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Previous Next Phil Lynch Phil Lynch was a past Chairman of the Society. He and his wife Val joined the Garrick in the early 1980s and Phil took part in a number of plays, as well as helping to run the theatre, until they left to move back to the South of England. Back to In Memoriam page

Garrick Production Hobson's Choice Date range Tickets £13 - £15 Age guidance Venue STUDIO Theatre Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more Written by Harold Brighouse Directed by Ros Greenwood Salford. 1880. A father and daughter go head to head in this classic comedy. Widower Henry Hobson is struggling to handle his three grown-up daughters, each seeking a husband and an escape from the family boot-makers’ shop. But with the domineering Hobson spending more time boozing in the Moonraker’s Arms than on the business, the future of the firm and the family is in the hands of eldest daughter, the no-nonsense Maggie. When she sets her sights on the talented boot-maker Willie Mossop, it’s the start of an unlikely partnership that threatens to ruin Hobson’s trade. Reluctantly, he’s forced to make a choice… Garrick Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest Performed by The Garrick Ensemble / PLEASE NOTE: 50% reduced capacity and socially distanced seating on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings Ran Feb 7, 2022 - Feb 12, 2022 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description By Dale Wasserman From the Novel by Ken Kesey Directed by Joseph Meighan Please Note – Reduced capacity and socially distanced seating for our Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening performances of this production. Boisterous, ribald and ultimately shattering, One Flew Over the Cuckoo‘s Nest is the unforgettable story of a mental hospital and its inhabitants. When a brash new inmate arrives, the rigid program of the ward, headed by the tyrannical Nurse Ratched, is thrown up for grabs. In a world where sanity means conformity and following the rules is the only way to survive, One Flew Over the Cuckoo‘s Nest is a powerful exploration of both the beauty and the danger of being an original. Volatile and dark, humorous, thought-provoking and with strong language, this play (based on the classic 1962 novel by Ken Kesey and the 1972 film starring Jack Nicholson, which won five major Academy awards) is a true cult classic and will be an unforgettable evening at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse, performed by The Garrick Ensemble. WARNING – this production contains strong language and adult themes. The Garrick Ensemble is a company of 18 – 30 year old aspiring actors from Greater Manchester and Cheshire who perform one production each year as part of the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse Main House Season. The production will be directed by Artistic Director Joseph Meighan. The Garrick Ensemble aims to make theatre that is fresh, innovative and exciting. See the very best of local, up and coming talent before they move forward in the next stages of their careers in the Arts. Reviews Rick Bowen - Stagestruck WHEN the criminal Randle Patrick McMurphy is admitted to a cheerless psychiatric hospital, he doesn’t simply rock the boat. He capsizes it. This American classic, from the pen of Ken Kesey, has lost none of its power to shock, move or captivate in a stage adaptation that certainly succeeds in capturing the spirit of the original, rather wonderful novel. McMurphy, in a bid to avoid a jail sentence, pleads insanity and ends up in a grim institution presided over by one of contemporary literature’s most horrendous baddies, the notorious Nurse Ratched. She hides behind a veneer of care and compassion. In reality of course, she has no concept of either is particularly cruel to the stammering Billy, knowing exactly which buttons to press when it comes to making him feel guilty when this sad and sympathetic character has a glimpse of normality courtesy of the rebellious new arrival McMurphy. In him she finds a formidable adversary, as he reminds his fellow patients what it feels like to live again, organising a number of events that fly in the face of the hospital’s draconian rules. For those of you who are new to this tale I won’t be a party pooper. Let me just say Mc Murphy’s antics lead to a number of unforgettable scenes on the Garrick stage. Director Joe Meighan must have thought all his birthdays had come at once when Joseph Morgan auditioned for the role of Randle P McMurphy. Morgan brings a freshness and an individuality to the part immortalised on the big screen by the legendary Jack Nicholson. Matthew Spilsbury is simply outstanding as the towering Chief Bromden, offering us a heart breaking reminder of the appalling treatment meted out to the native Americans in ‘the land of the free.’ Returning to Ratched, I really admire Madeleine Healey for the way she resisted the temptation to take the pantomime villainess route when playing the role and I challenge anyone not to be moved by the scene with Billy – an excellent Charlie Gallagher – in which she crushes him by re-visiting the character’s innate sense of guilt. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest is yet another triumph for this theatre’s dynamic and exciting young actors group, the Garrick Ensemble. This a production not to be missed. Boy, how I wish I could write like Ken Kesey. Flawless – in every respect. Star rating ***** Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Previous Next Gordon Prentice Gordon was a wonderful comedy performer who excelled in the Old Time Music Halls that, for 15 years, were an institution at the Garrick. He took part in almost all of them annually from the early 1970s, until the last one in 1990, and is pictured here as a Pearly King in 1978. He also appeared in several pantomimes such as Dick Whittington, Aladdin , and as an Ugly Sister in Cinderella . His first performances on the Garrick stage were in serious dramas such as Luther in 1972 and Macbeth in 1973, but it wasn't long before he was cast in comedy roles such as the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz , There Goes the Bride ', and See How They Run. Gordon also took part in most social events and cabarets in the bar, and worked in the Front of House team. Back to In Memoriam page

The Altrincham Garrick is delighted to make our mainstage auditorium, our studio theatre and other rooms available for hire. We al;so hire out props, costume and theatrical weaponry. Garrick Hire Hire the theatre, hire from the theatre The Garrick offers a comprehensive hire service. The Altrincham Garrick is delighted to make our main stage auditorium, our studio theatre and other rooms available for hire to local organisations and to professional companies. In addition, we have a huge range of theatrical props, costumes, weaponry and theatrical equipment available for hire . We welcome enquiries of all sorts. Please fill in our online form , ring us on 0161 928 1677 or send us an e-mail, to hire@altrinchamgarrick.co.uk . Hire Form Join our mailing list Subscribe

Visiting Production MANIA: The Abba Tribute Date range Tickets £27 Age guidance Venue Main House Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more Direct from London’s West End, MANIA is accepted as the world’s number one ABBA tribute show. A special concert which celebrates the music of ABBA in a respectful and enjoyable way, this production revives memories of when ABBA ruled the airwaves. It is more than 40 years since ABBA won the Eurovision Song Contest and they have filled our lives with music ever since. Now it’s your chance to thank them for the music! MANIA brings fans old and new, a memorable night not to be missed. If you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained, then MANIA: the ABBA tribute is the show for you! Dig out those platforms, dust down those flares, and join in with such classics as ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘Voulez Vous’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Winner Takes It All’, ‘Super Trouper’ and many, many more. Visiting Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Visiting Production Oh What A Night! Date range Tickets £27 Age guidance Venue Main House Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more OH WHAT A NIGHT! takes you back in time on a musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Valli’s unmistakable voice dominated the airwaves for more than two decades with classics such as Sherry, Let’s Hang On, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, December 63 (Oh What A Night), Bye Bye Baby, Who Loves You and many, many more. Selling over 100 million records worldwide, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons secured their place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. OH WHAT A NIGHT! combines infectious personalities, amazing vocals, slick harmonies and even slicker dance moves to deliver a show full of energy and nostalgia which always leaves audiences wanting more. Don’t miss the ultimate celebration of one of the world’s greatest Rock & Roll bands! Visiting Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production The Devil's Disciple Ran Jan 5, 1921 - Jan 5, 1921 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description By George Bernard Shaw CAST Blackburn, Lydia Briggs, Harry Crabb, Florence Creaton V Dykes, Tom Gorman, Philip?Norris Landon, W Eric Lowe, Edgar M Mason, Edward Matthews, Marion Thwaite Owen, Tom Stickland, Lil Stone, Suzanne Warburton, George A Wilkinson, John Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Productions Jupiter Laughs Ran Jan 1, 1946 - Jan 1, 1946 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description Chapman, Laurie Hobbs, Olive Nellie Lockett, Jack Lucius, Olive Matthias, Mary Morison, Diana Pearce, Rosemary Simpson, Frank Hill Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Previous Next Nick Johnson Nick was one of the real characters at the Garrick, who joined in the early 1960's. His forte was comedy, and he was outstanding in numerous plays such as Hay Fever , How the Other Half Loves , Having a Ball , Hobson's Choice , Lettice and Lovage , and An Ideal Husband . He was also a talented writer, writing and performing in many shows and cabarets, some of which he produced in the Garrick bar to raise funds for the STAGE Appeal. These were often zany events, but always highly entertaining. Even after he had his leg amputated, he still performed and was able to access the stage via the lift from the dressing room installed after the 1999 renovation. Nick was a great patron of the bar, where his conversations were always highly amusing. He is fondly remembered for his sense of humour and his indomitable spirit despite his handicap. Back to In Memoriam page

