A quarter century of stage hits

IN 1981, Sir Rodney Walker stood on a stage and made a plea to the people of Wakefield - to help him bring back the Theatre Royal to life.

Five years later, in March 1986, the curtain rose on the great Frank Matchem theatre once again, testament to years of fundraising and hard work.

One and a half million visits to the theatre later, the Drury Lane theatre has gone from strength to strength and next year, will celebrate its 25th anniversary.

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The highlight of the spring season will be a special gala performance of Pilot Theatre’s Romeo and Juliet in March.

The new vibrant production of Shakespeare’s timeless love story is fast moving and contemporary. With stunning visuals and a cutting edge soundtrack, the production is set it inspire and enthuse audiences of all ages.

The season kicks off with dance legend Wayne Sleep and his new celebratory show Precious Little Sleep. Dance remains high on the season agenda, as the theatre welcomes back The Big Ballet and The Northern School of Contemporary Dance with Verve in March.

Hull Truck Theatre Company return with John Godber’s April in Paris in February, starring former Coronation Street star Wendi Peters.

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The drama continues with Wakefield Little Theatre’s The Witches, also in February.

There are lots of laughs to come this season, with Mark Thomas, Shazia Mirza, Tim Vine, Dave Spikey and a trio of comedy legends in A Comedy Night Out 2011.

There’s plenty of music too, with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Hit Parade Heroes, The Bon Jovi Experience, Real Diamond, A Night at the Movie, Rob Kingsley, Beyond the Barricade, The Winner Takes It All, Michael Jackson Experience, A Night at the Opera and The Searchers.

Continuing the Speakers from the Edge series, Stephen Venables tells of his life in the steps of Shackleton and wildlife photographer John Beatty shares his Wild Vision.

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Local stars also perform in A Celebration of Youth, Play that Funky Music, A Proms Brass and Voices, and The Sorcerer.

Theatre Royal Wakefield press officer Kealey Woodward said: “This season promises to delight and enthral with an unrivaled selection of the best live music, drama, comedy and musical theatre around. There really is something for everyone”

For more information on the spring season, or to book tickets to any of the shows visit www.theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk or call the box office on 01924 211311.

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