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< Back The Railway Children ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 14 August 2013 Since its first appearance in 1906, Edith Nesbit's The Railway Children has become a classic which has been read and loved by successive generations of children the world over, as well as delighting cinema and TV audiences. Now its appeal is widened still further with this adventurous yet sensitive stage adaptation by Dave Simpson. Set in and around a country railway station at the turn of the century, the plight of the Railway Children grappling with their new environment is imaginatively brought to life for a modern audience whilst losing nothing of the original spirit of humour, adventure and the final triumph of good over evil. CAST Roberta Christina Preece Phyllis Alice Preece Peter John Elliot Mother Julie Cunningham Perks Bill Platt Mrs. Perks Victoria Johnson Old Gentleman Geoff Noar Doctor Forrest Mark Edgar Mr. Szezepansky Mark Rowlands John Tom Burns Alfred Alfie Robinson Bert Ben Hanley Edith Sian Smith Emma Tabitha Hughes Jim Chris Mawson Other parts played by Brian Tickle, Margaret Kenyon Julie Broadbent, Chris Wetherill Stuart Slade [gallery columns="7" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11r.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11m.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11k.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11i.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11c.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11p.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11h.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11n.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11l.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11d.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11e.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11g.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11a.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/play11b.jpg|"]

< Back The Madness of George III ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 9 June 2015 Alan Bennett's award winning play is a terrific mix of terror, comedy and tragedy. This is the true story of a king's perceived eccentric behaviour and declining mental state and equally declining relationship with his son and heir which threatens the institution of the monarchy itself. Political intrigues and attempts to reverse the state of the king's insanity desperately try to fend off the Princes's attempts to seize the throne. The insatiable fascination with the royal family and their domestic problems continues to the present day. The original National Theatre production was so successful both in London and New York, that it was also made into an enduringly popular film. Alan Bennett is one of the worlds best loved playwrights whose many credits include The History Boys, The Lady in the Van ?and Talking Heads. [gallery ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/DSC_5776.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/DSC_5650.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/DSC_5577.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/DSC_5544.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/DSC_5424.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/DSC_5867.jpg|" orderby="rand"] CAST Nick Sample - King George Sarat Broughton - Queen Charlotte Peter Brassington - George, Prince of Wales Tom Oliver - Frederick, Duke of York Megan Royle - Lady Pembroke/Margaret Nicholson Steven Finney - William Pitt Steve Williamson - Lord Thurlow, the Lord Chancellor Ewan Henderson - Dundas Dan Lockett - Charles Fox Simon Liversidge - Richard Brinsley Sheridan Martin Oldfield - Dr Willis Dave Midgley - Sir George Baker Dave Richardson - Dr Richard Warren Bryan Higgins - Sir Lucas Pepys/Sir Boothby Skrymshir Anthony Morris - Fitzroy Lewis Kirk - Greville Leon McKenna - Papandiek Alex Hewitt - Fortnum/Ramsden Chris Simmons - Braun RICK BOWEN'S Review NickSample's performance in The Madness of George III represents a high water mark for both Altrincham Garrick but for amateur theatre in general. We share ever second of the monarch's mental and physical torment as he embarks on a heart breaking battle against an illness that mystifies both the medics, his family and his courtiers. But he's also a master of the put down and Sample is equally accomplished when it comes to putting across the lighter elements of Alan Bennett's sublime script. I also like the way this superb play humanises the royals an there are some touching, tender scenes to enjoy between King George and Queen Charlotte, so well played by Sarat Broughton. They come across as, shock horror, real people, warts and all. Don't be fooled into thinking this is a dry and highbrow piece of theatre. There are plenty of laughs to be had at the expense of the establishment and the king's outbursts of irreverence. The most difficult scenes involve a medical treatment that verges on sadism, scenes that, even after watching the film version starring the mighty Nigel Hawthorne, make my stomach turn over. Director Celia Bonner has a major triumph on here hands here. Steven Finney impresses yet again and I really liked Peter Brassington as the scheming stuffed shirt, George, Prince of Wales. The ever watchable Martin Oldfield is perfect in the role of Dr Francis Willis. It would be a travesty if The Madness of George III doesn't play to packed houses and anyone who refuses to go should be sent to the Tower. Star Rating ★★★★★ MESSENGER REVIEW - by Julia Taylor The Madness of George III is too good to be missed. Like old King Coal, George III is a merry old soul affectionately calling his wife, delightfully played by Sarat Broughton, Mrs King. That is until he contracts Porphyria which slowly drives him mad. It all happens at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse in Celia Bonner's unforgettable production of Alan Bennett's play - one of their best. In their eighteenth century ignorance, doctors inflict ineffective and tortuous remedies upon the poor King. Yet he is sane when he loses the American colonies , an event which concerns him so much he won?t talk about it. There is a scheming opposition party plot to make vain George, the eldest of many children, Prince Regent. Nick Sample's performance is one that will go down in the Garrick's history as special. Indeed, he shows true genius. He makes the monarch his own, illustrating the King's pleasant side as well as reacting with heart rending shrieks to the terror and pain inflicted on him after slowly going mad. It means being burnt, purged and laced in a straight jacket by his tormenting doctors. In outstanding dramatic moments, he stutters, mutters obscenities, swears, talks incessantly, and falls to the ground, groaning. The only doctor with common sense is Dr Francis Willis, played in another exceptional performance, by Garrick veteran, Martin Oldfield. Others worthy of mention are Peter Brassington as son, George, Steven Finney as William Pitt, and Meg Royle as Lady Pembroke who gently rebuffs the King's lustful advances. The elaborate eighteenth century costumes, themed in black and white, are a credit to Mike Shaw and his team. Star Rating ★★★★★

< Back Arms and the Man ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Bonson, John P Hankins, J Matthews, Marion Thwaite Maud, Harry Monkhouse, Mary H Smith, J B Stevens, Kate

< Back Bowdon Prep School Presents: 'Shrek The Musical JR.' ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 9 June 2023 You are invited to enjoy the adventure of Shrek and Donkey, performed by year 5 and 6 pupils of Bowdon Preparatory School! Beauty is in the eye of the ogre in Shrek The Musical JR., based on the Oscar - winning DreamWorks Animation film and fantastic Broadway musical. It's a big bright beautiful world; as everyone's favourite ogre, Shrek, leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part twisted fairy tale, Shrek JR. is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family. Once upon a time, in a far away swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek. One day, Shrek finds his swamp invaded by banished fairytale misfits who have been cast off by Lord Farquaad, a tiny terror with big ambitions. When Shrek sets off with a wisecracking donkey to confront Farquaad, he's handed a task — if he rescues feisty princess Fiona, his swamp will be righted. Shrek tries to win Fiona’s love and vanquish Lord Farquaad, but a fairytale wouldn't be complete without a few twistsand turns along the way. Please note : Under 5's are free but they will still require a ticket. 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 You Never Can Tell ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 July 2014 CAST Bonson, John P Bullivant, Erick Kirton, C H Lowe, Edgar M Mason, Edward Matthews, Marion Thwaite Wallis, Ruby Walton, Mary Warburton, George A Wilson, Tom Gee, Mary H

< Back Playgoers ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Ellis, Meg (Margaret) Lightowler, Ronnie R Parker, Fred Wallace, Jean Wood, Wyn

