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< Back The Children's Hour ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 30 July 2013 Best friends Karen Wright and Martha Dobie are headmistresses at a successful private school for girls in New England. Mary Tilford, a spiteful, angry child, is caught in a lie and punished. In retaliation she tells her grandmother, a matriarch in the town, that Martha was "jealous" of Karen's relationship with Dr. Joe Cardin, and tells her that Martha's Aunt Lily thought those feelings were "unnatural". Grandma believes her and pulls Mary out of school. The word quickly spreads and within days Karen and Martha are faced with empty classrooms. Joe is fired from the hospital for siding with the teachers. Karen and Martha sue for slander in a case that makes national headlines with terrible ramifications and consequences. CAST Mrs. Lily Mortar Jacqueline Wheble Helen Burton Anna Gravett Evelyn Munn Bella Haynes Rosalie Wells Grace Garside Lois Fisher Orlagh Ementon-Shaw Catherine Emily Waldie Peggy Rogers Eleanor Bacon Mary Tilford Erica Pickard (AWARD) Mrs Amelia Tilford Sandra Thomas Karen Wright Lisa Wood Martha Dobie Ali Davenport Dr. Joseph Cardin Sean Duvall Agatha Margaret Le Review by Julia Taylor for remotegoat Vindictive Schoolgirl attacks teachers' reputation Since Lillian Hellman's play the Children's Hour first appeared on Broadway in 1934, we have become accustomed to its subject, Lesbianism. Yet the idea of a wicked 14-year-old girl spreading lies about her teachers still shocks. That girl is Mary a pupil at a New England boarding school for girls whose accusation of an unnatural relationship between the school's founders is backed by her grandmother (Sandra Thomas) turned out in some outstanding costumes. You feel sympathy with the teachers and tainted by Mary's cold-blooded cruelty just to avenge the punishment she is given for a minor offence. Aged only 16 and a member of the Garrick Academy of Performing Arts, Erika Pickard plays the role of Mary, the vindictive adolescent. This apparently sweet slip of a girl turns out to be a bullying, blackmailing, lying monster. Erika's performance marks her out for a bright future on the stage. Lisa Wood as Karen and Ali Davenport as Martha portray eloquently the teachers' lasting friendship through the thick and thin of losing both vocation and reputation but, towards the end, it dawns on us that one of them is, if only in her head, guilty of the love which, in those days, dare not speak its name. There are 13 actors in this moving play. All of them are good and speak with unswerving New England accents. The heartbreaking conclusion underlines the truth of Shakespeare's famous line "Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive." NODA Review by Kevin Proctor 'The Children's Hour', the first of Lillian Hellman's plays has sturdy dramatic strengths though is rarely produced today. I'd suspect that Arthur Miller must have learnt from this piece when writing The Crucible' as, like that play, it concerns frenzy amongst teenage girls with an unpleasant leader among them who brings catastrophe down on the heads of adults. But witchcraft isn't the charge brought against innocent characters here, but lesbianism, making the play exceptionally daring for the 1930's. Although 'The Children's Hour' enjoyed big success in New York, it was banned from the British stage until as late as 1960. When it premiered on Broadway in 1934, it shocked audiences with its bold and (of that time) shocking subject. It ran for nearly 700 performances and ultimately launched Lillian Hellman's career. Although the subject of this piece has far less impact for a modern theatre goer, given the right Cast and Director, 'The Children's Hour' can still move with its righteous outrage and its powerful accusation of irresponsible actions. As always at the Garrick, this production offered an impeccable set and a collection of costumes which would match those of any professional company. Leading the cast is Erika Pickard as the vile and scandalous schoolgirl, Mary. Erika's performance was immaculate, she gave chilling glares and delivered a very intelligent and worthy performance, should Erika desire a career in this craft, she?s certainly got the foundations firmly in place to become an outstanding actress! Making her debut with the Altrincham Garrick company is Lisa Wood as Karen who, in her first scene gave a slightly stringent performance but ultimately warmed up and, when most crucial, delivered some precious moments in the final scenes. Sean Duvall played the school Doctor and fiance of Karen with charm and capability though I feel that a character as invariable as this didn't particularly suit him. Sean was mistakenly making every effort to inject flair, significance and excitement into his character with big gestures and animated reactions when really, just playing him as the straight (pardon the pun), ordinary man that Dr Cardin is, would have given an accurate and intended result for this character. Strong support was given by Grace Garside as Rosalie, Sandra Thomas as Amelia and Jacqueline Wheble as Mrs. Mortar. The ensemble of school girls set the scene well, I was surprised we didn't see more of them due to the level of development in each of the girls characters for such a short time on stage which is highly notable.

< Back Alty Fringe: Bowdon '68 ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 29 October 2020 Bowdon Cricket, Hockey & Squash Club have teamed up with Alty Fringe to stage an intimate Covid-secure fundraising concert which celebrates the history of their annual firework spectacular with a new theatre show: Bowdon ‘68 . This is a '60s themed concert featuring one of the UK’s Top tribute bands: The Pretend Beatles. The Pretend Beatles headline this Covid-secure event, bringing their live theatre show complete with lavish costumes, authentic instruments and special effects to the iconic theatre venue. The Pretend Beatles have performed their fun-filled show around the world, with a set-list that includes all the hits performed live, including A Hard Day's Night , Let it Be , All You Need Is Love and many more! This show is part of the Alty Fringe 2021 - socially distanced and safe for all! The theatre has extensive COVID-19 safety measures in place, including a redesigned socially distanced auditorium, contactless tickets, regular deep cleans after each performance, timed entry slots, hand sanitiser stations around the theatre ... and much more. The Alty Fringe is proud to be appearing at the Altrincham Garrick from 12 March to 28 March 2021 . #altyfringe

< Back Moulin Rouge! - Picturehouse Screening ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 13 April 2021 Truth. Beauty. Freedom. Love! A celebration of love and creative inspiration takes place in the infamous, gaudy and glamorous Parisian nightclub, at the cusp of the 20th century. A young poet (Ewan McGregor), who is plunged into the heady world of Moulin Rouge, begins a passionate affair with the club's most notorious and beautiful star (Nicole Kidman). Come and join us in a friendly, informal and Covid-19 safe atmosphere, to take advantage of sensational screening facilities as well as our low prices, cosy bar and free car park.

< Back Lady Precious Stream ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Alexander, Tom Bankes, Erik Bateman, Brian Birch, Rosie Bramwell, Madge Brierley, Norman Briggs, Harry Bullivant, Erick Clarke, Muriel Coventry, Betty De Lange, Adela De Prez, Raymond Fletcher, Joan Fullerton, Irene Gooby, Roy Hughes, Geoffrey James, Barbara Justice, Margery Kaye, Gilbert L Kirton, C H Larsen, Nora Matley, Henry (Harry) Matthews, Walter R Mendelsohn, Maurice T Osborne, Edgar Pennington, Muriel Pye, George H Roberts, Eunice Shepherd, J E Thompson, Brenda Wilson, Kathleen Wood, Ivy Wilkinson, John

< Back GAPA Febtastic ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 9 December 2022 FEBTASTIC takes place during the February half term Monday 13th February - Friday 17th February 2023 10:00-16:00 Ages 6-18 GAPA's school holiday courses offer a week of theatrical fun: combining music, movement, monologues and much much more! Each 5 day course encourages the participants to explore their creative side, and promotes teamwork in a safe and friendly environment. Our aim is to deliver exciting drama workshops for students aged 6-18, where they can learn drama skills, gain confidence and above all have fun. Workshops start each day at 10.00am and finish at 4.00pm. Attendees are required to bring their own refreshments to see them through the day. Attendees are also requested to wear clothes suitable for movement and appropriate footwear, which will enable them to engage in all of the daily activities. Students will be required to read text unaided. If you need a fun-filled week in a high energy, performance based environment, then we'd love for you to join us at the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse.