Activities & Events Febtastic - GAPA Half Term Drama Workshop (FRIDAY) Date range Tickets £35 per day or £30 if book all 5 days Age guidance 6 - 18 years Venue Annex Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time 6 hours Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more Exciting drama workshops for students aged 6-18. Join us during the February half term to enjoy theatrical fun: combining music, movement, monologues and much more! Sign up to half-term holidays for a day or for the full week. GAPA’s half-term workshops encourage the participants to explore their creative side and promote teamwork, in a safe and friendly environment. Classes run 10am - 4pm and cost £35 per day, or book the full 5 days and receive a £25 discount. Workshops start each day at 10.00am and finish at 4.00pm. Attendees are required to bring their own refreshments to see them through the day. Attendees are also requested to wear clothes suitable for movement and appropriate footwear, which will enable them to engage in all of the daily activities. Students will be required to read text unaided. Activities & Events Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production A Chorus Line A musical masterpiece that revolutionised Broadway Ran Sep 8, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025 Age guidance 12 + Venue Main House Running time TBC Tickets Price Range £19 - £24 Description Seventeen Stories. Eight Chances. One Singular Sensation. New York City. 1975. On an empty Broadway stage, seventeen performers are put through their paces in the final, gruelling audition for a new Broadway musical. For everyone present, it’s the chance of a lifetime. It’s the one opportunity to do what they’ve always dreamed of – to have the chance to dance… but only eight will make the cut. Told through captivating song, riveting drama and stunning choreography, the auditionees describe the events that have shaped their lives and their decisions to become dancers. Based on real-life testimonies from late-night recording sessions with dancers, these are the lives of theatre’s unsung heroes, as they tell searing stories of ambition, shattered hopes, and what it really costs to follow your dreams. A Chorus Line is a musical masterpiece that revolutionised Broadway, winning nine Tony Awards, seven Drama Desk Awards, the New York Critics’ Circle Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Now celebrating 50 years since A CHORUS LINE first graced the Broadway stage, it is time experience a stunning new production full of heart, music and dance at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse. - Directed by Joseph Meighan - Musical Direction by Mark Goggins - Choreographed by Louise Pettitt Reviews Described as "polished, passionate, and unforgettable"; the opening production of our 2025/26 Season 'A Chorus Line' has been awarded 5 STARS from NORTH WEST END UK . "The creative team deserve immense credit. The lighting and sound were flawless, enhancing the minimalist staging with atmosphere and precision. Glittering costumes in the finale brought that Broadway dazzle, and the audience responded with thunderous applause and cheers. Louise Pettitt’s choreography deserves high praise. Every number was tight, synchronised, and visually stunning". "The musical backbone of the show came from Mark Goggins and his 14-piece live band, who played with energy, precision, and flair." "A thoroughly enjoyable evening, delivered by a sensational cast and creative team. Quite simply, this ‘A Chorus Line’ was theatre at its very best – uplifting, heartfelt, and unforgettable." Katie Leicester at NORTH WEST END UK - Read the full review HERE "IT’S hard to believe this show is 50 years old. Despite its age, its power to move, amuse, entertain and exhilarate remains as strong as ever thanks to a sumptuous score and a very stirring dance finale that raised the roof at the Garrick on opening night." "Unmissable, high quality entertainment." Rick Bowen at STAGESTRUCK - Read the full review HERE Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Warning: This performance contains haze, loud music, discussion of bereavement, mention of physical violence and abuse, discussion of homophobia, discussion of discrimination, strong language, and discussion of sexual abuse. This production contains some references and language that may be unsuitable for younger children. Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production The Magic Circle Ran Jan 3, 1915 - Jan 3, 1915 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description By Walter R Matthews CAST Blackburn, Lydia Broadsmith, Miss E Hutchinson, T D B Noble, Jack Noble, Miss May Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production Treasure Island Robert Louis Stevenson's swashbuckling, action packed story is the perfect treat this Easter! Ran Apr 3, 2024 - Apr 14, 2024 Age guidance 8+ Venue Main House Running time 2.5 hours (inc. 20 mins interval) Tickets Price Range £12 - £17 Description Avast there, me hearties! It’s time to set sail with the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse this Easter Holiday for an action-packed, swashbuckling adventure on the high seas to TREASURE ISLAND! It's a dark and stormy night. Jim, the inn-keeper's granddaughter, opens the door to a terrifying stranger. At the old sailor's feet sits a huge sea-chest, full of secrets. Jim invites him in - and her dangerous voyage begins… Gathering a motley crew of sailors and pirates, Jim sets sail on the mighty Hispaniola bound for a lost island and untold fortunes. The ship’s charming cook, Long John Silver, quickly befriends Jim but as the island draws near, danger lurks beneath the surface. Will Jim and her friends find the buried gold, or will the one-legged pirate be the death of them all? This thrilling new adaptation by Bryony Lavery of Treasure Island premiered at the National Theatre, London, in December 2014. Robert Louis Stevenson's classic story of murder, money and mutiny is the perfect treat for all the Family! Oh… and feel free to bring your parrot along too! Performance Schedule: Wednesday 3rd April - 7.30pm Thursday 4th April - 7.30pm Friday 5th April - 7.30pm Saturday 6th April - 1.30pm Saturday 6th April - 5.30pm Sunday 7th April - 1.30pm Sunday 7th April - 5.30pm Wednesday 10th April - 7.30pm Thursday 11th April - 7.30pm Friday 12th April - 7.30pm Saturday 13th April - 1.30pm Saturday 13th April - 5.30pm Sunday 14th April - 1.30pm Reviews Review by Rick Bowen at https://www.stagestruck.info/blog ANYONE who knows me will tell you my sea legs are terrible. But this nautical adventure is a trip well worth making as it takes place on dry land, perfect for a land lubber like me. Also it was really pleasing to see so many children in the audience as I imagine far too many kids think live theatre begins and ends with pantomime. I know I did. This rollicking good adventure sees Jim Hawkins -Lauren Brown - and the legendary baddie Long John Silver Michael Gallagher - -on the hunt for buried treasure in a far flung destination that can destroy the sanity of those brave enough to set foot there. Brown and Gallagher are a terrifically engaging double act even if there are occasions when Gallagher is at serious risk of being upstaged by a parrot. There are also some great sword fights to enjoy and all the action takes place against a very believable backdrop designed by James Merrington. I particularly enjoyed the inn at the start of the evening, complete with flickering fire effect in the grate. Set designers haven’t received the recognition they often deserve in my previous reviews. Hopefully this will serve to redress the balance somewhat. Helen Horridge is extremely watchable and likeable as Squire and the appreciative applause Euan Tanna-Fenton received during the performance was richly deserved as he was so convincing as a sailor who’d lost his mind, having lived alone on the island for three long and lonely years. Joe Meighan’s appointment as the Garrick’s artistic director has proved to be a real masterstroke and he proves yet again that the words ‘family show’ don’t have to be shorthand for stupidity. To enter into the spirit of the evening the theatre’s front of house staff dressed in sailor garb. Well done, me hearties. Until April 14. Tickets are available from 0161 928 1677 or www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk . Star rating - 3.5 out of 5. Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Loud noises, special effects, mild violence and threats. Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

