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< Back Real Diamond - The Neil Diamond Tribute Show ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 27 July 2013 UNFORTUNATELY DUE TO CIRCUMSTANCES OUT OF OUR CONTROL, THIS SHOW HAS BEEN CANCELLED - ANYONE WHO HAS ALREADY PURCHASED TICKETS WILL BE FULLY REFUNDED.

< Back Love Actually (Film Screening) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 24 August 2021 Nine intertwined stories examine the complexities of the one emotion that connects us all: love. Among the characters explored are David (Hugh Grant), the handsome newly elected British prime minister who falls for a young junior staffer (Martine McCutcheon), Sarah (Laura Linney), a graphic designer whose devotion to her mentally ill brother complicates her love life, and Harry (Alan Rickman), a married man tempted by his attractive new secretary. Our reasonably priced bar will be open before and after the screening. Free car park for customers and in easy walking distance of Altrincham and local tram and train stations. So what are you waiting for? BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

< Back The Lady In The Van ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ 4 October 2021 to 9 October 2021 Directed by Carole Carr It is said that charity begins at home. For Alan Bennett, it began at the bottom of his drive with a yellow custard van inhabited by an irascible eccentric who refused to budge. The Lady in the Van is the true story of Miss Shepherd, an offbeat woman of uncertain origins, who “temporarily” parked her broken-down van in writer Alan Bennett’s London driveway, and proceeded to live there for the next 15 years. Miss Shepherd’s stay may have been a blight on Bennett’s front garden, but it eventually allowed him to unravel the fascinating story of her life – for which we are all eternally indebted. LAD13.jpg LAD11.jpg LAD12.jpg LAD9.jpg

< Back Iron ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 February 2014 osie is visiting her mother Fay for the first time in 15 years. She's never walked into a prison before. Fay is serving life for murder. ?Iron? is an intense psychological drama in which a mother and daughter try to break through the barriers of time, memory and punishment which separate them. But between them lies the fact of murder. A murder Josie cannot remember and Fay has always tried to forget. Uncovering the memories they share is more dangerous than either of them can imagine. CAST Ros Greenwood as Fay Melissa Ward as Josie Steve Williamson as Guard 1 Kate Picker as Guard 2 ASM - Ken Currah Prompt - Audrey Hughes [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/irona.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/ironb.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/irone.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/ironc.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/irond.jpg|"] Photographer: Martin Oldfield

< Back Season's Greetings ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 11 April 2017 A Superb Ayckbourn comedy - one of his best! A riotous Christmas farce from Alan Ayckbourn. When family and friends get together at Neville and Belinda's house to celebrate Christmas what could go wrong? Plenty as we find out when Bernard produces his excruciatingly bad puppet show and has a row with Harvey. A young stranger, Clive, suddenly becomes romantically involved with Belinda even though it is Belinda's sister, Rachel, who has brought him to the party. There is a shooting the next day, a case of mistaken identity, before normality is resumed at the house. This production is proudly sponsored by [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_6774-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_6599-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_6529-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_6481-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_6416-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_6401-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_6382-Small.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_6248-Small.jpg|"] Production Photographs by Vish Sharma CAST BERNARD - BILL PLATT BELINDA - VICTORIA EVANS NEVILLE - BARRY SPENCER HARVEY - GARY COLLINS RACHEL - VICTORIA JOHNSON CLIVE - PETER RUDDICK EDDIE - DAN FERGUSON PATTY - APRIL WALKER PHYLLIS - TRACY BURNS [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/JS1_13181.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/JS1_13021.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/js1_1220-copy1.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/JS1_10971.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/JS1_13751.jpg|"] Rehearsal Photographs by Jacob Samuel Review by Rick Bowen for Stagestruck Everyone knows there are two images of Christmas. There's the fluffy one the advertisers try to sell us, all chunky jumpers and beaming smiles. Then there's that notorious party pooper called reality. For many, it's the season to be sniping at each other. But I doubt anyone's Yuletide is as colourful or as memorable as this one, vividly and at times hilariously captured by the prolific playwright Alan Ayckbourn and a cast expertly led by director John Chidgey, who manages to make everyone feel invited to the at times chaotic seasonal celebrations. Let's just say a typical family gathering, a gathering that will be repeated thousands of times up and down the land in a month's time, turns out to be far from typical. Ayckbourn writes about a world I don't live in. But thanks to Chidgey and his charges I felt totally immersed in it. This is a major comedy triumph for this theatre, with each performance characterised by impeccable comic timing. I particularly enjoyed Bill Platt as the hopeless puppeteer and equally clueless medic Bernard, Victoria Evans as the flirty Belinda and Peter Ruddick as the only eligible guest, Clive. Gary Collins ensures you wouldn't want to meet the barking Harvey on a dark night. That said, I don't like singling out individual performances because there aren't any weak ones, with the company gelling quite brilliantly. Make sure you don't miss this early Christmas present from the Garrick - with plenty of ho, ho, ho. Star rating ★★★★★ Review by Julia Taylor for Sale and Altrincham Messenger CHRISTMAS should be a time of peace and good will. In Alan Ayckbourn's play, Season?s Greetings, written in 1980, well directed by John Chidgey and performed at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse, this is not the case. The family and friends of Neville and Belinda Bunker have gathered for three days of Yuletide celebration. Sadly, familiarity breeds contempt. Neville's inebriated sister, Phyllis (Tracy Burns) and her puppet-obsessed husband, Bernard (Bill Platt) are there as he prepares for his annual show. In one of the funniest scenes, it turns out to be a disaster yet indicates Bill Platt's versatility. Among the guests is Clive (Peter Ruddick) whom Belinda finds irresistibly attractive because he writes. Neville's uncle, Harvey, is a security guard who takes his job so seriously that he carries a knife strapped to his calf. Played outstandingly by Gary Collins, he works his evil wherever he can. On one amusing occasion, a couple embracing under the Christmas tree are halted by the sound of a mechanical toy. The protagonists, Neville and Belinda, are portrayed well by Barry Spencer and Victoria Evans. Belinda obviously has no time for her husband. At the end, they are the last on stage. This play is not easy since it involves many different moves and complicated relationships. Well done Dan Ferguson who stepped in at short notice to play Eddie. Star rating ★★★ ★

< Back Captain Carvello ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Carter, Harold Downs, James Miller, Tony Plested, James Turner, Marion

< Back Paul Young's Los Pacaminos ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 30 July 2019 Los Pacaminos features Paul Young, Drew Barfield, Mark Pinder, Steve Greetham, Jamie Moses and Melvin Duffy (UK's premier pedal steel player). One of the UK's most popular Live touring bands, Los Pacaminos play the very best in Tex Mex Border music from The Texas Tornadoes and Ry Cooder to Los Lobos and even Roy Orbsion. This is a Tequila fuelled Tex Mex party night, as each venue becomes the perfect cantina setting for a great night's rocking with the cactus sharp, tequila filled, stetson wearing, magnificent 6, Los Pacaminos!!!

< Back Our Town By Thornton Wilder ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 November 2022 Love and marriage, birth and death. Seen from a distance they’re just the rhythm of everyday life: but when you’re caught up in the middle and they are happening to you, they are the whole world. As the sun rises on another ordinary day, the townsfolk of Grover's Corners go about their business: newspapers are delivered; people go to work; gardens are tended to. And a boy and girl fall in love. But as life's events unfold and a community comes together, one question remains: "do any human beings ever realise life as they live it? Every, every minute?". Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning small- town epic of human existence remains as theatrically fresh and as topical as ever; it explores what it means to live and the bonds that unite us all. Age Guidance: 12+ Warning: This production contains references to suicide, childbirth, depression, death and alcoholism. Please note that this is a 3 act play with two 15 minute intervals (approximately 2hours 40 mins included intervals). ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Free Car Parking. Cosy Bar. Great Prices. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