< Back The Whole Truth ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Baker, Rosina Bashford, Victor Clarkson, Norma Frost, Kenneth Symonds, Richard C

< Back The Nelson Touch ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Bradshaw, James H Courtney, Donald Field, Charles W Gooby, Kathleen Hughes, Geoffrey Kaye, Gilbert L Wood, Joan White, Leo

< Back A House in the Square ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Abbott, Amy Atkin, Eric Bonsier, Frederick H Bramwell, Madge Cavanagh, Cliff Dee, Harold Harrington, Doreen Jones, John Glynn Martin, Barbara Moss, Marjorie E Pearce, Rosemary Pearce, Tom Stewart, J Alan Sykes, Constance D Wheelwright, Stewart

< Back A Bit O'Love ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 July 2014 CAST Booth, G Frederick Bullivant, Erick Downs, Elsie Landon, W Eric Matthews, Marion Thwaite Mounfield, Frank Owen, Tom Palmer, Jack A Stevens, Catherine Thompson, Brenda Thompson, Phyllis M Wallis, Brian Wallis, Ruby Walsh, Katie Walton, Mary Wilkinson, John

< Back The Touch of Fear ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Clancy, Patrick Dickson, Walter Healey, Tim Lamb, Mary Marshall, Yvonne

< Back Angels in Love ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Harris, Frank Hughes, Edward D Kench, Denise Morrison, Elspeth Sykes, Constance D

< Back Atonement (2007 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 29 September 2020 In the shadow of war a casual accusation from a spiteful child drastically changes many people’s lives for ever. This hauntingly dramatic film, starring Keira Knightley and James McAvoy, is based on Ian McEwan's 2001 novel, and revolves around a simply astonishingly staged and unforgettable scene on the Dunkirk beaches. This is superb film-making. This screening will (as always) be introduced by Barry Purves with informed trivia, anecdotes and some background of the production. The bar will be open before and after the show. Come and join us in a friendly, informal and Covid-19 safe atmosphere, to take advantage of sensational screening facilities as well as our low prices and free car park.

< Back GAPA Term 1 - Group 5 ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 August 2023 GAPA – Garrick Academy of Performing Arts TERM 1 Enrolment: 9th September to 9th December 12 week term - Saturday Class Not including: 21/10/23 and 28/10/23 - October Half Term Dates Group 5 - 11.30am to 1.30pm for students aged 11 - 14 years The Garrick Academy of Performing Arts runs classes for ages 5 to 18 on Saturday and is the place to be if you love acting, singing or dancing. IMPORTANT: Please do not sign up to this class if your child does not fall within this age bracket. If you are enrolling more than one student, please ensure the correct Group is selected for each child. Due to limited spaces, if you select the incorrect group we cannot guarantee your child a place at GAPA this term. PLEASE NOTE: We will be advertising any remaining spaces in all 7 Groups to new students after 29th August 2023.

< Back The Courageous Sex ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Billcliff, Arthur Gaskill, Philip A Howat, Robert (Bob) A Potter, Amy G Roberts, Eunice Robinson, Dorothy A Sykes, Constance D

< Back Be My Baby ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 27 July 2013 Set in a Mother and Baby Home in 1964 in the north of England and peppered with songs from the period, Be My Baby follows the fortunes of Mary Adams, aged 19, unmarried and seven months pregnant. Forcibly sent to the home by a mother intent on keeping up appearances, Mary has to cope with the dawning realisation that she will have to give the baby up for adoption whether she likes it or not. CAST LIST Mary - Grace Garside Queenie - Erika Pickard Dolores - Emily Waldie Norma - Annabel Butdcher Matron - Sandra Thomas Mrs Adams - Sandy McGuire

< Back DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS? ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 February 2023 An experiential ghost story, unlike anything you have ever experienced before. Welcome to a haunting night at the theatre. Are you feeling brave? If you are, join us, and we will tell you all the secrets of what goes on when the theatre goes dark. When the only thing to guide you is the Ghost Light. To keep mischievous spirits away – or maybe just to light the way for the ghosts who call it their home. Follow the rules: keep your hands inside the car (so to speak) and you will be safe, as we tell the tales that every theatre has to tell. The ghostly stories of the things that go bump in the night, or the day. The things that just don’t add up - or do they? Stories that you have to take away with you. . . or at least try not to. We will raise the hairs on your arms and send chills down the back of your neck. . . Join us for a dark night. Dare you! Do You Believe in Ghosts? Brand new for 2023. Touring nationwide Over 18s advised ONLINE PRESENCE Faceboook.com/DoYouBelieveInGhostsShow Instagram.com/DoYouBelieveInGhostsShow Twitter.com/GhostsShow Website: entertainers.co.uk/show/do-you-believe-in-ghosts YouTube: https://youtu.be/J5ZCpH20P1w Our reasonably priced bar will be open before, during the interval and after the show. Free car park for customers and in easy walking distance of Altrincham and local tram and train stations. So what are you waiting for? BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

< Back Husbands are a Problem ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Fiddes, Kay Paarkes, Phyllis Snow, Marjorie