This page is used to allow you to select your seats for this event at the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse Your Selection Your selection Basket Checkout Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production Jack & The Beanstalk - The Garrick Pantomime This GIANT adventure is the pantomime you've BEAN waiting for! Ran Dec 6, 2024 - Jan 5, 2025 Age guidance 3+ Venue Main House Running time 2.5 hours (inc. 20 mins interval) Tickets Price Range £14 - £18 Description Our festive show for 2024/25 is our pantomime Jack & The Beanstalk ! The Garrick Panto is back and full of FEE, FIE, FOE, FUN !! Young Jack, his daft-as-a-brush brother, Silly Simon, and his long-suffering mother, Dame Trott, live in a tiny cottage in the shadow of the terrible giant, Blunderbore. With the rent overdue they have no choice but to sell their beloved cow, Daisy. After tricking the Trotts into selling her for a bag of worthless beans, the villainous giant's henchman – Fleshcreep - kidnaps the Princess for his master's supper. Will Jack be able to rescue Daisy and Princess Jill in time? Perhaps those beans aren't as worthless as they seemed ... Expect laughs, music, dance, special effects, dazzling costumes, stunning sets, magic beans and bundles of audience participation at the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse! This GIANT adventure is the pantomime you've BEAN waiting for! Reviews Peter Ruddick - North West End UK "Professional, gorgeous and delightful" Read the full review HERE Rick Bowen - StageStruck Read the full review HERE Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Flashing lights and special effects, loud noises and pyrotechnics Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Use this page to search the archive of past productions at the Altrincham Garrick. About Us Productions Archive Altrincham Garrick Playhouse is the beating heart of the community. A theatre, cinema, youth academy and community creative social place for all to enjoy. About the Theatre History of the Garrick In Memoriam: Past Members of the Garrick Productions Archive This part of the website provides a list of the Productions at the Garrick since the first one in 1914. Note: this section is still being transferred from the old web-site and being re-vamped. We hope that this will be completed before the end of 2026. If you have any photographs, programmes, or other details you’d like to offer to us, or any comments, please contact webmaster@altrinchamgarrick.co.uk . Text to search for Start date (optional) End date (optional) Search Here are the results of your search for between overridden in code overridden in code Nothing found when we searched for overridden in code between overridden in code over-ridden by title Date(s) overridden by from & to dates Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production The East Window Ran Jan 2, 1915 - Jan 2, 1915 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description By Walter R Matthews CAST Bonson, John P Hough, B G Megson, Miss Margaret Slinn, Ella Warburton, George A Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Garrick Production The Railway Children Date range Tickets £14 - £19 Age guidance 7+ Venue Main House Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more Written by E. Nesbit Adapted for the Stage by Mike Kenny Directed by Su Mowat "Try to imagine it as an adventure, all sorts of things might happen." A beloved children’s classic pulls in to the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse for the Easter holidays! When their father leaves suddenly under mysterious circumstances, Bobbie, Peter, Phyllis and their mother must move to a small cottage in rural Yorkshire where life is very different. The children meet new friends, save the day and divert disasters, and along the way discover a world full of imagination, love and resilience. All aboard for Mike Kenny’s delightful adaptation of E. Nesbit's much-loved story of family, adventure and trains. Capturing all of the angsts and exhilarations of childhood, it promises to be a heart-warming treat for all ages! Mike Kenny's version of The Railway Children was first staged at the National Railway Museum in York in 2008, before receiving a major production at Waterloo Station in London in 2010. Garrick Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Productions Return to the Forbidden Planet Ran May 22, 2000 - May 27, 2000 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description By: Bob Carlton Directed By: Val Watkinson Designer: Stephen Bradshaw Climb aboard Captain Tempest's Starship for the trip of a lifetime. The Garrick are delighted to end the season with the award-winning musical - Shakespeare's forgotten Rock'n'Roll masterpiece, bursting at the seams with such hits as Good Vibrations, Great Balls of Fire, Only the Lonely and Teenager in Love. So - fasten your seatbelts and prepare to Shake, Rattle and Roll. A Cosmic Adventure. Simply out of this world!! Reviews SAM's view on "Return to the Forbidden Planet" Rock on, Garrick - Rock musical is a real hit It's Shakespeare Jim, but not as we know it. Heaven only knows what the Bard would make of this space age revamp of The Tempest mixed with 1950's sci-fi classic The Forbidden Planet. But Return To The Forbidden Planet was a hit, indeed a very palpable hit with the opening night audience at Altrincham's Garrick Theatre. The cast work hard to whip up a party spirit in the audience and the end result is two hours of inter galactic fun and frolics. A space ship and it's (sic) crew crash land on a planet governed by Dr Prospero, a mad scientist with a hairstyle to match. The ship's cook falls in love with the barmy boffin's innocent daughter, Miranda. But the loveable Cookie has a rival in the shape of the smooth talking Captain Tempest. Plot isn't really important here. You go to see Return To The Forbidden Planet to let your hair down, to enjoy the bad jokes and the great music. The score reads like a who's who of rock and roll and the highlights include the immortal foot tappers Johnny B Goode and Great Balls of Fire, Good Vibrations and the incurably catchy Shoop Shoop Song. As for the best performances, it's impossible to ignore the contribution of the usual suspects. Charlie Tomlinson as a manic Dr Prospero, Peter Birch as the rolling skating robot Ariel and Barry Spencer as love lorn Cookie. Sarah Taylor makes an impressive full Garrick debut as Science Officer and Wayne Holt radiates a comic book appeal as Captain Tempest. This was an ambitious project for the Garrick to take on and they've succeeded superbly. Make sure you don't miss their riotous end of season party. Anyone who does deserves a good zapping. Rick Bowen. Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Previous Next Stephen Wardale Stephen was the Garrick's longest-serving supporter, having been a member for over 75 years at the time of his death. He was a great patron and benefactor. His aunt and uncle were founding members, and it was they who took him to see his first play : George Bernard Shaw's The Devil's Disciple . That was performed in 1922 at the Dunham Road Unitarian Chapel, the Garrick's former home. Stephen remembered the current theatre being built in 1932, and in the late 1960s he became a long-serving Front of House manager. He was aware of the refurbishment plans put forward in 1998 and knew that Lottery Funding had been obtained, but unfortunately didn't live long enough to see the theatre as it is today. There is no doubt that he would have been thrilled at the outcome. Stephen is pictured after receiving his Open University degree when he was in his 70's. Back to In Memoriam page

Rent our theatre prop Guns and Rifles - a large variety Available. Garrick Hire Prop Gun and Rifle Hire Hire blank-firing and non-firing guns and rifles About the Armoury Prop Gun & Rifle Hire Prop Swords, Knives & Miscellaneous The Altrincham Garrick is pleased to offer a large selection of replica guns and rifles as part of our prop gun hire department. This covers a huge selection of fake handguns, pistols, rifles and shot guns available to hire from a many different eras. From eighteenth century flintlocks through western rifles, through 30s Tommy guns, to more modern shotguns and rifles. We also have replica AK47s and more modern looking assault rifles. All can be hired from our secure location in Altrincham. Hire Form We welcome enquiries of all sorts. We have a vast experience of shows and plays, so we can work closely with you to select the correct gun(s) for your production. Please be aware that we do not hire out to member of the public (for example fancy dress parties, themed re-enactments, stag or hen parties). We only rent to bona fide theatres, television and film/movie production companies. If you are interested in prop gun hire from us then please browse the photos and contact us to give us an indication of your enquiries. We will then respond with a quotation built around your requirements. Please give us as much information possible. We may need to carry out certain background checks before hiring to you. Please fill in our online form , call us on 0161 928 1677 or send us an e-mail: hire@altrinchamgarrick.co.uk . Browse Our Prop Gun Collection Long-barrel guns and rifles (non-practical blank-firing) This selection includes replica flintlock carbine rifles, shotguns, Lee Enfields, Winchester rifles and air rifles. Some can be fitted with straps and some with telescopic sights. Hand-guns and pistols (practical blank-firing) All the replica pistols shown are available as blank-firing. Some examples: Number 1 is a modified period percussion cap prop hand pistol. Number 4 is a prop Derringer, which conforms to extra regulations. Long-barrel guns and rifles (non-firing) This is a small selection of our large range of dummy, prop, deactivated and non-practical rifles. Some are exact replica guns; others are simple wooden-profile cut-out shapes (being more suitable for cost-conscious productions). None of this range is able to fire. Hand-guns and pistols (non-firing) These short-barrel handguns are deactivated, non-practical, dummy, replica or prop guns. We cover a comprehensive range, from the earliest flintlock pistol through to modern-day hand automatics. None of this range is able to fire. Submachine guns (non-firing) Shown here is a selection from our stock of these guns, many of which can be supplied with straps. Some examples: Number 1 is the Lewis Gun MK1 that was especially made for our stage production of Dad's Army . Number 2 is an SA80, which can be used with or without telescopic sights. None of this range is able to fire. Hire Form Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production Translations The Irish Studio Season: A Drama about community, culture and language Ran Jun 10, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025 Age guidance 12+ Venue Altrincham Garrick Studio Running time TBC Tickets Price Range £12.50 - £14.50 Description Written by Brian Friel Directed by Charlie Tomlinson It’s August 1833. The pupils have gathered in a hedge-school in the townland of Baile Beag/Ballybeg; an Irish-speaking community in County Donegal which has become the unlikely focal point for a changing world. Progress is coming. Tensions are growing. There are plans for a new English-speaking national school and a recently arrived detachment of the Royal Engineers are making the first Ordnance Survey. For the purposes of cartography, the local Gaelic place names are to be recorded and rendered into English… Brian Friel’s modern masterpiece Translations examines the fractious relationship between people and nations through the lens of language and (mis)communication. Please contact our Box Office on 0161 928 1677 or email boxoffice@altrinchamgarrick.co.uk to book in your school or group (10 tickets or more). Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Previous Next Sybil Dodds Sybil was a tireless volunteer at the Garrick, working mostly in the kiosk and running the coffee bar from October 1959 until the late 1970s. In recognition of her long service, she was awarded Honorary Life Membership in 1977. A generous benefactor of the Garrick, she also took a full part in its social life. Back to In Memoriam page