< Back A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 13 April 2023 A winter ghost story ? Bah humbug! It's Christmas Eve. As the cold, bleak night draws in, the penny-pinching Ebenezer Scrooge is confronted by the spirit of his former business partner, Jacob Marley. Bound in chains as punishment for a lifetime of greed, the unearthly figure explains it isn't too late for Scrooge to change his miserly ways in order to escape the same fate. But first he'll have to face three more eerie encounters... Mark Gatiss' spine-tingling adaptation is faithful to the heart and spirit of Charles Dickens' much-loved festive ghost story – with an emphasis on the ghostly. Recommended: 10+ Production Shots - Taken by Martin Ogden REVIEWS Number9 - John Waterhouse The story of the miser Scrooge’s redemption has become as much a part of Christmas as Santa Claus, festive decorations and mince pies. The amount of adaptations and versions almost rival any Shakespeare play with the Muppets, Blackadder and East Enders each having famously presented their take on the story alongside countless film and TV versions with the lead role going to actors as varied as Michael Caine, Patrick Stewart, George C. Scott and Albert Finney. There have been musical adaptations, animations, comedy versions and modern re-settings (notably ‘Scrooged’ in 1980’s New York with Bill Murray). Against all this, Altrincham Garrick presented a new adaptation that aimed to be as true as possible to the original 1847 story. The look of this production was very ‘gothic’ with a grey set (resembling cold stone), black costumes and a sombre appearance of bookcases covered in drapes and papers littering the stage floor. This was in keeping with Dickens’s own views of the harshness of life in Victorian times and there was no attempt to find humour in any of the characters or their surroundings. A key aspect of this production was the presentation of Scrooge; not an amusingly grumpy miser but an aggressive tyrant who was not above hitting people with his stick and striking fear into those who encountered him. Jonathan Black’s interpretation of Scrooge ensured that he could not attract any kind of tragic sympathy; this was a genuine villain in a world of cruelty and injustice. No attempt was made however to change the traditional countenance of the ghosts who respectively for Christmas’s past, present and future were a whimsical fairy, a jovial character modelled on Father Christmas and the Spirit of Death. A perhaps unusual aspect of this rendition of A Christmas Carol was the transformation, once Scrooge has seen the error of his way. His glee at finding himself still alive and not too late for Christmas was in greater contrast than usual to his former self, with the character suddenly transforming from a figure of hate to one of sympathy (certainly in sharp contrast to many other adaptations!). This change was carried through into the overall show with all the characters suddenly appearing in vibrant reds, blues and greens rather than uniform sombre black. This effect was further enhanced by the sudden appearance of a choir and hand-bell ringers; everything really had gone from black & white to colour and a feeling dull morbidity transformed into celebration and good cheer. To fully tell the story, a certain amount of stylisation was needed for the stage and Gatiss used a cast of ten who variously played all the characters (apart from Scrooge) in addition to providing a narrator and collectively becoming an ensemble for street crowds, party goers, funeral mourners, and all the other presentations of life in Dickensian times. This was handled well; sometimes it being hard to tell which ensemble members had played which characters through a combination of excellent costumes and strong acting. A back curtain with slits allowed for the rapid entry and exit of the ensemble and this was overall a very slick production. Credit must also be given to some very effective sound effects that certainly enhanced the ghostly feel of the performance. This was an interesting return to the authentic concept of what ‘A Christmas Carol’ was meant to be; a genuinely disturbing tale of social injustice set against the backdrop of a ghost story, tempered by some scenes of good-natured humanity and festive merriment. An enthusiastic cast and some skilful direction did full just to the adaptation providing a perfect entre for the start of the festive season. StageStruck - Rick Bowen THIS is a story I know backwards and yet the redemption of one of one of our most famous skinflints still captures my imagination. Jonathan Black gives the performance of his amateur acting career to date as Scrooge, a man obsessed with making money and oblivious to the plight of the poor around him. Black is ultimately convincing as a man whose money making ways are most memorably challenged by three festive spirits. Barry Purves’ production also captivated a large group of young people in the Garrick audience on opening night and will hopefully convince them to look beyond a screen for their entertainment. The supernatural encounters the central character encounters are also genuinely scary and I also really liked the way in which the production uses music to heighten the tension and provide a stirring seasonal climax to a hugely enjoyable evening out. Even the real life Scrooges watching this are sure to be won over and turned into fans of the impending seasonal to be cheerful thanks to the consistently creative Purves and his backstage team. Scrooge’s encounters with the supernatural are also genuinely scary. But this production of A Christmas Carol isn’t just the Jonathan Black/Barry Purves show. There’s so much more to enjoy, like the performance of the supporting cast. Now here’s the bad news - the production is a complete sell out. If you hear of any returns snap them up. You certainly won’t be disappointed. This is the best Christmas present Altrincham Garrick could possibly give us theatregoers. North West End UK - Hannah Wilde The Christmas season is well and truly on now, with Altrincham Garrick’s performance of A Christmas Carol kicking off the festive roster. This production had flashes of theatrical excellence, but sadly there were a number of areas that just didn’t capture the audience in the way director Barry J C Purves would perhaps have wanted. The lead antagonist, Jonathan Black as Ebenezer Scrooge, gave a fantastically nuanced and well-delivered performance – the audience really bought into him in the first act as the well-known miser who struck fear into the heart of the people of Victorian London, yet in the second act you could really believe his redemption after seeing the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Given the supernatural nature of the story, it was a difficult narrative to portray onstage – however, director Purves and his team did put on a good show. The iconic scene where the knocker transforms into Jacob Marley’s face left a lot to be desired, but other areas (like the costume developed for the Ghost of Christmas Present, as well as the ghostly lighting and sound effects used to portray the paranormal) did give the performance more credence. That said, from a technical standpoint I do think the lead characters (Scrooge, Cratchit, Jacob Marley and Tom) would have benefitted immensely from the use of onstage microphones to keep the narrative on track. There were some areas of the show that can’t be overlooked – the stylised sequence at the Cratchit dinner table which involved some form of interpretive movement with napkins was disturbingly jarring and didn’t fit in with the overall tone and style of the piece, while the creative decision to cut to the interval just after the arrival of the Ghost of Christmas Present was equally jarring, leaving the audience (and myself) confused and a little disorientated. However, many of the elements of the show were very good – the period costumes were a great addition to set the scene, the staging was simple yet hauntingly effective, and every cast member delivered their parts with gusto and panache. Of note was the show’s finale, which saw the unexpected arrival of the full Altrincham Garrick Show Choir (led by Choir Master Dan McDwyer) to finish out the show with Victorian classic carol “O Come All Ye Faithful” – a fitting end to its namesake show, A Christmas Carol. All in all, although this particular Christmas Carol failed to hit all the notes, it was a very nice harmonious piece that left the audience feeling festive and fulfilled. A Christmas Carol is playing at The Altrincham Garrick Playhouse from Monday 20th to Saturday 25th November 2023 and is sold out, check daily for returns. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Free Car Parking. Cosy Bar. Great Prices. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

< Back Time Bandits (1981 Terry Gilliam Film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 9 August 2020 Eleven-year-old schoolboy Kevin (Craig Warnock) is rescued from his dull, suburban life when an armoured knight and a gang of dwarves emerge from his wardrobe and carry him off on a journey through space and time. Along the way they meet some of history's most famous characters including Napoleon Bonaparte (Ian Holm), Robin Hood (John Cleese) and King Agamemnon (Sean Connery) ... but they are also being closely watched by the malevolent sorcerer Evil (David Warner) who has laid a cunning trap to obtain their map. Terry Gilliam (known for Brazil and The Adventures of Baron Munchhausen , among others) is at the height of his imagination here, using fantastic set design and homemade special effects to create a vivid, original universe.

< Back Appointment in Eden ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Eaton, Margo Gorna, Christina Greir, Alma Hamblin, Phyllis Jones, Sulaned Ramsbottom, Elsie Sonley, Betty Winning, Joyce

< Back The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 January 1970 When The Great Gonzo plays Charles Dickens, Kermit the Frog plays Bob Cratchit and Statler (and Waldorf) play Jacob (and Robert) Marley, you know you're in for a unique interpretation of this Christmas classic. Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and Sam Eagle join in, and there are even cameo appearances from Beaker and the Swedish Chef. Michael Caine gives a bravura performance as Scrooge in this lovely film ... and shines against even the combined talents of the Muppets ! This funny and heart-warming film is a must-see, particularly for those who've never (shock horror !) seen a Muppet film before. This screening will (as always) be introduced by Barry Purves with informed trivia, anecdotes and some background of the production. 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 Blue Stockings By Jessica Swale ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 18 May 2022 “They say you don’t have the capacity to be scholars. So read everything. Learn everything. Know the philosophers, and then think for yourselves. ” A moving, comical and eye-opening story of four young women fighting for education and self-determination against the larger backdrop of women's suffrage. 1896. Girton College, Cambridge, the first college in Britain to admit women. The Girton girls study ferociously and match their male peers grade for grade. Yet, when the men graduate, the women leave with nothing but the stigma of being a 'blue stocking ' - an unnatural, educated woman. They are denied degrees and go home unqualified and unmarriable. In Jessica Swale's play, Blue Stockings , Tess Moffat and her fellow first years are determined to win the right to graduate. But little do they anticipate the hurdles in their way: the distractions of love, the cruelty of the class divide or the strength of the opposition, who will do anything to stop them. The play follows them over one tumultuous academic year, in their fight to change the future of education. Blue Stockings received its professional premiere at Shakespeare's Globe, London, in August 2013. Age Guidance: 12+ Production shots taken by Martin Ogden [gallery columns="2" size="large" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BSa-scaled.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BSh-scaled.jpg|"] [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BSe-scaled.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BSi-scaled.jpg|"] [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BSd-scaled.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BSg-scaled.jpg|"] [gallery columns="2" size="large" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BSb-scaled.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BSc-scaled.jpg|"] 5 STAR REVIEW - Rick Bowen at Stagestruck IT’S hard to believe it nowadays, but it wasn’t until 1948 that Cambridge University finally allowed female students to graduate. And this in a country that likes to set itself up as a bastion of decency and fair play. This compelling subject forms the basis of Jessica Swale’s brilliant piece of work - the best production to grace the Garrick stage in 2022. I really liked the way Swale tells the compelling story of four women, academically as able as their male peers, battle against the dismissive attitudes of their male peers and academics who wield all the power at the famous university. An evening of man bashing this most definitely is not but there were occasions when I felt ashamed of my gender. Blue Stockings is set in 1896, more than a century before terms like ‘sexism’ had become part of the vernacular and I really like the way in which Pippa Lane, Bronte James, Madeleine Healey and Olivia Brindley bring their characters so vividly and engagingly to life. You’ll find yourself quietly rooting for their characters, Tess, Celia, Carolyn and Maeve, a tribute to their considerable acting ability and the skills of Sue Mowat, who makes her debut at Altrincham Garrick as director of a production packed with performances of a professional standard. It feels wrong to single out individual performances because there aren’t any weak links in this cast. But I did really enjoy Nick Sample as Banks and Sam Evans as the disarmingly decent Ralph Mayhew. Add some gentle and captivating original music by Mark Goggins and you have a perfect evening’s theatre that’s simply far too good too miss. As for me. I would quite willingly, watch this again. Highly recommended. Until October 8. Star rating - ***** North West End Uk Review - Paul Wilcox very year, during the first week of October, thousands of fresh-faced young people flock to our major cities marking the start of the university year. That this annual migration forms a rite of passage for both men AND women, is largely due to the efforts of ‘Blue Stockings’, pioneers in the rights for women’s education and equality of opportunity during the nineteenth century. In this 2013 play, writer Jessica Swale focuses on the 1896 fight by women at Girton College, Cambridge to gain the right to graduate alongside their male peers in the face of hostile opposition from faculty, fellow students and society at large. We see the prejudice and misogyny that women in education faced through the eyes of four new ‘Girton Girls’, Tess (Pippa Lane), Celia (Bronte James), Carolyn (Madeleine Healey) and Maeve (Olivia Brindley), an early encounter with renowned psychiatrist Dr Maudsley (Sean Duvall) setting the tone for the universities dismissive and patronising disapproval of their presence. They are supported in their endeavours by Mistress of Girton College, Elizabeth Welsh (Ros Greenwood) and Miss Blake (Kathryn Worthington) whilst being adamantly opposed by the rest of the University and the wider (male) student body. The battle lines are drawn, with a vote on whether to confer degree status on the women forming the dramatic climax of the plot. The Garrick always manages to unearth young talent to bring its productions to life and this one is no exception, with consistently high levels of performance across the piece. Lane brings out the frustrated curiosity of Tess well, her curious mind extending well beyond the boundaries of the limited syllabus set by her hidebound male examiners, whilst Healey finds the humour and light in bohemian Carolyn with precision and dextrous physicality. James acts as the glue for the group in both character and performance, and we feel the pain of Maeve when she is forced to give up her studies due to events beyond her control. Brindley is excellently understated as the shy Maeve, a character I would like to have seen developed more and a timely reminder that class and money were as impenetrable a barrier to progress as sex. Miss Welsh and Miss Blake provide the embodiment of the wildly varying attitudes to female emancipation during the period, even amongst women themselves. The evolutionary approach of Welsh juxtaposed with the more strident and revolutionary suffragette beliefs of Blake, reflecting the differences as to how best to progress the cause. Worthington is particularly noteworthy as Blake, prepared to sacrifice her entire career to ensure future women could benefit from graduation and the clever ending subverts the expectations of the audience for a happy resolution. The writing was strongest when dealing with the politics and issues of nascent feminism and the second act descended into a more prosaic romantic drama involving a love triangle of Tess, Ralph (Sam Evans) and Will (Callum Johnson) which, though well performed, did not hold my interest. It was left to Lloyd (Tom Broughton) to provide a clear distillation of the prevailing misogynistic attitude, his cruel argument dismissing the hopes and future ambitions of Tess, being the second half highlight. Overall, a strong production with excellent central performances, shedding light on an inspirational group of women who stood up to prevailing orthodoxy and eventually triumphed. Playing until Saturday 8th October, https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/shows/blue-stockings/ Reviewer: Paul Wilcox Reviewed: 3rd October 2022 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Free Car Parking. Cosy Bar. Great Prices. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