< Back Goodnight Mr Tom ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 11 April 2017 Famous, heart-warming, drama at its best One of the most uplifting stories ever written, Michelle Magorian's stunning Goodnight Mister Tom is brought gloriously to life in this stage adaptation by David Wood . Set during the dark and dangerous build-up to the Second World War, Goodnight Mister Tom follows sad young William Beech, who is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside and builds a remarkable and moving friendship with the elderly recluse Tom Oakley. All seems perfect until William is devastatingly summoned by his mother back to London. Goodnight Mister Tom is a tale of two broken souls at very different ends of the age scale that celebrates the value of love and proves that friendship knows no barriers. This production is proudly sponsored by [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3120.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3012.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_2965.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3514.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3348.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3308.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3257.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3185.jpg|"] Production Photographs by Vish Sharma CAST Zach- Henry Thorman William Beech - Benoit Normand Ginnie- Kitty McGoff Carrie - Olivia Streeter Sammy/Puppeteer - Frances Hartill Mrs Beech - Caroline Knight George Fletcher - Paddy McGoff Tom Oakley - Bryan Higgins Mrs Fletcher/Nursing Sister - Rose Higgins Billeting Officer/Miss Thorne/Glad - Ruth Metcalfe Annie Hartridge - Mollie Rowley Nurses/Ensemble - Hannah Weiner Miss Miller/Nurses/Ensemble - Holly Gibson Charlie Ruddles/David Hartridge/Mr Stelton/ Vicar/London Ticket Colletor/Policeman - Gino Scrigna Dr Little/Mr Miller/ARP Warden London - David Baxendale Evacuee/ensemble - Paddy McGoff Review by Julia Taylor for The Messenger Love Story really pulls at the heart strings FEW plays pull at the heart strings as much as the Garrick's latest production, Good Night, Mister Tom. It is a demonstration of love between two people of different generations and very moving. This play is set at the start of the Second World War and features an evacuee from the London docks who is billeted with a grumpy old man in a rural village. It illustrates the power of love. In the case of Tom Oakley gone for forty years since his wife died and never awakened for William Beech, the deprived young evacuee. Although all the cast are good, including five other children, the production's success rests predominantly on the shoulders of two people Bryan Higgins as Mr Tom and 12-year-old Benoit Normand, who attends St Bede's school, as William. Bryan brings out the qualities of an old man who has kept his heart of gold hidden for too long. Benoit portrays well, a battered and bruised boy who has had religion pushed down his throat under threat of beating. His unhinged mother even packs a Bible and a belt to take away. Benoit makes his character slowly open up as he responds to the kindness and care he is offered. Bryan's Mr Tom begins to take on parental responsibilities even kidnapping him when his mother takes him back. I like Caroline Knight as the gone to the winds mother, Henry Thorman as Zach, William?s theatrical type best friend and young Frances Hartill. who manipulates Sammy, the puppet sheepdog throughout. This show, ideal for older children, is as thought-provoking as it is charming. The atmosphere is enhanced by appropriate background music, lighting and sound reproduction. Star rating ★★★ ★ Review for North West End by Tony Bellamy-Hibbert Altrincham Garrick Playhouse transformed to become the Devon village of Little Weirwold the home of Tom Oakley back in September 1939. This play has been adapted by David Wood from Michelle Magorian?s wonderful novel. This amateur production is wonderfully directed by Andrew Close and designed by Margaret Norris. Lighting is in the hands of Stuart Kilburn with sound provided by James Merrington. The first character we meet is the Billeting Officer played by Ruth Metcalfe who has been acting at the Garrick for many years. As she marches the evacuees around the village and to the home of Tom Oakley. Tom Oakley is superbly played by the NODA nominated Bryan Higgins, and he is left with little William Beech. Benoit Normand (12 years old who attends St Bede?s College) portrays William brilliantly and with great emotion when required. Tom has a collie dog called Sammy who was made by freelance puppeteer Jamie Marks (for further information about Jamie visit http://jamaniace.wixsite.com/jm-puppets ) and is skilfully brought to life by 11 year old Frances Hartill. Charlie Ruddles the local air raid warden is played by Gino Scrigna, with Rose Higgins playing the bubbly Mrs Fletcher. William is teased by village children Carrie (11-year-old Olivia Streeter from Sale), Ginnie (11 year old Kitty McGoff from Altrincham) and George Fletcher (10-year-old George McGoff) all three are stars in the making, handling appearing on stage with aplomb. The other evacuee that we meet is Zach (brilliantly played by Henry Thorman who is in his first year at St Bede?s College) who is a very confident lad who makes the audience chuckle along. Doctor Little is played by David Baxendale who is in his third production at the Garrick David also takes the role of Mr Miller, who runs the post office along with his daughter Miss Miller (Holly Gibson who has been involved in local drama groups from the age of 4). School teacher Mrs Annie Hartridge is wonderfully played by Mollie Rowley (a junior doctor away from acting, this is her first production at the Garrick). The other characters we meet in the 2nd half are William?s mother the terrible Mrs Beech played beautifully by Caroline Knight and the Social Worker played by Hannah Weiner. The play is well put together and condenses the film down without losing the essence of the story. The set changes are relatively smooth with a little bit of visible movement of the scenery, but this is to be expected from an amateur production who don?t have the vast budgets to build robust back drops. The acting especially from the young characters is very good and the emotion comes out between Mister Tom and William. Tonight, saw a packed audience and I am sure there were a few tears shed or if not a few quivering lips with the emotion shown. I would recommend this emotionally charged play to all age groups from 8+ especially if you like the book or movie. The costumes and scenery take you back in time adding to the experience. I have no hesitation in awarding 4 stars based on my experience this evening. North West End Star rating ★★★ ★ Review by Rick Bowen for Stagestruck ONLY the heartless would fail to be touched by this one, a heart-warming tale faithfully adapted for the stage by David Wood. An elderly widower re-discovers his appetite for life after a young and vulnerable evacuee is sent to live with him in his idyllic Devon village. William, the little lad in question, is nursing the physical and psychological scars of abuse at the hands of a mentally ill mother fixated on religion. Gradually, an unlikely bond builds between William and Tom Oakley, his new carer who actually cares for him, and this is expertly played out by Bryan Higgins (Tom) and Benoit Normand (William). Higgins has a deep seated affection for this delight of a role and it's plain for all to see. I also challenge anyone not to warm to Henry Thorman's Zach, a character as loud as the jumper he wears. At the other end of the spectrum we have Caroline Knight, positively hateful as William's crackpot of a parent, a woman who'd make most puritans seem like party animals. This is the ideal opportunity for parents to introduce older children to the theatre. While Goodnight Mister Tom doesn't gloss over the human tragedy of war, we are reminded that even in this chocolate box Devon village the residents aren't immune from it, this play touches on the subject in such a way that won't give the kids nightmares. So, I heartily recommend parents buy tickets for this as an Easter holiday treat for their youngsters. Director Andrew Close serves up a production that tugs the heart strings without seeming to try. Star rating ★★★

< Back Dick Whittington & his Wonderful Cat ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 14 August 2013 A traditional family pantomime brought to you by the same team as the successful 'Snow White' last year......This panto offers you immense pleasure as you watch your children/grandchildren laugh, shout and really get involved in the story of Dick Whittington and his wonderful cat. They will meet marvellous characters such as Spirit of the Bells, Captain Cockles and Mussells, his mate. They will boo and hiss King Rat: Marvel at the antics of Tommy the cat and be entranced by the magical set and special effects. CAST Spirit of the Bells Maureen Casket King Rat Mike Shaw Captain Cockles Dave Jones Mr. Mussels Sean Gonet Alderman Fitzwarren Fred Yeomans Alice Fitzwarren Francesca Rabar Sarah the Cook Mark Edgar Idle Jack Adam Gonet Dick Whittington Jackie Wheble Tommy the Cat Grace Garside The Sultan of Morrocco Craig Barratt Chorus Craig Barratt Sian Smith Tom Green-Fuller Hannah Williams Chris Mawson Eleanor Bacon Tom Roche Alice Preece Alex Day Cloe Smith Jacob Holder Erika Pickard

< Back The Producers (Postponed) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 19 August 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Closure Update In line with Government instructions we are classed as a non-essential business and no member of staff is able to continue working at the theatre until Government restrictions ease. Please be assured that the vast majority of events have been postponed and not cancelled so therefore all tickets remain valid. Once we are able to operate again we will be in touch with you with details of the rescheduled dates. You can then transfer your current tickets to the new date, however if you are unable to transfer to the new date or don’t wish to have your ticket transferred to another production you will be given a full refund. You will not lose any money. This is an unprecedented event for our venue, and we thank you for your continued support and loyalty. Best wishes Your Garrick Playhouse Team. A New Mel Brooks Musical Broadway producer Max Bialystock is desperate to get to the top of his profession again after a string of flops, and he finds an unlikely ally in mousy accountant Leo Bloom, who hypothesises that one could make far more money with a flop of a show than with a hit. Together, the two set out to produce the worst musical ever to hit Broadway, with the worst script, the worst director, and the worst cast they can find! The scheme is simple - they will raise two million dollars to finance the show, and then take the money and head to Rio when the show inevitably closes after just one performance. A perfect plan…what could possibly go wrong?

< Back Miss Saigon (Theatrical Screening) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 14 December 2022 This legendary musical spectacular updates the plot of Madame Butterfly to the horrors of the Vietnam war, where loves and lives on both sides are torn apart. This gala performance was filmed live at the Prince Edward theatre in London's West End, and includes a special extended encore reuniting many of the original cast. The bar will be open before and after the show. Come and join to take advantage of sensational screening facilities as well as our low prices and free car park.

< Back Visitors ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 21 June 2016 In a farmhouse at the edge of Salisbury Plain, a family is falling apart. Stephen can't afford to put his mother into care; Arthur can't afford to stop working and look after his wife. When a young stranger with blue hair moves in to care for Edie as her mind unravels, the family are forced to ask: are we living the way we wanted? A beautiful and sharply funny love story, Visitors takes a haunting look at the way our lives slip past us. CAST and CREW Janet Slade - Edie Stephen Moss - Arthur Rachel Isbister - Kate Andrew Higson - Stephen ASM - Adele Higson Lighting and Sound - Sophie McQuillian Review by Julia Tayor for Sale and Altrincham Messenger Moving production illustrates the problems of growing old and its effect on families MANY plays are about illicit affairs, but not Visitors by Barney Norris. His first full length play is about a married couple who have stuck together for 40 years. During that time Edie and Arthur have lived a contented routine existence in the same farmhouse. Their life begins to change when Edie shows early stages of dementia. Their son, Stephen, who is not particularly close, has arranged for Kate to move in as their carer. This production, expertly directed by Bill Platt, illustrates the problems of growing old and its effect on families. The pace is gentle. The conversation comes from the couple sitting in the comfortable easy chairs where they have always sat. The role of Edie played by Janet Slade sends lumps to the throat. She illustrates well the slow decline of a loyal wife as her faculties slowly go, leading to a sad ending. She adds gentle humour to the production. Stephen Moss?s Arthur is the rock which has held together this long lasting marriage but even he shows signs of cracks. Stephen plays him as a steady stalwart who can?t really accept this wife?s changing character. Another good performance comes from Andrew Higson as Stephen, the not especially devoted son with his own marital problems. He gets the relationship between him and his parents exactly right. Kate the newest character to invade their peace, is acted by Rachel Isbister as comparatively lively but she is a round peg in the square hole. You will smile a little quite a lot, but at the end, you might find yourself wiping away a tear.