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production RELAXED PERFORMANCE of The Worst Witch RELAXED PERFORMANCE of this family fun, stage adaptation of Jill Murphy's classic story Ran Apr 13, 2025 Age guidance Recommended 7+ Venue Main House Running time TBC Tickets Price Range £13 - £18 Description WHAT IS A RELAXED PERFORMANCE? If you are a parent, guardian, or work with people with learning or sensory disabilities – such as those on the autism spectrum – you’ll know how difficult it can sometimes be for them to attend regular theatre performances; loud noises, lighting effects and large crowds can make stage shows overwhelming. At Altrincham Garrick Playhouse, we believe that everyone should be able to experience the magic and wonder of live theatre, and our Relaxed Performance will provide the same magical show but with an atmosphere and attitude in the auditorium that makes everyone feel comfortable and safe. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR RELAXED PERFORMANCE: At a Relaxed Performed, you are free to: - Come and go from the auditorium as you wish, even during the show - Express yourself as loudly as you like, or with physical movement, without judgement - Access the Theatre and auditorium early. You’ll also notice that we will reduce the sound and lighting to lessen sensory overload, and no pyrotechnics or loud bangs will appear in the performance. Adapted from Jill Murphy’s original books by Emma Reeves. With Music by Luke Potter. Directed by Kay Valentine Before Harry Potter exploded onto the scene there was another seemingly ordinary child, Mildred Hubble, who wound up in the most extraordinary of places… A school for witches! Now its time for you to join the world of magic and mayhem at Altrincham Garrick Playhouse this Easter Holiday! Currently in her final year at Miss Cackle’s Academy, accident prone Mildred and her fellow pupils are about to embark on their biggest adventure yet… When Mildred and her friends decide to put on a play about their experiences as witches in training, mayhem inevitably ensues. Jealous Ethel Hallow is always out to spoil Mildred’s fun. Stern Miss Hardbroom is opposed to all fun in general. Worst of all, an old enemy returns with a plan for revenge that could threaten not just the Academy, but the whole world. Featuring all of Jill Murphy’s beloved characters, this action-packed new stage adaptation by Emma Reeves includes original music, magic and the beloved Mildred. The Worst Witch premiered at Royal & Derngate, Northampton in 2019 and toured the UK before transferring to London’s West End later that year. The production then went on to win the Olivier Award for Best Family Show in 2020! Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Visiting Production Don't Stop Believing - The Clare Tanner School of Dance Date range Tickets £10-£12 Age guidance - Venue Main House Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more Prepared to be wowed! The Clare Tanner Tanner School of Dance performance is packed with energy, colour, and outstanding dance. Our students have been working hard to bring you a show full of excitement and memorable moments – perfect for family and friends of all ages. Get ready to be entertained! Visiting Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

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Previous Next Stevie Salem (née Holt) Stevie was a firm Garrick audience favourite for over 20 years, appearing in over thirty shows in a leading role. Her first play at the theatre was in Birds on a Wing , in 1972. Her other main credits include Crown Matrimonial , Private Lives , Play it Again Sam , After the Ball , Blithe Spirit (when she played Elvira), California Suite , Having a Ball , A Taste of Honey , See How They Run (in which she played Penelope Toop), and Steel Magnolias . Her final performance on the Garrick stage was in Last Tango in Whitby in 1993. Stevie also appeared in musicals such as Marie and Annie , as well as several Old Time Music Halls. Backstage, she regularly worked as an ASM. Back to In Memoriam page

