After careful consideration and in the best interests of everyone, the decision has been made to cancel this weekends’ performances. We regret having to make this decision but feel it is best under the current circumstances. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to resuming when things return to normal.

An Amateur Production By Arrangement with ORIGIN TM Theatrical, on behalf of Samuel French.
Written by April De Angelis
Directed by Catherine Steer-O’Neill

Performances
Friday 13 March, Saturday 14 March 7.30pm
Friday 20 March, Saturday 21 March 7.30pm
Matinees Sunday 15 March, Sunday 22 March at 2pm
Trybooking or call 0491 740 240

Cast
Rebecca Marshall Helen Royle
Doll Common Catherine Steer
Nell Gwynn Michelle Whitmore
Elizabeth Farley Natalie Nimmo
Mary Betterton Trisha Bromley
Mrs Barry Fiona Smith
Earl of Rochester Stan Wisniowiecki
Otway Fiona Smith

Synopsis
The year is 1669: a bawdy and troublesome time. The restoration of the monarchy has put an end to puritanical England, and theatres reopened after years of suppression. Upon his return from exile in France, King Charles II decreed men were no longer to play the roles of women and so for the first time, English actresses appeared on the stage, with audiences flocking to see the spectacle.

For five women, this signals the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. On stage, the women become household names; behind-the-scenes, they develop strong friendships and fierce rivalries. As the camaraderie and chaos of the dressing room ignites their ambitions to play a bigger part in the theatre, can the women stick together to negotiate greater roles? And will their new-found fame bring with it better fortunes?

This vivacious comedy takes us backstage in a Restoration playhouse to celebrate a bold moment in the history of modern theatre. Telling the story with bawdy comedy, theatrical flair and emotional poignancy, April De Angelis’ Playhouse Creatures will make you laugh and cry in equal measure.