Theatres and coronavirus
From Monday 19 July, theatres in London are allowed to operate without capacity limits.
And all legal restrictions imposed by the government will be removed.
However, most theatres will still be following procedures such as electronic ticketing etc and may require masks to be worn.
Note that some performances have been cancelled where cast or staff have tested positive and need to isolate.
We advise checking theatre websites for the latest information and what you can expect when visiting.
1 to 4 Sep 2021
Kenneth More Theatre
Image courtesy Kenneth More Theatre
Synopsis
The son of a deranged Italian immigrant, Joseph Grimaldi (1778-1837) was the most celebrated of English clowns.
The first to use white-face make-up and wear outrageous coloured clothes, he completely transformed the role of the Clown in the pantomime with a look as iconic as Chaplin's tramp or Tommy Cooper's magician.
One of the first celebrity comedians, his friends included Lord Byron and the actor Edmund Kean, and his memoirs were edited by the young Charles Dickens.
But underneath the stage paint, Grimaldi struggled with depression and his life was blighted with tragedy.
His first wife died in childbirth and his son would go on to drink himself to death.
The outward joy and tomfoolery of his performances masked a dark and depressing personal life, and instituted the modern figure of the glum, brooding comedian.
Joseph Grimaldi left an indelible mark on the English theatre and the performing arts, but his legacy is one of human struggle, battling demons and giving it his all in the face of adversity.
Background information, advisory warnings
Age suitability: Not available
This production will also be available to watch online LIVE on 2nd and 4th September.
Social media & info
Theatre
Ilford IG1 1BT
Dates
Performance days & times
Wednesday ‑ 7‑30pm
Thursday ‑ 7‑30pm
Friday ‑ 7‑30pm
Saturday ‑ 7‑30pm
Tickets
Creatives
Author: Andrew McConnell Stott (book)
Composer: Daniel And Laura Curtis
Lyricist: Daniel And Laura Curtis
Director: Fraser Stainton
Choreography: Georgia Benson
Production: Hundred Acre Productions, David Ashford & Daniel Curtis in association with the Redbridge Drama Centre