Maureen Sullivan previews theatre performances on the Isle of Wight this October…
‘Billy Liar’ comes to Trinity Theatre from 2nd to 5th October: a situation comedy with layers of profound humility. It is set against the backdrop of an industrial town in 1960. To escape his mundane working class life, Billy creates a fantasy world in which to live – the only problem is his worlds are about to collide. What’s more there’s 3 women and only 1 engagement ring.
The play explores a number of themes that resonate heavily in day to day life and in Amanda Robertson’s capable hands it has the capacity to leave a lasting impression. Amanda’s previous directorial production at CAODS was an innovative adaptation of ‘The Doll’s House’ – which proved hugely popular. Performance dates: 2nd-4th October (7:30) – 5th October (2:30) Tickets: Adult £10 Concessions £8 to book visit www.cards.org.uk”
Curtain Up stages ‘Worth a Fortune’ on 3rd and 4th October at Freshwater Memorial Hall. Described as a farcical comedy, the play centres around the web of deceit spun by Timothy, in need of money, to convince his aunt to leave him a considerable legacy in her will. Will he get what he wants? Find out by booking tickets online at HOME – Curtain Up or buy in person at Orchard Brothers or West Wight Sports & Community Centre in Freshwater. Any remaining tickets will be available on the door.
Shanklin Theatre once again rings to the musical sound of The Island Savoyards as they bring their autumn production, the well-known and acclaimed ‘Annie’ to the stage from the 23rd to 26th.
Combining an adult cast of experienced actors, dancers and singers with a large group – two separate casts performing on alternate shows – of incredibly talented youngsters, ‘Annie’ promises to be a delight for young and old. Featuring some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written including “It’s a Hard Knock Life”, “Easy Street” and “Tomorrow”, the memorable score will have you singing all the way home!
Set in 1930s New York City, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts with her mixture of pluck and positivity. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie manages to escape from the orphanage to the wondrous world of NYC, find a new home and family with billionaire Oliver Warbucks, and even befriends President Roosevelt along the way! And who could forget her lovable mutt named Sandy?! With a stunning set, professional costumes and a live orchestra, Annie is the perfect musical for the whole family this half-term! Book online at The Island Savoyards Presents Annie – Shanklin Theatre or call 01983 868000.
‘The Princess and the Pea’ from Newchurch Drama Group will get you in the pantomime mood early – and why not? It comes to Newchurch Primary School from 31st October to 2nd November and tells the magical Hans Christian Andersen story. There is something to delight every member of the family. Book via Ticketsource/newchurchdramagroup
Finally, the next play in the Apollo Players’ new season, staged from 31st October to 8th November (not Sunday or Monday) at the Apollo Theatre, is a new adaptation of Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d.
In 1960s England, a wind of change is blowing through the land. It has even reached the sleepy village of St Mary Mead. There’s a new housing estate to make the villagers curious and fearful, and now the village has been thrown into a frenzy by the news that a glamorous American film star has bought the manor house. Miss Jane Marple, confined to a chair after an accident, is wondering if life has passed her by. Then there is a vicious murder, and Miss Marple must unravel a web of lies, tragedy and danger. This adaptation of Agatha Christie’s famous novel brings real emotional depth and psychological insight to a thrilling story of revenge and dark secrets. Book online at www.apollo-theatre.org.uk or ring the box office on (01983) 210010.
Maureen Sullivan is a regular contributor to Island Echo’s coverage of the Arts on the Isle of Wight. Maureen has been actively involved in the Island’s amateur dramatics scene for several years, appearing in many different roles and guises with several theatre companies. In her free time, Maureen also writes and reviews at iwtheatre.org.
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