< Back Oleanna ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 February 2014 What starts out as a seemingly ordinary meeting between a University professor and a student becomes an intense fight for survival in a world where no one is right and everyone has too much to lose. One small office becomes a battleground between the sexes where a hidden war we refuse to acknowledge threatens to destroy all the participants. Considered one of the finest playwrights of contemporary theatre, David Mamet uses his prodigious talent to deconstruct and rethink the most controversial and frustrating issues of our time. Bristling with his trademark high-energy dialogue, cutting wit and uncanny insight in the human condition, ?Oleanna? shatters the myths and accepted truths of sexual harassment and political correctness. CAST Simon Royce as John Rosi Hunter as Carol ASM - Janet Slade [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/oleannaa-1.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/oleannad.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/oleannab-1.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/oleannac-1.jpg|"] Photographer: Martin Oldfield Photographer: Martin Oldfield

< Back English Touring Opera Live on Stage - Performance 3 ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 20 October 2020 LYRIC SOLITUDE - performance 3 of 4 English Touring Opera are thrilled to return to live performance this Autumn, with a programme focusing on the voice of the individual in isolation, on the power of song, and of poetry - with responses to that power in dance, image and drama.  The Garrick is delighted to host ETO's 4 separate performances over this weekend. Saturday's evening programme comprises the following: Songs and Proverbs of William Blake (Britten) Romances on British Poetry (Shostakovich) The Poet’s Echo (Britten) Tel Jour, Telle Nuit (Poulenc) Total duration 60 minutes Songs and Proverbs of William Blake (Britten) The visionary poet and painter William Blake inspired many composers, none more effectively than Benjamin Britten. This cycle, drawing a blazing picture of the innocence and injustice Blake saw around him, is staged by John Savournin, with Cardiff Singer of the World 2019 finalist, Julien van Mellaerts, accompanied by Ella O’Neill. Romances on British Poetry (Shostakovich) Dimitri Shostakovich’s brooding, passionate settings of Robert Burns, Shakespeare and Raleigh conceal the composer’s deep feelings about life, caught as he was on the anvil of 1942, hammered by clashing totalitarian armies. Edward Hawkins (bass) is the voice of the man who awaits the reasonless midnight call of his killer, in a world in which beauty is crushed as soon as it is found. Accompanied by Sergey Rybin. The Poet's Echo (Britten) Written in Armenia for the Russian soprano Galina Vishnevskaya, Britten’s careful, astonishing setting of the Russian poet Pushkin are rarely performed. ‘Who hears the poet? Who is listening to my song?’ as poet and composer. Directed by James Conway, Jenny Stafford is the soloist in this haunting work, sung in the original Russian, accompanied by Sergey Rybin. Tel Jour, Telle Nuit (Poulenc) Poulenc’s affinity with the poet Paul Éluard (one of the founders of the Surrealism movement) is made crystal clear in the nine separate, but musically interconnected, melodies of Tel Jour, Telle Nuit . This was a watershed work for Poulenc and is his most celebrated song-cycle, giving voice to the quiet radiance, the humility and grandeur, the rapture, the terror, the profound humanity and compassion of this great poet. Baritone, Julien Van Mellaerts and pianist Sergey Rybin partner in James Conway’s staging. The bar will be open before and after the show. Come and join us in a friendly, informal and Covid-19 safe atmosphere, to witness this unique fusion of music, dance, image and drama ... as well as to avail yourself of our low bar prices and free car park ! ETO's Lyric Solitude at the Garrick We are hosting 4 performances from English Touring Opera over the weekend: Friday 20 November at 19:30: Tippett, Britten and Shostakovich Saturday 21 November at 15:00: La Voix Humaine , by Poulenc Saturday 21 November at 19:30: more from Britten, Shostakovich and Poulenc (this performance) Sunday 22 November at 15:00: Two short operas, by Poulenc and Argento (includes La Voix Humaine ) Note: apart from La Voix Humaine being performed twice, all other pieces are being performed just once only.

< Back Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Bonson, John P Kewell, H Kewell, J E Matthews, Marion Thwaite Palmer, Jack A Settle, Minnie Toder, Mrs Eva Warburton, George A Wood, Kathleen

< Back The Heartless Princess ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Bayliss,Tony Clarkson, Norma Davenport, Claire Gee, Ian

< Back My Lady Wears a White Cockade ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Briggs, Harry Bullivant, Erick Iredale, Emmie Riley, Pearl Ruse, Ernest J Wilson, Kathleen

