Author: Grace Coppin

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch is thrilled to be celebrating 30 years of nurturing and showcasing young talent through its dynamic youth theatre, QYouth this July.

To mark this brilliant achievement, the Theatre has specially commissioned James Watson and Andrew Linham to write a brand-new musical, Never Never, which will be performed on the Theatre’s main stage between 28 – 30 July 2022.

Set to be Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch’s biggest youth theatre production to date, the show will feature 180 young people aged 6 – 18, representing every ward of the borough. This world premiere continues the Theatre’s legacy of large scale youth and community productions, including most notably the Public Acts community partnerships with the National Theatre.

Never Never gives a 1960’s twist on a well-loved tale. This brand-new journey to Neverland promises all the fun of the fair, where life is one big game of adventure, and you never never want to grow up. But time is ticking for our radio pirates as an all-new generation battle for the beaches of Neverland in this summer’s awfully big musical adventure.

Powered by the summer of 1964, this groovy new musical, inspired by J.M. Barrie’s novel Peter Pan and Wendy, celebrates a heart-warming story of fun, friendship, and youth culture through a 60’s mash up of rock ‘n’ roll, soul and pop.

James Watson, Head of Learning and Participation, says “Never Never is a glorious celebration of youth culture and young people – a truly special way to mark the 30^th anniversary of our youth theatre programme. We’ve had a brilliant time developing this work with members of all ages over the last few years, and to finally be sharing it with audiences on the main stage this summer is really special. This bold new musical takes a familiar story of never wanting to grow up and reimagines a Neverland at the heart of the vibrant music world of the 1960’s, complete with radio pirates and our take on the Mods and Rockers beach battles at Southend. Now, more than ever, we see the importance of creativity, self-expression and escapism for young people as they navigate the rapidly changing world around them and projects like this create life affirming experiences to be proud of.” 

Andrew Linham, Composer/Musical Director, says “We’re so excited to finally bring Never Never to the stage this July. It’s a big, brassy show exploring the music of the 50’s and 60’s with massive ensemble numbers showcasing the whole of the youth theatre (and what a talented bunch they are!). This is a toe tapping, heartfelt musical about finding yourself, telling a story that we all feel – after all, who actually wants to grow up?”

With choreography and movement direction by Sundeep Saini and supported by a team of local creatives including: Francesca Bailey, Shanise Garner, Tom Mangan, Amy Mellows and Jules Tipton.

This commission follows the success of previous high-quality large-scale collaborations with QYouth including Seussical the musical (2015), and previous commission, The Wind in the Willows – a musical adventure (2017).

Performances of Never Never are at 7pm on 28, 29 and 30 July, with an additional 2pm show on 30 July. Tickets for adults are £ 14.50, with tickets for under 18s just £9.50. They can be purchased here.

After the recent announcement regarding Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch’s (QTH) creative leadership team for the 2022/23 year, today the Queen’s are delighted to name three more Associate Artists joining the team.

From Graeae, the acclaimed and award-winning theatre company championing the best in Deaf and disabled talent, ‎the team will be joined by Kate Lovell, Sonny Nwachukwu and Britny Virginia. They will support leadership in innovation at QTH, helping the venue discover and work with more Deaf and disabled artists from across its wide catchment area, as well as further exploring what digital practice might mean to QTH post pandemic. 

“I grew up in the suburbs of London, where arts and culture can often leapfrog over, assuming you have money and means to travel into the city to access culture. I am excited to work at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch which serves the community it sits within, giving access to high quality arts work. It’s especially important for me to be an out and proud disabled and neurodivergent artist as I know the importance of representation for the disabled theatre makers of the future.” Kate Lovell, Associate Artist, QTH

“I’m so excited to be one of the associates working at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch. As an artist interested in many aspects of theatre e.g Dance theatre, Chorepoems, and Physical Theatre. I can’t wait to work creatively with a wide range of people and make the magic happen. Let’s go!” Sonny Nwachukwu, Associate Artist, QTH

“My art is expression of my person. And I plan to express my person boldly, loudly and unapologetically for young ones to see they can too. Thank you to Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Graeae for this opportunity.” Britny Virgini, Associate Artist QTH

“Graeae are delighted to be working with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, a venue sharing the same ethos of inclusivity and commitment to developing the next generation of leaders. Over the next year, our associate artists will be collaborating with QTH on a wide range of projects and allowing space and for their work to take centre stage.” Graeae Theatre Company, Creative Associate.