< Back High Society ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 14 August 2013 Featuring the delightful Cole Porter score - with songs as well known as 'Who Wants to be a Millionaire', 'True Love', 'Well Did You Ever' and many more, this much loved musical tells the story of Tracy Lord who is engaged to one man, attracted to another and maybe in love again with her ex-husband.

< Back Alty Fringe: Fascinating Aïda's Dillie Keane ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 24 October 2020 Fascinating Aïda ’s Dillie Keane presents her new solo show After far too much bloody gardening leave (thank you Covid!), Dillie is back where she belongs : on a cabaret stage, accompanied by the marvellous Michael Roulston. Her take on life, love and government is cheerfully sour, gently savage and peculiarly mordant - but the beautiful music softens the effect. She freely admits she has a voice like a dying crow being crushed beneath an angry sheep, but that’s never stopped her. In fact, she will be singing some perfectly wonderful songs by other songwriters which she recently discovered in New York. As well as a raft of her own songs too, of course. Prepare yourself for a delightful evening. This show is part of the Alty Fringe 2021 - socially distanced and safe for all! The theatre has extensive COVID-19 safety measures in place, including a redesigned socially distanced auditorium, contactless tickets, regular deep cleans after each performance, timed entry slots, hand sanitiser stations around the theatre ... and much more. The Alty Fringe is proud to be appearing at the Altrincham Garrick from 12 March to 28 March 2021 . #altyfringe

< Back My Three Angels ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Allen, Doreen Downs, James McEntee, Angela Locker, James Matthews, Arnold Prince, Madge Wise, Ian

< Back Pinkie and the Fairies ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Burton, Ruth Crabb, Joan Dodd, Joyce Fletcher, Joan Fullerton, Irene Gibbons, Eddie Gooby, Kathleen Hill, Arthur P Jackson, June King, Diana M King, John G Landon, Graham Landon, Henry Muir, W B Osborne, Edgar Pennington, Muriel Roberts, Eunice Swale, Joan Wood, Ivy Willan, John P Willan, Robert M Williams, Margaret

< Back The Merry Wives of Windsor (Screening Postponed) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 November 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Closure Update In line with Government instructions we are classed as a non-essential business and no member of staff is able to continue working at the theatre until Government restrictions ease. Please be assured that the vast majority of events have been postponed and not cancelled so therefore all tickets remain valid. Once we are able to operate again we will be in touch with you with details of the rescheduled dates. You can then transfer your current tickets to the new date, however if you are unable to transfer to the new date or don’t wish to have your ticket transferred to another production you will be given a full refund. You will not lose any money. This is an unprecedented event for our venue, and we thank you for your continued support and loyalty. Best wishes Your Garrick Playhouse Team. The Merry Wives of Windsor by William Shakespeare After the success of our first season of filmed live events last autumn, we are delighted to announce our 5th screening in our second season of six screenings. All evenings will be again introduced by Barry Purves with informed trivia, anecdotes and some background of the production. The bar will be open as usual before and after the show and during the interval. So please come and join us in a friendly, informal atmosphere and take advantage of sensational screening facilities as well as our low prices and free car park [gallery size="medium" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives_Production_Helen-Murray25.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives_Production_Helen-Murray101.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives_Production_Helen-Murray37.jpg|"] And a few days after Shakespeare’s 456th birthday, we are back at the Globe with a very different play and in a somewhat frisky and giddy mood. Queen Elizabeth was so taken by the character of Falstaff in Henry IV that she suggested that she would like to see the Fat Knight in Love, and sure enough, here is Falstaff, outrageously chasing two ladies, at the same time, with the women suitably moved to revenge. After much door slamming, mistaken identities, cunning plotting, outrageous disguises, rural celebrations, tests of fidelity, and a humiliating come-uppance, Shakespeare seems to have laid the template for the great farcical British sit-com. This fast pace of this play has always inspired composers with both Verdi and Weber writing operas based on this story. This particular production sets the shenanigans in the 1930’s full of lively dance and music and with glorious fashions. [gallery size="medium" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives_Production_Helen-Murray171.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives_Production_Helen-Murray123.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives_Production_Helen-Murray119.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives_Production_Helen-Murray97.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives-Helen-Murray-3-Square.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Merry-Wives_Production_Helen-Murray71.jpg|"] Pearce Quigley plays Falstaff, and Sarah Finigan and Bryony Hannah play the not to be messed with Mistresses Page and Ford. The production is directed by Elle While. Please join us for an evening of exuberant wit and physical comedy. Running time 180 minutes.

< Back NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE - Yerma ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 October 2023 National Theatre Live Screening: Yerma by Simon Stone after Federico Garcia Lorca directed by Simon Stone ★★★★★ ‘Billie Piper makes a shattering Yerma in Simon Stone’s inspired reworking’ (Observer) A woman is driven to the unthinkable by her desperate desire to have a child in this radical production of Lorca’s achingly powerful masterpiece. In contemporary London, a woman in her thirties is desperate to conceive, building with elemental force to a staggering and shocking climax. Filmed live on stage at the Young Vic, Billie Piper (I Hate Suzie) returns in her spellbinding award-winning role. Recommended Age 14+

< Back The Last Five Years (Musical) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 31 March 2021 THIS IS A SOCIALLY DISTANCED SHOW. PLEASE ADHERE TO THE GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES WITH REGARDS TO THE WEARING OF MASKS AND GROUP BOOKINGS, IN PLACE AT THE DATE OF THE PRODUCTION. Jason Robert Brown’s Drama Desk Award winning musical, The Last Five Years , is an intensely personal look at the relationship between two New Yorkers; a writer and an actress, who fall in and out of love over the course of five years. This modern, One Act musical masterpiece is emotionally powerful and intimate with one of the brightest, freshest scores of the new century. The musical’s unconventional structure unfolds as Cathy tells her story in reverse, from the end of their turbulent relationship, whilst Jamie tells his story chronologically from the spark of their initial meeting. Stop Press - 8th June Read the comprehensive and warm review from North West End ... "overall, a brilliant musical" Read the enthusiastic review from Rick Bowen's Stagestruck ... "if ever a show deserves a packed house, it’s this one" A film adaptation was released in 2014 starring Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan. Originally Produced for the New York stage by Arielle Tepper and Marty Bell. Originally Produced by Northlight Theatre, Chicago, IL. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI Europe. www.mtishows.co.uk *Please note that there is some adult language in this production* Download the programme for the week's performance. Rehearsal Photographs taken by Ryan Hall [gallery size="medium" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/L5Y4.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/L5Y3.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/L5Y2.jpg|"]