< Back An Inspector Calls ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 24 July 2013 This riveting, ever-popular examination of conscience and class has made regular appearances throughout our history and takes pride of place in this historic season. When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the foundations of their lives and challenge them to examine their consciences. Gripping and thrilling, if you haven't seen this theatrical masterpiece before - you must! If you have - see it again. This play never disappoints. [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/An-Inspector-Calls-1-e1384181709369.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/An-Inspector-Calls-2-e1384181091258.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/An-Inspector-Calls-3-e1384181162818.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/An-Inspector-Calls-4-e1384181199169.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/An-Inspector-Calls-5-e1384181230593.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/An-Inspector-Calls-6-e1384181258442.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/An-Inspector-Calls-7-e1384181291421.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/An-Inspector-Calls-8-e1384181322714.jpg|"] Pix by Vish CAST LIST Arthur Birling - Richard Sails Sybil Birling - Bev Stuart-Cole Gerald Croft - Anthony Morris Sheila Birling - Laura Whitehurst Edna - Margaret Kenyon Eric Birling - Tom Sneyd Inspector Goole - Paul Wilson Prompt - Ros Greenwood ASM - Jackie Wheble ASM - Margaret Kenyon Messenger REVIEW by Rick Bowen A magnificent production of a Priestley classic DEEPLY thought provoking and tense, An Inspector Calls is a truly classic play. Altrincham Garrick's production of Priestley's masterpiece is so good my eyes were glued to the stage throughout, a tribute to director John Chidgey and a very fine cast. Paul Wilson has a powerful stage presence as Inspector Goole, the mysterious character who ruins the cosy family celebration of the Birlings, with some disturbing revelations regarding a 'young woman's harrowing death of a young woman denied help when she needed it most. I can't remember the last time a performance excited me so much and I hope this is the start of a long, long association with this 100 year old society. But Paul is in very good company, with Richard Sails excelling as self-made businessman Arthur Birling, a champion of the 'survival of the fittest' philosophy. Beverley Stuart-Cole is positively hateful as Arthur's horrible, hard faced wife Sybil and it's impossible not to warm to their daughter, Sheila, thanks to Laura Whitehurst. This character and her brother Eric offer some hope for the future, in a play that?s as much a plea for social compassion as it is a compelling drama. An Inspector Calls played to a packed house on Monday night. It'd be a crime if this isn't repeated throughout the run as this is for me, the Garrick's best production of 2013. Magnificent. Star Rating ★★★★★ Review by Julia Taylor for remotegoat 'Sinister Inspector disrupts wealthy family' All I can remember about the last time the Garrick presented this play two years ago, are the copious amounts of dry ice which were slightly overpowering, especially to those on the front row. The only (very minor) irritation this time is a chair which temporarily blocks the view of the beautiful Sheila Birling, whose engagement to Gerald Croft is celebrated in the opening scene. The atmosphere is relaxed as the Birling family drink port around the table, until the unexpected arrival of Inspector Goole (Paul Wilson). His revelations about the connection of family members to the death of a young, pregnant factory worker insidiously change things. Paul Wilson's is the key role and he conveys well the manipulative side of his character though he could have been slightly more sinister. Although the Garrick stage is wide the director, John Chidgey, manages to make it feel claustrophobic as one member of the family after the other, is targeted by the wily copper. First on his list is Arthur Birling whose pomposity is well illustrated by Richard Sails. It is intriguing to see his ego slowly deflate under intense questioning. One by one, Arthur's daughter, Sheila (Laura Whitehurst), her fiance, Gerald (Anthony Morris), his son, Eric (Tom Sneyd) and wife, Sybil (Bev Stuart-Cole) are implicated. I particularly enjoy seeing the reaction of high and mighty Sybil. Bev Stuart-Cole handles her downfall well as she faces the worst possible outcome - losing face. The Wardrobe department should be praised for their work, especially the gorgeous dresses worn by Sybil and Sheila Birling. This play is beautifully written by J. B. Priestley whose surprise ending gives food for thought. Star Rating ★★★★ NODA REVIEW by Kevin Proctor 'An Inspector Calls' - J.B Priestley's finest piece which focuses on the well-off Birling Family whose night of richness and 'celebration' is interrupted by the presence of an Inspector who begins throwing accusations, at all of them, in relation to the suicide of a young working-class girl. The layout of the stage and the quality of the set really gave credit to the piece and the costumes were a vision though the focus was undoubtedly on the quick-paced and hard-hitting acting. There wasn't a single section of this production that wasn't enjoyed or appreciated. The entire cast acted superbly, not a weak link among them. Richard Sails as the bluff and smug factory owner, Arthur Birling. Tom Sneyd, as his son Eric, doesn't over-do the limp dissoluteness. Paul Wilson as Inspector Goole (entered in the recognisable raincoat and trilby) is Scottish, which works well whether deliberate or just happens to be so! Bev Stuart-Cole was transformed into the hard faced Sybil exposing her versatility as a performer as was Anthony Morris, as Gerald, who excels when playing something he can really grasp and sink his teeth into a grand job! I adored Laura Whitehurst in the role of Sheila, she literally through everything into her performance which left her an emotional wreck - entirely believable. A great team was evident in this cast; they gelled, were well balanced and clearly loved every minute of it - magic! This piece is traditionally one act, though an interval had been included, for reasons I've guessed and completely understand, though the decision was made to start the second act repeating the last two minutes from where we broke, this is a nice idea though I was a little confused as to why the blocking had changed for the second time around, was this a simple oversight. Judging by the standard of the production I find something so blatant hard to believe so began questioning whether it was deliberate to suggest that - something isn't right? Whatever the reason or fault, the interval worked in this productions favour as it was the break which highlighted to me how much I'd been engrossed as I didn't want it to end and couldn't wait for the second half to kick off again. The message that we must never forget our social consciences and the way in which we treat those around us, especially those less fortunate? was conveyed at the right level. There really isn't much more to say other than this was a faultless and incredibly impressive production which has stayed prominent in my mind for several days after. Congratulations to Director, John Chidgey, the cast and committee for a triumphant production!

< Back My Mother Said I Never Should ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 30 May 2019 A poignant, bittersweet story about love, jealousy and the price of freedom. First staged in Manchester in 1987, the play is about the relationships between mothers and daughters, and explores the themes of independence, growing up and secrets. It addresses the issues of teenage pregnancy, career prioritisation and single motherhood. It is also about how the different generations break free from their parents' traditions and culture. The story explores the lives and relationships of four generations of women: Their loves, expectations, and choices are set against the huge social changes of the twentieth century. [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DSC_8776.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DSC_8886.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DSC_9289.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DSC_9266.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DSC_9239.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DSC_9174.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DSC_9151.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DSC_8964.jpg|"] Production photos by Vish Sharma CAST Doris Partington - Margaret Leslie Margaret Bradley - Sarat Broughton Jackie Metcalfe - Kathryn Worthington Rosie Metcalfe - Meg Brassington [gallery columns="6" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/My-Mother-Said-I-never-Should-1.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/My-Mother-Said-I-never-Should-2.jpg|,|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/My-Mother-Said-I-never-Should-6.jpg|"] Rehearsal photos by David Hutchinson Review by Rick Bowen for StageStruck BRACE yourselves for what is, in parts, a highly charged and emotional play. I use the word ‘emotional’ but writer Charlotte Keetley doesn’t explicitly play on the audience’s emotions in what is my most memorable outing with director John Chidgey to date. Of all the productions I’ve seen of his, this is his best to date. It’s evidently been nurtured with tender loving care, helped by a superb script that surely makes the piece, which premiered in Manchester in 1987, a modern day classic. This is a play about life, love, sacrifice, guilt and of young women finding their feet and shaking off the shackles of tradition. Chidgey must have thought Christmas had come early when he held the first rehearsal for this cast who give their all in their roles. As Doris, Margaret, Jackie and Rosie, Margaret Leslie, Sarat Broughton, Kathryn Worthington and Meg Brassington are outstanding and I particularly enjoyed the convincing way in which Meg as Rosie “grows up” before our very eyes, making a very convincing transition from crabby teen to young woman with a burgeoning interest in social activism. The play really gets going for me when Margaret comes to the rescue of her struggling daughter, Jackie, making a life changing decision so Jackie, in the pit of despair, can have a life. My Mother Said takes place over 50 years, making it a truly epic and ambitious piece of theatre. What I will say about this play is be prepared to listen, otherwise you’ll fail to get the full effect of what is for me, one of the most memorable theatrical experiences I’ve had for a long time. Moving and warmly funny, this is a must see production. Outstanding.

< Back Seann Walsh ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 14 April 2021 OFF THE KERB PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS Seann Walsh: Back from the Bed (formerly Same Again? ) Hello, Seann here. Did you know that the comedians have to write their own blurb? I find that absolutely insane. What am I meant to say? “I’m fantastic, come and look at me talk”? I don’t know. It’s me. I do stand-up. I guess I can start with the fact I renamed the tour. Sticking with ‘Same Again?’ felt a bit triggering after the year we’ve had. So it is now called Back from the Bed. Some of the material will be the same as I had always planned and some of it will be new because it will be difficult to avoid mentioning the last year in which millions of decent people tragically lost their lives to TikTok. The previous leg of this tour got a lot of standing ovations, which was pleasing. Either that or they were leaving early. Come along if you like me. I’d be confident enough to say come along if you’re on the fence. Cheers. Here are some things I’ve been on... Seann has starred in series 1-3 of The Stand Up Sketch Show (ITV2), Netflix’s Flinch , Live At The Apollo (BBC2), Tonight at The London Palladium (ITV), Celebrity Juice (ITV2), Play To The Whistle (ITV), a team captain for Virtually Famous (C4), 8 Out of 10 Cats (C4), Alan Carr’s Chatty Man (C4), Hey Tracey ! (ITV2), Comedians Solve World Problems (Comedy Central) and has made regular appearances on The Jonathan Ross Show . He appeared in Dave Channel’s Campaign Against Living Miserably and is an ambassador for the CALM charity. He also hosts podcast What’s Upset You Now? alongside Paul McAffrey. ‘Unquestionably the best observational comic of his generation’ – The Guardian ‘Hugely funny…deliciously entertaining’ **** The Times ‘…an absolute tour de force’ Beyond The Joke **** The I ‘A cracking good show’ - The Telegraph ‘One of comedy’s hottest properties...very talented, very funny’ - London Evening Standard 'He remains one of the most entertaining observational comics on the block' ; - The Independent AGE GUIDEANCE – STRICTLY 14+ (Likely to be swearing and adult content) 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 Simon and Garfunkel Through The Years ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 23 March 2022 Critically-acclaimed as one of the world’s greatest tribute shows, Simon & Garfunkel Through the Years continues to delight audiences across the globe. Featuring stunning vocal harmonies from world-class musicians, this spectacular concert transports you on a journey through the epic songs and history of the much-loved Simon and Garfunkel. “One of the greatest tribute shows anywhere in the world” Stuart Cameron, BBC and ITV Broadcaster The show is a celebration of the unprecedented rise to fame of two boys from Queens, New York, who went on to become the most successful folk-rock duo of the 1960s, selling 38 million albums in the US alone, and receiving 10 Grammy Awards. In 1981, they performed to over half a million people in their hometown of New York, and in 1990 were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Collectively known as Bookends, Dan Haynes and Pete Richards have been fronting Simon & Garfunkel Through the Years since its creation in 2011. Much like their idols, they became friends at school and could not resist singing together from a tender age. Alongside stops in London’s West End, the show has toured extensively around the UK, Europe, United States and Australia, attracting packed houses night after night. With consecutive sell-out runs since 2014 at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, they are championed as "one of the best vocal groups touring today", whose sounds are ‘’simply breathtaking’’. Featuring all the major hits such as The Sound of Silence, Mrs Robinson, The Boxer and the iconic Bridge Over Troubled, don’t miss out on this phenomenal show. “A real masterpiece” BBC Radio “One of the greatest tribute shows anywhere in the world” Stuart Cameron, BBC and ITV Broadcaster www.simonandgarfunkelthroughtheyears.com 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 Things We Do For Love ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 14 August 2013 A wondrous mix of domestic and sexual comedy by the master playwright. This recipe of conflicting characters turns tears to laughter in a raw, painful uproarious evening's entertainment. This memorably bruising comedy is complete with a most ingenious set.