All of the 22/23 creative leadership team will work closely with Mathew Russell, Executive Director, and the QTH team, to help further develop and deliver the charity’s ambitious ‎plans and will access the organisation and its resources to maximise this developmental opportunity for everyone involved.

“We’re so pleased to be working with Kate, Sonny and Britny as part of this thrilling new relationship with Graeae. Each of them brings a different and hugely valuable perspective and wide range of experience‎ to the creative leadership of QTH. We’re excited to see the new relationships they develop, support the work they want to make happen, and to learn everything possible from their influence on organisational change. It’s another brilliant chapter in partnership working for our theatre.” Mathew Russell, Executive Director, Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch.

Former Brookside star Eithne Browne and musical theatre favourite Tony Timberlake have been cast in Maggie May, a new play by award-winning writer Frances Poet that shines a light on the experience of living with dementia.

Directed by Jemima Levick, Maggie May is an extraordinary play about an ordinary Leeds family learning to cope with a life-changing diagnosis. Written with honesty, beautifully balanced with humour and music, it is, ultimately, an uplifting story of love in all its guises.

The play, a co-production between Leeds Playhouse, Curve, and Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, was originally commissioned in 2017 as part of Leeds Playhouse’s award-winning Every Third Minute Festival, an innovative seven-week festival of theatre, dementia and hope curated by people living with dementia and their supporters.

It was previously due to tour in the spring of 2020 but was halted by the pandemic. It will now open at Leeds Playhouse from 7-21 May before transferring to Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch from 24-28 May and Curve from 7-11 June.

Director Jemima Levick said: “I’m thrilled that Maggie May is finally making it to Leeds, Hornchurch and Leicester after the pandemic forced us to take an unexpected two-year hiatus. To be given the opportunity to revisit this special show and to share its inspirational messages of love and hope with audiences is really exciting.

“This is something of a homecoming for the show as it was created in Leeds with the help of local people living with dementia and their families. Frances (Poet) has skilfully woven their lived experiences into her play, using their thoughts and ideas as threads in her beautiful life-affirming tapestry about how we learn and re-learn to communicate .

“I’m so excited to be working with such a spectacularly talented cast and creative team on this very special show – I can’t wait for audiences to finally see it.”  

The play centres around Maggie, played by Eithne Browne, one of Liverpool’s most well-loved and popular actors – she’s even the voice of the Mersey Ferries. With starring roles in the original Blood Brothers in the West End, Shirley Valentine, and numerous Liverpool Royal Court Theatre productions and TV appearances on Waterloo Road, Cold Feet and as Brookside regular Chrissy Rogers, she has enjoyed a dazzling career spanning more than three decades.

Tony Timberlake, who stars as Maggie’s husband Gordon, has enjoyed a long and illustrious theatre career, including Chicago (Garrick Theatre); Hairspray (Shaftesbury Theatre); Spamalot (Palace Theatre); Singin’ in the Rain (National Theatre); Les Miserables (Palace Theatre); and Into the Woods (Donmar Warehouse).

The five-strong Maggie May cast also includes York actor Mark Holgate (Twelfth Night, Hamlet, Macbeth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shakespeare’s Rose Theatre; Julius Caesar, The Crucible, Sheffield; Emmerdale, Coronation Street, Tina & Bobby) as Maggie and Gordon’s son Michael; Leeds actor Shireen Farkhoy (The Ipcress File, ITV1; Silent Witness, BBC1) as Mark’s girlfriend Claire; and Maxine Finch (LIT, Nottingham Playhouse; Coronation Street, Hollyoaks, DCI Banks) as Maggie’s best friend, Jo.

The creative team includes Set & Costume Designer Francis O’Connor, Theatre and Dementia Advisor Dr Nicky Taylor, Associate Designer Alex Doidge-Green, Movement Director Joseph Mercier, Lighting Designer Chris Davey, Composer & Sound Designer Claire McKenzie, Casting Director Kay Magson and Dialect Coach Eleanor Manners.