< Back Bronte ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 29 June 2018 A PLAY VIVIDLY EVOKING THE LIVES OF THE BRONTES Three actresses, in modern dress, are discussing the Brontes and their work. As they don their costumes, they assume the identities of Charlotte, Emily and Anne. A revealing story, which moves back and forth in time, it attempts to show the difficulties the writers had in their private and literary lives. Some of the characters from their novels also appear occasionally to add to the mystique of the family. Their poor health lead to the untimely deaths of the sisters and their brother, Branwell, who also features in this modern yet historical drama. This Production is proudly sponsored by [gallery ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DSC_1478.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DSC_1499.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DSC_2084.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DSC_1960.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DSC_1872.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DSC_1851.jpg|"] CAST Patrick, Rochester & Helgen - Andrew Higson Charlotte - Parissa Zamanpour Anne - Portia Dodds Emily - Amy Harris Branwell, Heathcliffe - Anthony Morris Bertha, Cathy - Marcella Hazel Review by Rick Bowen for Stagestruck CHARLOTTE, Emily and Anne Bronte dream pf literary fame, three disarmingly decent Yorkshire lasses living with their clergyman father on the cusp of the bleak but beautiful moors. It’s impossible not to warm to them, thanks to the engaging and heart-felt performances given by Parissa Zamanpour, Amy-Lou Harris and Portia Dodds. When tragedy strikes, you will, unless you have a heart of stone, feel like you’ve undergone a bereavement. For these are performances full of warmth and intensity that give you no option but to care and care deeply about what happens to them. They feel like our very own siblings. Add a jealous, drunken brother who shares his sisters’ desire to have his writings published and you have the recipe for an evening of theatre that’s totally compelling and at times, deeply moving. Anthony Morris is perfect as this tortured soul, staggering about the stage in a haze of booze fuelled self-pity. We also are treated to extracts from the string of classics that proved to be the Bronte sisters legacy, my favourite being the scene from Jane Eyre in which Jane confronts the now blind Mr Rochester, expertly played by Andrew Higson, whose equally at home as the Bronte’s clergyman father, Patrick. Marcella Haze also impresses in the roles of Cathy and Bertha. nThe success of this rich and captivating production ultimately rests with its director/designer Barry Purves who serves up something that wouldn’t look out of place on a professional stage. His set is starkly atmospheric and the opening of Polly Teale’s piece breathtaking. Which begs the question why were there empty seats on Tuesday night? It was a travesty and my only hope is the box office will be doing very brisk business once word gets out as to just how good Bronte is. Brilliant - another major triumph for Altrincham Garrick. Star rating ★★★★★ Review by Julia Taylor for MessengerNewspapers THE success of The Garrick’s Bronte by Polly Teale s down to the smooth blending of fact with fiction and moving effortlessly through time. It’s about the creativity of the Bronte siblings and their relationship with each other. In this case they are not the gentle sisters usually portrayed but are full of melodramatic passion which goes for their brother, too. Their books were written at a time when women writers were frowned upon yet the sisters light the spark of genius. This is the time when brother Branwell returns home in disgrace after a passionate affair with his employer’s wife, and turns to the bottle. Charlotte and Emily write of fictional characters such as Bertha Rochester and Cathy Earnshaw who return to haunt them. These are the most difficult scenes in a difficult play to make convincing but Marcella Haze who plays them both, succeeds perfectly. The two leading novelists are played by Parissa Zamanpour as Charlotte and Amy-Lou Harris as Emily who convey well the differences in their characters. We also learn more about Anne Bronte who acts as peacemaker between her two warring sisters. She is played by Portia Dodds whose portrayal of her final illness and last visit to the seaside is sad. Andrew Higson is authoritative as Patrick Bronte, whose role reflects the patriarchal society in which they live, as well as three other characters. The roles of Branwell, Heathcliff and Arthur Huntingdon go to Anthony Morris whose passionate portrayal of the inebriated Branwell is unforgettable. Geoff Scullard’s lighting is exceptional especially when creating the effect of burning pages. This play could easily become confusing but director, Barry Purvis ensures that it never does. Star rating ★★★ ★ Review by Johanna Hassouna-Smith for Number 9 Polly Teale’s Bronte is based loosely on the lives of the famous Bronte sisters: Charlotte, Emily and Anne. Set in the small Yorkshire village of Hawarth in the 19th century, where the girls’ imaginations grow to become literary giants of their time, despite their secluded life with their father (the village pastor) and their over privileged brother, Branwell. The story tells their life of poverty as they struggle to become writers in a world dominated by male literary scholars and one where they have never been allowed to travel outside of their small village to explore the world. Teale’s depiction of the three sisters is cleverly told by cross-cutting between the real world of the sisters' lives and that of their famed characters. We see how the real life events helped to create the characters such as Charlotte’s time working as a nanny, being instrumental in her creation of the character of Jane Eyre. That said, there is a sense of the story jumping around in time and fiction a little too much as there are moments in the production which are difficult to place in the chronology of the story and can become rather confusing for the audience. I have to confess to that I am a novice to a Bronte novel, although I have seen Jane Eyre on stage, so this production was always going to teach me something. However, this wasn’t the reason for my confusion: the dialogue often refers to events which happen two scenes later and there was very little change in costume, setting or lights to give the audience some sense that time had lapsed or moved backwards. This must not be seen as a critique of the direction but the playwright as the actual script itself dictates so many changes in time and without written stage direction of changes in lighting states nor costume. I would have been interested to see how Teale herself directed it for Shared Experience Theatre Company when she first published the play in 2005. I think director, Barry Purves did a sterling job on this production and mustn’t be blamed for a sometimes cumbersome and confusing script. With a cast of only six, the performers had a really tough job as the dialogue was full of monologues and scenes dominated by the three quarrelsome sisters: Emily played by Amy-Lou Harris, Charlotte played by Parissa Zamanpour and Anne, by Portia Dodds. These three actresses proved their stage presence with commendable portrayals of the threesome. Zamanpour’s depiction of the passionate Charlotte was powerful and showed a bitter resentment toward the male dominated world she desperately wanted to break into. This was particularly apparent toward her brother Branwell, who was given all of the family’s wealth to make it big in London but squandered it on a frivolous lifestyle of alcohol and fancy goods. Branwell, played by Anthony Morris played a very good ‘drunk’ and his physicality of the role had the audience entertained and at other times gasping in horror that he may land on the laps of the front row audience! Although the middle sister Emily had a clear talent for writing, her gentle personality prevented her from wanting the fame of being known as a writer. In this role, Amy-Lou Harris had a sense of pathos for the character which was very easy to empathise with as the gentler, soft spoken sister. The youngest and lesser known of the Bronte sisters, Anne was depicted by Portia Dodds with a youthful innocence and charm, often lifting the lengthy script’s pace with her energy. All three performers had a wonderful rapport with one another and had the audience captivated throughout. Undoubtedly the most successful part of this production was the design. Everything was beautiful to watch. Even the stage laid bare before the house lights went down was full of the mystery of the West Yorkshire Moors, with a projected sky on the backcloth and an imposing tree stump on a raised level, centre stage. The atmosphere was ready to beckon Cathy and Heathcliffe at any moment as it looked and felt like a scene Wuthering Heights. The set design reference to books strewn across the stage created a contemporary air to the production and the opening scene of pages raining down on the actresses as they dressed themselves as the three sisters was absolutely stunning. The entire design team (of whom the list is understandably long), must be commended on all aspects of the design as this was what gave this production its professional quality. I must confess that I love the Altrincham Garrick Theatre and the quality of their productions never lets me down. From the brilliant direction and design team to the wonderful performers, this production did not disappoint and was the professional standard I have come to expect from recent shows.

< Back Man and the Moment ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 16 December 2013 An intriguingly comic tale of an organised re-union between bank robber Vic Parks and Douglas Beechey, the timid bank cashier who sixteen years previously "had a go" and foiled Vic's attempts to rob his bank. Set in the flash Costa del Crime home of Vic - now a Media Personality and celebrity - TV producer Jill Rillington is making a documentary on the lines of "Where are they now?". What happens when they meet? And is Douglas inspired to "have another go" and become Man of the Moment once again? Master manipulator Alan Ayckbourn entertains us yet again. CAST Bryn Thomas as Vic Parks Dave Midgeley as Douglas Beechey Janet Slade as Jill Rillington Marina Anderson as Trudy Parks Dina Casket-Stewart as Cindy Parks Toby Rothwell as Kenny Collins Amy Gerraghan as Sharon Griffin Bill Renshaw as Ruy Julie Broadbent as Marta Ben Rothwell as Ashley Barnes Rehearsal photos [gallery ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/manmomentj.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/manmomenti.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/manmomente.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/manmomentd.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/manmomentc.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/manmomentb.jpg|"] A special THANK YOU to WORLD OF WATER, TIMPERLEY for the swimming pool

< Back Jonathon ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Downs, James Ladyman, Oliver Lee, Kay Nicholls, John