< Back A Story, a Pie and a Pint ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 13 August 2013 In the Bar! Enjoy an evening of stories penned by Duncan Battman to delight and enthral you. In the company of Garrick storytellers, sit and relax in the Garrick bar as we bend your ear over a pie and a pint. Ticket includes... a pie and a pint!

< Back Pieces of Pinter ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 February 2014 Harold Pinter has delighted and disturbed us for more than fifty years. Always thrillingly original, his status as the greatest English writer of the age was confirmed when in 2005 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. How best to honour a man with a vision so powerful he has his own adjective, 'Pinteresque'? In celebration of his work, the Garrick is proud to present a collection of Pinter?s early and very rarely performed sketches and short plays followed by his poignant and haunting masterpiece, ?A Kind of Alaska?. CAST Tracy Burns Geoff Holman Kate Picker Beverley Stuart-Cole Bryn Thomas ASM Adam Gonet [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/pintera.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/pinterb.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/pinterc.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/pinterd.jpg|"]

< Back The Tales of Beatrix Potter (1971 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 31 August 2020 About to celebrate its 50th birthday, this unique and much-loved film perfectly captures the absolute essence of the Beatrix Potter characters and their world. It is a filmed ballet version, featuring witty direction, spectacular sets, vivid Lake District locations, gorgeous detailed costumes and masks, a rich catchy score, and beautiful dancing from members of the Royal Ballet. We invite you to come and spend an afternoon as a family with Peter Rabbit and his friends. This screening will (as always) be introduced by Barry Purves with informed trivia, anecdotes and some background of the production. Our kiosk will be open for you to buy those naughty treats before the film starts. 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 See How They Run ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2013 Set in the idyllic village of Merton-cum-Middlewick, where the village inhabitants are preparing themselves for the imminent threat of Nazi invasion. Resident nosey-parker and spinster, Miss Skillon, becomes convinced that her beloved vicar's actress wife is having an affair and attempts to expose her. Add an escaped German prisoner of war, a handsome actor, the visiting Bishop of Lax, a rotund locum priest and some meddling neighbours and you have all the ingredients for a classic British comedy. CAST Bishop of Lax Steve Williamson Rev. Arthur Humphrey Bill Platt Penelope Toop Laura Chandler Intruder/Man Graham Simmonds Lance-Corporal Clive Winton Trevor McKie Miss Skillon Victoria Johnson Rev. Lionel Toop David Leathlean Ida Erica Pickard Sergeant Towers Brian Howlett Review by Sale & Altrincham Messenger by Rick Bowen A Triumph Farces tend to leave me cold but See How They Run, Altrincham Garrick's latest production, is in a different class. With its slick wit and well drawn characters, Philip King's breathless comedy is a hoot from beginning to end. It's just what we need in these days of doom and gloom and if Celia Bonner's expertly staged production doesn't make you laugh, you must have had a sense of humour bypass. A country vicarage, quintessentially English, turns into a madhouse populated by a battered and bruised cleric, the village battleaxe who has been plied with booze and an escaped German prisoner of war, to name just three. This is, for me, one of the best comedies the Garrick has ever put on, with the cast displaying a sense of timing that the professionals would admire. Singling out individual performances for praise seems unfair as there aren't any bad ones. But David Leathlean is perfect as the Reverend Lionel Toop, an old school clergyman who'd be in heaven when offered tea and cucumber sandwiches. Laura Chandler is excellent as his actress wife Penelope and there's a really strong chemistry between her and Trevor McKie, who plays her former acting buddy, Lance-Corporal Clive Winton. Steve Williamson really does look like a man at the end of his tether as the stressed to the hilt Bishop of Lax. Great fun, a triumph.Star Rating ★★★★★

< Back Dear Delinquent ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Davidson, Sally Lamb, Mary Wilson, Frank

< Back Disposing of the Body ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 11 December 2013 From the pen of the playwright who gave us "Pack of Lies" and "Breaking the Code" comes this elegant and tantalising new play. For Henry Preece, embarking on early retirement with his attractive wife, things start to unravel. "All my life", he says, "I've either been looking back at happy times that have gone or looking forward to the happiness to come." When an unexpected passion is given full rein Henry realises that the door he's just flung open should have remained tightly shut. This is an intriguing play, full of unexpected happenings. CAST Dick Sails as Henry Preece Jeryl Whitelock as Angela, his wife Charlie Tomlinson as Ben, their son David Beddy as Alexander Barley Tracy Burns as Joanna, his wife Alison Davis as Kate, Henry's sister Martin Oldfield as Detective Inspector Clive Poole Richard Frost as Bassett, an hotel manager ?

< Back FILM SCREENING: WHITNEY HOUSTON - I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 20 September 2023 I Wanna Dance with Somebody is a powerful and triumphant celebration of the incomparable Whitney Houston. Directed by Kasi Lemmons, written by Academy Award® nominee Anthony McCarten, produced by legendary music executive Clive Davis and starring BAFTA Award® winner Naomi Ackie, the film is a no-holds-barred portrait of the complex and multifaceted woman behind The Voice. From New Jersey choir girl to one of the best-selling and most awarded recording artists of all time, audiences are taken on an inspirational, poignant - and so emotional - journey through Houston’s trailblazing life and career, with show-stopping performances and a soundtrack of the icon’s most beloved hits as you’ve never heard them before. Don’t you wanna dance? Screening in the Altrincham Garrick Cinema in October to celebrate Black History Month.

< Back Where the Rainbow Ends ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Abel, Alison Alexander, Carol Allen, Jane Atkin, Eric Bakirgian, Ann Barlow, Anne Baxter, Ena Bayliss, Tony Blyth Nerel Buttenshaw, Elizabeth Caffrey, Maureen Carroll, Josephine Cassel, Andrea Cave, Sally Clegg, Robina Cooper, Erryl Cotterill, Judith Coursh, Kathleen Cullen, Leslie Curtis, Sally Day, Susan Ellames, Irene Farebrother, Arthur F Greenfield, Judith (Judy) Gregory, Martin Greig, Kay Grieg, Sheila Greir, Alma Hamblin, Anthony Hamblin, Mary Hickling, Sandra Hickling, Wendy Hyde, Mary Jenkinson, Philip Le Comber, Annette Masters, Christine Masters, Pat Meadowcroft, Pamela Mellor, Gail Partington, Tita Pochin, Sylvia Renshaw, Margaret Rubin, Virginia Ryan, Catherine Schofield, Daphne Spence, Wendy Spencer, Janet Studley, Freda Thorp, Peta Waddingham, Jane Wilson, Rosemary Wilson, Susan Wiltshire, H John Winterbottom, Susan Woodrow, Stephanie Wyatt, Andrea Wynborne, Jacqueline Yates. Jane Youngson, Elaine Youngson, Veronica