All performances of Maggie May at Leeds Playhouse, Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Curve will be dementia-friendly, with additional staff, detailed pre-show information and a quiet space. Each venue will also host a free interactive installation – The Picture Booth – designed by Leeds Playhouse Resident Designer Warda Abbasi to amplify the experiences of people living with dementia.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Derby Theatre are delighted to announce that they will join forces once again this autumn, to bring Robert Louis Stevenson’s extraordinary and iconic tale, Jekyll & Hyde to the stage in a thrilling new adaptation by acclaimed playwright, Neil Bartlett.

Jekyll & Hyde is the latest collaboration between the two venues, following on from previous co-produced successes, including Abigail’s Party by Mike Leigh (“Cringing brilliance”, The Guardian), and a companion piece called Abi by Atiha Sen Gupta (“Delightfully enjoyable”, Broadway Baby); Richard Bean’s One Man, Two Guvnors (“Gloriously daft and highly entertaining”, The Stage) and Shakespeare’s Macbeth (“Slick and Polished”, British Theatre Guide).  

Jekyll & Hyde will play at Derby Theatre from Friday 30 September until Saturday 22 October before transferring to Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch to run from Wednesday 26 October until Saturday 12 November. 

“If I am the chief of sinners, I am the chief of sufferers also”

Dr Jekyll is well respected but when a momentous scientific discovery is made, it spins into a double life in which inner demons threaten to take control.

In the streets of Victorian London, respectability is mixed with murder. As two identities begin to blur, we are invited to delve into what makes Jekyll tick. Why do the bystanders choose to let them get out of control, as they battle to defeat the monstrous alter-ego inside?

“An assured and sufficiently gripping production” ★★★★
London Theatre 1 on Macbeth at Derby Theatre and Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch

“A dark and chillingly atmospheric adaptation from Neil Bartlett, Sarah Brigham and a fine ensemble cast”
The Stage on Great Expectations at Derby Theatre

Jekyll & Hyde is adapted by Neil Bartlett and will be directed by Derby Theatre’s Artistic Director, Sarah Brigham. The cast and the rest of the creative team will be announced soon.

Neil Bartlett is a British director, performer, translator, and writer. His work has garnered several awards, including the 1985 Perrier Award (as director for Complicite, for More Bigger Snacks Now), the Time Out Dance Umbrella Award (for A Vision of Love Revealed in Sleep), a Writers Guild Award (for Sarrasine), a Time Out Theatre Award (for A Judgement in Stone), and the Special Jury Prize at the Cork Film Festival (for Now That It’s Morning). His production of The Dispute won a Time Out Award for Best Production in the West End and the 1999 TMA Best Touring Production award. He was appointed an OBE in 2000 for his services to the arts. His 2004 production of Shakespeare’s Pericles was nominated for an Olivier Award for Outstanding Theatrical Achievement in 2004. Neil has adapted numerous plays for the stage and many of his translations of classic plays have been performed throughout the world.

Sarah Brigham (Artistic Director, Derby Theatre and Director, Jekyll & Hyde) said:
“I’m incredibly excited to be undertaking this fresh new adaptation of Jekyll and Hyde.  I admire Neil Bartlett’s work hugely, having directed his version of Great Expectations a few years ago, and this new adaptation of the classic story of Jekyll and Hyde unearths some fascinating themes for today’s audience, the duality of man and of society, how our public and private personas intertwine, and the role of bystanders in extreme circumstances. It is such a well-known and iconic story, and we hope to bring our audiences into the heart of it.

We are also delighted to be once again collaborating with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch after our previous successes including Abigail’s Party, Abi, One Man, Two Guvnors and Macbeth.  We have a shared ethos with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch of offering our audiences a brilliant night out that is both memorable and accessible, and we can’t wait to be back delighting audiences in both Derby and Essex.”

Mathew Russell (Executive Producer, Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch) said:

“QTH is really proud of the work it’s made in partnership with the extraordinary Derby Theatre – Abigail’s Party, Abi, One Man, Two Guvnors and Macbeth. As we emerge from the pandemic, it’s brilliant to be collaborating again, and we are incredibly proud to be co-commissioning ‎a writer of Neil’s reputation and can’t wait to see Sarah’s vision for re-telling this classic and sharing it with our audiences from Essex and East London. It’s the perfect thrilling theatrical fare for the darkest period of the autumn season.”