< Back Paddington (2014 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 29 September 2020 The accident-prone bear arrives from Peru at Paddington Station, needing a home and marmalade sandwiches. The Brown family duly oblige and their lives are never the same. Paddington himself is beautifully realised by computer technology, and voiced by Ben Wishaw. This film was a huge, joyous hit and a sequel was made almost instantly. This film features a brief cameo by the bear’s writer and creator, Michael Bond, who sadly died in 2017 in London and is buried, appropriately, in Paddington Cemetery. 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 West Side Story ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 24 July 2013 Arguably the best musical ever written, this breath-taking show, which features music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, transports Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet to the turbulent streets of the Upper West Side in 1950's New York as two star-crossed lovers, Tony and Maria, find themselves caught between the rival street gangs - the 'Jets' and the 'Sharks'. Saving the best until last we end the Garrick's historic 100th season in true style - West Side Story will be our biggest production ever with a huge orchestra, dynamic creative team and cast making it an unmissable event in the Garrick's history. We know demand will be huge so we've added a matinee performance. [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/West-Side-Story-5.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/West-Side-Story-2.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/West-Side-Story-1.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/West-Side-Story-8.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/West-Side-Story-6.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/West-Side-Story-3.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/West-Side-Story-4.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/West-Side-Story-7.jpg|"] CAST LIST Tony - James Duffy Riff - Josh Mosiuk Action - Rhys Nuttall Baby John - Karl Kramer Velma - Emily Barnett Graziella - Jasmine McGovern Anybody's - Rachel Mayon Bernardo - Danny Lawton Maria - Emily Carter Anita - Laura Chandler Consuela - Jennifer O'Neill Officer Krupke - Jon White Franchesca - Lucy Girdlestone Rosalia - Jessica Heaps Clarice - Georgina Brame Snow Boy - Matthew Roughley A-Rab - Michael Gardiner Doc - Paul Wilson Det. Shrank - Craig Richardson Diesel - Nick Parry Pepe - Jack McCann Chino - .Bradley Judge Ensemble - Bobbi Gordon Ensemble - Becci Cooper-Bagnall Musical Director - Mark Goggins Choreographer - Lorna Sales ASMs - Carol Gibson and Anne O'Reilly Review from The Messenger by Rick Bowen When James Duffy and Emily Carter sang in West Side Story the Altrincham Garrick auditorium was full of magic. I can't remember the last time I felt so excited by the performances of two leads and whoever decided to cast them as the young lovers Tony and Maria in West Side Story made a truly inspired choice. Emily in particular has a voice so pure listening to it will make you go weak at the knees and if these two don't make a career out of musical theatre it will be a cruel travesty. It may be the Garrick's centenary season but this is very much the company's present to us. West Side Story may seem like it has been around forever, but the production team and a cast dripping with talent and oozing energy will make audiences feel they're watching a world premiere. The sumptuous Bernstein/Sondheim score is as timeless as it is brilliant and it is impossible to name the best songs for the simple reason it is completely devoid of weak numbers. Inspired by Romeo and Juliet, the show sees Shakespeare's feuding families swapped for street gangs and Craig Richardson is particularly good as Det Shrank, the hard boiled cop trying to keep the peace. Add some exciting and stylish choreography and you have a production that you simply can't afford to miss. Go and pack the place - to the rafters. Stunning. Star Rating ★★★★★ Review from Remotegote by Julia Taylor The Garrick's centenary season comes to an end with one of the best productions of West Side Story I've seen. The energetic young cast convey a roller coaster of emotion. It's not just the leads, Tony, an all-American boy and Maria from Costa Rica who show feeling. The singers and dancers also give their all. We long for James Duffy?s Tony and Emily Carter?s Maria to be happy but, like Romeo and Juliet on whom the story is based, their romance reaches a tragic conclusion. I can't praise these two enough. Their duet One hand, One heart gives you goose pimples and tells you that, despite their differences, their feelings are sincere flashing like lightening between them. James's voice crackles with emotion as he sings Maria with such expression. The gang leaders, Bernardo of the Latino Sharks and Riff from the American Jets, put over with a combination of toughness and vulnerability by Danny Lawton and Josh Mosiuk face a heartbreaking fate. Yet this musical is not all doom and gloom. There are happy moments such as when Maria's friend, Anita (Laura Chandler) sings America accompanied by the girls in the chorus. I Feel Pretty, the light-hearted song led by Emily's Maria temporarily eases the tension and is lovely to listen to. The boys are especially good in the well-choreographed fight scenes and they, too, sing well. Although this show was premiered in 1957, gang and knife culture persists even today and racism still bubbles beneath the surface. It was good to see young people in the audience to whom I?m sure, the tragedy and the moral behind it, hit home. Star Rating ★★★★ NODA Review by Kevin Proctor The Altrincham Garrick not only wraps up their 2013/14 season, but closes their first century with one heck of a punch! West Side Story is often labelled by industry marvels themselves as the greatest musical of our time, so what other show would mark such an occasion for this group! Last year, I cannot have been the only one who questioned the sanity of the Garrick's trustees when this season was announced; they certainly know how to set a challenge - but more to the point, they know their team could deliver this wonderful curtain call to the first hundred years whilst also setting the bar for the next. This musical is just as iconic as it is demanding; much of the story unfolds through dance, beginning with the rival gangs' territory tussle during the Prologue. As one of the industries most celebrated score fills the playhouse, the soaring music is matched by gravity-defying feats of strength and agility. Adam Whittle had been given the honour to direct this milestone production, Adam relished the moody and intense moments beautifully and I wholeheartedly agree with the decisions he had made to convey this telling. The only moment which raised a baffling question to his choices was at the end of act one, the piece would have continued its strength if Riff and Bernardo had remained on stage as we progressed into the interval - staying their till the tabs came in, it may seem minor but witnessing them both get up after they had been killed broke the make believe which could so easily have been avoided. Mark Goggins and his orchestra exceeded all of my hopes and expectations, this genius score was delivered with triumph, the vocals of the soloists and ensemble cast were solid, delightful and exciting - particularly the 'America' harmonies and the 'Tonight' Quintet. A rousing score perfectly presented. I must congratulate the sound department, this is the first time the music has sounded and felt live with the players being channelled through from the studio, I appreciate that such a set-up is not as straight forward as it may seem, however, the sound was clear and I could certainly feel the excitement one should with live musicians (which I cannot deny, I was worried for). I was delighted that the reoccurring problem had been addressed and rectified for this production which certainly enhanced the experience. I did feel slight sympathy for the three Shark men during the quintet as their lack of numbers was massively exposed against the quantity of Jets - they didn't seem to stand much of a chance as they prepared themselves for the rumble, up until this point I hadn't noticed just how few of them there were as they'd been disguised very effectively until this point. You cannot attempt West Side Story without fierce choreography, Lorna Sales had worked the cast extremely well to execute the physicality associated with this show, not only is this production a challenge, it's made even more difficult when you have non dancers amongst the cast - Lorna?s clever creativity demonstrated skill in accommodating the mix of abilities without making it blatant, she concentrated on telling the story through movement without over indulging on over complicated choreography for the sake of showing off which didn't go unnoticed - a fantastic job - exact, visual, skillful and drilled. James Duffy shone as the conflicted Romeo of the show, Tony - capturing his sensitivity perfectly and hitting the top notes effortlessly in 'Something's Coming' and 'Maria', but harbouring enough blind passion and rage for the devastating conclusion of the first half. Emily Carter captured the heartbreak and longing of the show's plot in her portrayal as Maria - and I'll admit to chocking back a tear when she collapsed over Tony in the finale, overwhelmed by a grief that I knew was coming but still felt unprepared for. But that's not to say that this production doesn't have its lighter moments, too. One of my many highlights to this show was 'Gee Officer Krupkie' which was terrifically done and deserved the cheer and appreciation that it got. The male ensemble certainly injected the strength and power into this production, resulting in them owning the show. Josh Mosiuk as Riff was the stand out performance amongst the supporting ensemble who exposed his talents as a terrific all-rounder. It?s very enjoyable and rare to see such a strong group of young guys in this game. Laura Chandler was a wonderfully sassy and passionate Anita, the playful and celebratory 'America' contrasted with the ardent 'A Boy Like That', both were superb - a quality performance from Laura! Every aspect of this production was given extra attention throughout the departments which ultimately paid off to make this show one to remember and was undoubtedly the peak of the season! Many congratulations to all for an outstanding production. A message received at the Box Office for WEST SIDE STORY Along with the general comments of praise we often receive following a Garrick production, we took a telephone call from a lady wanting to book seats for West Side Story on the recommendation of a friend who had been to see it the previous evening. She told us that her friend had said they were no longer going to book city centre theatre tickets at the Palace Theatre, Opera House etc....as they didn't see any reason for travelling all the way into Manchester and paying inflated ticket prices to see shows when they could come to the Garrick, a local theatre, to view equally professionally productions. We think this is praise indeed for the Garrick and for all those involved with the production of West Side Story!!

