Xx3BRR8gIRgacJub2i76S00NHq34IuviQhfDaIxAuksXTRjXE45mUPYp0MU1rZwNHpF3SJ0fcMtr1nE-zDkjftdEFg_hbmjGPfeQFvFFjxUREoVSfR1ecnA5u-juq1xi9XPU3MnQ3gnM_U1xyKie0TE0a-NFSDfxYnic-FtJ/s320/PL_rehearsals_PaulHood%20(3).png" width="320" /></a></div><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"> </p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><b>PRIVATE LIVES</b> opens on <b>Tuesday 24 October</b> on the Main Stage. Tickets are available from the People's Theatre Box Office on 0191 265 5020 (option 2) and online at <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk&source=gmail&ust=1697629138567000&usg=AOvVaw0BAzzCH-iHzw0oXVVbTiVA" href="http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk/" rel="noreferrer" style="color: #4285f4; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">www.peoplestheatre.co.uk</a></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Aptos, Aptos_EmbeddedFont, Aptos_MSFontService, Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0px;">*<i>Rehearsal images by Paul Hood </i></p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-74045740095823449182023-10-14T22:42:00.006+01:002023-10-14T22:43:46.018+01:00Review - The Cold Buffet - Live Theatre<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjetFjdaYXutE-ddc0ZtAG7hd6jwPE9avjnCW0FEc7mNrspebLfcpxn6rhlQb7vD1HOXBQcB_Ykce_GeyxOzMNoBXZoA9YIL2fN8kO7lnjpQtKw1xCQVSOJW62RFbjo65OT2PBIZ6ij8oMbHlI6ZUiC2ozgAtmK58fj9PW8Fs50FPHEXcpEHOj78ayo4nuR/s1500/Outlook-yt1efknu.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="1500" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjetFjdaYXutE-ddc0ZtAG7hd6jwPE9avjnCW0FEc7mNrspebLfcpxn6rhlQb7vD1HOXBQcB_Ykce_GeyxOzMNoBXZoA9YIL2fN8kO7lnjpQtKw1xCQVSOJW62RFbjo65OT2PBIZ6ij8oMbHlI6ZUiC2ozgAtmK58fj9PW8Fs50FPHEXcpEHOj78ayo4nuR/w400-h134/Outlook-yt1efknu.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Cold Buffet </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Live Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>10th October, 2023</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p>Who doesn’t like a family gathering eh? Turns out most people by the looks of this play and that might just be accurate.</p><p>Young Playwright Elijah Young brings up their offering for the 50 year celebration of Live Theatre, a world premier of the play Cold Buffet, with a family-centric drama, revolving around three events over a five year period. Set in the north east in three acts, a funeral, a wedding and a christening, we see the family dynamics erode ever more as the play progresses. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKdaJPh9og0lDjTf8Yx1DMwQaSjt4cHXCO0F7bJbSwkBkVMNGcENpquAREzowODBvsoV-p8NNrBWS6zCd9iRK-J1RRc_FCLUrZu1_JZsuhQgJe7nkMbdoJ42yS_ZqErMu_OydZMgdRH7CFbFbaAkI7mMNsjDhj099Hz2GEkEUIEV93YS7_qQyVI6xvlXB/s1920/coldbuffet-72.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKdaJPh9og0lDjTf8Yx1DMwQaSjt4cHXCO0F7bJbSwkBkVMNGcENpquAREzowODBvsoV-p8NNrBWS6zCd9iRK-J1RRc_FCLUrZu1_JZsuhQgJe7nkMbdoJ42yS_ZqErMu_OydZMgdRH7CFbFbaAkI7mMNsjDhj099Hz2GEkEUIEV93YS7_qQyVI6xvlXB/s320/coldbuffet-72.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>The story centres around five main characters and always the same buffet room. Ellis is the black sheep of the family, a gay man who lives down south, played by Nick Blakeley. I have to admit I couldn’t shake his likeness to Matt Hancock even vocally at first, and when I did it was replaced by character act Jonathan Pie, but well performed all the same.</p><p>Other characters include David, David's mother Evelyn, David’s partner Ayeesha and Ellis’s cousin Max (Beth Fletcher Morris). David is a solid character seemingly in a mid life crisis as he got together with Ayeesha who he happened to meet while giving her driving lessons. </p><p>Everyone has their solid roles: young Max, a peacekeeper of the family, who recently changed their name, also acts as a cheap photographer and a breaker of tension. Evelyn is the family matriarch seemingly holding the family together, while simultaneously pulling it apart! Jane Holman plays Evelyn well like a true old school battle axe of a grandmother.