< Back Jekyll and Hyde - The Musical ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 9 January 2014 Based on Robert Louis Stevenson's story about a doctor whose experiments with human personality create an evil and murderous counterpart. Convinced the cure for his father's mental illness lies in the separation of Man's evil nature from his good, Dr Henry Jekyll unwittingly releases his own dark side, wreaking havoc in the streets of 19th century London as the savage Edward Hyde. It is pure, pulse pounding theatre with a lush, romantic score. CAST Martin Bradbury as Dr Henry Jekyll David Beddy as Sir Danvers Carew Simon Pickup as John Utterson Adam Whittle as Simon Stride Ruth Metcalfe as Lady Beaconsfield Allan Taylor as the Bishop of Basingstoke Mark Watkins as Lord Savage Andrew McGovern as Sir Archibald Proops Robert Watson as General Lord Glossop Vicky Stott as Emma Carew Sally Eggington as Lucy Harris Stephanie Hawthorn as Nellie David Leathlean as Spider Roger Metcalfe as Pook David Richardson as Bisset Dawn Flint as Annie Olivia Price as Kate Laura Chandler as Molly Sophie Bowden as Ginny [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhyded.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydee.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydeq.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydet.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydec.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydea.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydes.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhyder.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydem.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydej.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydei.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydeh.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydeg.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydef.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydel.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydep.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydeo.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhyden.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydek.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/jekyllhydeb.jpg|"]

< Back NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE - Fleabag ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 4 May 2023 ★★★★★ 'Witty, filthy and supreme.' Guardian Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag , Killing Eve ) and directed by Vicky Jones, Fleabag is a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. Following a box-office record-breaking run in cinemas in 2019, the one-woman show returns to cinemas to the big screen this summer. Fleabag may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose. The hilarious, award-winning play that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series Fleabag , was filmed live on stage in London’s West End in 2019. Presented by DryWrite, Soho Theatre and Annapurna Theatre.

< Back GAPA Term 1 - Group 3 ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 August 2023 GAPA – Garrick Academy of Performing Arts TERM 1 Enrolment: 9th September to 9th December 12 week term - Saturday Class Not including: 21/10/23 and 28/10/23 - October Half Term Dates Group 3 - 9am to 11am for students aged 14 - 18 years The Garrick Academy of Performing Arts runs classes for ages 5 to 18 on Saturday and is the place to be if you love acting, singing or dancing. IMPORTANT: Please do not sign up to this class if your child does not fall within this age bracket. If you are enrolling more than one student, please ensure the correct Group is selected for each child. Due to limited spaces, if you select the incorrect group we cannot guarantee your child a place at GAPA this term. PLEASE NOTE: We will be advertising any remaining spaces in all 7 Groups to new students after 29th August 2023.

< Back Alice In Wonderland Jr. - A Garrick Academy Production ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 8 December 2021 The Garrick Academy's (GAPA) production of 'Alice In Wonderland Jr' Wednesday 23rd March 2022 7.30pm Class 2 (ages 11-13 years) Thursday 24th March 2022 7.30pm Class 5 (ages 11-13 years) Friday 25th March 2022 7.30pm Class 2 ( ages 11-13 years) Saturday 26th March 2022 2.00pm Classes 1, 4 & 7 (ages 5-10 years) Saturday 26th March 2022 7.30pm Class 5 (ages 11-13 years) Sunday 27th March 2022 2.00pm Classes 1, 4 & 7 (ages 5-10 years) DISCOVER THE ENCHANTING WORLD OF ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR. Travel down the rabbit-hole and join Alice , one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures. Featuring updated songs from Disney’s thrilling animated motion picture, Disney’s Alice in Wonderland JR is a fast-paced take on the classic tale. The ever-curious Alice ’s journey begins innocently enough as she chases the White Rabbit, after which her adventures become increasingly more strange as she races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game! A fun-filled show night is guaranteed with the Garrick Academy's musical youth presenting all of the usual Alice characters, including three Cheshire Cats and dozens of other wonderfully wacky individuals! Adapted especially for young performers, this musical includes favorites from the Disney cannon such as “I'm Late,” “The Unbirthday Song,” and “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” in a charming updated retelling of the Lewis Carroll classic. Whether this is your first experience with Alice or your hundredth, you'll lose your head (and your heart) for Alice in Wonderland JR.! Music and Lyrics by Sammy Fain & Bob Hilliard, Oliver Wallace & Cy Coban, Allie Wrubel & Ray Gilbert, Mack David, Al Hoffman & Jerry Livingston Music Adapted and Arranged and Additional Music and Lyrics by Bryan Louiselle Book and Additional Lyrics by David Simpatico Based on the 1951 Disney film Alice in Wonderland and the novels The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass by Lewis Carroll

< Back Showaddywaddy in Concert ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 21 June 2017 The Greatest Rock & Roll Band In The World’ is a bold statement but Showaddywaddy has lived up to that title for the last 4 decades! Formed in the 1970's in Leicester from several local bands, they have sold more than 20 million records and have toured all corners of the World extensively. Their live show is dynamic and uplifting featuring all of their biggest hits, many of which reached number one in the pop charts of Europe. ‘Under The Moon of Love’, ‘Three Steps to Heaven’, ‘Hey Rock & Roll’, ‘When’, ‘Blue Moon’, ‘Pretty Little Angel Eyes’ and many, many more. So come and join the ‘Dancin’ party... ‘You’ve Got What it Takes!’

