Based on the famous political diaries of Tony Benn, one of Britain's most respected, celebrated and controversial politicians, Tony's Last Tape, by Andy Barrett, examines the struggle of a man who realises that maybe it is time to withdraw from the fight, to let others take over, but just doesn't quite know how.
For more than 50 years, Tony Benn has recorded everything that happened to and around him, and as the years passed so the burden of this documentation has grown. Today he hasa decided to make his last tape...
Tony's Last Tape, starring Philip Bretherton as Tony Benn, was a sold-out acclaimed success when it premiered at Nottingham Playhouse last month, directed by the venue's Artistic Director, Giles Croft.
It is now getting a swift London transfer to South London's newest fringe theatre Bridge House Theatre SE20, where it will run from Monday 27 April - Sunday 17 May
Press night is Tuesday 5 May at 7.45pm
Designed by Rachel Jacks, Sound and Lighting Designer Martin Curtis.
Produced by Bridge House Production SE20 Ltd & Climar Productions in association with Nottingham Playhouse.
Giles Croft said: "Tony's Last Tape sold out very quickly in Nottingham, which shows the affection that continues to exist for Tony Benn. Once it opened the clamour for tickets increased because Andy's play is funny, touching and passionate and is brilliantly performed by Philip Bretherton. We hoped that the play would have a long life, but we couldn't have imagined a better opportunity than presenting it at Bridge House Theatre over the period of the General Election. It's a testament to the imaginative programming of this exciting new(ish) venue."
Rob Harris, Lead Producer at the Bridge House Theatre said Our Artistic Director, Guy Retallack and I are immensely proud, as London's most exciting new Fringe Venue, to have secured the London Premiere of Tony's Last Tape by Andy Barrett, coming direct from a sell-out run at Nottingham Playhouse. Directed by the Playhouse's Artistic Director, Giles Croft (formerly literary manager of the National Theatre) Tony's Last Tape illustrates the quality of the work we wish to be known for at the Bridge House. The show excels in all areas from the writing, to the direction and has a charismatic performance from Philip Bretherton, who plays one of the most influential and characterful politicians of our times.
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