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Productions Vivat! Vivat! Regina The Garrick's contribution to the celebrations for the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the accession to the throne of Queen Elizabeth II. Ran Feb 4, 2002 - Feb 9, 2002 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description The Garrick's contribution to the celebrations for the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the accession to the throne of Queen Elizabeth II. As our contribution we are very proud to be presenting this engrossing play by one of our premier writers. The play follows the relationship between Mary Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I from shortly before Mary's return to Scotland, through her marriage to Darnley, Rizzio's death, the scandal over Bothwell to Mary's imprisonment and subsequent execution, with the play closing as Spain prepares its Armada. With an all-star cast and the sumptuous costumes for which the Garrick is renowned this is a celebration not to be missed. CAST Mary, Queen of Scots: Stephanie Hawthorne Claud Nau: Ian Fensome William Cecil: Terry Chandler Elizabeth I of England: Pam Nolan Robert Dudley: Martin Creevy John Knox: Hugh Everett David Rizzio: Mark Jephcott Lord Morton: Richard Frost Lord Bothwell: Bryn Thomas Lord Bishop of Durham: Frank Boylan Sir Francis Walsingham: Roger Metcalfe De Quadra: David Midgeley Davison: Mike Shaw Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley: John Keen Ruthven: Brian Stoner Lindsey: Daniel Cloran Tala: Derrick Dykins Ormiston: Alex Wilson Douglas: David Walton Falconside: Peter Coatman Court Ladies: Paula Taylor Mandy Flude Caroline Hickey Juliet Wilson Directed by Sonia Dykstra Designer: Juliet Jones Costume Design & Creation: Mike Shaw Sound Design: Robin Watkinson Sound Operator: Steve Williamson Lighting Design & Operation: Mike North Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production The Silver Box (1921) Ran Jan 4, 1921 - Jan 4, 1921 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description By John Galsworthy CAST Bonson, John P Brierley, Norman Calderbank, Arthur Crabb, W Dykes, Tom Gow, Ronald Higson, Nellie J Hill, Arthur P Jones, Eric Jones, Trissie Mason, Edward Matthews, Marion Thwaite Nixon, Walter S Owen, Tom Pye, George H Slinn, Ella Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Escape to a world of pure imagination with our October Musical Ran Oct 23, 2025 - Nov 2, 2025 Age guidance 6+ Venue Main House Running time TBC Tickets Price Range £19 - £25 Description Escape to a world of pure imagination with ROALD DAHL’S Charlie and The Chocolate Factory – The Musical . The world-famous Willy Wonka is opening the gates to his mysterious factory… but only to a lucky few. Charlie Bucket, an imaginative boy with a knack for making something out of nothing, dreams of acquiring a golden ticket to tour Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory and can’t believe his luck when it actually happens! Fellow contest winners: Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, Mike Teavee, and Augustus Gloop, have no idea what they're getting themselves into, as they each learn valuable lessons from Mr. Wonka. Nobody leaves the same way that they arrived… Discover a magical world full of amazement, innovation, sugary treats, and, of course, Oompa-Loompas! Based on the famous novel by Roald Dahl, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory features an original score from the multi awarding-winning songwriters of Hairspray (Music by Marc Shaiman with Lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman and a Book by David Greig), blended with songs from the 1971 motion picture including "Candy Man," "I've Got a Golden Ticket," “The Oompa Loompa Song," and "Pure Imagination” (Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley). Every ticket is GOLDEN, so book yours today! Reviews North West End UK - 5 Stars! “The Garrick’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is quite simply, pure escapism and is a must for all ages… With a well-deserved standing ovation, this show is a must for any musical theatre lover.” - Angela Kelly Read the full review by NORTH WEST END CLICK HERE NUMBER 9. "...the Garrick's production is just flawless and superb. ...utterly brilliant from start to finish." - Alastair Zyggu Read the full review by NUMBER9 CLICK HERE Stage Struck "...eye popping, spellbinding and uplifting production of Roald Dahl’s timeless classic." "If you add a score that’s as delicious as one of Wonka’s chocolate bars its fair to say the Garrick has a huge musical hit on its hands." - Rick Bowen Read the full review by STAGE STRUCK CLICK HERE Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning This production contains flashing lights and smoke effects. Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production Goldilocks & The Three Bears A rip-ROARing Panto FUR all the Family! Ran Dec 5, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026 Age guidance 3+ Venue Main House Running time Tickets Price Range £15 - £19 Description Roll up! Roll up! The Circus is in town! Dame Gertie Dollop runs a Circus show with her son - Silly Billy, but they have fallen on hard times particularly with the dastardly Ringmaster Heinkel, owner of the rival 'Circus of Horrors' up to his devious old tricks. Goldilocks dreams of running away with the circus but her father the debt-collecting Baron Wasteland won't allow it and demands the overdue pitch fees from Gertie and Billy. They need a miracle however after their honeypot full of money is taken in the middle of the night by three porridge hungry, talking bears. Could the bears be the new star attraction Dame Gertie has been searching for? And can Mystic Sharon with her crystal ball see a future for the Circus and save the day? Well, there’s only one way to find out! Head down to the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse for the big top pantomime that's just right! Reviews Stage Struck - Rick Bowen "...a cast who made it their mission to ensure the kids, even the big ones, left the theatre with a smile on their faces." Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Contains loud noises, flashing lights, pyros and special effects. Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Productions Flare Path Ran Jan 1, 1945 - Jan 1, 1945 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description Abbott, Amy Cavanagh, Cliff Harris, Frank Jones, John Glynn Pimlott, (Allman) Emmie Sanders, Hugh Walker, Kathleen White, Elliot Although we cannot confirm when this play was produced, we believe that it was the first one to be staged by the Garrick after World War II. Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Productions Immortal Garden Ran Jan 1, 1950 - Jan 1, 1950 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description Downes, Elsie Farebrother, Arthur F Healey, Tom Lightowler, Ronnie R Osborne, Edgar Royle, Dudley Smart, Brian Snape, Joyce White, Trissie Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Productions The Vicar of Dibley Dec 2013 Geraldine Granger is a non-traditional, chocolate loving, rock n' roll playing vicar, but that is not what gets the traditional and bizarre citizens of Dibley in an uproar. It's because she is a woman! Still, that doesn't stop Geraldine from proving her worthiness to the village in this hilarious adaptation of the popular TV comedy by the original author, Ian Gower. Ian says I very much hope that Garrick audiences enjoy the experience of seeing these wonderful characters come to life on stage, safe in the knowledge that all the royalties go straight to Comic Relief. Ran Dec 2, 2013 - Dec 7, 2013 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description Geraldine Granger is a non-traditional, chocolate loving, rock n' roll playing vicar, but that is not what gets the traditional and bizarre citizens of Dibley in an uproar. It's because she is a woman! Still, that doesn't stop Geraldine from proving her worthiness to the village in this hilarious adaptation of the popular TV comedy by the original author, Ian Gower. Ian says "I very much hope that Garrick audiences enjoy the experience of seeing these wonderful characters come to life on stage, safe in the knowledge that all the royalties go straight to Comic Relief". CAST David Horton - David Reynolds Geraldine Granger - Victoria Johnson Hugo Horton - Hugh Everett Alice Tinker - Alison Davenport Letitia Cropley - Pat Williamson Jim Trott - Brian Tickle Frank Pickle - Bill Platt Owen Newitt - Andrew Higson Woman - Pat Head The Children - Zahra Ahmed, Amelia Beddy, Lucy Cotterell Jemma Gavin, Freya Gilbert, Nathan Ng Kitty Seth-Smith, Emily Stewart Prompt - Adele Taylor ASM - Pat Head Reviews From the Fiction Stroker in December 2013 https://thefictionstroker.wordpress.com/2013/12/03/the-vicar-of-dibley-live/ Taking a highly respected and successful TV sitcom and transporting it to the stage is not as straightforward as it might seem. Luckily, the Altrincham Garrick has the services of Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter. Gower has previous form having adapted and produced stage versions of other popular TV sitcoms like Dad’s Army and Porridge – and it shows in this affectionate and slick tribute to The Vicar of Dibley . For those not in the know, The Vicar of Dibley was a BBC sitcom that arose from from the Church of England allowing female vicars for the first time. Dawn French played Geraldine Grainger, a vicar assigned to the sleepy village of Dibley on and off from 1994-2007. Created and written by Richard Curtis (Four Weddings and a Funeral , Love Actually ) it was a significant hit with its blend of characters and gentle humour. Based on those scripts, Gower and Carpenter have taken many of the more memorable sections and distilled them into the Garrick’s adaptation. From the outrage of the Parish Council at the arrival of the new, female vicar through to Alice and Hugo’s unforgettable wedding, the Garrick’s production of Dibley is like a greatest hits package, and a rather splendid one at that. It is testament to the cross generation appeal of Dibley that people of all ages were filling up the Garrick’s seats. Dawn French’s depiction of Geraldine Grainger was perfection. French’s chocolate chomping, fun loving vicar was rightly a comedy highlight of the 1990s. Victoria Johnson has the difficult task of stepping into these shoes and pulls the role off with aplomb. An absolute triumph, she completely embodies the character and retains a slight French influence whilst still putting her own energetic and feisty mark on the character. It’s been commented that The Vicar of Dibley is something of an ensemble piece rather than being a vehicle for its main star. The same is true of the Garrick’s adaptation with a strong core cast of 8 sharing more or less equal stage time. It therefore becomes difficult to single out specific performances. Brian Pickle brings the idiosyncratic Jim Trott to life entertainingly with much of his performance prefaced with the character’s trademark ‘No, no, no, no..’ whilst Pat Williamson’s woeful cooking efforts as Letitia Cropley provide much amusement. David Reynolds’ ruthlessly officious David Horton is the perfect foil for Bill Platt’s mercilessly pedantic Frank Pickle. However, it is Andrew Higson’s note perfect Owen Newitt with his laconic delivery and risque comments that steals the show. Higson’s performance evokes disgust and sympathy from the audience in equal measure, with him proving to have impeccable comic timing. Hugh Everett’s physicality is put to good use as Hugo Horton’s awkwardness and shy nature manifest themselves whilst around Alison Davenport’s adorably dippy Alice Tinker. Everett and Davenport go under an endurance test of sorts during the performance, the exact circumstances of which I won’t mention here – but provided much hilarity for the audience! Celia Bonner’s direction completely gets the gentle nature of Dibley and makes for a formidable pairing when combined with Barry Fletcher’s excellent set design. It’s testament to the whole team that several times during the performance I caught myself believing I was watching the television version rather than a stage one. Close your eyes briefly, and you can believe you are listening to the original cast. By the time that David pleads with Geraldine to stay at the conclusion, you’re wishing you could see more of this excellent production – and with all royalties going to Comic Relief, you have no reason not to treat yourself this Christmas. The Fiction Stroker gives The Vicar of Dibley five strokes out of five. The Vicar of Dibley runs until Saturday 7 December at the Altrincham Garrick on Barrington Road, Altrincham. There is limited availability so book now! With thanks to the Altrincham Garrick. MESSENGER REVIEW By Julia Taylor Dippy vicar of Dibley wins hearts at Altrincham Garrick The warm-hearted, scatter-brained Vicar of Dibley has come to Altrincham Garrick. She isn't the Dawn French you saw between 1994 and 2007 but their very own Victoria Johnson. Victoria wins our hearts in this re-run of old episodes especially adapted for stage by Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter. She gets into scrapes, mostly of her own making, and tells the familiar, corny jokes. She comes across as a woman who loves life and is, consequently, loved back by the audience. Other familiar characters remind us of how funny this series was. We have inspired performances by Ali Davenport as the Rev's sidekick, the dopey verger, Alice, David Reynolds as the self-important David, Chairman of the Parish Council and Andrew Higson as farmer Owen who fancies the new incumbent. Another one with a glint in his eye is Hugh Everett as Hugo, David's not very bright son, who falls for Alice. I love the scene where, egged on by the vicar, they enjoy a marathon of a first kiss! Director, Celia Bonner, includes the programme's beautiful version of psalm 23. It brings back memories to the audience. After all, that is what they are here for. The highlight is the wedding of Alice and Hugo. What an amazing dress it is with love hearts all over it! The programme proudly includes a letter from Ian Gower mentioning that royalty monies will go to Comic Relief. We, too, enjoy comic relief. NODA REVIEW by Kevin Proctor So far this season, the Garrick box office have had exceptional responses to the selection of plays and musicals for this special season and judging from the turn out for The Vicar Of Dibley, this has clearly added to the list of success! Long may it continue! This warm and faithful stage adaptation of the popular BBC sitcom has jumped on the same trolley as Calendar Girls with an appealing charity attraction. The writers of the TV series have pieced together the shows most loved and memorable scenes to create a full length piece of theatre and are donating all of the royalty fees to Comic Relief. The script doesn't particularly translate very easily as the scenes are quite short and don't flow into one another particularly well, but - the success of this piece can only rely on how well the actors impersonate these recognisable characters and Director, Celia Bonner was certainly aware of that factor! Doing one thing we were always taught not to do; imitate the original! Being a huge fan of the TV programme it was evident how each player had studied the madcap bunch of characters; from the delivery and vocal infliction of the sentences to the length of the pauses, of course the blocking, each of the characters gestures and mannerisms had all been studied, every detail was exact to the show which added to the comedy. The story encapsulated the majority of the original show, from Geraldine's arrival in Dibley (Played by Victoria Johnson), her affection for chocolate, and the love affair between nice-but-dim couple Hugo and Alice. As with the TV show, all the fun was provided by the supporting cast. Stern councillor David Horton was played with plenty of stiff upper lip by David Reynolds, aghast that his son Hugo (Hugh Everett) was set to wed barmy Alice (Ali Davenport). All of the famous characters were very well executed but farmer Owen Newitt (played Andrew Higson) delivered my personal favourite and I'd say the most accurate interpretation of these characters to the stage, closely followed by Hugh's Hugo! Each of the many scenes provided a belly-laugh or two, all of which culminated in a wedding that had to be seen (again) to be believed. It was a riotous ending to an extremely enjoyable adaptation of a much-loved series. Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Previous Next Verity Fairclough The list of what Verity did for the Garrick is longer than what she didn't do. She was a worker backstage, an ASM, a member of the Front of House team, Chairman of the Executive Committee, a member of the Board of Trustees ... and she even appeared on stage (sometimes seen, sometimes not). Verity was the model society member and, with more like her, who knows what could be achieved ... and all quietly and without fuss. If you cut her in half she would, like Blackpool rock, have Altrincham Garrick written all the way through her. Back to In Memoriam page