< Back Towards Zero ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 30 May 2019 A Nail Biting Thriller What is the connection between a colonial adventurer, a well known "lounge lizard", a retired barrister and the complicated marital arrangements of a famous tennis player? To the casual observer apparently nothing. But when a house party gathers at "Gulls Point", the seaside home of the elderly (and rich) Camilla Tressilian, earlier events come to a dramatic head! Superintendent Battle must unravel these connections if the wrong person is not to be hanged for murder! [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DSCF6531.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DSCF6373.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DSC_2416.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DSC_2351.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DSCF6327.jpg|,|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DSCF6349.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DSCF6412.jpg|"] Production photos by Vish Sharma CAST Thomas Royde - Chris Catney Kay Strange - Lara Hancox Mary Aldin - Lindsey Barker Matthew Treves - David Reynolds Neville Strange - David Glover Lady Tressilian - Pat Williamson Audrey Strange - Arianna Glenton Ted Latimer - Ben Moser Superintendent Battle - Wayne Holt Inspector Leach - Gino Scrigna P C Benson - Jack Deighton-Brown [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/TZ-1.jpg|,|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/TZ-3.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/TZ-4.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/TZ-5.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/TZ-6.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/TZ-8.jpg|"] Rehearsal photos by David Hutchinson North West End Review - Reviewer: Gray Freeman Towards Zero was written by the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie, first published as a novel in 1944 and reworked as a play a decade later. It revolves around a summer gathering of friends and family at the lavish home of a wealthy widow, Lady Tressilian, a frail, but sprightly and spirited gal, hilariously played by Garrick veteran, Pat Williamson, who delivers some classic one-liners. “You should never let your affairs interfere with your marriage.” (I suspected her straight away.)Her ward, Neville, is played by David Glover, who shows a wide range of naturalistic acting. (I suspected him straight away.) He rather awkwardly brings his current wife (Lara Hancox) and ex-wife (Arianna Glenton) along with friend and lethario, Ted (Ben Moser). (I suspected all of them.) Thomas (Chris Catney) is the spurned lover of Neville’s first wife, a young man who lives in the shadow of his much better looking and more successful (and dead) brother. (I really suspected him.) Then there’s wise old Mr Treves (David Reynolds), trusted family friend – and possible murderer? Last but not least, we have Lady Tressilian’s hard working, long suffering aide, Mary, (Lindsey Barker). (I suspected her immediately.) We’ve got a lot of wealthy but fractious people in one place, we’ve got a rambling and isolated location on a Cornish river estuary, we’ve got envies, bitterness and acrimony… we’ve got summer sunshine, but there is evil under the sun. The first half does contain a lot of sometimes rather clunky exposition. All the characters and their backstories are laid before the audience and it can be somewhat overwhelming and confusing as a barrage of names, relationships, inter-relationships and situations are fired at you in rapid succession. It’s too easy to get bogged down and lose track of who married who and who divorced who, when and why. This is not a criticism of the engaging cast at all, who all performed ably and indeed admirably. The characters are all very clearly delineated and – thanks largely to their excellent portrayals – it all starts to fall into place. This is a period piece in more ways than one. It was written in a different era, when people could sit through something longer than a viral video on Facebook. It unfolds gradually, probably too gradually for most audiences today, but that’s also part of the beauty of it. It’s an Agatha Christie, it does what it’s supposed to do and almost follows a formula. Thankfully, there is no attempt to bring it up to date, which has seldom worked. It is set proudly, unmistakably in the past and the wardrobe department have gone to town… and come back with a plethora of vintage costumes. The men are always dapper in a variety of formal or casual suits, and the woman are vibrant in an array of florid and sometimes gaudy dresses and trouser suits, creating an effective feeling of yesteryear. With the characters established, the in-fighting, backbiting, breakdowns, acrimony and threats ensue… and by the end of this endless night one of the assembled players has an appointment with death. In the morning a murder is announced: someone has been brutally bludgeoned in the night… and one of their number is a murderer. Part two involves the police investigation and the various suspects being interviewed, as they fall under the moving finger of suspicion. This was, unfortunately, less tight than the first half had been, with a few pauses and a few fluffs, but it was still hugely enjoyable. I felt sure I’d worked out who the murderer was; I thought this repeatedly and was wrong every time. I won’t give the game away, but the actor playing the murderer was fantastic. When required he – or she – changed into an obvious, but still credible villain. There is an unexpectedly exciting and action-packed finale, which was absolutely thrilling, including some very well-staged physical acting, a bit of a tussle and a few punches thrown, all incredibly well-executed. The audience were loving it. If you don’t like Agatha Christie and aren’t a fan of the whodunit genre, then this probably won’t appeal to you, but if you do, then it’s a beautifully indulgent treat. It delivers everything an Agatha Christie should deliver and at the climax, quite a bit more. The wonderful cast make it look like murder is easy. Incredibly enjoyable . Rating: ★★★★ No 9 Review - Reviewer - Sam Lowe There was one question in everyone’s mind tonight… whodunnit? With Agatha Christie’s cleverly elaborate writing it could have been several suspects in tonight’s play, “Towards Zero”. Christie is renowned for writing the world’s longest running play, “The Mousetrap”. This was similar in premise but set in a more appealing location: the terrace of Lady Tressilian’s house (Saltcreek, Cornwall) in summer. Or maybe not actually given the circumstances. Lady Tressilian (Pat Williamson) was an old and cold-hearted woman. She had invited numerous people into her home called “Gull's Point” by the sea, at the end of the summer. Neville Strange (David Glover), star of the tennis world, annoyed Lady Tressilian by bringing both his new wife Kay (Lara Hancox) and ex-wife, Audrey (Arianna Glenton) resulting in the most awkward and uncomfortable romance triangle. To make matters worse, Lady Tressilian was brutally murdered with a golf club and Superintendent Battle (Wayne Holt) found himself no longer holidaying but getting back to work to fathom out and solve just whodunnit. This was a detective play which opened up an intricate web of scenarios in your mind; it made your brain go to work - but that’s a positive comment for Christie. Williamson received laughter from the audience because of how ruthless and blunt her character was. Glover made for a convincing Neville, you could tell his past was weighing him down and his quick-fire temper came across as natural. Kay definitely wore the trousers in a relationship, as played by Hancox. She was caught up in her role and gave a confident and polished performance. The rest of cast did a good job in supporting one another. However, some actor’s voices were rather deficient when it came to enunciation and resonance. Other performers looked as though they were waiting for a cue to say their next line, instead of being present as their character. A prompt was used a few times and some actors kept tripping over their words too, which in a wordy Agatha Christie play does spoil things to be honest. Designer, Laura McKie had come up with a lavish-looking and aesthetically-pleasing “house with garden” set. Generously spoiled with flowers, vines, roses, pink and red colours. Although the sofa, table and chairs looked too modern for the 1940s and was an anachronism. While Geoff Scullard and his team created a lighting design which captured the beautiful late-summer weather, perhaps too welcoming and lovely for what in reality is meant to be the scene of a horrendous crime. Saying that, the lit cyclorama of paint pallet, sunset colours looked attractive. The blackouts in-between scenes were conventional to a Christie play. I think it was Frankie Laine’s “Jealousy” that was the song playing in the background in the transition between scenes. An appropriate choice which set the mood just right for the production. The play is advertised as a “Nail Biting Thriller” but under Mike Shaw’s direction it only felt truly thrilling towards the end – and that wasn’t just because it was the big reveal. Taking everything into account, there was some good artistic choices and a few notable actors in this production, unfortunately it was let down by a lack of tension for most of it. It felt like you were watching a drama, you could relax a little and enjoy it. Sadly though, it didn’t want to make you bite your nails in terror.

< Back Parnell ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Barker, Winifred Bloor, R F Bramwell, Madge Chapman, Laurie Cherry, Helen Courtney, Donald Davenport, Alfred Edwards, Kathleen Falkner, Robert Harrington, W J Harris, Frank Howat, Robert (Bob) A Kauffman, M H Osborne, Edgar Rix, S M Southern, Lena Thomas, F

< Back City of Ships ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Billcliff, Arthur Bramwell, Madge Davenport, Alfred Godby, Jack Iredale, Emmie Matley, Henry (Harry) Norbury, Hazel

< Back Alice Sit-by-the-Fire ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Coventry, Betty Iredale, Emmie Matthews, Marion Thwaite Palmer, Jack A Pennington, Muriel Ross, Dora Walton, Mary

< Back Marti Pellow - Pellow Talk: The Lost Chapter ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 14 February 2023 I’ve been thrilled with the response to Pellow Talk. It has been the most intimate show I’ve done….. I wanted to do some more shows in this way and The Lost Chapter is a reimagined show that connects you, the audience, with me, the songwriter. It’s Pellow Talk – The Lost Chapter, an exploration of the songwriter, and the songs that make the man. Our reasonably priced bar will be open before, during the interval and after the show. Free car park for customers and in easy walking distance of Altrincham and local tram and train stations. So what are you waiting for? BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

< Back The Hasty Heart ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Ellis, Eric Griffiths, Jeanne Lightowler, Ronnie R Oddey, John Roberts, A E Tudor

< Back Barry Steele & Friends - The Roy Orbison Story ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 19 June 2017 BARRY STEELE AS ROY ORBISON He's the man with the sunglasses and the black suit who delivered some of the world's darkest and most emotional ballads, yet Texas-born Roy Orbison remains one of the most distinctive looking, and sounding performers in modern music. The one and only Barry Steele takes on the role in The Roy Orbison Story. He comes with great credentials and a genuine admiration for the Big O. Now he is set to put the rock back into 'Roy Orbison' as he takes to the stage to commemorate this legend in The Roy Orbison Story. Expect what is being billed as an upbeat and contemporary slant on Orbison's legacy, as Barry Steele and Friends take audiences on a musical journey from the early Sun years right through to the late 1980's, when Orbison was experiencing a huge resurgence in popularity and worked with Bono, Bruce Springsteen and others including super group the Traveling Wilburys alongside former Beatle George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne. So get ready for a night of solid gold 60's hits and 80's contemporary genius as the Roy Orbison Story celebrates the musical legacy of The Big O. The production also features original material written but never sung by Roy Orbison and showcases elements of the Hologram Tour alongside chart busting hits originally made famous by Jerry Lee Lewis, Procol Harum, Del Shannon, Chris Isaak, The Spencer Davis Group and The Traveling Wilburys; Barry Steele has been stunning audiences with his uncanny ability to recreate the vocal talents of the legendary Roy Orbison, winning rave reviews across the globe. His vocal talents are quite simply 'True Identikit Brilliance'. True Identikit Brilliance - The Stag e Please subscribe if you would like our regular FREE Garrick Newsletter, as well as all the Garrick Production & Membership News together with the latest Special Offers [inbound_button font_size="20" color="#c8232b" text_color="#ffffff" icon="thumbs-o-up" url="http://altrinchamgarrick.hosted.phplist.com/lists/?p=subscribe " width="" target="_blank"] Click HERE to Subscribe[/inbound_button]

< Back GAPA Term 1 - Group 1 ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 August 2023 GAPA – Garrick Academy of Performing Arts TERM 1 Enrolment: 9th September to 9th December 12 week term - Saturday Class Not including: 21/10/23 and 28/10/23 - October Half Term Dates Group 1 - 9am to 11am for students aged 8 - 11 years The Garrick Academy of Performing Arts runs classes for ages 5 to 18 on Saturday and is the place to be if you love acting, singing or dancing. IMPORTANT: Please do not sign up to this class if your child does not fall within this age bracket. If you are enrolling more than one student, please ensure the correct Group is selected for each child. Due to limited spaces, if you select the incorrect group we cannot guarantee your child a place at GAPA this term. PLEASE NOTE: We will be advertising any remaining spaces in all 7 Groups to new students after 29th August 2023.