</p><p>Ayeesha often steals the show with her cringe- worthy over-niceness and positivity, and natural people pleasing urges. All of which merely masks her real feelings and soon breaks down under real pressure and scrutiny. Played by Amara Karan whose credits include (the Twilight Zone, Dr Who, Marvel's Lucky Man and various Shakespeare productions. Her OTT style is captivating and a wedding dance scene with David (Jim Kitson) was most amusing - the crowd lapped up every second of it. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYGijNkuAIoR5AU7jSIz7yRu0SuEZC367s7ce01-8MF3rbsUredr4SzIaVYe31UOreWZj8muLrxhfRDZrAt46pYG4BR2hSIdwjl1tHQgX3mBzdOqI0BBDshO99q0Dy9u_1cl_TDkNzZW4J90CfRIhKD3rDJHzBDGVVcFD5P6dcDiXH2_aGvsXqCcuBTDAh/s1920/coldbuffet-105.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYGijNkuAIoR5AU7jSIz7yRu0SuEZC367s7ce01-8MF3rbsUredr4SzIaVYe31UOreWZj8muLrxhfRDZrAt46pYG4BR2hSIdwjl1tHQgX3mBzdOqI0BBDshO99q0Dy9u_1cl_TDkNzZW4J90CfRIhKD3rDJHzBDGVVcFD5P6dcDiXH2_aGvsXqCcuBTDAh/s320/coldbuffet-105.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><p>There were some nice touches with David doing a speech in character in the press area before the play started and in each interval the area was updated as a kind of backstage to the main stage with a karaoke area in the first interval (Karaoke at a funeral? That’s niche!) and the wedding cake in the second interval, good attention to detail, making the play stand out a bit.</p><p>The audience seemed to lap up all the jokes and the tension felt so real at times, I was tempted to actually look away. Sometimes it’s hard to tell who’s story they are telling, especially in the first two parts it almost feels like the main character is the dead grandad. The ending I found a little strange, possibly some catholic symbolism - it was unclear to me. But overall this was an enjoyable watch and Elijah Young may well be a young writer - no pun intended - to watch. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSOo-JysV5JP_h9BGSM8QXJH9tdeXDQ0ZB62dlXgjowZOgF0CjOJRdU-NrAfxCAnc7xpeY4ilqiz3IJmQpC1qnhNgR1fjIdngfE6jK6EVAGVqnqP9p4k1vyZO6vsSajHoqgCropGziwqOhohmSrlnOOLcvkbHACSe6aQ05ewKvoRcZgSmEF-_jRKiHaXI1/s1920/coldbuffet-78.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSOo-JysV5JP_h9BGSM8QXJH9tdeXDQ0ZB62dlXgjowZOgF0CjOJRdU-NrAfxCAnc7xpeY4ilqiz3IJmQpC1qnhNgR1fjIdngfE6jK6EVAGVqnqP9p4k1vyZO6vsSajHoqgCropGziwqOhohmSrlnOOLcvkbHACSe6aQ05ewKvoRcZgSmEF-_jRKiHaXI1/s320/coldbuffet-78.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Running Thursday 5th October - Sat 28th October 7.30</p><p>Matinees Sat 7,14 and 21st October 2pm</p><p>Thurs 12, 19 and 26 October 2pm</p><p>Sun 15, 22 October 4pm</p><p>*Photo Credit: Von Fox Promotions</p><p><b>Frank Cromartie Murphy</b></p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-79611154805707303192023-09-29T19:48:00.001+01:002023-09-29T19:48:19.268+01:00Preview – Macbeth – The Progressive Players at The Little Theatre<p><b>Hubble, Bubble, Toil and Trouble...</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqXa80t7ZcW1Zq29NZZOxMtQHfObO5cIg7TgonKSlI4DivGo_RoReLUbNPiLv6UJrs9FebcT3reyqBb5EuWJlr2izC1T00o2U4up-9UyvmUrGME12DGOfksP2Jt6Xk0lVlh6-7rIpZ_Z_CJ4chY3oqMuYuGSZu_NoWRzIa2l8U-DXuJ_vO3YZGFnxqRfS/s2268/Macbeth%20square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqXa80t7ZcW1Zq29NZZOxMtQHfObO5cIg7TgonKSlI4DivGo_RoReLUbNPiLv6UJrs9FebcT3reyqBb5EuWJlr2izC1T00o2U4up-9UyvmUrGME12DGOfksP2Jt6Xk0lVlh6-7rIpZ_Z_CJ4chY3oqMuYuGSZu_NoWRzIa2l8U-DXuJ_vO3YZGFnxqRfS/s320/Macbeth%20square.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />...let the Progressive Players cast a spell on you<br /> this October with a dark tale of witchcraft, murderous ambition and madness!
<p></p><p>It’s exactly 400 years since William Shakespeare published his First Folio, a collection of 36 of his plays. Little wonder, then, that theatre companies both large and small are celebrating this landmark anniversary by staging some of the Bard’s best works.
</p><p>One of the most well-known is MACBETH, a powerful tale of murder, love, ambition and witchcraft. Most of us are familiar with the story; Macbeth, a renowned Scottish general, hears a prophecy from three witches that he is to become king. Encouraged and cajoled by his ambitious wife, Macbeth succeeds in murdering King Duncan and taking the crown for himself. But there’s a catch, of course, and the Macbeths find themselves trapped in a downward spiral of desperation, paranoia and guilt.