< Back Love! Valour! Compassion! ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 20 May 2022 Winner of the 1995 Tony Award for Best Play, Love! Valour! Compassion! is a mammoth exploration into life, love and loss at the end of the millennium. As hilarious as it is heart-breaking, Terrence McNally’s seminal work captures the zeitgeist of 90s America and forces the question - when reality hits home, who and what is most important to us? Beautifully written, Love! Valour! Compassion! gathers together eight gay men at the upstate New York summer house of a celebrated dancer-choreographer who fears he is losing his creativity… and possibly his lover. Infidelity, flirtations, soul-searching, AIDS, truth-telling, and skinny-dipping mix monumental questions about life and death. To experience Love! Valour! Compassion! is to join in a dance of life. Warning: This production contains nudity, strong language and racially offensive language. It was written, set and originally performed in the mid 90s and the text reflects the social and cultural context of the time. Age Guidance: 16 + ---------- 4 Star REVIEW - Rick Bowen at StageStruck DON’T be fooled by the first half of this multi-award winning play, which largely seems preoccupied with the trivial, as we spend three landmark American holidays in a lakeside holiday home with a group of gay friends. This idyllic place is owned by Gregory, a New York choreographer hopelessly devoted to his partner Bobby, vulnerable but not held back as a result of his blindness. While Terrence Mc Nally’s expertly crafted play, set in the States in the mid 90s, takes a more serious turn after the interval, there are some moments of comedy gold to enjoy with one of the pals, Buzz, treating us to some classic one liners and a personal philosophy that is to put it mildly, unique. Then there’s the spectre of AIDS, the wicked and cruel disease that dulls the characters pursuit of unbridled hedonism. Buzz may be the most entertaining of Mc Nally’s characters - all of human life is here - but by far the most fascinating is Ramon who epitomises that well worn old saying about still waters running deep. I found the way he toys with Bobby quietly cruel and deeply unsettling. A tight knit cast create a convincing cameraderie thanks to the expert and astute direction of Barry Purves, a leading creative who never puts a foot wrong when it comes to making top class theatre. Mike Jenkinson-Deakin, Paul Cudby, Patrick O’Brien, Glenn Jenkinson-Deakin, Rhys Nuttall, Mackauley Reece and Jay Hollows invest so much into their roles emotionally you couldn’t begrudge them a post performance drink or two. For me, it’s Hollows who gives the performance of the night as Ramon as I found this character intriguing. The Garrick is staging this piece as part of its LGBTQ+ season and it was pleasing to see a different kind of audience at the Garrick’s wonderful Lauriston Studio. But I do hope this play is seen by as many theatregoers as possible. A fabulous script, fabulous performances. A must see. Love Valour Compassion is suitable for over 16s only and contains brief nudity and racially offensive language. Until February 5. The box office is on 0161 928 1677 or altrinchamgarrick.co.uk. Star rating - **** Photos taken by Martin Ogden. This season's productions in our Lauriston STUDIO have been sponsored by

< Back Chinese New Year Extravaganza 2020 ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 21 June 2017 Chinese New Year Extravaganza 2020 Mark the fresh beginning and welcome the Year of the Rat (the first in the 12-year cycle of Chinese zodiac) at the Garrick Playhouse this Chinese New Year as Jinlong Culture & Performing Arts brings a spectacular line-up of Chinese acrobatics, music and dance to Altrincham! With exciting programmes including skilled jugglers, mesmerising magic, illuminating Dragon Dance, live instruments and more, Chinese New Year Extravaganza showcases a dazzling array of performances full of colour, amazement and fun. Not forgetting the cheerful lions and the playful pandas, this family-friendly show is the perfect entertainment for all to enjoy! Do Not Miss it!

< Back Witness for the Prosecution ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Ablewhite, Stanley Eaton, Margo Milne, Sheila Poppleton, Howard Steadman, Irene Talbot, Ernest K Thompson, Jean Wise, Ian Yuille, George

< Back 39 Steps ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2013 The 39 Steps is a farce adapted from the 1915 novel by John Buchan and the 1935 film by Alfred Hitchcock. The play's concept calls for the entirety of the 1935 adventure film The 39 Steps to be performed nearly verbatim onstage, but with a cast of four. One actor plays the hero, Richard Hannay, an actress plays the three women with whom he has romantic entanglements, and two other actors play every other character in the show: heroes, villains, men, women, children and even the occasional inanimate object. This often requires lightning fast quick changes and occasionally for them to play multiple characters at once. Thus the film's serious spy story is played mainly for laughs, and the script is full of allusions to (and puns on the titles of) other Alfred Hitchcock films, including Rear Window, Psycho and North by Northwest. CAST Richard Hannay Sean Duvall Annabella Schmidt/Pamela/Margaret Stephanie Niland Clown Barry Spencer Clown Scott Ransome

< Back The Man who pays the Piper ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Briggs, Harry Bullivant, R A Carrington, Jean Cutler, James E Edward, Margaret Fisher, Kathleen A Haken, Bessie Michaelis, Winifred Riley, Pearl Shaw, A Keble Talbot, Ernest K Waide, W L Woods, Lily V Whitehead, Gerald

< Back Ah Wilderness ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Abbott, Amy Buxton, Eric W Chapman, Laurie Crowe, Eileen Davenport, Alfred Dixon, Kenneth N Fenter, Joan M Hall, Irene Harris, Frank Hooper, Alfred Joseph, M C Lowndes, Douglas Lucius, Olive Royse, Mary W

< Back Crown Matrimonial ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 7 February 2014 The play focuses on the private family drama of Edward VIII and the Royal Family leading up to the abdication. Set in Marlborough House between 1936 and 1945, this powerful drama provides a fascinating and moving study of both a major constitutional crisis and an over-whelming issue of private and public conflict. CAST Mabel, Countess of Airlie Helen Cowan Queen Mary Carole Carr Margaret Wyndham Ruth Metcalfe Queens page (John) Stuart Bilson King Edward VIII (David) John Keen The Princess Royal (Mary) Mandy White Alice, Duchess of Gloucester Paula Keen Walter Monkton K.C. Mark Jephcott Elizabeth, Duchess of York Beverley Stuart-Cole Bertie, Duke of York Hugh Everett [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crowna.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownb.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownc.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownd.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crowne.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownf.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crowng.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownh.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crowni.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownj.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownk.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownl.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownm.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crownn.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/crowno.jpg|"]

< Back Don't Dress For Dinner ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 8 February 2014 Written by the author of the recently revived Broadway and West End smash hit Boeing Boeing, this is a truly classic farce that explodes into chaos and misunderstandings within seconds. A husband's plans for an intimate supper with his mistress spin gloriously out of control when everyone who shouldn't be there turns up. With bluffing and counter bluffing, a manic pace, characters trying to squirm their way out of impossible lies, an inventive set, and breathless performances you'll leave the theatre as exhausted as the frustrated lovers. This promises to be an exhilarating evening. [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressa.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressb.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressd.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressh.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdresse.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressc.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressk.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressf.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressg.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dontdressl.jpg|"] CAST David Beddy as Bernard Ros Greenwood as Jaqueline, his wife Mike Shaw as Robert, his friend Bev Stuart-Cole as Suzanne, the cook Janet Slade as Suzette, the cook Graham Simmonds as George, her husband Sale & Altrincham Messenger's Review by Rick Bowen A feast of a comedy at the Garrick STYLISH, sophisticated and sexy, 'Don?t Dress For Dinner' will come as something of a revelation to those who think they know all there is to know about farces. All the familiar devices are in place, but it's the sheer quality of the writing, rather than the sight of grown ups being caught in a state of undress that gets the laughs. Performing a piece like this would stretch a professional theatre company because the dialogue is mercilessly complicated at times, with more twists and turns than Spaghetti Junction. Yet under the astute direction of Barry Purves the actors of Altrincham Garrick skip through this linguistic minefield with consumate ease. While the dialogue may be a feast for the ears, Purves's set is a feast for the eyes and earned a richly deserved round of applause on Monday night. Pieces as involved as this demand a strong and confident cast and the director has both. Janet Slade is really good value as the mercenary cook Suzette, a character who makes the most of the tangled web of deceit that traps those on stage. David Beddy (Bernard) and Mike Shaw (Robert) are both naturally funny men and have so much fun with their roles it's an absolute pleasure watching them. You do have to concentrate to keep up with what's going on but this theatrical experience, which the audience undertakes at breakneck speed, is a truly exhilarating one. Do not miss. Star Rating ★★★★