< Back After the Dance ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 30 July 2013 As the world races towards catastrophe, a crowd of Mayfair socialites parties its way to oblivion. At its centre is David, who idles away his sober moments researching a futile book until the beautiful Helen decides to save him, shattering his marriage and learning too late the depth of both David's indolence and his wife's undeclared love. But with finances about to crash and humanity on the brink of global conflict, the drink keeps flowing and the revellers dance on. Both an insightful, witty critique of a generation and a profound dissection of the depths of human emotion. CAST Joan Scott-Fowler Ros Greenwood Helen Banner Kate Millington David Scott-Fowler Peter Birch Julia Browne Laura Chandler Dr George Banner Ian Simmonds Miss Potter Julie Broadbent Peter Scott-Fowler Chris Mawson Moya Lexington Clare Muldoon Williams Jon White Cyril Carter Ryan Clerk John Reed Mike Shaw Lawrence Walters David Ades Arthur Power Paul Wilson Partygoers Sylvia Hay Elaine Saville Val Watkinson Jeannie Honeyman Anna Croughan David Walton Review by Julia Taylor for remotegoat Married love revealed too late Terence Rattigan's golden oldie After the Dance first performed in 1939 and not well-known, proves popular with the audience and I must congratulate the Garrick on presenting it. This play has the professional stamp of experienced director, John Chidgey who brings out the best in a 15 strong cast. As the Second World War approaches, David Scott-Fowler and his wife Joan, forget their troubles in a round of imbibing and partying in their luxury Mayfair apartment, beautifully illustrated by Sylvia Hay's set. Most of the drinking is done by David who blots out his hard work as a historical writer and the forthcoming war in a haze of the hard stuff which seriously affects his health. Then along comes his young cousin Peter with Helen, his 20-year-old fiancee. As soon as she meets David, Helen sets her cap at him, determined to stop him boozing and then marry him. Of course, he is already married but both he and Joan are too inhibited to reveal their mutual love. Yet talented actors, Peter Birch and Ros Greenwood, make the audience aware of their true feelings, whilst behaving in a shallow and flippant way towards each other. Ros gives an unforgettable performance in the play's most moving moment. It is when she realises her husband is swapping her for a younger model and temporarily discards her perpetual jauntiness to give a heart-warming display of grief. We have a sterling performance by Kate Millington as the over-zealous Helen nonchalantly setting out to break a marriage that has survived for 12 years. She tells Joan of her relationship with David without a flicker of conscience or care for her feelings and boasts about how well she has taken the news. Her soulful ex-partner, Peter (Chris Mawson) makes his views clear as much by facial expression as language. The play owes a lot to Mike Shaw who, not only plays John, David's well oiled but ultimately wise friend but also heads the Garrick's wardrobe team. He interprets the former with light-hearted humour and delivers amusing one-liners. In the latter capacity he comes up with beautiful costumes of the thirties. I especially like the long dress worn by Joan at her final party. Laura Chandler, also exquisitely turned out, adds colour as the party pooping Julia Browne. I'm glad the Garrick has revived this play. In the second half, a shocking event takes you aback but, unfashionable by today's standards, there is a comparatively if not happy then neat ending. NODA Review by Christine Hunter Hughes After the Dance is generally known as one of the 'lost' Rattigan plays - although it was televised in 1994 Rattigan himself did not include the play in his own collected works and the original West-End run closed after only 60 performances, due in no small part to the outbreak of war. It is set just before the outbreak of the Second World War as the 'bright young things' in London attempt to blot out the upcoming horrors with a hedonistic run into drinks, drugs and parties. However in this case the protagonists are no longer bright or young! It portrays beautifully the very British habit of repressing emotion, or indeed anything serious, as being 'just too boring'. The open set was a stunning portrayal of the opulent Mayfair flat of David and Joan Scott-Fowler. There was great attention to details in costumes and props (although I was not sure that the telephone was quite authentic) and they reflected the era beautifully. Lighting was good but I was disappointed with the sound from the 'piano'. It came from the wrong place and was not bright and crisp but muted and obviously recorded. There was without doubt some excellent acting and characterisations well maintained throughout the production with some lovely 'clipped' speech so typical of the period. Diction was superb from all the major principals and we clearly heard every word. The cast all looked extremely comfortable both with their characters and costumes and on the excellent set the fourth wall became just that we were looking into the flat - great acting and direction. Like all Rattigan plays it is fairly 'uncomfortable' and there was no applause by the fairly large audience at the end of scenes which I found almost more disturbing than the play - although the applause at the end was certainly most appreciative. Thank-you for a most interesting and entertaining evening and for the revival of this almost forgotten work.

< Back 1917 (2019 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 31 August 2020 "1917" is a technical marvel, fluidly following two soldiers attempting to deliver a message through the grim WWI trenches, hoping to stop a brutal, foolhardy attack. The camera swoops and dives, drawing the audience into the heart of the drama and brutality of war. You'll find it hard to draw breath for two hours. 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 Harlequinade ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Billcliff, Arthur Maybury, Donald Pullen, Allan Smart, Brian

< Back The Snow Queen ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Allman, Jean Armitage, Graham Bradshaw, Janet Brown, Sydney Byrne, Patsy Chesney, Peter Day, Susan Dean, Ken Dodd, Pamela Elinson, Margaret Ely, Michael D Garland, Lorna Gillespie, Robert Hinchcliffe, Moreen Holden, Margaret Holden, Patricia Hulmes, Anna Jenkinson, Philip Kennedy, Brenda Kerrs, Sylvia Mackay, Barbara Mackay, Beryl Milligan, Tim I O'Brien, Margaret Patterson, Anne Saul, Shirley Sherwin, Lilian Starkey, Raymond Wallwork, Sheila Warhurst, W Kenneth Wilson, Enid Wiltshire, H John Winterbottom, Margaret Withers, Audrey Wood-Johnson, Faith Whyatt, Egerton G Wildgoose, Gail Wilson, Enid Zochonis, Isabel

< Back Time and the Conways ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 16 December 2013 At the time the play opens the world has just emerged from the horrors of the Great War. A party is in progress to celebrate a Conway daughter's 21st birthday and to toast a glorious future for all the Conways. On to Act 2 and it is just before World War 2 and 19 years later. We see what has happened to the Conways and how events have shaped them in the intervening years. Then back to the party in Act 1 and we can see our family as they were but with our personal knowledge of what cards they have been dealt and how life has treated them. This is a compelling play, full of insight. CAST Maureen Casket as Mrs Conway Duncan Battman as Alan Conway Pam Nolan as Madge Conway John Keen as Robin Conway Rachel Forrest as Hazel Conway Tracey Clapham as Kay Conway Becky Wright as Carol Conway Jenny Panton as Joan Helford Paul Shaw as Ernest Beevers Richard Frost as Gerald Thornton Rehearsal photos [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysj.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysi.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysh.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysg.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysf.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwayse.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysd.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysc.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysb.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/conwaysa.jpg|"]

< Back Orphans ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 19 June 2017 A weird, wonderful comedy/drama filled with suspense Two adult orphan brothers live an unusual life in a run down house. The older brother, Treat, is a petty thief and provides for the younger brother, Phillip. but deprives him of all knowledge, forcing him to live in a world of illiteracy and strange innocence. When Treat kidnaps a Chicago gangster, Harold, their lives take an unexpected turn as he turns the tables on the brothers but then educates them into the ways of the real world. CAST Peter Brassington - TREAT Aidan Burgess - PHILLIP Stuart Tipping - HAROLD Production Photographs by Jacob Samuel [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/JS1_2126-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/JS1_2094-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/JS1_2061-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/JS1_2041-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/JS1_2020-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/JS1_2004-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/JS1_1978-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/JS1_1940-Small.jpg|"] ***** FIVE STAR REVIEW by Rick Bowen for Stagestruck ***** ORPHANS is, quite simply, a modern classic that's sure to leave a lasting impression on those who see it. Lyle Kessler's play is funny, thoughtful, touching and quietly compelling, and a five star script gets the five start treatment here. For me, this is one of the best productions the Garrick has ever done. Treat, a violent pickpocket, is both mum and dad to his younger brother Philip, who he obsessively shields from an outside world he sees as teeming with dangers for him. Treat polices his every move and his every thought. He then suggests they kidnap a drunken Harold, a wealthy businessman he lures back to their run down house in Philadelphia. But Harold can buy and sell the pair of them. He's clever, quick witted and has a first class degree in subtle manipulation and it soon become clear whose really in charge of the situation. I really enjoyed the way in which Kessler, with sublime subtlety, develops the relationship between Harold and Philip, the later trapped in an eternal childhood, thanks to the domineering and volatile Treat. Deep down both crave the love and stability of a family life. Under the direction of Julie Cunningham and Duncan Battman, Peter Brassington as Treat, Aidan Burgess as Philip and Stuart Tipping as the calm and cerebral Harold deliver the sort of performances that make you care deeply about their characters and inwardly ache for a happy ending. I first saw Orphans around 20 years ago and fell in love with this brilliant play then. If this isn't a sell out it will be a travesty. * Until December 9. The box office is on 0161 928 1677.? Star rating - ***** ***** FIVE STAR REVIEW by Julia Taylor for Sale and Altrincham Messenger ***** ORPHANS grow up and can be affected by their upbringing.This is well illustrated in Lyle Kessler?s play Orphans at the Garrick? Lauriston Studio this week.The orphans in question are brothers Phillip and Treat. The most damaged of the two, Treat is outstandingly played by Peter Brassington who creates an unstable monster who spends his time aggressively robbing people. His brother, Phillip, (Aidan Burgess), is affected in a different way. Encouraged by his bullying brother, he never goes out for fear of catching a bug. Then a third orphan, Harold, (Stuart Tipping) changes their lives completely and acts like a father figure to them. In a fine display of acting, the three completely different characters, react to one another yet are totally dependent on each other ? at least the brothers are. Peter gives an uninhibited display of uncontrolled anger which, in Act Two results in a fight between the siblings. This is because the timid Phillip suddenly gains courage thanks to the tutorship of Harold. Aidan Burgess cleverly transforms his character in response. Stuart Tipping?s Harold helps the boys in more ways than they can imagine by giving them tough love. This play mixes humour with tears. One of the funniest scenes is when the three of them re-enact an incident on a bus. The tears come at the end. Co-directors Julie Cunningham and Duncan Battman ensure it is the success it is. Orphans is at the Garrick?s Lauriston Studio Theatre until Saturday. December 9. For tickets, telephone 0161 928 1677 or book online. Star rating: * * * * * Rehearsal Photographs [gallery ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050310-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050312-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050316-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050319-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050321-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050326-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050327-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050330-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/P1050331-Small.jpg|"] This season's productions in our Lauriston STUDIO have been sponsored by This amateur production of 'Orphans' is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH LTD.