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Productions Your World and Mine Ran Jan 1, 1953 - Jan 1, 1953 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description Allen, Doreen Caldwell, Pamela Miller, Tony Stockton, Reg Sykes, Constance D Winning, Joyce Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production Let The Right One In A dark coming of age vampire love story, performed by The Garrick Ensemble. Ran Feb 5, 2024 - Feb 10, 2024 Age guidance 14+ Venue Main House Running time 2.5 hours (inc. 20 mins interval) Tickets Price Range £10 - £16 Description "Are you going to invite me in? …Can I come in?" Oskar is a bullied, lonely, teenage boy living with his mother on a housing estate at the edge of town, when a spate of sinister killings rocks the neighbourhood. Eli is the young girl who has just moved in next door. She doesn't go to school and never leaves the flat by day. Sensing in each other a kindred spirit, the two become devoted friends. What Oskar doesn't know is that Eli has been a teenager for a very long time… A dark and visceral coming-of-age vampire love story, based on the acclaimed novel by John Ajvide Lindqvist and cult film. Jack Thorne's adaptation of Let The Right One In premiered in June 2013 at the Dundee Rep Theatre in a production by the National Theatre of Scotland, before transferring to London's Royal Court Theatre in November 2013. It won the South Bank Sky Arts Award for Theatre in 2014. By arrangement with Marla Rubin Productions Ltd. This production is performed by THE GARRICK ENSEMBLE. The Garrick Ensemble is a company of 18 – 30 year old aspiring actors from Greater Manchester and Cheshire who perform one production each year as part of the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse Main House Season. The production will be directed by Artistic Director Joseph Meighan. The Garrick Ensemble aims to make theatre that is fresh, innovative and exciting. See the very best of local, up and coming talent before they move forward in the next stages of their careers in the Arts. Reviews 5 Stars from Rick Bowen at Stagestruck - “You simply must see this.” Read the full review HERE Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning This production contains loud noises, strong language and mature themes including the depiction of blood, extreme violence and bullying. Some scenes may make the audience jump. Not for the faint hearted. Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