< Back Enlightenment ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 29 July 2013 Lia's son Adam has disappeared whilst on a world trip. His whereabouts at the time of his disappearance are not known exactly, but he may have been in Djakarta when it was bombed. Lia is in a state of anguished limbo not knowing if Adam is dead or how he died or is possibly alive and suffering in the hands of kidnappers. Lia turns to the comforting words of a scatty spiritualist for solace. Lia's sceptical husband Nick is concerned for his wife's mental health. Suddenly they receive the news that their son has been found. They eagerly wait to greet their son, only to find that a young man, allegedly suffering from amnesia and scarred after an accident, comes into their lives in possession of Adam's passport and personal possessions. Lia invites him to stay, against Nick's wishes, hoping to learn more about Adam's whereabouts. The young man becomes increasingly psychotic and intrusive. His erratic behaviour becomes frighteningly sinister. This is a darkly disturbing piece. CAST Lia Bev Stuart-Cole (AWARD) Nick Scott Ransome Mrs Tindle Carole Carr Gordon Alan Rothwell Joanna Kate Millington Adam Anthony Morris (AWARD) Sale & Altrincham Messenger's Review By Rick Bowen Hauntingly compelling - Enlightenment at Altrincham Garrick While I wouldn't dream of decrying light entertainment, for me live theatre is at its best when it puts you in someone else's shoes. Even if "wearing" them can, at times, be a decidely uncomfortable experience. Imagine if you can, the pain of a parent whose child has gone missing for six long and tortuous months. Lia finds herself in that situation in Enlightenment, Altrincham Garrick's hauntingly compelling penultimate play of the season. She's clinging to her memories of her missing son, Adam, while on other occasions, grieving for somebody who could still be alive. For me, this is Beverley Stuart-Cole's best ever performance on the Garrick stage and, as the liberal Lia, she ensures there's no hiding place for the audience when it comes to Lia's anguish. Things get even more tense and complicated when Lia and her more measured husband Nick (Scott Ransome) take in the dangerously manipulative Adam. He bears a passing resemblance to their missing son, according to Lia, and comes armed with his personal effects. Anthony Morris is quite outstanding as the cruel and vulnerable Adam and we never know if he had any dealings with Lia and Nick's missing boy. Sheelagh Stevenson leaves it open ended in a play that will hold your attention in a vice-like grip from the start. Enlightenment is difficult viewing at times but it is a long time since a play has affected me quite so deeply, due in no small part to director John Cunningham and a very, very good cast. Do not miss. Star Rating ★★★★ ★ Review of Enlightenment by Julia Taylor for remotegoat Parents mourn son's unexplained disappearance The Garrick have courage in putting on Shelagh Stephenson's play, Enlightenment. Unfortunately, her convoluted style distracts from the main theme of the play - the distress of parents whose backpacking son has gone missing in the Far East. This is a compelling theme so why does the writer take us down the blind alley of chaos theory and other distracting diversions? These interventions are, for me, irritating. Surely, parents who fear their child has been killed in a terrorist incident far from home would be unable to think of anything else? My thoughts about the play's style of writing, do not detract from praise for the actors and for Barry Fletchers's minimal set with photographic backdrop showing the 2006 Jakarta bombings and other themes. The key roles of parents Lia and Nick are put across well by Beverley Stuart-Cole and Scott Ransome. They interact perfectly, sharing their grief but approaching it from different angles. Lia clings to the belief that her son, Adam, is alive whilst Nick, who is not Adam's real father, tries, unsuccessfully, to get on with life. The way Beverley captures the mother's anguish indicates one of the best performances by Stuart-Cole in her 26 years with the Garrick. Her character turns to a clairvoyant (Carole Carr) for help but her intervention is, to say the least, useless. Then a stereotypical TV reporter (Kate Millington) attempts to take advantage of the situation, again leading them up a blind alley. The only incident which provides the slightest thrill (this play is dubbed a "psychological thriller") is the unexpected appearance of a young man from Thailand who has lost his memory but who obviously knew Adam. Anthony Morris who plays him brings the play to life in the second half. I expect good plays to have a clear beginning, middle and end. In this one, the beginning has too slow a pace and the end leaves you in limbo. It is the middle that stands out when the couple are told their son is alive and arriving at the airport. Lia's expression of delight is unforgettable. In the final scene, the parents embrace. Is it because they are happy or because they are sharing their sadness? And then the telephone rings. Could it be Adam? NODA Review by Kevin Proctor ENLIGHTENMENT starts with an intriguing situation: Adam, a 20-year-old backpacker vanished six months ago during a round the world trip. We watch as his mother and stepfather agonise over the mystery of his disappearance. Could he have been killed in a bomb explosion in Jakarta where he was last heard from, or is there a chance he is still alive? Beverley Stuart-Cole delivers the strenuous grief stricken Mother, Lea, with intense believability, her performance is both compelling and heartfelt. Beverley excelled and treated us to a superior performance worthy of a professional stage. John Cunningham has stunningly directed this contemporary piece, the balance is accurate and the tone of the work was impeccably communicated via his dream cast. Alan Rothwell injects some light relief as Lea's forthright Father, he certainly has the knack of delivering those genius one liners which were savoured by all. (During the interval I heard several different takes of ?'who the f**k are you'?) I very much enjoyed Carole Carr's Mrs. Tindle, she, like Alan, added some welcome light relief and she delivered the part at an accurate level. I imagine this to be one of those roles which can often be pushed too far for the laughs, Carole and John had kept a check on this which, if pushed more towards the comedy, however tempting, would've thrown the entire play off course, kudos for this! After some time away at university, Anthony Morris makes a triumphant comeback to the Garrick with a knockout performance. He plays the troubled individual with such calibre and expertise. A very thought provoking enactment from this young man - who I hope is back to stay! Excellent support was on hand too from Scott Ransome as Nick who's highlight was undoubtedly the scene with his 'Lovely, Lovely' outburst at Mrs. Tindle. Kate Millington had all the right qualities as Joanne and gave a worthy interpretation of this nuisance (who turns out to be quite lovely). There's a twisted emotional knot in the very guts of this intensely likeable and relentless drama, another exciting and audacious choice from the play selection committee! What an impressive final play of your first century

< Back The Crying Cafe ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 8 December 2022 Imagine somewhere we could all be audibly bawling, sharing our troubles, sharing a table, sat at a Crying Café. Inspired by Dominic Berry’s poem ‘The Crying Café’, this will be an evening of poems to make us cry – whether with sadness, laughter or joy. Hosted by Dominic and Garrick regular Ali Davenport, the hope is to create a special gathering that will uplift and connect us in the winter months. Dominic and Ali will be performing their own poetry. There are also a number of slots for participants to share a poem that means something to them. This might be their own or other’s work – whatever pulls at the heartstrings. These will be arranged in advance of the evening. If interested, send one poem to Ali at ali.davenport@talktalk.net, along with your reasons for choosing it. Ali can also be contacted through her website: https://www.soulsurvivalguide.co/contact On the night, selected poems can be shared in whatever way is comfortable, whether that’s sitting reading at a table or giving a full-blown performance. It can also be read on your behalf. Dominic and Ali are keen to stress that this is poetry not therapy: ‘It’s about being human and that means it’s okay to cry. We hope you will join us - but don’t forget the tissues!’ The bar will be open afterwards if you want to stay and natter. Dominic’s new poetry book – ‘Yes Life’ – can be bought on the night for £10. There will also be a collection for a mental health charity.

< Back Les Liaisons Dangereuses ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 16 December 2013 This intriguing comedy of sexual manners and manipulation is set in pre-Revolutionary France with sumptuous settings and costumes. It charts the seduction of the young, voluptuous and willing Cecile and the pure yet passionate Mme de Tourvel by Le Vicomte de Valmont, proud of his reputation as a seducer. Sharing his cynicism and encouraging his enterprises is his former mistress, La Marquise de Merteuil. But she has an ulterior motive. All ends in tragedy and Valmont and Tourval are destroyed by their passion. This promises to be a stunning and gripping production.

< Back To Live in Peace ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Fletcher, Alfred Harris, Frank John, Laurie Jones, John Glynn Kamberian, Tahouhi Pearce, Tom Plested, James Snape, Joyce Wiltshire, H John

< Back Babe (1995 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 31 August 2020 We are thrilled to be able to present one of the most perfect of family films, about the misfit pig, Babe, who thinks he’s a sheep dog. Full of gloriously eccentric characters, both animal and human, it also features a great music score and ravishing scenery. The film review web-site Rotten Tomatoes describes it as "The rare family-friendly feature with a heart as big as its special effects budget, Babe offers timeless entertainment for viewers of all ages". That’ll do, Pig, that’ll do. 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 Toy Story (1995 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 29 September 2020 25 years ago, this film changed everything in the world of animation. Not only was it the first completely computer-animated feature, but it is also a superb story of friendship and devotion, full of brilliantly realised characters, and a feast of nostalgia for the toys of our childhood. We’ve all wondered what our toys did when we turned our backs. Come and enjoy this masterpiece on the big screen. 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 A Man for All Seasons ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 7 February 2014 Robert Bolt's well known story of Sir Thomas More, one time friend and councillor of Henry VIII, and his clash with the king over his divorce from Katherine of Aragon, leading to More's downfall and execution. [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mana.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/manb.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/manc.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mand.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mane.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/manf.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mang.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/manh.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mani.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/manj.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mank.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/manl.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/manm.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mann.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mano.jpg|"] CAST The Common Man Bill Platt Sir Thomas More David Reynolds Master Richard Rich Nick Curror The Duke of Norfolk Victor Hassan Lady Alice More Sandra Thomas Lady Margaret More Jacqueline Wheble Cardinal Wolsey Tony Broughton Thomas Cromwell John Keen Signor Chapuys Stephen Moss Chapuys's Attendant Oliver Marsh William Roper Neeraj Pathak King Henry VIII Jon White A Woman Linda Panton Thomas Cranmer John Westbrook Sale & Altrincham Messenger's Review by Rick Bowen Garrick does Bolt classic proud ALTRINCHAM Garrick's latest production should have 'made in Trafford' stamped all over it. Written by Sale born Robert Bolt, 'A Man For All Seasons' is an intriguing and inspiring piece about a man who lived and ultimately died for his principles. The man in question was one Thomas More, a disarmingly decent person who had the courage to oppose King Henry VIII's plans to divorce in his quest for a son and heir. While this seminal play doesn't fall into the light entertainment category - you must be prepared to listen hard - it isn't a dry history lesson either. Bolt succeeds in portraying the characters in a way that engages the audience and the scene in which More meets his family in his prison cell brings a lump to the throat. David Reynolds is terrific as More and gives a truly mesmerising performance that makes you hang on his every word. On the other side of the coin we have Bill Platt who brings us some much needed light relief as The Common Man, a cynical and humorous commentator on the events that unfold around him. Director Celia Bonner has made sure an ambitious play is accessible and enjoyable and Barry Purves's set, with its chequered floor, put me in mind of a giant board game. But for those involved in the 'game' the consequences are ultimately deadly. Robert Bolt left us in 1995 but I think he would have been well pleased with the Garrick's staging of one of his most famous plays. Who knows, maybe he was watching. Nice thought, isn't it? Star Rating ★★★★