< Back Home Alone (1990 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 January 1970 Kelvin McCallister gets left behind when the rest of the family flies from Chicago to Paris at Christmas time. At first he's delighted, but then he realises that two sleazy robbers are preparing to burgle the house ... This film is one of the highest-grossing live-action comedies ever, and received nominations for Golden Globe Awards and for Academy Awards. It's a lovely mixture of warm-hearted humour and slapstick comedy, and Christmas time at the Garrick is the best place to see it. This screening will (as always) be introduced by Barry Purves with informed trivia, anecdotes and some background of the production. 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 Beauty And The Beast (2017 Disney Live Action Film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 9 August 2020 Retelling the timeless tale for a new generation, Beauty And The Beast is the story of Belle, a spirited, intelligent and beautiful woman who is taken prisoner by a beast. Trapped and alone, she gradually begins to befriend the castle’s enchanted staff – Cogsworth the clock, Lumiere the candlestick and Mrs. Potts the teapot. Over time, she learns to look past her captor’s monstrous appearance, beginning to fall for the kind-hearted prince he once was. Be our guest at the Garrick as an all-star cast brings the tale as old as time to life, in this live-action remake of the animated classic. This screening will (as always) be introduced by Barry Purves with informed trivia, anecdotes and some background of the production. Our kiosk will be open for you to buy those naughty treats before the film starts. 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 School for Scandal ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 July 2014 CAST Bonson, John P Bramwell, Madge Briggs, Harry Brotherton, Annie A Bullivant, Erick Coventry, Betty Jackson, George Kirton, C H Lowe, Edgar M Matthews, Marion Thwaite Palmer, Jack A Pye, George H Redfern, W Scholefield, Pearce Scholefield, Violet Wilson, Tom

< Back Little Shop of Horrors ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 7 February 2014 For years now, this gleefully gruesome musical, has made audiences scream with laughter. Seymour, a poor florists assistant, allows his craving for fame and fortune to seduce him into playing nursemaid to a man-eating plant. The show includes parodies of 60's music and between bites, the carnivorous Audrey II brings down the house singing Rhythm and Blues a la Otis Reading or James Brown. CAST Chiffon Laura Chandler Crystal Stephanie Nyland Ronnette Vicky Stott Mushnik David Gonet Audrey Dawn Flint Seymour Adam Whittle Derelict Robert Watson Orin, Bernstein, Snip, Luce &c David Leithlean Audrey II Manipulation Stuart Munro Voice Martin Creevy Customers Brian Howlett, Andrew Lambe, Helen Cowan, Julie Broadbent, Hannah Pond Sale & Altrincham Messenger's review by Rick Bowen Buddy hell, this plant takes some feeding Little Shop of Horrors has many attractions, but the main one for me is the fact that it's a show that doesn't take itself seriously. This off the wall, at times anarchic musical has its tongue firmly planted in its cheek, although I did get the impression that some of the black humour was lost on the Altrincham Garrick audience on Tuesday night. For instance, the scene in which we meet the crazed dentist Orin (David Leathlean) for the first time was greeted with pockets of laughter, while I've been in theatres when the same scene has brought the house down. You'll probably enjoy 'Little Shop' more if you don't know what's coming - the geeky Seymour creates the floral equivalent of Frankenstein's monster - but even if you do this show is still sufficiently kooky to keep you entertained. Director John Cunningham has assembled a cast who are on a mission to do just that and there are some fine performances to enjoy from Dawn Flint as Audrey, a character who is a sort of down market Marilyn Monroe type, Adam Whittle as the lovable Seymour and David Gonet as the hard boiled flower shop owner Mushnik. Laura Chandler, Stephanie Nyland and Vicki Stott sound great as the singing trio who guide us through the strange events that unfold on stage. It was pleasing to see some children in the audience on Tuesday night - why should they only set foot in the theatre only during panto season. Some of the jokes are slightly adult in nature but there's subtle enough to go over kids heads, so there's no need to worry on that score. Great fun - this really is a show with a difference. If it has a message, it's probably be careful what you wish for. Star Rating ★★★★

< Back Habeas Corpus ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 4 February 2014 A gorgeously vulgar farce that is a celebration of sex and the human body. A satirical merry-go-round in the home of the WICKSTEED family, where all the characters move in and out through a maze of mistaken identities and sexual encounters. As Dr. Wicksteed says ?HE WHOSE LUST LASTS LASTS LONGER?. Just the right medicine for those dark January nights. CAST Geoff Holman as Dr Arthur Wicksteed Alison Davis as Muriel Wicksteed Mark Butt as Dennis Wicksteed Caroline Hickey as Constance Wicksteed Leila Glancy as Mrs Swabb Alex Wilson as Cannon Throbbing Sonia Dykstra as Lady Rumpers Nikki Smith as Hon Felicity Rumpers Mark Edgar as Mr Shanks Brian Stoner as Sir Percy Shorter David Leathlean as Mr Purdue [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasa.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasb.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasc.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasd.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habease.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasf.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasm.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasl.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeask.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasj.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasi.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeash.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasg.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasn.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeaso.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasp.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasq.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeasr.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeass.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/habeast.jpg|"]

< Back Grease ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 June 2013 Rydell High's spirited class of '59' gum-chewing, hub-cap-stealing, hot-rod loving boys with D.A.s and leather jackets and their wise-cracking girls in teased curls, bobby sox, and pedal pushers capture the look and sound of the 1950's in a rollicking musical that salutes the rock?n?roll era. While hip Danny and wholesome Sandy resolve the problems of their mutual attraction for each other, the gang sings and dances its way through such nostalgic scenes as the pyjama party, the prom, the burger palace, and the drive-in movie. Too many unforgettable songs to mention - Grease is STILL the word! [gallery columns="9" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950587396_908e27334d_z.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950811093_aa6149ec8d_z.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950856634_d25c704a5d_z.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950690905_b6ce2478b0_z.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950668135_777e187297_z.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950901653_7c1417b480_z.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950615526_06ccd61582_z.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950665516_b9595a934d_z.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/10950799144_01412dea26_z.jpg|"] CAST LIST Sandy - Rachel Mayon Danny - Gabriel Walker Kennickie - Ashley Ball Roger - Michael Gardiner Doody - Matthew Roughley Sonny - Tom Oliver Rizzo - Tori Green Marty - Vicki Harrison Frenchy - Katie Bond Jan - Hannah Williams Patty - Emily Barnett Vince Fontaine - Michael Muldoon Eugene - Josh Mosiuk Ms Lynch - Margaret Leslie Johnny Casino & Teen Angel - Matt Darsley Cha Cha - Jennifer O'Neill Cheerleader/Freshman - Laura Slater Cheerleader/Freshman - Shelley Frankland Cheerleader/Freshman - Rebecca Cooper-Bagnall Assistant to the Director Val Watkinson Musical Director Mark Goggins Choreographer Lorna Sales ASM Carol Gibson Messenger Review by Rick Bowen Grease is still the word at the Garrick - cast delivers a vibrant show VIBRANT, energetic and uplifting, Altrincham Garrick's production of Grease is the perfect antidote to these depressingly dark autumn. Particularly impressive is the dancing and I'm sure many members of the audience will be aching to join in as the cast really let their hair down. The lead roles of the strutting high school gang leader Danny Zuko and the squeaky clean Sandy Dubrowski are, of course, inextricably linked to John Travolta and Olivia Newton John who brought the characters so engagingly to life in the classic film version. But there's plenty to admire in Gabriel Walker and Rachel Elizabeth Mayon who play the parts in the Garrick's production. Gabriel is especially good at bringing out the comedy elements of the role - Zuko works desperately hard to maintain his super cool image - and Rachel has a singing voice with an astonishing range. Sandy's transformation from an up tight square to a leather clad seductress is very convincing thanks to Rachel's acting skills. Tori Green excels as Rizzo, the all knowing leader of the gloriously bitchy Pink Ladies and her rendition of There Are Worse Things I Could Do, for me one of the best songs in the entire, dream of a score, is worth the ticket money on its own. An evening of infectious 50's style music and irreverent teenage humour, this giant of a musical is still well worth a watch. Review of Grease by Julia Taylor for remotegoat 'Lights up like Greased Lightnin' The Garrick's production of Grease lightens up the auditorium making the usually restrained audience whoop, whistle and clap. It's about two kids who meet up in High School after spending a magical summer holidays together. Unfortunately, at school, things are not so magical. One of the high points of the show is when the boy gang T-Birds and the girlie group, The Pink Ladies, sing that throbbing hit Summer Nights. Another good one from the entire company is We Go Together at the end of both acts Tori Green, as Rizzo, firmly in charge of the Pink Ladies, sings There are Worse Things I Could do in an unforgettable way. She is the girlfriend of Kennickie, a prominent member of the T-Birds. Ashley Ball who plays him makes you wonder which he loves most, Rizzo or his new car. The imaginative folks backstage come up with a shiny red vehicle complete with working headlights which slides gracefully on to the stage. Director, Adam Whittle does well to use the services of Lorna Sales as choreographer. The result is some lively dancing especially in the scene where Danny and Cha-Cha (Jennifer O'Neill) win a hand jiving competition. It was also a good idea, to place the band, led by Mark Goggins, on stage. The leads, Gabriel Walker as bad boy Danny and Rachel Elizabeth Mayon as Sandy, do a great job. I love the way Gabriel conveys the feelings of a testosterone filled teenager just through looks and movements. We sure know when he thinks he's on a winner! Rachel is just right for Sandy. She sings Hopelessly Devoted with great feeling. Another good singer is Vicki Harrison's Marty. Smiling throughout, her Freddy My Love is great to listen to. The young cast are so good they could easily call themselves the Garrick Musical Theatre. NODA Review by Kevin Proctor It goes without saying that the musical 'Grease' by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey is a very popular one, It's had many successful revivals on Broadway and in the West End as well as countless tours and it even won the title of 'the world's best musical' thanks to a public vote a few years ago! Can you believe!? Grease is, for me, an ultimate guilty pleasure show (and film) and was probably one of my most played CD's during my early teens (yup, it?s true!)? Set in the late 1950's - Grease follows the exploits of a graduating class who inhabit Rydel High. The show, in its original form, was not considered 'family entertainment' - it's plot was not as thin as it's become as it tackled issues about teenage drinking, smoking, under age pregnancy and also included a fair amount of physical violence, however, 42 years later with a smash film and countless stage revivals to its name, although still touching on the topics, what's left is a much more sanitised and 'family friendly' version of a once edgy musical offering. The one static set for this production was simple and worked well, I liked the 50's pop art design and the split levels helped to create some nice visual moments. The Garrick welcome first time choreographer Lorna Sales to the production team making this show her debut with AG. Lorna set some great routines which were very visual and striking at times. The dancing was tackled head on by her cast, though I think the strain of a short rehearsal period was exposed when it comes to the choreography delivery as quite a few movement hiccups were noticeable at several points. A main ingredient for this show is energy' you cannot have enough and this production served up plenty of it! It was evident that the entire cast were having a blast which was key to its success. Particular stand outs for me were Josh Mosiuk who gave a quirky Eugene- Josh was extremely engaging whenever on stage, as was Vicki Harrison as Marty who not only looked perfect for this role she gave a strong all round delivery. This show was indeed stolen by Tori Green as Rizzo, Tori was the one you heard people talking about as they left the theatre, vocally, 'Worst Things I Could Do' was flawless - fabulous! Sandy, played by Rachel Elizabeth Mayon was as sweet as she should be and sung a good rendition of 'Hopelessly Devoted'. I enjoyed Gabriel Walker's Danny, he had the characters clumsy and slightly gawky side to perfection which gained him some worthy laughs - very likeable! Mark Goggins band sounded fantastic! This just confirmed to me that, whenever possible, the musicians should either be on stage or in the pit ? the sound of the live musicians sounds so much more alive and exciting compared to when they're channelled through from the studio. Great job! Lighting wise, there were a number of black spots across the set and I felt that the design wasn't colourful or vibrant enough for this style of show. Sticking with technical, the sound levels had weak spots as we could hardly hear the boys during 'Summer Nights' and mic levels were erratic during company numbers. Director, Adam Whittle had created some lively and comical scenes and had, wisely, taken inspiration from the film while still able to include flashes of his own vision too, though some of the blocking decisions were questionable and at times didn't seem to have purpose but still, a laudable job with a strong result for this high energy and electrifyin' show!

