The Dresser: Classic Behind-the-scenes Drama for Heidelberg
Heidelberg Theatre Company’s first production for 2013, The Dresser, opens on February 21.
Playwright Ronald Harwood was himself dresser to the great Shakespeare actor-manager Donald Wolfit for several years, and though he strenuously denies it, has clearly made great use of this experience in creating The Dresser.
It tells of Sir, whose company is to perform his 277th Lear against the backdrop of a 1940s England reduced to rubble by Hitler’s bombs. He is supported by his faithful dresser Norman, stage manager Madge, and a small troupe of actors, including his long-suffering wife. The many hardships of war and the strain of constantly performing taxing roles has exhausted the aging Sir, but Norman is able, with valiant struggle, to hold things together; the show must, of course, go on.
Sometimes funny, sometimes poignant, this powerful play focuses on the complex relationship between Sir and Norman, and their passionate love for the stage. Albert Finney and Tom Courtenay starred in the memorable 1983 film version of the West End and Broadway hit. The Australian production starred Warren Mitchell, Gordon Chater and Ruth Cracknell.
Heidelberg Theatre Company’s cast comprises Laurie Jezard as Sir, John Cheshire as Norman and Julie Arnold as Her Ladyship, with Maureen McInerney as Madge, while Basileia Paras plays Irene, David Dodd, Geoffrey Thornton, and Gavin Baker, Mr Oxenby.
Karen Wakeham, who also directed the company’s production of The Lion In Winter(2012), directs The Dresser. Before joining Heidelberg Karen directed for many non-professional companies in Melbourne. Since joining the Company, she has not had time to work anywhere else.
When not directing she has been active in many roles behind the scenes at HTC, including as a Committee Member. Melanie Belcher is Stage Manager, assisted by Bobbie Parish and Shelagh Belton, with Bruce Moorhouse and Christian Dell’Olio attending to sound. Lighting operators Sam Gilbert and Beck Neson will be working with a design by Deryk Hartwick.
Di Brennan is costume designer, while set design by Lisa McVilly is being constructed by Owen Evans and his team: Neville, Paddy, Doug, Des, Mal, Sam, Steph and Lou.
The Dresser
a play about theatre, friendship and the human spirit
by Ronald Harwood
21st Feb – 9th March, 2013
Evenings at 8.00pm
Matinees: Sundays 24th Feb & 3rd March at 2pm
Bookings: htc.org.au or (03)9457 4117
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