Tickets for the Derby Theatre run: £11 – £33.50, Under 26s £14 – £31.50, Schools: £11 (one free with every 10 purchased), 16-25 year olds: £5 on Friday evenings. Tickets go on general sale at Derby Theatre from Friday 1 April at 10am

Tickets for the Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch run: £12.50 – £29 (plus 65p QNext fee); under 26s £8. Tickets go on sale to Queen’s Angels at 2pm on Friday 25 March and on general sale from Monday 28 March at 10am. More information about Queen’s Angels here. Full details about the show here.

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch (QTH) today announce full casting for their brand new fresh and joyful musical adaptation of The Secret Diary Of Adrian Mole Aged 13 ¾ – the Musical (28 April – 21 May 2022).

Based on Sue T‎ownsend’s best-selling book, this outrageously funny tale of teenage angst and unrequited love features one of the most endearing comedy characters of all time.

Life’s pretty hard when you’re a misunderstood and spotty teenager living in a cul-de-sac in 80s Leicester. Adrian’s life simply can’t get any worse – until new girl Pandora joins a class and captures his heart. But can Adrian win her love and escape from the school bully and his chaotic family life?

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch are delighted to welcome many familiar faces back on stage including;

Claire Storey (Steel Magnolias and The Taming of the Shrew, QTH), Dominic Gee-Burch (Aladdin, QTH),  Lauryn Redding (The Hired Man, award-nominated lead and Christmas Allsorts, QTH),  Luke Thornton (Love Letters, QTH), Sioned Saunders (Christmas Allsorts and Made in Dagenham, QTH),  Tom Self (Priscilla – Queen of the Desert, The Hired Man and Christmas Allsorts, QTH) and Steve Simmonds (Love Letters and Made in Dagenham, QTH).

Additional cast includes James Hameed (Be More Chill, The Other Palace, Shaftesbury Theatre) in the title role of Adrian Mole, Ben Williamson-Jones (Spend, Spend, Spend!, Guildford School of Acting) and Sally Cheng (Twelfth Night and Christmas Carol, Royal Shakespeare Company).

James Hameed said: ‘I’m looking forward to bringing this material to a whole new audience, with a fresh new take. It’ll be wonderful returning to the Queens Theatre Hornchurch, I first did a show there back when I was six years old so it’s more like a homecoming!’

From the team behind Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Made in Dagenham, this new production of a hit West End musical, based on the classic novels which also inspired the iconic ITV sitcom, has an infectious score that will make you laugh whilst tugging at your heartstrings.

‘A show for all ages’ Daily Telegraph

‘Warm and joyful energy’ Evening Standard

The musical will be directed by Douglas Rintoul, assisted by Adam Dear, with Musical Direction by Tom Self and Choreography from Sundeep Saini, Set & Costume Design is by Alfie Heywood, Lighting Design by Sherry Coenen, Sound Designer by Chris Murray with Accent Coaching from Charmian Hoare.

Director Douglas Rintoul said: ‘We’re excited to get started on this hugely enjoyable, hilarious, and quintessentially British musical. It’s just what we’ll need this spring, and I can’t think of a better way to end my time here at Queens Theatre Hornchurch. We’ve put together a top team, you’ll recognise many from other hit musicals and pantos at the Queen’s who are stoked about bringing one of the UK’s best-loved comedy characters to life. This is going to be a great night out for all generations.’

Tickets are on sale now for this must-see musical for Spring.  Book now and find out more. The Theatre will also be providing an Audio Described performance (14 May ) a Dementia Friendly performance (05 May) and a Relaxed Performance (07 May).

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and the New Wolsey Theatre Ipswich have today announced that they will be co-producing the first UK revival and regional premiere of the Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical Kinky Boots. The production will also mark 10 years since the musical’s debut at Chicago’s Bank of America Theatre in 2012.

The new production, which will be directed by Tim Jackson, will run at New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich from 1 – 24 September (Press Night: 8 September) and Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch from 28 September – 22 October (Press Night: 29 September).

Based on the Miramax motion picture, the musical adaptation features a Tony-Award nominated book by Harvey Fierstein and Tony and Grammy award-winning music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper.

