International star of stage and screen Sir Ian McKellen is to perform an exclusive one man show at Park Theatre for nine performances only, from 3 – 9 July 2017, directed by Park Theatre’s Artistic Director Jez Bond. Guiding audiences through some of the most exciting pages and stages of the last fifty years, Shakespeare, Tolkien, Others & You will offer a rare chance to see the multi-award winning and twice Oscar nominated actor perform in the intimate surroundings of Park Theatre. The production will be accompanied by a never before seen exhibition of iconic posters, paintings and photographs from Sir Ian’s plays and films, with a number of pieces for sale.
Sir Ian, one of Park Theatre’s key Ambassadors and champions from its inception, is performing Shakespeare, Tolkien, Others & You in order to raise funds for its work (registered charity 1137223).
Over nine special performances from one of the world’s finest actors, Sir Ian will reprise some of his renowned performances, from Gandalf to Macbeth. Audiences will have opportunities to ask questions and participate in the performance, as well as hearing Sir Ian discuss his work with other notable actors and directors. An intimate and unforgettable evening with one of the world’s finest actors.
Sir Ian McKellen said:
“I’m performing at Park Theatre to help raise funds for the charity. In a short time the theatre has established itself on both the theatrical and local maps. But with no public subsidy for core costs they need to bring in donations of around £250,000 every year just to keep the doors open. The monies raised from the higher ticket prices for this production will support their core ambition of producing accessible theatre throughout the coming years and furthering their work with the local community. A number of £10 seats will also be available on the day. I do hope you’ll support this wonderful cause.”
Artistic Director Jez Bond said:
“As one of our country’s leading actors, I can’t imagine there is anyone better placed to understand both the power and importance of smaller scale theatres and the challenges they face. Ian has been a staunch supporter since the building was a hard-hat site – and I continue to be grateful for and humbled by his incredible generosity. He has donated his time to help raise vital funds by performing this show – and I am honoured to be working with him to bring it to the stage.”
Courtesy of Tikveš, certain ticket types include a bottle of their award winning Vranec Special Selection wine, produced with a limited edition label for the show. There will also be the optional extras of dinner, drinks and photos with Sir Ian himself as a bonus package for audiences to add to their evening.
by Alannah Marie Halay on a libretto by Jorge Balça
Trouble in Tahiti
by Leonard Bernstein
Goodenough College | 25th & 26th March 2017 | 8pm
Set in a typical residential suburb, Tahiti! tells us the story of a young couple who, despite apparently having all the key ingredients for happiness and having been afforded all the opportunities to hold on to it and be truly happy, alas… are not.
Directed by Jorge Balça, Karin Hendrickson conducts a vibrant and talented orchestra of young musicians. As our Tahiti! unfolds, the five strong ensemble cast will ask you to consider ‘what’s your Tahiti?’
Using a range of dramatic strategies, such as physical theatre and puppeteering, Tahiti! explores the extent to which our lives are already mapped out before we start living them.
Jorge Balça is a London-based actor, theatre & opera director, teacher and academic. He trained as a countertenor in Portugal, before moving to the UK in 1998 when he started focusing on directing during his BA Performing Arts – Drama at Middlesex University. Since then, Jorge leads workshops and research projects in the areas of opera, physical theatre, interdisciplinary performance and cross-culturalism. Directing credits include ‘Don Giovanni… a fashion opera’ by W.A. Mozart (Goodenough), ‘The Magic Flute’ by W.A. Mozart (Goodenough/Bloomsbury Festival), ‘Tango Finale’ by M. Corbett (+logo), ‘The Tunnel of Rats’ by A.N. Rosa (Stonecrabs) and more.
Words and Music (Trouble In Tahiti) by Leonard Bernstein Music (Pacific Pleasures) by Alannah Marie Halay Libretto (Pacific Pleasures) by Jorge Balça Directed by: Jorge Balça Musical Director: Karin Harcourt Lighting Designer: Will Alder
Cast:
Dinah – Rebecca Cuddy Sam – Edward Laurenson Ensemble – Eleri Gwilym Ensemble – Joshua Baxter Ensemble – Ashley Mercer