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKryiYOcZ4tGGTkJ1GT1q7yjAdo7vg9-2l3WHbTGH3c6C7pZ1pSUW7UiTL1N8fto2dFkgXVsa1cRSDv3RV1WgxMSttREJoSnz0F_3_Ww_1auf1P-mM5zP8jfZ-eJnmL9SbbpX9HHGmBAVFewYUJ7tZMZu-Ia-WCgnL7E-fgBb8d4ajC_bL49BF4Vg7Zr8C/s800/F&F.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKryiYOcZ4tGGTkJ1GT1q7yjAdo7vg9-2l3WHbTGH3c6C7pZ1pSUW7UiTL1N8fto2dFkgXVsa1cRSDv3RV1WgxMSttREJoSnz0F_3_Ww_1auf1P-mM5zP8jfZ-eJnmL9SbbpX9HHGmBAVFewYUJ7tZMZu-Ia-WCgnL7E-fgBb8d4ajC_bL49BF4Vg7Zr8C/s320/F&F.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>“The Scottish Play”, as many in the acting profession like to call it, is probably the most frequently performed of all of Shakespeare’s plays, and certainly one of the shortest. It also boasts perhaps the most straightforward plot, moving along at a brisk pace. </p><p>With an abundance of MACBETH productions to choose from all over the country, theatre-goers are really spoilt for choice. Here in the North East you can join the Progressive Players who are presenting MACBETH from 9th to 14th October at the Little Theatre Gateshead, as part of the theatre’s 80th anniversary.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZO_o75Auz4rSHMnb2xfSv7tg-cHEahSuBzkMicX3aJkbi9ZBD96D0Krs9ACuiCDirHyuIt-vWkR0f8xi-H1IDVK7TtGCZgsxGHG8agjNAkkklyvJy50Vx3qKaz1yYtHGGjfq7LaD1vOG-cOijMf3Wxgpc0RHNLVlTOlP5qnqEX3nkNwuQIGLhHuWIAyZV/s666/BLG%20-%20Eddie%20Collins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="666" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZO_o75Auz4rSHMnb2xfSv7tg-cHEahSuBzkMicX3aJkbi9ZBD96D0Krs9ACuiCDirHyuIt-vWkR0f8xi-H1IDVK7TtGCZgsxGHG8agjNAkkklyvJy50Vx3qKaz1yYtHGGjfq7LaD1vOG-cOijMf3Wxgpc0RHNLVlTOlP5qnqEX3nkNwuQIGLhHuWIAyZV/s320/BLG%20-%20Eddie%20Collins.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eddie Collins</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Director Edward Martin Collins promises an unforgettable theatre experience. He has opted to keep the play in its traditional 11th century Scotland setting, with staging influenced by the original production of 1611. And, in common with most performances of Shakespeare these days, there is some gender-blind casting for several of the key roles.</p><p>“In 1611,” says Edward, “there would have been no women present on stage as all parts were played by men. There were certain artistic challenges presented in our casting, but the overall look and tenor of the production have been the defining goals.”
</p><p>MACBETH is a play wrapped in superstition. Ominously, the week of the Progressive Players’ run includes, for some, the most superstitious date in the calendar; Friday the thirteenth!
</p><p>MACBETH opens on 9 October. Tickets, priced at a very reasonable £12 (£10 Concessions), are available <a href="https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/gateshead-little-theatre/macbeth/e-xrqkxa" target="_blank">online</a> or by calling the box office on 0191 4781499.</p><p>*Images courtesy of The Progressive Players</p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-72258286981389328822023-09-28T07:04:00.003+01:002023-09-28T07:04:20.482+01:00Preview - A Streetcar Named Desire - People's Theatre <p><b>Join the People’s Theatre next week for a powerful drama of desire, delusion and mental illness.</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiB6nENxfGXiEjw5ivcxmjJv3rF25XqirX_4RsSpn9w32WoQb5nSrej6yNjX3p66OaDNC_zqm6C0HrwIU8nEWepzVPb1yJOZP27ihRBITDeejFomQNelO_CeZ0G_MyjBLvpZLpflXWLn_VnBsKNuUP9t6Yk_UPjbIUYB83FPmB5_A_nucWyimhHqYqFeHp/s1000/NO%20TEXT%20-%20A%20Streetcar%20Named%20Desire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiB6nENxfGXiEjw5ivcxmjJv3rF25XqirX_4RsSpn9w32WoQb5nSrej6yNjX3p66OaDNC_zqm6C0HrwIU8nEWepzVPb1yJOZP27ihRBITDeejFomQNelO_CeZ0G_MyjBLvpZLpflXWLn_VnBsKNuUP9t6Yk_UPjbIUYB83FPmB5_A_nucWyimhHqYqFeHp/s320/NO%20TEXT%20-%20A%20Streetcar%20Named%20Desire.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p> </p><p>“I don’t want realism. I want -- magic!”