Charlie Price has reluctantly inherited a struggling shoe business from his ‎dad, which he’s desperate to save. He unexpectedly bumps into a larger than life drag queen Lola, who’s looking for some sturdy stilettos. They think they’ve nothing in common, but as the unlikely pair ruffle a few feathers, designing some fabulous footwear for the factory floor, perhaps they do…

The new production sees Tim Jackson reunite with the two theatres, having previously choregraphed their celebrated revival of Made in Dagenham. Tim Jackson has also previously worked with the New Wolsey Theatre as director and dramaturg of The Stage Debut Award-winning co-production of The Season (Royal and Derngate, New Wolsey).

Tim Jackson is staging the upcoming 2022 Olivier Awards Ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall and will choreograph Merrily We Roll Along, directed by Maria Friedman and starring Daniel Radcliffe, at New York Theater Workshop later this year.

Tim Jackson said of the new production, “I’m thrilled to be directing the first UK revival of this fabulous musical. It’s a show that’s got it all: big laughs, a banging pop score and an uplifting story about community, identity and embracing ourselves and each other. Ten years since it took the world by storm, I’m relishing the opportunity to re-explore Kinky Boots in a brand-new production for a new generation. The piece remains as potent as ever, and I cannot wait to join audiences in celebrating our beautiful kaleidoscope of a world.”

Mathew Russell, Executive Director of Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch said, “We’re thrilled to be working with the New Wolsey Theatre again, after a string of brilliant co-productions, including our acclaimed actor musician versions of Made in Dagenham and Once, which we were able to tour together too. We’re equally excited that QTH’s new Creative Associate, Tim Jackson, will be directing, and know that he and the team will do a great job of making a fresh, warm hearted, sassy and gloriously working class take on this hit show, which we’re sure audiences are going to adore”

Douglas Rintoul, Incoming Chief Executive of New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich said “I can’t think of a better way to mark the start of my new role at the New Wolsey Theatre than with this very special regional premiere. Made by my favourite theatres, and directed by a supremely talented director, Kinky Boots is going to be a smart and gloriously uplifting night out.”

Cast and full creative team will be announced at a later date. There will be British Sign Language, Audio Described and Captioned performances available at both theatres.

Queen’s Angels have priority booking until 10am Monday 21 March. To become a Queen’s Angel, click here.

General sale opens 10am Monday 21 March.

Queen’s Angels are those who regularly support Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch’s work by making monthly donations and receive unique benefits.

‎Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch are delighted to be able to once again tour theatre productions directly into local schools. The touring productions include Princess Essex and the National Theatre’s Jekyll & Hyde as part of a nationwide tour.

Earlier this month, students of The Gateway Academy Tilbury, and St Edwards C of E Academy Romford, were able to experience a thought provoking new solo show written and performed by Anne Odeke. Princess Essex is based on the little-known, true story of Princess Dinubolu and is a funny and dynamic tale of the first black woman to ever enter a beauty pageant in the UK. It is a story which asks audiences to question why so much of black Essex history has been hidden, and what it means to be a ‘black Essex girl’.

The tour was a resounding hit with comments from students including “Anne used great technique when taking on multiple roles and I learnt unknown stories of Black-Essex History”, “I struggle to stay focused, but this play held my attention. I learnt the true story behind the play” and “I learnt more about local black history; I just wish the play was longer.” A teacher from Gateway Academy said that “Anne has lots of engaging talent and I loved the comedy script. I also enjoyed learning local historical facts.” 

At the end of the month the National Theatre (NT), in partnership with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, is to tour Evan Placey’s Jekyll & Hyde, a radical reimagining of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale, to Gaynes School in Upminster, Robert Clack in Dagenham, Harris Academy Rainham, and Marshall’s Park Academy and St Edwards C of E Academy in Romford.

“As we rebuild our work with local schools through a new series of curriculum led partnerships, we are excited to be able to place high quality arts activities into young people’s everyday experiences. Partnerships with local artists such as Anne Odeke to uncover untold and important local stories are vital to celebrating diverse voices and identities. We are also thrilled to be continuing our extensive partnership with the National Theatre, bringing work of national significance into the borough and forming part of a national story of inspiring arts provisions in schools.” James Watson, Head of Learning & Participation at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch

In a mash up of Victorian England and the modern day, the play explores how the repression of female voices is as prevalent in the 19th century as it is today. The cast includes Paksie Vernon, Lucy Elizabeth Thorburn, Huw Parmenter, Wesley Bozonga, Stuart Reid, Jasmeen James, Asha Kingsley and Russell Layton.