< Back Gasping ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 16 December 2013 Ben Elton's first play is a fast-moving, witty satire of big business. "Lockheart Industries are making senior money. If God wanted to buy into their stock, he'd have to think twice and talk to his people. They have a profit curve wound so far round the room it looks like a Blue Peter Christmas Appeal". But they're bored, they want more. New ideas, new products - the next Pot Noodle! That's when whizzkid Philip comes up with Suck and Blow... Designer air! Perrier for the nostrils! Thanks to sassy advertising exec, Kirsten, the machines are a huge success, and sales massively exceed all projections. But when the world starts gasping, only the biggest suckers survive..." As one reviewer said, "a very British look at man?s effect on the earth. It had me laughing from beginning to end". CAST Mark Butt as Philip Caroline Hickey as Kirsten Matt Stead as Sandy David Reynolds as Sir Chiffley Lockheart

< Back Bees on the Boat Deck ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Abbott, Amy Brierley, Norman Brown, Sydney A Chapman, Laurie Courtney, Donald Cutler, James E Hill, Arthur P Larsen, Nora Osborne, Edgar Pearce, Tom

< Back Hotel Paridiso ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Alexander, Irene Caulfield, John Davenport, Claire Fowler, Leslie Larkin, Monica Lewis, Cynthia Tinker, David West, Samuel Gabriel

< Back La Cage Aux Folles ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 16 December 2013 It's back by huge public demand for the seventh time. This has to be the most popular show in the Garrick's long history. The incredible blend of glitz and glamour is interwoven with the touching love story of Georges and Albin. Show stopping numbers are performed by the sensational line-up of the high stepping he or she Cagelles, parading in their fabulous costumes. Although this is an extended run we are expecting that demand for tickets will be immense so please book early; you won't regret it. CAST Allan Taylor as Georges 'Les Cagelles' David Leathlean as Chantal Andrew Jones as Monique Brian Howlett as Dermah Andrew Higson as Nicole Mike Shaw as Hanna Stuart Harrison as Mercedes April Millar as Bitelle Marina Anderson as Lo Singh Michael Gadsby as Odette Laura Chandler as Angelique Tony Savage as Phaedra Mandy White as Clo Clo Jonathan White as Frances Gary Collins as Jacob Terry Chandler as Albin Jason Coman as Jean Michel Jenny Panton as Anne David Richardson as Renaud Patsy Roberts as Madame Renaud Roger Metcalfe as Edouard Dindon Jane Marsh as Marie Dindon Angela Wetherill as Jacqueline St Tropez Townspeople Stephanie Hawthorn as Paulette Julie Broadbent as Collette Ian Fensome as Etienne David Walton as Tabarro John Dickson as Hercule Bill Renshaw as Pepe Kathy Johnson as Babette Anne Chandler as Simone May Hulse as Yvette Rehearsal Photos [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/cagea.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/cageh.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/cagei.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/cageb.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/cageg.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/cagee.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/caged.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/cagej.jpg|"]

< Back Deep are the Roots ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Binks, Phil Caldwell, Pamela Davenport, Claire Lightowler, Ronnie R Wiltshire, H John Yuille, George

< Back Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 19 August 2019 An Award Winning Comedy This winner of the Olivier Award for New Comedy in 2014 sees Bertie Wooster struggling with how to explain a particularly frightful weekend at Totleigh Towers, involving an eighteenth century cow creamer, saucy romantic shenanigans, and much heroic derring do! A play is the answer and soon the stage is peopled with a dozen gloriously eccentric characters such as Gussie Fink Nottle, the fierce Aunt Dahlia, Stiffy Bing, and the beautiful Madeline Bassett, all gallantly played by just Wooster, Aunt Dahlia's butler Seppings and Jeeves himself, who against all odds, endeavours to bring order to the escalating chaos. Expect an outrageously inventive evening of fast paced comedy, dramatic car chases, heinous heists, swooning lovelies, and the odd, very odd, newt impersonation. *** Review by Rick Bowen for Stagestruck *** HAND on heart I have to say these chalk and cheese comedy creations passed me by when Fry and Laurie played them on TV. I got the joke of course. Jeeves, the buttoned up, deadpan butler forever cleaning up his master’s mess, a social superior with very little between his ears. Barry Purves’ energetic production barely draws breath and is beautifully and brilliantly played against the backdrop of one of his trademark, ingenious sets. Jamie Sloan delivers a performance of real star quality as the deliciously dim toff Bertie Wooster, ably supported by Andrew Higson and Graham Simmonds. Higson is perfect as Jeeves, the sensible and dependable butler but, along with comedy natural Simmonds, plays a plethora of other roles of both sexes and without a single costume change. But it was Sloan’s comic timing that really caught my eye in a frantic, madcap piece that places huge demands on a very hard working, three strong cast. Verbally and visually, Sloan was simply born to be funny. Why have I not mentioned the plot? Simply because it’s largely irrelevant. Although there is a frequent mention of something called a cow creamer. Answers on a postcard, please. An onstage band provides the ideal musical backing for an evening of theatre that does exactly what it says on the tin. This really is perfect nonsense. But a much needed antidote to a world that’s far too serious at times. Spiffing good fun. Star rating - 3/5

< Back Anna Christie ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Wheelwright, Stewart Yuille, George

< Back Much Ado About Nothing ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Baskerville, Neil Bateman, Brian Blackden, W L Carrington, Jean Coventry, Betty Cummings, Amy De Prez, W R Duncan, Peter Fisher, Kathleen A Gooby, Roy Gow, Ronald Hill, Arthur P Kent, Norman Landon, W Eric Mason, Edward Mason, Edith A Mendelsohn, Maurice T Osborne, Edgar Palmer, Jack A Pye, George H Ross, Donald A Shaw, A Keble Wallis, Tom

< Back The Glass Menagerie ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Armitage, Graham Stockton, Reg Sykes, Constance D Taylor, Jean Marion