</p><p>In the oppressive heat of a New Orleans summer, faded Southern belle Blanche DuBois turns up unannounced at the shabby apartment of her sister Stella.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTUWxl00f4mPQ4xlrElXgDhIiX5i1jaX4-o02hgY4RNfwcACPQZtWOrnas-ReVPXTdugZTeEzSDjd68APbXGiqzgZdH2DG3T96l2hvITrsvMKIkum_DZ50CRrCbk83hsI-eLIuBjYxbNR6GQY5ve_kMPE8_cSFCZlqTYmoOCtlXd9T_IXXTAHYI5lChLXo/s1690/Stanley&Stella_photoJonathanGoodman.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1690" data-original-width="896" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTUWxl00f4mPQ4xlrElXgDhIiX5i1jaX4-o02hgY4RNfwcACPQZtWOrnas-ReVPXTdugZTeEzSDjd68APbXGiqzgZdH2DG3T96l2hvITrsvMKIkum_DZ50CRrCbk83hsI-eLIuBjYxbNR6GQY5ve_kMPE8_cSFCZlqTYmoOCtlXd9T_IXXTAHYI5lChLXo/s320/Stanley&Stella_photoJonathanGoodman.PNG" width="170" /></a></div><p>Wrapped up in stories of her glamorous past and terrified of the future, Blanche sets herself on a violent collision course with Stella’s brutish husband Stanley.</p><p>Reality and make-believe start to blur as Blanche’s fragile world crumbles around her.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4miaNxfXwRk5Ag8mbWdU3GyNQauVW5uPG4wrFl2Jxr7dFv_sRXFoHlJaiLpxgprp2OjfjCt50XiEVMGfwUOIoPUWSU4lsdeawYMHA6rVFCdaQBMy5Ld85UUAzXSMNvN8Ah6E9i_KuA_FS-MLG6-fMVNFC2eZBg6Y4a0JLrZjEKSM-7xGw1hzQbN9JwMH5/s1601/Blanche_photoJonathanGoodman.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1601" data-original-width="1013" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4miaNxfXwRk5Ag8mbWdU3GyNQauVW5uPG4wrFl2Jxr7dFv_sRXFoHlJaiLpxgprp2OjfjCt50XiEVMGfwUOIoPUWSU4lsdeawYMHA6rVFCdaQBMy5Ld85UUAzXSMNvN8Ah6E9i_KuA_FS-MLG6-fMVNFC2eZBg6Y4a0JLrZjEKSM-7xGw1hzQbN9JwMH5/s320/Blanche_photoJonathanGoodman.PNG" width="202" /></a></div><p>“Whoever you are — I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.”</p><p><br /></p><p>A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE is Tennessee Williams’s most popular work and ranks as one of the greatest plays of the twentieth century.</p><p>76 years since its Broadway debut when it was awarded both the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the New York Drama Critics' Circle Best Play Award, this ground-breaking and explosive drama has lost none of its ferocious power or passion.</p><p>Directors Kaila and Jonathan comment: “A Streetcar Named Desire is a tragic masterpiece that explores the complexities of human desires and the destructive consequences that come with them. Tennessee Williams created a hauntingly unforgettable character in Blanche DuBois, whose descent into madness serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of living in denial and refusing to confront one's own demons. The play's vivid portrayal of the seedy underbelly of New Orleans and its cast of flawed characters continue to captivate audiences and remind us of the timeless relevance of Williams' brilliant writing.” </p><p>A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE opens on Tuesday 3 October on the Main Stage. Tickets are available from the People’s Theatre Box Office on 0191 265 5020 (option 2) and online at <a href="http://www.peoplestheatre.co.uk">www.peoplestheatre.co.uk</a> </p><p><br /></p><p>*Images: Jonathan Goodman </p>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-60365421443487974592023-09-22T07:10:00.034+01:002023-09-22T07:23:31.024+01:00Preview - The Cold Buffet - Live Theatre<div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;">The Cold Buffet – a deliciously comic North East family saga at Live Theatre. </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QWufleUXUu6scG2GHOe-KrHAdh_GARDXKw74_b6u5woJpRElzgakouu-G2lTEGUE-yFSuWLBda18GFUmYIihKx4II-8iC2O2kOcCaKHiwTWX4-NScUVVvol2um8s6lwqtQRNGTCYOj-vY5ib6AY4W8MGrr23ux8xsXtYrsKyh9Ya-cgD440diTmOnu4o/s8192/The%20Cold%20Buffet%20image%20to%20use%20on%20the%20front%20cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="8192" data-original-width="5464" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QWufleUXUu6scG2GHOe-KrHAdh_GARDXKw74_b6u5woJpRElzgakouu-G2lTEGUE-yFSuWLBda18GFUmYIihKx4II-8iC2O2kOcCaKHiwTWX4-NScUVVvol2um8s6lwqtQRNGTCYOj-vY5ib6AY4W8MGrr23ux8xsXtYrsKyh9Ya-cgD440diTmOnu4o/s320/The%20Cold%20Buffet%20image%20to%20use%20on%20the%20front%20cover.