< Back Ambrose Applejohn's Adventure ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Bonsier, Frederick H Brewer, Brian B Brown, Sydney A Chapman, Laurie Coombs, J Davenport, Alfred Dunn, Frederick Hibbert, Sydney Lightowler, Madge Lightowler, Ronnie R Matthias, Mary Osborne, Edgar Starkey, A Stewart, J Alan Warhurst, W Kenneth Warrington, Betty White, Elliot Wiltshire, H John Wood, Wyn

< Back Sweeney Todd - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 20 June 2016 The Tony award winning Broadway Musical One of the darkest musicals ever written, Sweeney Todd: A Musical Thriller is the unsettling tale of a barber who returns home to London after fifteen years of exile to take revenge on the corrupt judge who ruined his life. When revenge eludes him, Sweeney swears vengeance on the entire human race, murdering as many people as he can, while his business associate Mrs. Lovett bakes the bodies into meat pies and sells them to the unsuspecting public. Perhaps composer/lyricist Stephen Sondheim's most perfect score, Sweeney Todd is lush, operatic, and full of soaring beauty, pitch-black comedy and stunning terror. It's one of the signal achievements of the American musical theatre of the last fifty years, and it's the high water mark of Sondheim's six remarkable collaborations with director Harold Prince. The production was proudly sponsored by Myerson Solicitors [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSCF1412.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_7821.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_7875.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_7307.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_7715.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_7445.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_7595.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_7360.jpg|"] CAST Sweeney Todd - Wayne Holt Mrs Lovett - Laura Chandler Anthony Hope - Chris Wagstaff Joanna - Sara Grace Nelson Tobias Ragg - Joe Maxwell Dillon Judge Turpin - Paul Wilson The Beadle - Aidan Burgess Beggar woman - Charlie Welsh Adolfo Pirelli - Jackson Hayes Jonas Fogg - Josh Crook Bird seller - Cameron Hall People of London, Clara Frier, Ros Greenwood, Cyanne Holt, Rachel Gerring, Lauren Whitely, Abbie Martland, Emily Shelton, Kitty West, Claire Garrett, Josh Crook, Josh Smith, Chris Shepherd, Cameron Hall, George Lowe, Jack Gibby REVIEW by Rick Bowen for Stagestruck THE two leads in this fabulous musical certainly come up with a business plan with a difference and as distasteful as it is, the audience can't help laughing, albeit uncomfortably at times. It's impossible not to have a giggle, to be seduced by the show's jet black humour. How sad then, that a production of this quality played to a half empty theatre on Monday night. Frustrating for all concerned, particularly for former executive producer Paul Kerrryson who makes a welcome return to direct with distinction Sondheim's macabre masterpiece. They should re-christen Kerryson Mr Musicals, for it's a theatrical genre in which he consistently excels. Musicals live or die by their leads and in Wayne Holt and Laura Chandler, who play Todd and pie shop owner Mrs Loveitt respectively, the Garrick have a dream duo. Wayne gives the audience the creeps even when exchanging pleasantries with his customers and the "demon barber" is a truly imposing and intimidating figure. The scene I particularly enjoyed is the one in which Mrs L tries to bring out the romantic in the vengeful Todd. Holt and Chandler play this to perfection and for me, this is Laura's finest hour on the Garrick stage. She's a real credit to her late dad Terry, whose acting gave me decades of pleasure at this particular playhouse. If you aren't a convert, it may take time to warm to Sondheim's genius, as the music can be difficult, the lyrical wordplay intricate. Once converted, there's no going back and singers like Chris Wagstaff, who plays the lovesick Anthony, and Sara Grace Nelson, who plays the apple of his eye, Joanna, are sure to boost the legion of Sondheim fans. On stage they are mesmerising, and Sara Grace has a voice so pure it's sure to set many a bottom lip quivering. It did mine. A major musical triumph, that simply must not be missed. Magnificent. Star rating ★★★★★ REVIEW by Julia Taylor for Sale and Altrincham Messenger Gruesome murders as the Garrick delivers another five star production NEVER has murder been more gruesome than in the Garrick's musical, Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. To use a pun, the cast make mincemeat of Sondheim's difficult, strident music and the professional direction of Paul Kerryson, ensures the playhouse maintains its reputation for good musicals. Sweeney Todd, played forcefully by Wayne Holt, really is a demon. He's a menacing presence but can win you over with his deep baritone voice. Let him shave you at your peril for you will end up travelling dead down a brilliantly contrived shute, to the baker's shop below. You'll become the main ingredient of one of the comical Mrs Lovett's delicious pies. When Laura Chandler sings The Worst Pies in London, it adds spice to her concoctions. A third employee is kitchen assistant, Tobias Ragg. Joseph Dillon, 16, who has a lovely voice, plays him as naive and almost driven mad by what he sees in the business-like death factory around him. The murdering starts because Sweeney wants to avenge Paul Wilson's unfeeling and lecherous Judge Turpin who wrongfully exiled him. Worse still, Turpin?s the guardian of Joanna, Sweeney's daughter. It is Sara Grace Nelson who, as Joanna, sings one of the show's most beautiful songs, Green Finch and Linnett Bird. The Mark Goggins orchestra are good but, occasionally, overpower the singers. Despite this, it's another five star production for the Garrick. Star rating ★★★★★ REVIEW by Mark Dee for North West End Composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim is very difficult to 'get in to'; he doesn't make it easy for either the listener or the singer; but if it's right it is extremely rewarding and a total joy. Sweeney Todd is one of the more difficult Sondheim scores, and therefore potentially one of the most rewarding too; and has become, since the recent film, one of his better known Musicals too. It tells the gruesome and dark story of Benjamin Barker, a barber who was transported for life simply because he opposed a local Judge deciding to have his wicked way with his beautiful young wife, Lucy. Unbeknownst to Barker, Lucy falls pregnant and the child, christened Joanna is brought up by the Judge as his ward. 15 years pass since Benjamin Barker set foot in London but now arrives back with his First Mate, Anthony, and as he revisits the barber's shop he used to own, a plot hatches to wreak revenge on the Judge, and so under the assumed name of Sweeney Todd, enlists the help of Pie Shop owner, Mrs. Lovett, (or is it she who enlists him to give her business a boost....) and the rest, as they say, is history! Altrincham Garrick brought this bloodthirsty legend to life assembling a 'dream team' of Paul Kerryson and Mark Goggins. Former Artistic Director of Altrincham's Garrick, Kerryson made a welcome return to direct what he does best, Musicals. Whilst Mark Goggins' strict and firm baton waving ensured that musically everything was completely sound. Wayne Holt gave a very dour and unsmiling interpretation of Todd, even in the lighter scenes (A Little Priest/By The Sea) he was still very broody and 'dangerous'. Not the conventional interpretation, but it certainly worked for him and his deep baritone voice and strong stance worked very much in his favour. Mrs. Lovett (Laura Chandler) and Beggar Woman (Charlie Welsh) were both excellent too, but both were sadly too young for these roles in comparison with Todd. Chris Wagstaff gave a plaintive and stolid performance as love-sick Anthony, and the object of his desires, Joanna was Sara Grace Nelson, who had the sweetest high soprano register I think I have ever heard. The stand out performance for me though was undoubtedly Joseph Dillon, who aged only 16, {and reminding me of myself when I was his age a little too!}, gave a wonderful performance as Tobias Ragg. With a strong supporting cast and even stronger chorus, this makes for a rather macabre but highly entertaining evening out. The show runs a little long, coming down at 10:20pm, but stick with it; Sondheim needs to be listened carefully to, otherwise you will miss many of the oh so clever lyrics and in this production Goggins has taken the songs just a tad slower to accommodate for this. It's worth it! It has been quite a while since Manchester has been treated to Sweeney Todd's cold-blooded throat slitting, and it may well be a long time before the next; So catch it while you have the chance, by seeing it performed by one of Greater Manchester's premier amateur theatre companies.

