Theatres and the coronavirus outbreak
London theatres are permitted to open again to live audiences from Monday 17 May 2021.
Some smaller theatres have already made plans to reopen, though this does not apply yet to all venues.
Many of the big, popular shows in the West End have delayed reopening until later in the summer or Autumn.
We advise checking theatre websites for details about their particular reopening schedule and what you can expect when visiting.
26 to 30 Oct 2021
Richmond Theatre
Image courtesy Richmond Theatre
Synopsis
It is 1942 and in a war-torn provincial theatre an ageing actor manager, known to his loyal acting company as 'Sir', is struggling to cling on to his sanity and complete his two hundred and twenty seventh performance of King Lear.
It is down to Norman, Sir's devoted dresser, to ensure that in spite of everything, the show goes on.
For sixteen years Norman has been there to fix Sir's wig, massage his ego, remind him of his opening lines and provide the sound effects in the storm scene.
Background information, advisory warnings
Age suitability: Not available
Renowned as Ronald Harwood’s greatest play, The Dresser has been nominated for Olivier and Tony Awards as well as an Academy Award for the screenplay of the film.
Norman will be played by one of the UK's most unique and best loved entertainers.
Julian Clary's successes include television, radio, films, writing and stand-up comedy, which he has performed all over the world.
His West End starring roles range from London Palladium pantomimes to Taboo.
Playing 'Sir' will be Matthew Kelly, winner of an Olivier Award for Of Mice and Men.
His other West End credits include Waiting For Godot with Ian McKellen, Comedians and Troilus and Cressida.
His many television credits include the award-winning thriller Cold Blood, Benidorm, Bleak House and Moving On.
Ronald Harwood's plays include Taking Sides, Equally Divided and Quartet.
His screenplay for the film of The Dresser, received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Screenplay.
He won an Academy Award for The Pianist.
Terry Johnson is the recipient of a dozen major theatre awards.
His directing credits in Bath include Mrs.
Henderson Presents, Hysteria and The Libertine.
Social media & info
Theatre
Richmond TW9 1QJ
Dates
Performance days & times
Tuesday ‑ 7‑30pm
Wednesday ‑ 7‑30pm
Thursday ‑ 7‑30pm
Friday ‑ 7‑30pm
Saturday ‑ 7‑30pm
Wednesday - 2-30pm
Thursday - 2-30pm
Saturday - 2-30pm
Tickets
Cast
Julian Clary - Norman
Matthew Kelly - Sir
Creatives
Author: Ronald Harwood
Director: Terry Johnson