The production is designed by Amanda Stoodley with sound design by Ben Grant and lighting design by Joshua Pharo.

Evan Placey, Writer, says, “Jekyll & Hyde is an opportunity for young people to look at narratives they think they know well in radical new ways – asking questions about feminism and misogyny and how we bring about change. At a time when we need stories more than ever, and when it is conversely much more difficult for schools and young people to access live theatre, I am beyond thrilled that the National Theatre are bringing this play into schools and into the lives of young people who have been robbed of so much over the last couple years. Live theatre can be transformational, and every young person deserves the opportunity to engage with it.”

Rufus Norris, Director of the National Theatre said, “Touring live theatre directly into school halls is an essential part of the NT’s commitment to young people nationwide and so we’re delighted that with close support from our Theatre Nation Partners, Evan Placey’s reimagining of Jekyll & Hyde will be seen by over 10,500 young people in our first schools’ tour since 2019. We know access to the arts has a positive impact on the wellbeing and social development of young people and so as schools continue to face disruption and adapt to new ways of teaching, it’s more important than ever that we support creative learning as part of a broad education. The production explores pressing issues in today’s society and we hope it will spark discussion, encourage debate and create moments to bring together the school community again.”

Accompanied by a discussion with the cast and creative team, workshops and professional training for teachers, the play tackles urgent issues for teenagers including violence against women and the power of the internet in today’s society.

The schools’ tour forms part of the NT’s Theatre Nation Partnerships programme to grow and sustain new audiences for live theatre with support from our partner theatres: Theatre Royal Wakefield, Cast in Doncaster, Sunderland Culture and Sunderland Empire, The Wolverhampton Grand, The Lowry in Salford and Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch.

The NT’s secondary schools touring is supported by The Mohn Westlake Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, The Hearn Foundation, The Ingram Trust, The Constance Travis Charitable Trust and The Dorset Foundation – in memory of Harry M Weinrebe.

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch is excited to announce that the Essex on Stage Showcase, previously to perform at the 10^th anniversary VAULT Festival, will now be staged at London’s Bush Theatre, the internationally renowned home for new writing, from 11 – 23 April 2022.

The Essex on Stage Showcase will platform bold, ambitious, homegrown performances that celebrate and champion Essex and Outer East London artists, including the London premiere of new work by Kenny Emson and the debut solo show by Kristin Mcilquham – supported by Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Matthew Schmolle Productions.

“Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch is thrilled to be working with this exciting collection of extraordinary Essex artists, ‎the Bush Theatre and Matthew Schmolle Productions on this exciting next chapter for the much-celebrated Essex on Stage programme. This showcase will help demonstrate the rich array of original and authentic work emerging from the burgeoning Essex theatre sector. We couldn’t think of a better home than the Bush for sharing this work with a widening audience of theatregoers, old and new.” Mathew Russell, Executive Director, QTH

The line-up includes PRINCESS ESSEX, new work written and performed by Anne Odeke. Based on the little-known, true story of Princess Dinubolu, Princess Essex is the funny and dynamic tale of the first black woman to ever enter a beauty pageant in the UK. It is a story which asks us to question why so much of black Essex history has been hidden, and what it means to be a ‘black Essex girl’.

Nicola and Stacey Bland of Post-it Productions present their new comedy drama DAISY, a timely piece that explores female harassment and misogyny. This new play follows the story of two East End Sisters as they attempt to navigate their way through their part time job in a local Pub/ Restaurant. Through the sister’s eyes we see the comings and goings of regulars, drifters and lively locals and how these brief encounters of this everyday job affect the day to day lives of the girls, their family, and ultimately their future.

Awarded four stars by Broadway Baby at its debut on Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch’s ‘The Other Stage’ in 2019, I AM GAVRILO PRINCIP, a solo show “movingly written and performed with charm by Oliver Yellop” of Further Theatre, explores the life and legacy of one of history’s greatest unknowns. History has not been kind to Gavrilo Princip, not good enough for Heaven, not bad enough for Hell. This is not a story about the colossal impact of his actions or the greatness of an individual and the terrible majesty of war. His story is about the complications of wanting to change the world, of having the best intentions and getting the worst possible results.