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /></b></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><b>Live Theatre</b>, Newcastle Upon Tyne is<br />delighted to announce the cast for <b>The Cold Buffet</b>, a delicious North East family saga by <b>Elijah Young</b> which runs from Thursday 5 to Saturday 28 October 2023. Directed by Jack McNamara, Elijah Young’s play is brought to life by Nick Blakeley, Jane Holman, Amara Karan, Jim Kitson and Beth Fletcher Morris. </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOWsm5nUbgnZZsJk7f8zVVqujLyDoR6xRrEqd1QNkyddJ6JMxTHohI72ru0eYXQJWBgvcnojlIIFG_MZXzDZGppD_ZCKYFbCeBeL7OXxThiVvTAFMKXn7WjkUrv3OrCwnsfupF-VQQnctvMynfcoxvaMdz6jaWL_fniI3SZoNOcbMZDvioC78w2jmPsSd/s6000/50%20logo.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOWsm5nUbgnZZsJk7f8zVVqujLyDoR6xRrEqd1QNkyddJ6JMxTHohI72ru0eYXQJWBgvcnojlIIFG_MZXzDZGppD_ZCKYFbCeBeL7OXxThiVvTAFMKXn7WjkUrv3OrCwnsfupF-VQQnctvMynfcoxvaMdz6jaWL_fniI3SZoNOcbMZDvioC78w2jmPsSd/w213-h320/50%20logo.png" width="213" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The centrepiece of Live Theatre’s 50th anniversary season The Cold Buffet is an epic and feverishly funny play by rising star Elijah Young, set at a wake, a wedding and a christening over five years with the McCarthy family. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Artistic Director Jack McNamara said: “The play Elijah has written is a true ensemble piece and all about the actors. We spent a lot of time putting together the gloriously dysfunctional McCarthy family and have ended up with a cast to die for. Four outstanding and hugely loved North East actors are joined onstage by the amazing Amara Karan who I have long wanted to bring to Live Theatre and Newcastle. I can’t wait for them to feed our audience souls.” </div><div><br /></div><div>Elijah Young, writer of The Cold Buffet said: “Jack has pulled together a really dynamic and talented set of actors to be our McCarthy family and I am so excited to see what they do with the script. I am so pleased with this cast as it was so important to me for these roles to be cast authentically and to have some really strong players as even though there may be a central character, this play isn't one person's story. I really wanted to bring The Cold Buffet to Live Theatre because this is specifically a story of a North East family and I hope that this theatre's signature cabaret seating will only help in making the audience feel like they are a part of the party.” </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1deLALiaCix8SPv0JCHbO1tm3hobAEiGB20sevapls2U3eZRtaR4k27G5ps4i2fnb3_AoxGektDGO4KjFrBCtdbcxrZl-uPKDlyM9E6PVJWx2xAMyRNfHClLl_N36NVX54WbGScArsGQto3Q8MwDGp1avpMnXt2T_Rp_r9dhR7jYKL3g8nZ-wSZkawv1/s1500/Studio-Project%20-%202023-09-11T145115.601.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1500" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1deLALiaCix8SPv0JCHbO1tm3hobAEiGB20sevapls2U3eZRtaR4k27G5ps4i2fnb3_AoxGektDGO4KjFrBCtdbcxrZl-uPKDlyM9E6PVJWx2xAMyRNfHClLl_N36NVX54WbGScArsGQto3Q8MwDGp1avpMnXt2T_Rp_r9dhR7jYKL3g8nZ-wSZkawv1/w400-h160/Studio-Project%20-%202023-09-11T145115.601.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The role of Ayeesha is played by Amara Karan. Her theatre credits include Bloody Difficult Women (Wind of Change/Cahoots Theatre Company), Much Ado About Nothing, The Taming of The Shrew, The Merchant of Venice and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (RSC). Amara’s film credits include Wes Anderson’s The Darjeeling Limited, St. Trinians’ (Ealing Studios),T.I.M. (Netflix) and the forthcoming House of Spoils (Amazon Studios). Amara’s TV credits include HBO’s The Night Of, Sky One’s Stan Lees Lucky Man and for the BBC, Hope Street and Doctor Who. </div><div><br /></div><div>Nick Blakeley takes on the role of Ellis. Nick’s theatre credits include The Claim (Shoreditch Town Hall), Twelfth Night (Orange Tree Theatre), I Heart Catherine Pistachio (Soho Theatre/Yard Theatre), Brideshead Revisited (York Theatre Royal/UK Tour), Hapgood (Hampstead Theatre) and Comment Is Free (Old Vic Theatre). TV credits include Belgravia (ITV), Summer of Rockets (BBC), Theresa Vs Boris: How May Became PM (BBC), Beyond Reasonable Doubt (CNN), Doctors (BBC) and The Old Bailey (BBC). </div><div><br /></div><div>Jane Holman plays Ellis’ grandma Evelyn, the matriarch of the McCarthy family. Jane’s theatre credits include: Lush Life, Oh What a Lovely War, Twelve Tales of Tyneside, Cabaret, Lenya and In Blackberry Time (all for Live Theatre), Tyne (Live Theatre/Theatre Royal Newcastle) and Close the Coalhouse Door (Northern Stage). Television credits include: Vera, Inspector George Gently, Undercover, and The Dumping Ground and feature films, School for Seduction, Harrigan’s Nick and Billy Elliot. </div><div><br /></div><div>Jim Kitson joins the cast as Ellis’ Dad, David. Jim’s theatre credits include Red Ellen (Nottingham Playhouse), Treasure Island (Derby Theatre), Pitmen Painters (NE Vic Theatre), Much Ado About Nothing (Shakespeare’s Globe), The Drowned Man (National Theatre), The Taxi Driver’s Daughter (Live Theatre) and Cooking With Elvis (Hull Truck). Television credits include Vera and Emmerdale (ITV), Byker Grove and Inspector George Gently (BBC), Land of Women (Apple+) and Tracy Beaker Returns (CBBC). </div><div><br /></div><div>Beth Fletcher Morris returns to Live Theatre as Max, Ellis’cousin and Grandma's favourite. Beth’s theatre credits include We Are The Best! (Live Theatre), The Boyfriend (Newcastle College) and Cinderella (Whitley Bay Pantomime Society). </div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tickets for this premiere production, laced with dry humour and a good helping of interpersonal tension are on sale now at <a href="http://www.live.org.uk">www.live.org.uk</a> or from Box Office on (0191) 232 1232. </b></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-83185037081570912002023-09-11T08:30:00.012+01:002023-09-11T08:43:05.384+01:00Preview - The Father - People's Theatre <p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"></span></span></p><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Father</span></h2><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">11th-18th September</span> </span></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX319TpxemNVEdk9gm_qC4xGMfVGqqQytJdUSwYSXoYbvP_4j_jiIWudJitT9K0t0vt1d_ZzzFf2bOcMQ-6tNDYZfvrolka5ssgn603ErijGBqadHaiOv1UXZ5LgmtBXm2VCsnrEQmRUsLnanUGGskqiM5Vssswd4EbojUp_xMbxZV-h-ZDYJw7dX4nUZz/s1200/92e98446-7b95-798a-3706-998ca8be8a29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1200" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX319TpxemNVEdk9gm_qC4xGMfVGqqQytJdUSwYSXoYbvP_4j_jiIWudJitT9K0t0vt1d_ZzzFf2bOcMQ-6tNDYZfvrolka5ssgn603ErijGBqadHaiOv1UXZ5LgmtBXm2VCsnrEQmRUsLnanUGGskqiM5Vssswd4EbojUp_xMbxZV-h-ZDYJw7dX4nUZz/s320/92e98446-7b95-798a-3706-998ca8be8a29.png" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div><br /></div><div>This week the People's Theatre is showing a darkly humorous and deeply affecting drama. The Father by Florien Zeller (translated by Christopher Hampton) is a sensitive portrayal of living with dementia.</div><div><br /></div><div>As Andre and his daughter Anne grapple with the disease, shifting perspectives and storytelling twists challenge the audience to ask if what we're experiencing is real or imagined.</div><div><br /></div><div>Winner of the 2014 Molière Award for Best Play, the 2020 film-adaptation won Zeller and Hampton an Oscar and a BAFTA, as well as acclaim and awards for its stars Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Father is showing in the Studio Theatre, so an extra performance has been added to the usual five-night run. Tickets are available from the box office on 0191 265 5020 or email boxoffice@peoplestheatre.co.uk . Booking in advance is recommended. </div></span>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-5351010751509573892023-09-06T18:42:00.001+01:002023-09-06T18:43:05.204+01:00Review - September in the Rain - Little Theatre<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWjtDRZlj5byX4woV0on5ndbgS88vohKTUOlIcCu33pyf6spnVIVA6InFDekovEw4Ql-X195LlvwH_aXoVmQhcbb1qsieJMJlemwDe6ntwJ1UBlO0QIMlY--QLSE896jZ4UvtnFSHSqgJSbjDrsv0B-sFFFN2Qy5ZhkYqYDME4QRbYpw-bXnndPhWBNG7h/s1080/Screenshot_20230831-165001_X.