< Back The Silver Box (2021 Hypothetical Production) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ 15 February 2021 to 20 February 2021 During a typical Season at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse we produce, on average, 12 productions in our Main House and 5 productions in our Lauriston Studio. Although we do have plans to reopen to live performances safely as soon as we are permitted to do so, the effects of not being able to generate our usual income is taking its toll on us. As part of our survival campaign, we’re launching a hypothetical production week, where you can buy tickets by way of donation. For every ticket purchased, the ticket holder will be entered into a raffle to win a prize from the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse. This performance will not actually be taking place; it is a fictional production. The buying of tickets is purely a way of supporting Altrincham Garrick Playhouse through this difficult time. “The Silver Box” was the first production ever to be produced by Altrincham Garrick Society, in 1914. The very first rehearsal took place on 17th February 1914, with the production opening on 18th March 1914 at the Public Hall, Altrincham. Tickets: £5 —————————————————————————————— All tickets purchased will be entered into a raffle with the following prizes: 4 complimentary tickets to the Garrick’s 2021/2022 Pantomime “Peter Pan” 2 complimentary tickets for a Garrick production of your choice in the Autumn/Winter Season 2021 (two of these prizes available) 1 Complimentary Garrick Membership lasting 12 months. (This allows you to purchase 2 member priced tickets for any of the Garrick’s in house Playhouse and Lauriston Productions and also Picturehouse Screenings)

< Back Trafford Music Service - Singing Festivals ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 19 May 2023 Trafford Music Service has a vision that every child should have the opportunity to perform on stage in a theatre during their time in KS2 and this year, they launched a Singing Festivals project which aims to fulfil that dream. Classes from Primary and Junior Schools across the borough will raise their voices to celebrate the joy of singing and as well as all the children joining together, each class will perform two or three songs of their own choice, making for a varied and exciting concert. 5 performances involving different schools Duration: 1 hour (No interval) Thursday 6th July 10:30 am Altrincham Church of England Primary School Broadheath Primary Oldfield Brow Primary – Class 5FB Thursday 6th July 1:45pm Well Green Primary Broomwood Primary St Vincent’s Catholic Primary Thursday 6th July 6:30 pm Elmridge Primary Park Road Primary Timperley Flixton Primary Willows Primary Wednesday 12th July 10:30 am Bowdon Church School Kings Road Primary Wednesday 12th July 1:45 pm Oldfield Brow Primary – Class 5RC Stamford Park Junior School St Hugh’s Catholic Primary Timperley Our reasonably priced bar will be open before, during the interval and after the show. Free car park for customers and in easy walking distance of Altrincham and local tram and train stations. So what are you waiting for? BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

< Back Beautiful Thing ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 18 August 2015 An Urban Fairytale A wonderful urban love story tells the story of Jamie's relationship with classmate Ste and his loud mouthed mother Sandra. Written by Jonathan Harvey who wrote the hit TV series Gimme Gimme Gimme and currently many episodes of Coronation Street, this affectionate comedy is full of warmth and honesty as the two boys find love accompanied to the inspiring tracks of Mama Cass. Their relationship has surprising effects on Sandra, her hippie boyfriend and a very inquisitive neighbour. The stage version was made into a highly successful film in 1996 and has recently been successfully revived in London and on tour. CAST Jamie - Charlie Gallagher Ste - Dillon Burgess Sandra - Sarah Roberts Tony - Joseph Morgan Leah - Alexandra O?Neill 4 STAR - Messenger Review?(Julia Taylor) Garrick's Lauriston indicate that Puppy Love can be a beautiful thing BEAUTIFUL THING, Jonathan Harvey?s play about deprived adolescent boys who fall in love with one another, is ideal for the intimate setting of the Garrrick?s Lauriston Studio.?Whatever form it takes love is an unexplained passion which hits unexpectedly and overwhelmingly. Next door neighbours, Jamie and Ste feel these emotions, even though they are only 16, yet they are terrified of being dubbed ?queers? on the Council estate where they live.?Streetwise neighbour Leah fancies Ste even though she realises he isn?t interested in girls.?The boys? relationship might never have flourished were it not for Jamie?s mum, Sandra, allowing Ste to share Jamie?s bed after he is beaten up by his father.?Sandra, a bar maid of the year is played by Sarah Roberts with warmth and a toughness which disguises her fragility. Her character is hardly a Madonna but her motherly love is undisputed.?Her sleezy boyfriend, Tony, is played by Joseph Morgan making his Garrick debut in his first straight play.?The boys, played by Charlie Gallagher and Dillon Burgess are invincible. The actors are young enough to remember adolescent pangs and capture perfectly the hopes and anxieties of growing up. They illustrate the initial hesitancy as their characters? relationship blossoms and their remorse when it is discovered.?There is an unforgettable scene when, high on drugs, Alexandra O?Neill?s girl next door, Leah, impersonates the star using an egg whisk as a microphone, temporarily becoming the star of the show herself.?Trevor McKie?s and Margaret Norris?s set makes good use of the small stage to illustrated the three adjacent flats. [gallery type="rectangular" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Beautiful-Thing-01.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Beautiful-Thing-02.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Beautiful-Thing-03.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Beautiful-Thing-05.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Beautiful-Thing-06.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Beautiful-Thing-07.jpg|" orderby="rand"] 4 STAR -?Remotegoat?Review?(Julia Taylor) "Puppy love on Council estate" Beautiful Thing, performed in the Garrick?s intimate Lauriston Sudio, is, indeed, beautiful.?Written by Coronation Street writer, Jonathan Harvey and with a cast of just five, its all about love.?16-year-old boys, Jamie and Ste, realising their attraction towards one another, are terrified of people calling them names such as ? queer?.?One of these people is girl next door, Leah. She is street-wise and carries a torch for Ste even though he isn?t into girls.?Alexandra O?Neill who plays her, conveys the fact that, although comparatively mature, she is still an adolescent with a crush on sole singer, Mama Cass.?Unwittingly it is another key player, Sarah Roberts playing. Jamie?s mother, Sandra, who brings the boys together. Events happen when she invites Ste to share a bed with her son after his father has beaten him up ? and the inevitable happens.?Roberts' Sandra is portrayed as an extraordinary and charismatic character. She?s a flighty barmaid of the year character with numerous boy friends.?Yet, despite the odd quarrel, she is still a good mum to Jamie demonstrating a different kind of love.?In his first straight play rather than a musical Joseph Morgan plays Sandra?s boyfriend, Tony.?As the writer intends, it is the boys who steal the show. Charlie Gallagher and Dillon Burgess point out precisely, the traumas of adolescence.?They capture well the hesitancy and wonder of first love and convey the sensitivity about what other people think of them which is common to most teenagers. Well directed by Carole Carr this is a perfect cameo of life in a deprived area.