As actor and writer Kristin approaches the big 4-0 she’s forced to confront, kicking and screaming, some of the unfinished business in her life and why she just can’t seem to tie up any of her loose ends. Kristin Mcilquham is an actor, writer and co-founder of Blue Gravy Productions. HEADCASE is a funny and moving true story about the aftermath of her father’s brain injury and the impact that’s had on their relationship, her life and, well, pretty much everything really.

TO HAVE & TO HOLD, a new play by published playwright, director and Havering local Michelle Payne, is a cleverly crafted two hander that, at its core, explores modern romance, dating and repairing a broken heart. It’s the day of her best friend’s wedding and as Maid of Honour she needs to make a speech. But where does she start, and how does she end it? Over the span of twelve years audiences follow Him & Her and the decisions that led them to where they are today – at separate weddings. This sharp and honest script explores the ever-growing threat of online grooming and the lasting implications on the parties involved.

The final production in the Essex on Stage Showcase is a play about youth work. THE SH*T presented by The Working Party Theatre Company, written by Kenny Emson, is an honest, unflinching examination of the relationship between those on the margins of society and the people employed to help them. In one of the thousands of forgotten youth centres across our country, Eric works for a single hour each week to break Daniel out of his spiral towards jail or the grave. But what happens when the work itself becomes a matter of life and death? This play was created in response to research and consultation with youth workers and young people in London and Leeds. Audiences join Eric and Daniel for a glimpse of their weekly support sessions in this dynamic new play.

Tickets for an Essex on Stage Showcase performance are £15, £10 students/under 26s. For more information and to book, visit www.bushtheatre.co.uk/whats-on.

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch (QTH) is today announcing its creative leadership team for the 2022/23 year, starting from 1 April 2022, with current Artistic Director, Douglas Rintoul, leaving to lead the New Wolsey Theatre in May.

Maisey Bawden and Danielle Kassaraté, founders of Mawa Theatre, the UK’s first all Black all Female Shakespeare Company, will be working together part time as Associate Director (Talent Development), overseeing all aspects of this growing programme and focusing on ensuring the support offered increasingly reaches more underrepresented and underserved creative practioners.

Graeae, the acclaimed and award-winning theatre company championing the best in Deaf and disabled talent, ‎will take on the role of Creative Associate. Their team of associate artists will support leadership in innovation at QTH, helping the venue discover and work with more Deaf and disabled artists from across its wide catchment area, as well as further exploring what digital practice might mean to QTH post pandemic.

Tim Jackson, director and choreographer, who is cho‎eographing Merrily We Roll Along at the New York Theater Workshop later this year, will direct the regional premiere of a co-production of an acclaimed musical this Autumn. Tim choreographed Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and New Wolsey Theatre’s celebrated revival of Made in Dagenham.

‎Caroline Leslie, who has an array of directing credits, and has most recently been Head of Acting at LAMDA and Director of landmark QTH productions So Here We Are and The Kitchen Sink, will direct this year’s pantomime Sleeping Beauty.

Stef O’Driscoll, award-winning‎ director, previously Artistic Director of nabokov, now interim Artistic Director at the Gate Theatre, will direct at QTH for the first time. Stef will be working with Vicki Donoghue on developing the world premiere of Vicki’s new play about the Canvey Island floods of 1953, to be staged in Spring 2023.

All of the 22/23 creative leadership team will work closely with Mathew Russell, Executive Director, and the QTH team, to help further develop and deliver the charity’s ambitious ‎plans and will access the organisation and its resources to maximise this developmental opportunity for everyone involved.

“We’re excited to be announcing a 2022/23 creative leadership team that enables us to work with an array of talent and voices, some of whom are new to us, with others having been part of the success of the last five years. It’s an innovative opportunity to experiment with different forms of what creative leadership might mean to Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, to feed in the fantastic ideas of these colleagues at the heart of organisational change, and to play our part in supporting and developing more artists so they become even better equipped to lead fantastic 21st century producing theatres and theatre companies.” Mathew Russell, Executive Director, Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch.