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1077" data-original-width="1080" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWjtDRZlj5byX4woV0on5ndbgS88vohKTUOlIcCu33pyf6spnVIVA6InFDekovEw4Ql-X195LlvwH_aXoVmQhcbb1qsieJMJlemwDe6ntwJ1UBlO0QIMlY--QLSE896jZ4UvtnFSHSqgJSbjDrsv0B-sFFFN2Qy5ZhkYqYDME4QRbYpw-bXnndPhWBNG7h/s320/Screenshot_20230831-165001_X.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>September in the Rain <br />Little Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4th September, 2023</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Presented by the Progressive Players </div><div style="text-align: left;">Directed by Lee Brannigan and Theresa Mulkerrin</div><div style="text-align: left;">Written by John Godber</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Cast members: Liz - Anna Collins </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> Jack - Trevor Whaley</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you're struggling in the heat this week I can highly recommend visit to The Little Theatre in Gateshead to see the Progressive Players opening show of the new season! A little bit of September rain is just what's needed in this heat!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span>Set in Blackpool, this delightful comedy follows the fortunes of Jack and Liz on their many annual holidays to the seaside resort - from their first honeymoon trip, to their current visit. Over a series of reminiscences the audience gradually comes to realise that their trips, and maybe their lives, may not always have lived up to that first honeymoon experience. And yet, despite disappointments, and jealousies, tiffs and tantrums, the two have stuck together - always making up after the arguments, and despite their different outlooks at times, they each understand the other It is a gentle love story of every day people, and everyday life. There is no great romantic gestures - though Jack does climb Blackpool Tower and ride the rollercoaster for Liz - but nevertheless it is a beautiful story of devotion and dedication. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrlF_5hgyg-3YAQ8aatvMcM2f3C_RhnqFcJHNs9aihmh6aTYE5shtxf-lVrOlTNRiqymGRYOiUyENvEm3IiCkmf-xq64d-lWFzkdQDgKeOGvA5omqsggChgXjo7klDEDLNiH9T22nzdCPRvtF26RPn5jEqnxERkxkcXlWTJvHcC07Fk6RnkyzgO4RGfiSm/s666/Jack%20and%20Liz%20in%20the%20rain.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="666" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrlF_5hgyg-3YAQ8aatvMcM2f3C_RhnqFcJHNs9aihmh6aTYE5shtxf-lVrOlTNRiqymGRYOiUyENvEm3IiCkmf-xq64d-lWFzkdQDgKeOGvA5omqsggChgXjo7klDEDLNiH9T22nzdCPRvtF26RPn5jEqnxERkxkcXlWTJvHcC07Fk6RnkyzgO4RGfiSm/s320/Jack%20and%20Liz%20in%20the%20rain.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Monday's performance started a little hesitantly after a slight delay - technical problems which were swiftly cured, but which probably didn't help first night nerves! However, Anna Collins and Trevor Whaley soon found their stride and bickered and sang and danced their way along the sands till the curtain came down again. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a lovely lighthearted comedy to start the season and is well worth a visit. It plays until 9th September - and for just £12 a ticket you couldn't go wrong! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span>Denise Sparrowhawk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3975713208495135740.post-21830832734391024592023-07-19T10:17:00.004+01:002023-07-19T10:47:11.384+01:00Review - The Perfect Murder - Little Theatre<b>The Perfect Murder</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDiJwDlFhYOSPov6_ETgMT_Bz3ujD-E3Q54F81li-5sOM2iTJIb9R_cA5L0VeurQ01jRmqM78uEUkPP9EJp1LP3LBWwb4pD1UN0gVlwf-7-N09banDvLtBczuAjiuweNfkpKQ0mane034QdencKMaAN6WI_UE_Gf7Uo7RrMk01_EX5ETiPLszeUUerqKCF/s2268/The%20Perfect%20Murder%20square.