Dateline 4th February, 2001
"More and better" Shakespeare required from the RSC
The Arts Council of England (ACE) has produced a highly critical review of the Royal Shakespeare Company's performance, saying it should produce "more and better Shakespeare". In addition, the Barbican has criticised the quality of the company's work and has threatened to withdraw its funding if it does not improve. Together ACE and the Barbican fund the company to the extent of £13m.
Major sponsor Allied Domecq, as we reported some time ago, has decided to withdraw its sponsorship, worth £1.1m a year.
New Art tour
Yasmina Reza's hit Art is to embark on a second national tour, with the same cast as the previous one: Barry Foster (Mark), Nigel Havers (Serge) and Roger Lloyd Pack (Yvan).
The 12-week tour opens on 26th February at the Swan, Hugh Wycombe, and goes on to Crawley, Milton Keynes, Stoke, Wolverhampton, Belfast, Llandudno, Bradford, Woking, Bristol, Torquay and Manchester.
Howard confirmed for Lulu
It has been confirmed that Alan Howard is to play Schoning Sr in the Almeida's production of Wederkind's Lulu. After a ten week run in the new King's Cross space, the production will go to the USA. You'll find fuller details on the Alan Howard site.
Theatre of Dreams closer to reality
The musical Theatre of Dreams, about the history of the Manchester United football team from the War until the death of manager Sir Matt Busby, seems to be a lot closer. The musical, which has been rumoured for a number of years, will open later this year in Manchester, before moving on to the West End. Producer Patrick Nally announced last week that up-and-coming young tenor Russell Watson will play Busby.
Everett at the Old Vic
Rupert Everett is to star in a new production of Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray at the Old Vic later this year. The play will be directed by Philip Prowse, who directed Everett in the 1994 production of Tennessee Williams The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Any More.
Pirates at the Savoy
D'Oyly Carte's revival of Gilbert and Sullivan's The Pirates of Penzance will open at the Savoy on 24th April (previews from 20th) and will run until 16th June. Two other G&S productions - The Mikado and HMS Pinafore have been nominated for Outstanding Musical Production in the Olivier Awards.
New Bush season
The Bush has announced its new season, beginning in March:
Fame extends
The musical Fame has announced a new booking period until 29th September.
Far Away changes
Ther will be changes to the performance schedule of Far Away as from tomorrow, 5th February: the 9.30pm performances on Fridays and Saturdays will be replaced by performances at 6.00pm. The usual 7.45 performances will continue.
King and I changes
Elaine Paige will no longer appear in Saturday matinees of The King and I.
Chicago extends
Chicago (Adelphi) is now booking until 29th September.
Feminist Dream now booking
The feminist production of A Midsummer Night's Dream, with Dawn French as Bottom, which we mentioned last week, is now booking and will open at the Albery on 22nd March.