Sheffield Theatres and co-producers David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers have announced the postponement of the tour of A Passionate Woman due to Lynda Bellingham's diagnosis with cancer.
The actress has been advised that due to the medical treatment required it would not be possible to commit to a national tour at present. She has, however, announced her intention to return to the production next year.
Bellingham said, "I'm devastated not to be able to honour my commitments to the play this year, but having toured many times before, I'm aware of the sheer stamina needed, and I need to prioritise my recovery. That said, nothing's going to stop me coming back next year, and I can't wait to be 'a passionate woman'."
Daniel Evans, Artistic Director of Sheffield Theatres, added, "A Passionate Woman is an extraordinary play about an extraordinary woman, and that woman is Lynda Bellingham. She is the heart of this production, and it's inconceivable that we would do it without her. Our priority is to Lynda and her health, and we look forward to welcoming her back soon."