 “As individuals and as Mawa Theatre Company we have always been committed to making long lasting change within the industry. In 2020, in collaboration with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, the first Black Essex and Here panel discussions started to happen and since then QTH have been huge supporters and champions of our work and career development. We want to keep the momentum going creating more opportunities for local underrepresented artists. We are delighted to be joining the creative leadership team and excited to collaborate to continue the work we have already started.” Maisey Bawden and Danielle Kassaraté, Associate Director (Talent Development), QTH.

“Graeae are delighted to be working with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, a venue sharing the same ethos of inclusivity and commitment to developing the next generation of leaders. Over the next year, our associate artists will be collaborating with QTH on a wide range of projects and allowing space and for their work to take centre stage.” Graeae Theatre Company, Creative Associate.

“I’m thrilled to become part of the creative leadership for such a forward-thinking, community-minded theatre. Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch has long been one of my favourite venues to work at, with its passionate, caring staff and a discerning audience that grows in its diversity with each new season. The organisation has gone through such positive change in recent years, with inspiring development initiatives and outstanding engagement with the people of Havering, and I look forward to working alongside Mathew to play a part in this vital work. I’m equally delighted to be directing a zinger of a musical this autumn; full of great tunes, big laughs, and most importantly, a story which celebrates inclusivity, diversity and community – three core tenets of QTH.” Tim Jackson, Director of Autumn Musical, QTH.

“It’s a huge honour to be working as a Creative Associate with QTH this year, and especially on the Pantomime. It always offers a brilliant opportunity to celebrate theatre’s unique relationship with its audience, who literally shape the show. And it will be a joy to introduce a new and vital generation of theatre goers to the inventive, colourful, playful mayhem that is Panto”. Caroline Leslie, Director of Sleeping Beauty, QTH.

“I am thrilled to be working with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch in this creative leadership role as I work alongside the brilliant playwright Vickie Donoghue developing and directing her new play. I have long admired QTH’s commitment to new writing by Essex writers for their local community and I can’t wait to deepen my engagement with the building, area and audiences” Stef O’Driscoll, Director of Spring 2023 world premiere, QTH.

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch is excited to announce that Blouse & Skirt Theatre Company’s first major production, Rice & Peas, will be playing at Metal Culture, Southend-on-Sea 28 – 29 April 2022.

Rice & Peas is an immersive West Indian dining experience inspired by Mia Jerome’s (Blouse & Skirt Theatre Company’s Artistic Director) family history.

Grenada, 1948. Figgy and Edith enjoy a meal together the evening before Figgy boards The Empire Windrush to set sail for England, both of them blissfully unaware that they will not see each other again for two years. When Edith arrives in London, 1950, Figgy has been slaving away to prepare a special meal for them, but within her, Edith carries an explosive secret that threatens to tear apart their dreams of the Motherland.

With a menu designed by Executive Chef, Jon Bentham, (previously Head Chef for Gary Rhodes, and the man Tom Kerridge credits with teaching him how to cook) Rice & Peas allows audiences to share three delicious West Indian courses with this couple over the course of their life, and in doing so discover the heartache and courage it took so many to start a new life in Great Britain.

The menu includes Callaloo Soup with Spiced Creole Bread; Breadfruit & Sweet Potato Balls; Eggplant Curry with Quorn Dumplings; Crisp Roti Shell and Spiced Lime Pickle; Ground Provision Oil Down; Rice & Peas; Macaroni & Cheese; Chocolate Mousse with Grenada Spice Cake & Vanilla Ice Cream. (Menu may be subject to change).

Rice & Peas is written and directed by Mia Jerome. Essex born Artistic Director, Mia Jerome, is an actress, writer, director and dramaturg. She studied Creative Writing and Television at Kingston University and trained as an actress and theatre maker at Fourth Monkey Theatre Company. In 2021, Mia created Blouse & Skirt Theatre Company to celebrate stories, songs, performers and puppets from the African-Caribbean diaspora.

The production is part of Creative Estuary Co-commissions – the initiative which aims to showcase 60 miles of the North Kent and South Essex region as one of the UK’s most dynamic and creative areas in the whole of the UK – working on this occasion with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch.

Rice & Peas plays at Metal Culture, Chalkwell Hall, Southend-on-Sea 28 – 30 April 2022. Tickets cost £35 (+65p QNext fee). For more details and to book, call the Box Office on 01708 443333 or click here.