Players get measure of Shakespeare play (From Wharfedale Observer)
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Players get measure of Shakespeare play
11:40am Monday 23rd April 2012 in Leisure By Newsdesk
Shakespeare’s Measure For Measure opened in the Wharfeside Theatre on Wednesday.
The production is directed by the Playhouse’s artistic director Walter Swan and features a cast of 20 – one of the biggest at the Playhouse for many years – all appropriately costumed for the 1930s Viennese setting. One of the stars of the show is the imposing set, designed by David Keighley, featuring six large pillars backed by a series of projected images of pre-war Vienna.
The play, which is a mix of comedy and drama and features Nick Pennington as the Duke of Vienna and Imogen Drysdale as the novitiate nun Isabella, runs until Saturday, April 28. The production is part of the RSC’s Open Stages programme, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Already in rehearsal is the next studio production, Chaim’s Love Song, by Martin Chernoff, an uplifting comedy drama directed by Ray Williams. Set in a park in Brooklyn, the play brings to life the funny, touching and ultimately heartwarming story of Chaim Shotsky, a retired Jewish mailman who befriends young teacher Kelly, who has moved to New York with her husband. The production runs from Monday, May 7, to Saturday, May 12.
About to begin rehearsal is Jacquie Howard’s production of The Real Thing by Tom Stoppard. Another comedy drama about the nature of love, the production stars Geraldine Woodhouse, Lee Russell, Sarah Potter and Walter Swan. The play is as witty and thought-provoking as one would expect from a Stoppard show, but is also partly autobiographical. It opens for a ten-night run on Wednesday, May 30, in the Wharfeside Theatre.
Last Saturday, the Playhouse held a Swinging Sixties Quiz Night. The quiz was compiled by David Higgins, who was also the quizmaster on the night. Funds raised will go towards the Wharfeside Development project.
The next social event is a showing in the Fleapit Cinema of Made in Dagenham on Sunday, May 20, at 2pm. Tickets are £5 each and include tea and cakes.
For tickets for all these events, ring (01943) 609539 or visit ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk.