If you have an interest in theatre, want to tread the boards or work front or back stage then why not become a Garrick volunteer? Get Involved Volunteering Altrincham Garrick Playhouse is the beating heart of the community. A theatre, cinema, youth academy and community creative social place for all to enjoy. If you have an interest in theatre, want to tread the boards or work front or back stage then why not become a Garrick volunteer ? We are always looking for new talent (of any age) to work in all areas of the theatre – no experience is necessary as you will be given full training by our qualified staff. We promise you that the satisfaction of a job well done will really surprise you, and you will make many new friends. Register your Interest Simply fill in this form to register your interest in getting involved in the theatre. You can also ring us on 0161 928 1677 , or send an e-mail to admin@altrinchamgarrick.co.uk Name Email Telephone Tell us how you would like to get involved, and we'll respond as soon as possible Submit Thanks for registering your interest in getting involved. We aim to get back to you very soon. What else can I do to play my part? Even if you are not able to spend the time time helping the theatre in a more active way (maybe work and other commitments mean that your time is at a premium), there other simple ways you can help your Garrick. When you come and see a show, try to pick up a leaflet or A4 poster from the Box Office or in the Bar. You could display one in your local Library, office/place of work or even your local club or shop (please make sure you have permission to do so). If you have enjoyed a show, tell your friends/colleagues – please spread the word about your theatre! Find us on Social Media and tweet/post your thoughts. This kind of help, however small, can make a huge difference to the theatre. Thank you. Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production Frankenstein by Nick Dear Thrilling, gory and deeply disturbing - Please Note: Reduced seating capacity on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Ran Jan 17, 2022 - Jan 22, 2022 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description Directed by Barry Purves Original music score by Nicholas Peters Please Note – Reduced capacity and socially distanced seating for our Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening performances of this production. Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the increasingly desperate and vengeful Creature is determined to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal… Scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil, are embedded within this thrilling, gory, deeply disturbing classic tale. Nick Dear’s adaptation of Frankenstein , based on the novel by Mary Shelley, premiered at the National Theatre, London, in February 2011 starring Benedict Cumberbatch. Warning – this play contains scenes of a graphic sexual and violent nature. Not for the faint hearted. Adapted by Nick Dear Based on the Novel by Mary Shelley Reviews Rick Bowen – Stagestruck It's the ultimate irony – only a blind man sees The Creature as a human being in Frankenstein. The rest of the world in which he strives to survive sees him as a freak, incapable of thought or feeling and the children he comes into contact with pelt him with stones. Sadly, we still live in a society obsessed with appearances which gives Mary Shelley’s classic chiller a resonance that still rings true today. This timeless tale also offers a salutary reminder, if it was needed, of scientists trying to ‘play God.’ In 30 years of reviewing amateur theatre I can’t remember a performance as deeply affecting as that of Rhys Nuttall who plays The Creature. Now I challenge anyone in the audience not to be moved by Nuttall, as he totters to his feet in the opening scene and begins a life of unmitigated torment and rejection. It may only be January but I can say this performance will not be bettered on the amateur stage for many years to come, for both its searing intensity and unbridled physicality. The scenes in which The Creature learns to speak and read and appreciate the great works of literature thanks to the patient and kindly De Lacey, his only friend in the world are beautifully played by Nuttall and Hugh Everett are perfectly played. This exceptional and deeply disturbing production by Barry Purves transports us to a world that whips away our collective comfort blanket, a world where the sun never seems to shine. Bad productions just aren’t in this man’s DNA, are they? Nick Dear’s adaptation refreshes Shelley’s wonderful novel and while it gives the original a contemporary feel it also remains faithful to it. The production contains a very disturbing scene of sexual violence. You simply must not miss this production which will move you and scare you. But the scariest thing for me was how people reacted to The Creature, for me that was the truly monstrous thing. Once again the Garrick delivers – and then some. Quite brilliant. Star rating – ***** Paul Wilcox – North West End Uk These are interesting times at the Garrick Playhouse in the leafy south Manchester suburb of Altrincham. Under the aegis of Artistic Director Joseph Meighan, their programming is broadening its appeal beyond the traditional light comedy and murder mystery, into edgier and darker territory. So, we find 2022 kicking off with an absolutely cracking adaptation of the Mary Shelley gothic masterpiece, both chilling and thought provoking and with a simply stunning central performance. Those patrons expecting a hoary old ‘Boris Karloff with a bolt through the neck’ rendition, would have been disappointed. With Direction and Set Design in the capable hands of Barry J C Purves, this was always going to be a more delicate study on the nature of humanity. By using Nick Dear’s 2011 National Theatre adaptation of the Shelley novel, placing The Creature (Rhys Nuttall) at the centre of the story gave both pace and arc to the two-hour production, dispensing with the unnecessary backstory of the creator. We begin at the moment of creation with the obsessive and compulsive Victor Frankenstein (Tom Cunningham) bringing life to the inanimate creature. The two-level set with a simple curtain is wholly black, lit with white spotlights casting long shadows onto the walls of the theatre, both effective and appropriate as it emerges from a metallic tub. From this point on Rhys Nuttall’s creature simply dominates, his performance is stunningly crafted as The Creature, with each step in his development into sentience carefully choreographed and incorporated. The movement of Nuttall around the stage in these scenes is masterful, balletic grace combined with a strength that was hypnotic to observe, as each new sensation was encountered it produced both comedy and pathos without any dialogue being required. By turns, apelike and clumsy he instils meaning into each gesture, holding the audience in rapt attention every time he is on stage. As the story progresses, we observe the best and worst of mankind. The Creature encounters both hostility and kindness wandering through the world, searching first for the answer to the question ‘Who am I?’, morphing into his quest to find his creator and create a companion in his loneliness. The scenes with De Lacey (Hugh Everett), a blind peasant who teaches The Creature to read and showing him the only warmth he encounters, are delicate and tender and his development towards humanity serves to make later scenes involving both murder and rape all the more compelling. An issue with such a strong central performance was that the parallel story of Victor Frankenstein was somewhat overshadowed in the narrative, with Cunningham needing more obsessional madness in his performance to match the physicality and dominance of Nuttall. In the same way Cumberbatch/Miller found in the original NT production, doing this allows the relationship with his fiancé Elizabeth (Amy Lou Harris) to take a more prominent part in the latter story and provide some balance. Victor Frankenstein’s story is a sorry tale of how single-minded passion can fatally cloud judgment and the play asks us whether a person is innately good or evil, or is it society which dictates our character and actions. Overall, an ambitious and successful realisation of an excellent adaptation, lifted to another level by a superb performance from Nuttall as The Creature. Amateur theatre of the very highest quality North West End UK Rating: ★★★★ Brian Madden – Number9 Mary Shelley was just 18 years old when she wrote what is now considered a classic novel; Frankenstein. 206 years since she first began writing the novel, it is still being performed in theatres around the world. Nowadays it is more associated with Hallowe’en than a cold night in January. However, I certainly was given a night to remember and think this will be a production spoken about for months to come. People often make the mistake that Frankenstein is the name of the monster, however, it is the name of the scientist who creates it. In this production the ‘monster’ is known as The Creature – a lonely figure who just wants to be loved. I’ve seen a few productions at the Altrincham Garrick over the years, and some have been beter than others, but I can hands-down say that their 2022 production of Frankenstein is the best thing I’ve ever seen on stage at the Garrick. I’d go as far as saying a professional theatre such as The Royal Exchange would have been honoured to have a production of this quality on its stage. Some people have many preconceived ideas about amateur dramatics, or as I prefer to call it ‘non-professional theatre’. However, I would ask any of those to watch the Garrick’s production of Frankenstein to challenge their views. Rhys Nuttall was absolutely sublime as ‘The Creature’. Everything about his portrayal of The Creature was just on point – his movements, posture, the way he brought the character to life. Some actors at the best of times struggle to lift the script off the page, Nuttall did it without even needing words. It came as no surprise to me that he was also the Movement Director for the production – you could tell each step he took was carefully executed. His presence was one to behold in a way it almost made the rest of the cast irrelevant. In the beginning, anyone would be scared of The Creature – a semi-naked man who can barely move or speak. However, as the story unfolds we witness him learning how to live. He meets a blind peasant played by Hugh Everett and spends a whole year in his company. It’s here where he learns to speak and almost experiences what it is like to be human. He also not only learns to read but to appreciate literature. Until then everyone just sees him as a freak, incapable of love. It’s rather ironic that it takes a blind to see this. These scenes were a pleasure to watch and just so beautiful to see two people learn so much from each other. The entire production takes the audience on a journey through the seasons. This was fantastically captured by the director; Barry J.C. Purves. I especially loved the scenes which included the elements of leaves and snow. From the word go the audience is transported to another world, which is all you can ask of any director. When you look beneath the surface Frankenstein is actually quite a sad story. The themes of loneliness and rejection are key to the production. This was my first time seeing Frankenstein performed and will most certainly be watching it again. It really got me thinking, how much have we really moved on as a society – if we see something unusual, do we try to offer to help, or do we walk away? Frankenstein does raise a lot of questions – what is it that defines good and evil? Is someone born evil, or is it something that society makes them? And ultimately what are the consequences of our actions? The production serves as a reminder that we shouldn’t tamper with things and let them be. Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Previous Next Barry Fletcher Barry was a keen volunteer at the Garrick for over 30 years. Until his retirement, he was a Design Engineer at British Nuclear Fuels at Sellafield and he used his knowledge to design many stage sets and be part of Stage Crew. He was also Workshop Manager for a short spell and was heavily involved in the planning for the theatre refurbishment. He was also an extremely talented photographer and produced a superb dual projector slide show entitled 'A Year at the Garrick' which he used to promote the theatre plus raise funds for the STAGE Appeal. Barry is pictured celebrating his 80th birthday in the bar - he was also a regular attendee for 11am coffee because he knew there were always biscuits or cake available. Back to In Memoriam page

