Theatre closures

Indoor performances at theatres are postponed to at least 15 August 2020.

Outdoor performances (where possible) are still permitted.

The show below will not currently be playing and is scheduled to close by 15 August 2020 (when theatres might reopen - this is subject to confirmation).

Original performance dates are given below and reflect any changes we have received.

The Last Song of Oliver Sipple

Closed 14 Jul 2019

King's Head Theatre

This is the true story of Oliver Sipple, a US marine decorated for his service in Vietnam, who in 1975 intervened as a would-be assassin pulled a gun on President Gerald Ford. He saved the life of the President … Then his country turned against him.

Image courtesy King's Head Theatre

Show details

Synopsis

He saved the life of the President …

Then his country turned against him.

This is the true story of Oliver Sipple, a US marine decorated for his service in Vietnam, who in 1975 intervened as a would-be assassin pulled a gun on President Gerald Ford.

He was hailed as a hero and invited to the White House but, after he was outed as gay in the press, the invitation was revoked.

Oliver had never come out to his family but was now a public figure, hounded by the media and his private life was no longer his own.

30 years after his death, The Last Song of Oliver Sipple tells the story of an American hero tortured by prejudice, media intrusion and the rift created within his own family.

Background, advisory warnings

Age suitability: Not available

From OFFIE and Kenneth Branagh award nominated writer David Hendon (Banana Crabtree Simon, Eyes to the Wind) and director Peter Taylor (Glitter Punch, WEIRD).