Nottingham writer’s play to go on first British tour

Published: 6 March 2015
Reporter: Steve Orme

Tom Roberts and Kilke John in Satin 'n' Steel

Nottingham playwright Amanda Whittington has updated her play Satin ‘n’ Steel which is to embark on its first British tour.

The “gritty comedy” is set in a world of one-night gigs in sleazy northern clubs and reveals the highs and lows of performing in the shady cabaret circuit.

A karaoke competition at the Rainworth Miners' Welfare Club brings together seasoned pro Vince Steel and talented beginner Teena White. He persuades her to form a duo—and to change her name.

As the all-singing and all-dancing Satin 'n' Steel, they set their sights on the big time. But a guilty secret threatens to jeopardise their designs on stardom.

Amanda Whittington said, “I'm delighted Satin ‘n’ Steel is embarking on its first British tour. It’s ten years since the first production but the themes of the play are still relevant, perhaps more so in times of austerity.

“I've made a few changes to bring the story right up to date and it’s been great to revisit the characters and think about where they are now. I'm looking forward to seeing how audiences around the country react to them.”

Satin ‘n’ Steel was co-commissioned by Nottingham Playhouse and Bolton Octagon and premièred in 2005.

The play is the first tour undertaken by Roberts and John Productions. Tom Roberts and Kilke John joined forces in 2014 after working together on a production of John Godber’s September in The Rain.

Roberts will play Vince and John will be Teena. Previously they worked together on another of Amanda Whittington’s plays, Ladies Day at Lichfield Garrick.

Satin ‘n’ Steel will be directed by Gareth Tudor Price, former artistic director of Hull Truck. Musical director is Greg Arrowsmith. Designer is John Brooking with lighting by Graham Kirk and sound by Sam Burkinshaw.

The tour stars at Wakefield Theatre Royal from 26 until 28 March and then goes to the Studio at Cheltenham’s Everyman Theatre on 1 and 2 April, Scarborough, Middlesbrough, Helmsley, Barnsley, Lichfield Garrick from 21 until 25 April, Richmond, Yorkshire, Howden, Beverley, Horsham, Durham, Bridlington, Chesterfield Pomegranate on 29 and 30 June and Doncaster.

Full details are available at the Roberts and John Productions web site.

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