Garrick Production The Crucible Date range Tickets £13 - £18 Age guidance 12 + Venue Main House Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more THE CRUCIBLE By Arthur Miller Directed by Joseph Meighan “We are what we always were…” Betty Parris lies in a trance after a childish game spins out of control, and accusations of witchcraft are quickly manipulated by those with something to gain. However, when false allegations reach fever pitch, the devout community of Salem, Massachusetts descends into a cauldron of hysteria, manipulation and paranoia it can never return from… What lies are the townspeople prepared to tell themselves in order to survive? Speak of the devil and he appears. Nobody is safe. Written in the 1950s when the insidious fear of communism gripped America, “The Crucible ” is a devastating portrayal of the human cost of tyranny and vengeance, and a timeless warning to us all. An intense and revolutionary piece by Arthur Miller (Death of A Salesman, A View From The Bridge, All My Sons) - inspired by the 1692 Witch Trials in Salem. This play appears on the recommended Secondary School Reading List. Garrick Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production The Father Psychological Drama by Florian Zeller and translated by Christopher Hampton Ran May 6, 2024 - May 11, 2024 Age guidance 14+ Venue Main House Running time 2.5 hours (inc. 20 mins interval) Tickets Price Range £10 - £16 Description The Father (Le Père) is a play about a man called Andre. Now 80 years old, Andre was once a tap dancer. He lives with his daughter Anne and her husband Antoine. Or was he an engineer whose daughter Anne lives in London with her new lover, Pierre? The thing is, he is still wearing his pyjamas, and he can’t find his watch. He is starting to wonder if he’s losing control… A sobering and realistic family story, and an unsentimental, emotionally intense look at the world through the eyes of a man experiencing dementia. The Father , in this English translation by Christopher Hampton, was commissioned by the Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath and premiered in October 2014. The production transferred to the Tricycle Theatre, London, in May 2015, and subsequently to Wyndham's Theatre in the West End. The Father was awarded the Moliere Award for Best Play and the Olivier and Tony Awards for Best Actor. In 2020 a film version called The Father was released starring Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman, which won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, while Hopkins won the Academy Award for Best Actor. Altrincham Garrick Playhouse are proud to be supporting Together Dementia Support with this production of THE FATHER . Together Dementia Support are here to help people to live positively with Dementia in Manchester and Trafford. "Since being established in 2014, TDS has supported over 1,000 people living with Dementia and their loved ones. We currently have over 280 members and 300 carers who we support week in, week out, 52 weeks a year. For people living with Dementia, we offer a range of activities such as social groups, walking groups, arts & crafts, music and games groups, as well as one-to-one at home social activity support. For carers, we provide online and in person group support, one-to-one advice and guidance, training opportunities and a friendly ear to listen." To learn more about us and the support services we offer, visit www.TogetherDementiaSupport.org Reviews 5 Stars from Rick Bowen at Stage Struck “…richly deserved standing ovation.” Read the full review: HERE Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Contains scenes that some may find upsetting. Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production The History Boys - By Alan Bennett Set in the 1980's, The History Boys is a coming of age story about a group of 6th formers. Ran Sep 16, 2024 - Sep 21, 2024 Age guidance 14 + Venue Main House Running time TBC Tickets Price Range £10.50 - £16.50 Description Written by Alan Bennett Directed by Su Mowat Set in the 1980's, The History Boys is the story of a group of bright, funny and unruly sixth-formers in pursuit of sex, sport and a place at university. Their maverick English teacher is at odds with the young and shrewd supply teacher, whilst their headmaster is obsessed with results and league tables. Staffroom rivalry and the anarchy of adolescence overflow, provoking not only universal questions about the nature of history and how it is taught but also questions about the purpose of education today. Their A Levels may be over, but the real learning has just begun… Celebrating it’s 20th Anniversary and hailed as “one of the finest plays Alan Bennett has ever written”, The History Boys opened at the National Theatre in 2004 to rave reviews, a sell-out run and went on became one of their biggest ever hits, winning over 30 major awards including the Olivier and Tony Awards for Best New Play. In a recent national survey this comic masterpiece was voted the nation’s favourite play. Reviews “Alan Bennett’s multi award winning play launches the Garrick’s season in spectacular fashion and the curtain call at the end made me feel I was at a pop concert. The noise, the out pouring of appreciation from the audience very nearly lifted the theatre roof off.” - Rick Bowen Read the full review by StageStruck https://www.stagestruck.info/blog “At its best, The History Boys is thought provoking and challenging. This production is just that….. Audiences still crave an accomplished The History Boys production. The Garrick Playhouse have, once again, delivered.” - Peter Ruddick North West End UK Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning This play contains strong language and adult themes, including sexual misconduct and discussions about sensitive historical events. Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Previous Next George Howard George was an accountant with Altrincham accounting firm Allen, Mills, Howard. He became heavily involved with the Garrick, alongside his wife Rita, and from the 1960s onwards he was an enthusiastic member of the Social Committee that ran numerous events each year. He famously organised two raffles to raise money for the building fund, with the first prize each time being a BMC Mini car. In addition he helped the Executive apply for numerous grants. He worked as Front of House manager in the 1980s, and was Treasurer to the Executive Committee from the 1980s until his death in 1992. Back to In Memoriam page

Visiting Production Pinked Floyd Date range Tickets £25 Age guidance Venue Main House Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more This eight-piece tribute band is delighted to return to the Garrick with an engaging and energetic performance celebrating the magical music of Pink Floyd. A stunning light and video show compliment their exciting and amazingly accurate performance of music spanning the entire output of the Floyd, with a selection of tracks from the timeless albums Dark Side of the Moon, The Wall, The Division Bell, Wish You Were Here, Animals, A Momentary Lapse of Reason as well as delving deeper into the Floyd back catalogue. Visiting Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews "Blown away by this band. Professional and talented on the next level!! I've sound engineered touring bands for many years and not many bands grab my attention the way these guys did.” (James). “I’m a lifelong Floyd fan and this was one of the best tribute band performances I’ve ever seen (and I’ve seen plenty)” (Mike Halls). “I've seen a number of Pink Floyd tribute bands over the years and I can honestly say that Pinked Floyd are by far the best. Never have I seen a group full of SUCH incredibly talented musicians, a lead guitarist that's so good you can't take your eyes off him and a singer so unbelievably good you can't breathe .... Pinked Floyd you nailed it!” (Joe Max). “My heroes will never be forgotten as long as you are on the stage and that’s from a 68-year-old roadie of the original PF! You are another brick in the wall!" (David Larkin, former PF roadie) Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Garrick Production The Mirror Crack'd Date range Tickets £13 - £18 Age guidance 12+ Venue Main House Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more THE MIRROR CRACK’D Written by Agatha Christie Adapted by Rachel Wagstaff Directed by Mike Shaw 1960s England, and a wind of change is blowing through the land. It has even reached the sleepy village of St. Mary Mead. There’s a new housing estate to make the villagers curious and fearful. And even stranger, a rich American film star has bought the Manor House. Jane Marple, confined to a chair after an accident, is wondering if life has passed her by. Then there is a vicious murder, and Miss Marple must unravel a web of lies, tragedy and danger. This adaptation of Agatha Christie’s 1962 novel, The Mirror Crack’d , brings real emotional depth and psychological insight to a thrilling story of revenge and the dark secrets that we all hide. But can anything be hidden from Miss Marple, the sweet old lady with mind like a steel trap? Garrick Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Production She Stoops to Conquer Ran Jan 2, 1921 - Jan 2, 1921 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description By Oliver Goldsmith CAST Bonson, John P Bullivant, Erick Calderbank, Arthur Churm, V Ida Dykes, Tom Kerridge, Stanley Matthews, Walter R Owen, Tom Pye, George H Slinn, Ella Walsh, Katie Warburton, George A Wilson, Tom Wood, Doris Woodhead, Fred Wilkinson, John Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive

Garrick Production Punk Rock Date range Tickets £13 - £15 Age guidance 16+ Venue STUDIO Theatre Trigger warning Find out more Book now Running time TBC Group bookings Find out more Accessibility Find out more Written by Simon Stephens Directed by Meg Brassington “I hate normal people. Normal people should be eviscerated.” Tucked away in a library in a Stockport grammar school, half-a-dozen sixth formers, on the cusp of adulthood, are whiling away the hours… A clatter of teenage thoughts tumble out between the friends. Dreams of Oxbridge, contempt for the locals and of course: sex, sex, sex. But as exams approach and pressures rise, real brutality emerges from behind their playful barbs. And soon there is nothing left but violence. From Manchester power-house playwright, Simon Stephens, Punk Rock is a brutal and urgent examination of contemporary adolescence. Intelligent. Articulate. F***ed. Age Guidance: 16 + Warning: This production contains strong and offensive language, and discussions of self-harm, sexual abuse, racism, homophobia, ableism, body shaming, gun violence, murder, and mental health issues. Garrick Production Book Tickets Wed 15 Oct Last few left 00:00 Show more times Trailer Reviews Gallery Friends of the Garrick Become a Friend of the Garrick! You can buy discounted tickets and support your local theatre. Become a Friend Now Join our mailing list Subscribe

Return to Productions Archive Garrick Productions Boyd's Shop Ran Jan 1, 1948 - Jan 1, 1948 Age guidance Venue Running time Tickets Price Range Description Bramwell, Madge Carter, Harold Farebrother, Arthur F Jenkinson, Philip Osborne, Edgar Pimlott, (Allman) Emmie Snape, Joyce Sykes, Constance D Reviews Gallery Trailer Trigger Warning Documents related to this Production View the Programme View the Advertising Poster Return to Productions Archive