< Back Boston Marriage ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 February 2014 Anna and Claire are two scheming "women of fashion" who live together on the fringes of society. Anna has just become the mistress of a wealthy man, from whom she has received an enormous emerald. Claire, meanwhile, is infatuated with a young girl and wants to enlist the jealous Anna's help for an assignation. As the two women exchange barbs and taunt their hapless maid, Claire's inamorata arrives and sets off a crisis that puts both the valuable emerald and the women's future at risk. Mamet brings his trademark tart dialogue and impeccable plotting, spiced with Wildean wit, to this wickedly funny comedy.

< Back The Thrill of Love ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 2 June 2014 Another SOLD OUT production in the Lauriston STUDIO (Scroll down for the latest review) [wpdevart_youtube]0K2n9QQ4qKE[/wpdevart_youtube] Ruth Ellis was famously the last woman to be hanged in Britain, convicted for the cold blooded killing of her unfaithful lover.?But who was the real woman behind the headlines and the events that drove her to kill.?This sensational new play is by Amanda Whittington who also wrote the hugely popular ?Be My baby? Online there are very few seats remaining for this production, so don't forget, our next production on our Main Stage is our Youth Production of ?'The Phantom of the Opera ' ?- Monday 13th to Friday 17th April. To be followed by' Stepping Out ' and our final Main Stage production of the season '42nd Street ' [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-011.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-02.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-03.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-04.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-05.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-06.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-07.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-08.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-09.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-10.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-11.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/The-Thrill-of-Love-12.jpg|"] We have a brilliant play with an equally brilliant cast to give our audience members a night to remember for a long time. CAST? (Left to Right) Vickie Martin - Rachel Isbister Ruth Ellis - Kate Millington Jack Gale - Scott Ransome Sylvia Shaw - Beverley Stuart Cole Doris Judd - Ali Davenport [gallery columns="4" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-01.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-02.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-03.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-04.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-05.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-06.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-07.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-08.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-09.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-10.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-11.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/The-Thrill-of-Love-12.jpg|"] Director, Carole Carr - 'This is an exciting and powerful play about Ruth Ellis the last woman to be hanged in England. I have a brilliant cast and we are enjoying rehearsals very much as it is an exceptional play!' If you would like to have the latest Garrick News from this website e-mailed to you directly, then please subscribe to our News 'blog' on the?front page ? and be sure of not missing any of our latest announcements - or maybe join our?Facebook ?or?Twitter ?pages as well.

< Back Hysteria ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 February 2014 When Sigmund Freud meets Salvador Dali two of the world's greatest and most eccentric minds collide. This outrageous comedy finds Freud in his quiet suburb of Hampstead where he hopes to spend his last days in peace. When Salvador Dali appears along with an attractive young student of Freud's work, all hell breaks loose. Why is Freud burning his latest publication? Why is Dali berating him? Why is there a semi-naked woman in his closet? Why is he close to hysteria? CAST Richard Sails as Freud Claire Brookes as Jessica David Gonet as Yahuda Matthew Stead as Dali Ensemble - Adam Gonet, Sarah Leigh ASM - Adam Gonet Prompt - Stella Sails [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/hysteriaa.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/hysteriab.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/hysteriac.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/hysteriad.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/hysteriae.jpg|"] Photographer: Martin Oldfield

< Back Stepping Out ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 16 December 2013 Stepping Out, which enjoyed a successful West End run at the Duke of York's theatre, is a warm and very funny play about the lives, laughs and loves of a group of women (and one man) attending a weekly tap-dance class in a dingy North London church hall. There is ex-professional dancer Mavis, who runs the class; cheerfully overweight Sylvia; Andy, a plain do-gooder with no confidence; Maxine, attractive, sharp and very shrewd; fat, plain Lynne; Rose and Geoffrey, the lone male. As the play progresses, the class's dancing improves to such an extent that by the climax, a grand charity show performance, they have been transformed into triumphant tappers, worthy of any chorus line. Voted Comedy of the Year by the Evening Standards Drama Awards in 1984. CAST Mandy White as Mavis Lesley Donohue as Mrs Fraser Summer Darcy as Lynne Dawn Flint as Dorothy Nikki Smith as Maxine Marina Anderson as Andy Mike Shaw as Geoffrey Laura Chandler as Sylvia Destiny Thomas as Rose Margaret Leslie as Vera Neeraj Pathak as Stage Manager

< Back Back to The Future (1985 film) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 29 September 2020 For those of you who did not manage to see the curtailed stage musical at the Opera House this year, here is the original time-travelling, mind-boggling exhilarating adventure in all of its special effects glory on our big screen. 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 Nightmare ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 11 April 2017 A classic whodunit, 'Midsomer Murders' style Marion Bishop, an elderly writer of romantic novels, is dying. Katherine Willis, kind soul from the nearby village, looks after Marion in a most caring way while coping with her disabled brother of twenty. When Katherine takes leave to attend her cousin's wedding in Scotland. Laura, an experienced nurse from London comes to take care of the failing writer, on the recommendation of the local doctor. A series of mysterious phone calls and the appearance of Raymond, Marion's rapacious nephew, set off a nightmare situation which becomes increasingly complicated when Katherine's brother is found murdered in a ditch. Deceit, suspicion, blackmail and incrimination are subtly woven into a web of crime which is completed by a dramatic confrontation scene just before an ingenious twist brings a surprising close [gallery ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3777.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3745.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3968.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3901.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3842.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DSC_3803.jpg|"] CAST MARION BISHOP - PAT WILLIAMSON RAYMOND BISHOP - PETER BRASSINGTON KATHERINE WILLIS - MEG ROYLE MICHAEL WILLIS - LIAM DODD DR ANDREW THORNE - HUGH EVERETT LAURA VINNECOMBE - BEVERLEY STUART-COLE DORIS MEACHAM - PAULA KEEN Rehearsal Photos [gallery columns="5" ids="https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-7.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-2-e1507061994980.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-10-e1507062034842.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-9-e1507062055379.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-5-e1507062140532.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-3.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-6-e1507062110754.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-8-e1507062074744.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-4-e1507062014152.jpg|,https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nightmare-1.jpg|"] Review by Julia Taylor for Sale and Altrincham Messenger ALTRINCHAM Garrick Playhouse's production of Nightmare, a suspense thriller by Norman Robbins, was full of red herrings and with an unexpected ending. It features Marion Bishop, an elderly writer. Played by Pat Williamson, cancer has robbed Marion of her health so, despite being well off, she needs carers. Pat encourages us to like her character despite an apparent grumpiness. Our affection is possibly misplaced? Her main carer is Katherine Willis (played warm heartedly by Meg Royle) who has a brother, Michael, with learning difficulties. Liam Dodd who has the difficult task of playing him, rises to the challenge and, although his character cannot speak, conveys his feelings with body language. Well done Liam. When Katherine goes on holiday, her place is taken by nurse Laura (Beverley Stuart-Cole) on the say so of the local doctor (Hugh Everett) a beneficiary of Marion's will. There is more to these two than meets the eye. One of the red herrings could be Marion's nephew played by a sinister Peter Brassington who is thuggishly different from the other gentile characters. It's a fascinating play rendered even more fascinating at the end. Star rating ★★★ ★ Review by Rick Bowen for Stagestruck MARION Bishop is a wealthy romantic novelist and a string of schemers descend upon her house, desperate to get their hands on her money. By far the most interesting is her quietly intimidating and grudge fuelled nephew Raymond - perfectly played by Peter Brassington. Raymond is completely obnoxious and Brassington, one of the Garrick's most consistently impressive actors, ensures we hate him every second he's on stage. It sounds like the recipe for an evening of heart thumping tense theatre but there were only two occasions when I felt genuinely spooked by what was unfolding on stage. The play lacks pace and some of the dialogue is downright clumpy. A real shame, as Pat Williamson delivers a fine performance as Marion, a knowing, wise old bird who has no intention of lying down and playing the victim. I also liked Liam Dodd as Michael, very convincing as a young man with special needs. Although Raymond refers to him in far more disparaging terms. Nightmare certainly isn't the worst production you'll ever see in the hands of the more than able director Carole Carr. I just feel a cast as good as this, which also includes Hugh Everett as Dr Andrew Thorne, deserves much better material than this eminently forgettable Norman Robbins script. Star rating ★★★

< Back A Doll's House ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Ainsworth, Marguerite Baker, Rosina Birch, Gwen Farebrother, Arthur F Miller, Robert Richardson, Amy Williams, Anne

< Back CANCELLED - Blackkklansman 2018 (Film Screening) ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 4 August 2021 UNFORTUNATELY, THIS SCREENING IS CANCELLED. Ron Stallworth is the first African-American detective to serve in the Colorado Springs Police Department. Determined to make a name for himself, Stallworth bravely sets out on a dangerous mission: infiltrate and expose the Ku Klux Klan. The detective soon recruits a more seasoned colleague, Flip Zimmerman, into the undercover investigation of a lifetime. Together, they team up to take down the extremist hate group as the organisation aims to sanitise its rhetoric to appeal to the mainstream. Our reasonably priced bar will be open before and after the screening. 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 Doctor in the House ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Irving, Irene Preston, Penny Robbie, Christopher Stockton, Reg