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><b><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDiJwDlFhYOSPov6_ETgMT_Bz3ujD-E3Q54F81li-5sOM2iTJIb9R_cA5L0VeurQ01jRmqM78uEUkPP9EJp1LP3LBWwb4pD1UN0gVlwf-7-N09banDvLtBczuAjiuweNfkpKQ0mane034QdencKMaAN6WI_UE_Gf7Uo7RrMk01_EX5ETiPLszeUUerqKCF/s320/The%20Perfect%20Murder%20square.jpg" width="320" /></b></a></div><div><b>Little Theatre</b></div><div><b>17th July 2023</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Presented the Progressive Players</div><div>Directed by Valerie Neal and Kathryn Weston</div><div>Based on the book by Peter James </div><div>Adapted for stage by Shaun McKenna</div><div><br /></div><div>Is there such a thing as the perfect murder? To be able to get rid of the person who stands in the way of your happiness and not get caught? Victor thinks there is; he thinks he has worked it all out. A disciple of the great detectives, especially Sherlock Holmes the greatest of them all, Victor has come up with the best, most perfect plan to murder his wife. There will be no evidence of foul play, and he and his lover will live happily ever after. </div><div><br /></div><div>Add into this mix a psychic prostitute (the aforementioned lover), a rookie detective eager to solve his first case and maybe make a name for himself, and an unhappy wife with plans of her own, and what you get a is a dark comedy and a perfect murder (or two!) that doesn't quite go to plan. </div><div><br /></div><div>Victor Smiley and his wife Joan bicker their way through the first act - their once happy marriage now a sham. Victor bored with life at work and home, has grown sour and argumentative. Played by Alex Russell, Victor is an obnoxious bully at home, unadventurous, uncaring and scathing in his insults to his wife, he finds fault in everything she does. To escape the monotony of his home life he has taken up with a prostitute Kamilla. She is Croatian, young, beautiful, exotic - everything his wife is not. With Kamilla he is a different man. He plans to save her (and himself) by murdering Joan so that the two of them can run off together and start a new life in the sun. The plot is hatched, and it seems perfect. </div><div>Joan (Zoe Slade), however, has plans of her own. She has a make-over, takes up charity work and rediscovers her love for life with Don, a taxi driver and charity worker who is similarly dissatisfied with his life. </div><div><br /></div><div>It all begins to come together....and fall apart, as the two couples put their plans into action. </div><div><br /></div><div>The stage is set with three areas - the Smiley's living room and kitchen, their bedroom, and Kamilla's apartment. The set is cleverly built include all three areas on stage, and lighting is used throughout to highlight each area as the action moves from room to room. This works really well and is a credit to the directors and the set builders skills!</div><div><br /></div><div>The cast performances are convincing - we can easily believe that the Smiley's (was there ever a more unfitting name for a couple?) are capable of plotting to murder each other, our feelings towards them swing between sympathy and dislike as true characters are revealed. Kamilla and Don, their respective lovers, are much more sympathetic characters and for me these two were the stars of the show. Suzanne Jennings is utterly convincing as the agonised psychic, while Donny Stones brings a blend of comedy and empathy to the role of the quirky, happy-go-lucky Don. and throughout the play Jack Stuart brings a sense of calm as the dogged and dedicated detective constable Roy Grace. </div><div><br /></div><div>There were a few first night nerves and the prompter's services were needed a couple of times, but this didn't detract from the suspense - there were plenty of ooohs and aahs and gasps from the audience. Overall this was an enjoyable, entertaining and surprising production, and only likely to improve as the players settle into their live performances through the week. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The world, it seems, is full of unhappy people - everyone it seems is plotting a perfect murder - but can any of them pull one off? Come along to the Little Theatre this week to see if it is possible to murder and get away with it. You might be surprised! </div><div><br /></div><div>Tickets available from the box office on 0191 4781499 - book in advance to be sure not to miss out!</div><div><br /></div><div>Denise Sparrowhawk<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07552177172693992369noreply@blogger.com0