Inspired by memories of working as Donald Wolfit’s dresser as a young man, Ronald Harwood’s evocative, affectionate and hilarious portrait of backstage life is one of the most acclaimed dramas of modern theatre.

It is 1942 and in a war-torn provincial theatre an aging 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.

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.

CAST UPDATE

Unfortunately, Matthew Kelly has tested positive for Coronavirus and therefore will not be able to perform in Plymouth. We all wish him well for a speedy recovery. Playing the role of ‘Sir’ this week in Plymouth will be Peter Yapp whose theatre credits include The Forest (National Theatre), The Master Builder (Old Vic) Kean, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, The Black Prince, The Cabinet Minister, The Mousetrap (West End) – Eurydice (BAC), Hobson’s Choice (national tour) and many adventures in regional theatre.

Ronald Harwood’s plays include Taking Sides, Equally Divided and Quartet. His screenplay for the film 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 include Mrs. Henderson Presents, Hysteria and The Libertine.

★★★★

A touching new production of a modern classic

Broadway World

★★★★

The comedy elements in the play are well crafted

Boyz Magazine