< Back The Annual Jumble Sale ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Bramwell, Madge Francis, W M Martin, Rita Willis, Joan

< Back Ross & Rachel ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 September 2021 Ross & Rachel . You know the ones. Will they? Won’t they? On. Off. On again. Off again. On a break. Vegas. Emma. “I got off the plane”... Ross & Rachel tells the mind-bending, heart-breaking story of what happens when a couple that was always meant to be together, gets together. And stays together. James Fritz’s play isn’t about Ross Geller and Rachel Green, the ultimate Friends-turned-lovers. But it’s not - not about them. A dark and uncompromising play that explores romance, expectation and mortality, and the idea of ‘happy-ever-after’ – sold to us by rom-coms and sitcoms, whether it’s Ross and Rachel or Romeo and Juliet – and how this affects our real-life relationships. No one told them life was gonna be this way... Suitability: 14+. Contains strong language and scenes that some may find disturbing. This season's productions in our Lauriston STUDIO have been sponsored by 4 STAR REVIEW - Rick Bowen Theatre review blog — Stagestruck ONE lady in the audience she was in tears by the time Fiona Primrose was bowing to the audience at the end of the evening. While this deeply unusual piece of theatre didn’t have me reaching for my handkerchief, it certainly takes us on an emotional journey. Ross and Rachel isn’t a case of love hurts. More a case of it should come with a Government health warning. This engrossing single hander may be inspired by the off and on romance of their namesakes from the TV show Friends, but that’s where the comparisons well and truly end. If you turn up to the Lauriston expect a night of cosy camaraderie and witty jokes that were a hallmark of the hugely popular 90’s sitcom, you’ll be disappointed. This is an evening of raw emotion, from jealousy to devotion or rather taking devotion to whole new depths. Fiona Primrose plays both characters and her gender swapping is as effortless as it is engaging. While in character she has a few sips of wine but she certainly deserves a glass or two of the real thing afterwards for putting so much into roles that are anything but carbon copies of their small screen namesakes. How frustrating then, for both her and her director Carole Carr, for there to be just 12 of us in Altrincham Garrick’s fabulous little studio space on Wednesday night to watch a play she’s evidently nurtured with so much love and care. But I’ve often found that to be the case as a reviewer, with certain people shying away from plays and shows they’re not quite sure of. Ross and Rachel is very different, absorbing to the point of being hypnotic and well worth the ticket money. Enjoy this piece of top quality, brilliantly acted theatre. Until May 22. The box office is on 0161 928 1677. Star rating - **** Photo - Martin Ogden

< Back Mother Goose ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 January 1970 The Altrincham Garrick team is very proud to offer to you our Festive Show for 2020/21 a pocket-sized pantomime for all the family: MOTHER GOOSE Booking Now! The Garrick is very well-known for its marvellous pantomimes. Due to COVID-19, we could not stage Peter Pan this season, as we had planned. So, instead, we are delighted to be able to bring this One-Act Pantomime to the stage. It's "COVID-19 safe" and features socially-distanced seating - but it still provides all the usual Garrick Panto fun! Full details of the Garrick's COVID-19 safety features are here. Note that there is limited seating, so ensure you book your tickets soon.

< Back A Cradle of Willow ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Grant, Emma Greir, Alma Grimshaw, Harold Hughes, Edward D Lightowler, Ronnie R Martin, Cynthia Morrison, Elspeth Richardson, Amy Royle, Dudley Sculfer, Kathleen Turner, Marion

< Back The Marquise ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2019 Billcliff, Arthur Davenport, Alfred Hall, Irene Osborne, Edgar Robinson, Dorothy A Scott, R J F Wolstenholme, Rosemary

< Back Annie Jr ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 10 December 2018 Annie Junior is based on the popular comic strip and is the youth version of the hit Broadway show. Annie Junior tells of a feisty depression-era orphan determined to find her parents who abandoned her on the doorstep of a New York City orphanage. The orphanage, inhabited by Annie and her orphan friends, is run by the cruel, scheming Miss Hannigan who, with her brother Rooster, plots to take advantage of Annie’s good fortune when she finds a new family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy. Annie Junior is a fantastic show, full of family favourites, and features the students of the Garrick Academy of Performing Arts, aged five to sixteen - plus a real, live dog, performing Annie favourites, including Tomorrow, Hard Knock Life and Easy Street. A fun-filled show for all the family! Wednesday 26th at 7.30pm - 12-16 age group Thursday 27th at 7.30pm - 12-16 age group Friday 28th at 7.30pm - 12-16 age group Saturday 29th at 2.00pm - 5-8 and 8-11 age groups Saturday 29th at 7.30pm - 12-16 age group Sunday 30th at 2.00pm - 5-8 and 8-11 age groups

< Back The Dresser ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 7 August 2013 Postponed from last season. This wonderfully affectionate and compassionate play about the theatre not only captures the ambiguous relationship between the star "Sir" and the dresser "Norman", it also shows the sentiment, bitchiness and comradeship of the backstage world of the touring theatre.Enduring tatty digs and nightmare train journeys required devotion and dedication. It is the character of the Dresser who epitomises these ideals and perpetuates the myth. Albert Finney and Tom Courtenay starred in the film CAST Terry Chandler as Sir Nick Johnson as Norman Mary Wright as Her Ladyship Pat Williamson as Madge Hugh Everett as Mr Oxenby Peter de la Wyche as Geoffrey Thornton Becky Wright as Irene Knights, Lords etc played by Frank Boylan, Ken Curragh, Brian Stoner

< Back Lonesome Like ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 1 July 2014 CAST Irving, Ella Kirton, C H Lawley, Mollie Mounfield, Frank

< Back Entertaining Angels ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 12 August 2013 As a vicar's wife, Grace has spent a lifetime on her best behaviour. Now, after the death of her husband Bardolph, she can enjoy the new-found freedom of being able to do and say exactly what she wants. But the return of her eccentric missionary sister, Ruth, together with some disturbing revelations forces Grace to confront the truth of her marriage. Set in a lush vicarage garden complete with real grass, plants and a stream with running water, the play is filled with sharp-edged comedy and probing wit.

< Back English Touring Opera Live on Stage - Performance 4 ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 19 October 2020 LYRIC SOLITUDE - performance 4 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. Sunday's matinee is the final musical event of the three days, and features the following: La Voix Humaine (Poulenc) A Waterbird Talk (Argento) Total duration 90 mins La Voix Humaine (Poulenc) Poulenc’s final opera, written for the extraordinary soprano Denise Duval, is based on Jean Cocteau’s play. The opera (45 minutes) is the last conversation between a young woman and her lover, who is abandoning her. Through her little lies, and his thunderous lies, the truth of their relationship becomes clear. It is an overwhelming account of love and love’s ending. Soprano Paula Sides is ‘the human voice’, partnered by Sergey Rybin on the piano and directed by James Conway. (Note: La Voix Humaine is also being performed on Saturday afternoon .) A Waterbird Talk (Argento) In the course of an illustrated lecture on the mating habits of water fowl, an ornithologist (baritone Julien van Mellaerts) describes his oppressive marriage. Each song-like section of the drama describes a different species, and onto each he projects his own feelings – to the evident concern of his wife in the audience, whose bird-like coughs interrupt his lyric digressions. Light hearted and melancholy in equal measure, it is an ideal complement to La Voix Humaine . Susan Bickley, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished mezzo-sopranos of her generation, makes her directorial debut, and the pianist is Ella O’Neill. Sung in English. Adapted by Dominick Argento from On the Harmfulness of Tobacco by Anton Chekov and The Birds of America by J. J. Audobon. A contemporary opera, premiered in 1977. 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 Sunday 22 November at 15:00: Two short operas, by Poulenc and Argento (this performance) - includes La Voix Humaine Note: apart from La Voix Humaine being performed twice, all other pieces are being performed just once only.

< Back Kafka's Dick ˂ Previous Production Next Production ˃ to 16 December 2013 It is 1919 and the tubercular Kafka insists that best friend Max burn all his writings after his death. Max, of course, goes on to publish Kafka's work and also writes Kafka's biography - thereby setting the ball rolling on the subsequent Kafka hysteria. We are transported to present day and the sitting room of Sydney, a Kafka-besotted insurance agent who is working on his "definitive" article on Kafka for the Journal of Insurance Studies, while his sexually frustrated wife, Linda, stares morosely out of the window and his elderly father is reading up on current affairs in his effort to convince social workers and family that he isn't gaga. If you have enjoyed Bennett on the small (or large) screen, this will give you greater insight into one of our finest contemporary (and Northern) writers. It is well worth the while and yes, the title means what you think. Poor Kafka, overendowed with paranoia, underendowed with ... CAST Mark Butt as Kafka Trevor McKie as Brod Caroline Hickey as Linda Allan Taylor as Father David Beddy as Sydney Martin Oldfield as Hermann K