< Back GAPA Term 1 - Group 6 ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 August 2023 GAPA – Garrick Academy of Performing Arts TERM 1 Enrolment: 9th September to 9th December 12 week term - Saturday Class Not including: 21/10/23 and 28/10/23 - October Half Term Dates Group 6 - 11.30am to 1.30pm for students aged 14 - 18 years The Garrick Academy of Performing Arts runs classes for ages 5 to 18 on Saturday and is the place to be if you love acting, singing or dancing. IMPORTANT: Please do not sign up to this class if your child does not fall within this age bracket. If you are enrolling more than one student, please ensure the correct Group is selected for each child. Due to limited spaces, if you select the incorrect group we cannot guarantee your child a place at GAPA this term. PLEASE NOTE: We will be advertising any remaining spaces in all 7 Groups to new students after 29th August 2023.

< Back Edith in the Dark ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 30 July 2019 Celebrated children's author Edith Nesbit (The Railway Children, Five Children and It) retreats to her dark attic writing room during one of her husband's tiresome parties. She is joined by her housekeeper and an unexpected handsome party guest, as midnight swiftly approaches. As the stories unfold it becomes clear that all is not what it seems, and someone in the attic is hiding a deadly secret. [gallery ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/i-L98nJdr-X4.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/i-4BQjNXR-X4.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/i-wFHSqzw-X4.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/i-CZjh5BW-X4.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/i-JhGvHsj-X4.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/i-3BBFPV5-X4.jpg|"] Production photos by Derek Stuart-Cole CAST Edith Nesbit - Kathryn Fennell Mr. Guasto - Peter Brassington Biddy Thricefold - Melanie Davy This season's productions in our Lauriston STUDIO have been sponsored by

< Back Teechers ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 29 July 2013 Fast-moving, inventive and highly entertaining, Teechers vigorously evokes life at a modern Comprehensive. Three fifth-formers, using the format of an end-of-term play, exuberantly sketch the new drama teacher's progress through two terms of recalcitrant classes, cynical colleagues and obstructive caretakers until he departs, disillusioned, for the safe waters of a private school. The play runs the whole gamut of emotions, climaxing with the last scene when the teenagers' despair emerges from beneath their youthful irreverence, giving a poignant edge to the comedy. Written for three actors to play some twenty characters. Teechers stretches the imagination of cast and audience alike. CAST Salty Barry Spencer Gail Laura Chandler (AWARD) Hobby Ros Greenwood Review from Sale & Altrincham Messanger by Rick Bowen Top marks for Teechers - Garrick's comedy of the year ALTRINCHAM Garrick's production of 'Teechers' is so good it wouldn't be out of place on a professional stage. What's more, it made me look again at a piece I'd previously dismissed as not being vintage John Godber, and I left the theatre in no doubt that this is an exceptional piece of work. Yes, there are plenty of laughs as unruly pupils torment their teachers and experience the growing pains most of us endured and can now laugh at. But the play has a lot to say about the failings of the education system - for the privileged kids it is a land of opportunity. For many, it's a holding centre for young people who have already been written off by a society who doesn't know what to do with them. Hence Salty's strangely moving speech near the end of the play. Worry not - despite this comedy's more serious strands running through the play you never, at any point, feel like you're being preached to. In terms of the direction, Stephanie Niland has got everything just right and she more than gets the best out of Barry Spencer, Ros Greenwood and Laura Chandler. As well as playing pupils Salty, Gail and Hobby, they play numerous other roles, displaying a versatility that can only be described as astounding. Star Rating ★★★★ Review of Teechers by Julia Taylor for remotegoat Versatile Cast play 30 parts Three talented thespians display versatility and humour in John Godber's play, Teechers, performing 30 parts between them. The main character is Mr Nixon, a stars in his eyes drama teacher who quickly becomes disillusioned with the large comprehensive school where he works and eventually leaves for pastures new. He has to confront problems not only with pupils such as Oggy, the bully, but also staff. There is a nasty deputy head, an overwhelming headmistress and a bad-tempered caretaker. The actors, Laura Chandler, Ros Greenwood and Barry Spencer also play school respectively, school leavers Hobby, Gail, and Salty. The three manage to give a hilarious version of Romeo and Juliet in about three minutes and the scene featuring the Christmas dance and Gail flirting in Mr Nixon's car also gets a lot of laughs. It's a miracle how by small changes of clothing the cast make each of their characters so easily identifiable and different. The feel of the 1980's is conveyed by pop music of the time and other give-aways such as smoking by teachers and pupils alike. I especially take to Laura's Mrs Parry, the eccentric head, Ros's Doug, the jobsworth Caretaker and Barry's Mr Nixon. NODA Review by Kevin Proctor Popular playwright and BAFTA winner John Godber uses a rundown comprehensive school as the setting for 'Teechers', similar to his earlier and more well-known play: 'Bouncers' this also relies on multiple characterisations from a small cast. It was clear that first time director Stephanie Niland had the vision of this play firmly in place and with the assistance of a dream cast was able to express her vision with stunning results. I imagine many directors would run a mile from this piece as this is a play which stands or falls on the amount of energy, passion and enthusiasm injected into it from its director. This was a drilled, inspiring and no less than a professional quality performance! First-class and diverse acting ability was on display, the standard within this production was overwhelming as we witnessed the highly energetic and talented cast of just three take on the immense twenty roles between them. The focus and capability of The 'Teecher' trio alone was astounding. Laura Chandler is fire on stage, she oozes charisma and delivered an exceptional performance with such direct energy, my favourites amongst many of her wonderful interpretations was as the cocky full-of-himself bully which contrasted - making the opposites of her characters even more hilarious with the head of drama/am dram enthusiast 'luvvy' putting on the Mikado. Ros Greenwood gave an incredibly expressive performance with facial expressions to rival Jim Carey, her portrayal as the caretaker was on the verge of genius - again - beautifully contrasting with the seductive gym coach. Finally, Barry Spencer gave both slapstick and warmth in his renditions, I've seen Barry in a few plays now and I'm in awe how he can translate exactly what he's thinking in an instant, a very likable character on stage. If anything was to let this production down slightly I would have to say that more attention could have been given to the technical side, the stage was not always lit to the best effect and sound cut offs were a tad harsh but this by no means put a damper on the production for me. Many congratulations on such an inspiring and exciting production!

< Back Toxic ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 23 June 2021 Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 45. Toxic follows two best friends and the circumstances which have caused them to spiral. Andy discovers his husband has been having an affair. Stuck in a soul-crushing job, his lifejacket of love was the only thing keeping him afloat. His best friend James is a man’s man who uses gags to disguise his vulnerability. Will the toxic culture of silence and stoicism swallow them too? Or by opening the conversation, can they escape the clutch of their demons? Their lives are not the only lives at stake. Our reasonably priced bar will be open before, after and during the show. Free car park for customers and in easy walking distance of Altrincham and local tram and train stations. So what are you waiting for? BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

< Back Alty Fringe: Odyssey (with Junior) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 24 October 2020 This performance comprises two separate musical acts: Odyssey supported by Junior Disco and soul superstars Odyssey will perform an intimate show at the Garrick filled with their biggest hits, including Use it Up & Wear it Out , Native New Yorker , Inside Out and the iconic disco anthem Going Back to My Roots . Odyssey will be joined by their special guest: R&B star Junior Giscombe. Junior was one of the first British R&B artists to be successful in America, with his 1982 hit Mama Used to Say . He will performing this live for you, alongside his other hits including the duet Another Step (Closer to You) - originally recorded with Kim Wilde. This show is part of the Alty Fringe 2021 - socially distanced and safe for all! The theatre has extensive COVID-19 safety measures in place, including a redesigned socially distanced auditorium, contactless tickets, regular deep cleans after each performance, timed entry slots, hand sanitiser stations around the theatre ... and much more. The Alty Fringe is proud to be appearing at the Altrincham Garrick from 12 March to 28 March 2021 . #altyfringe