The first production from Leicester’s newly reopened Haymarket Theatre will be the world première of Treasure Island by Sandi Toksvig.
Co-written with her sister Jenifer Toksvig, this new version of Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventure story will be a co-production between Haymarket Productions, director Matthew Forbes and producer Debbie Hicks.
Sandi Toksvig said, “we couldn’t be happier that the Haymarket will present the world première of our adaptation of this classic novel. It’s exciting to be writing the first Christmas show since the building was refurbished, and we can’t wait to invade Leicester with our piratical shenanigans.”
Director Matthew Forbes who grew up in Leicester approached the theatre as soon as its doors reopened. He said, “the Haymarket holds a special place in my heart. I feel a strong connection to the building. Being able to create a new show specifically for it that reignites the magic and brings the theatre back to life is a wonderful honour.”
The 1970s theatre closed in 2007 to make way for the £61 million Curve. Ten years later, Leicester city mayor Sir Peter Soulsby announced his intention to support the Haymarket Consortium’s proposal to reopen the venue, investing £3.6 million in the dilapidated building. The main auditorium has been refurbished with 901 seats.
Choreographer for Treasure Island is Leicester-born Ellyn Phillips. Composer is David Perkins. It runs from Thursday 13 December until Sunday 6 January 2019.