Wonderland to return to Nottingham Playhouse

Published: 7 October 2018
Reporter: Steve Orme

Wonderland at Nottingham Playhouse in February 2018 Credit: Darren Bell

Beth Steel’s play Wonderland, the first play directed by Adam Penford after he took over as artistic director at Nottingham Playhouse, is to return to the venue in 2019.

The play, based on the miners’ strike in Nottingham in 1984, will be back at the theatre from Friday 8 until Saturday 23 February before heading to Northern Stage, Newcastle from Wednesday 27 February until Saturday 9 March.

Penford said, “we had an overwhelming response to Wonderland earlier this year, with standing ovations every night. Audiences have constantly been calling for its return.

“I'm thrilled we've been able to make that happen and also to take the production to Newcastle, another city where I'm sure it will resonate just as strongly.

“The story produced a passionate response in audiences, both tears and laughter, irrespective of whether they lived through that period in our history or are just learning about it. Beth's play is a masterwork, full of gritty dialogue, larger-than-life characters, songs and movement—it’s great to be giving further life to a local writer's work.”

Matt Runham, Northern Stage senior producer, added, “people in the North East know only too well how pit closures affected local communities so we think this gripping story of the events leading up to the miners’ strike will resonate with our audience.

“Designer Morgan Large's stunning set design was widely praised by critics, so we're not surprised to hear it’s just been nominated for best design at the UK Theatre Awards and we can't wait to see Wonderland on our main stage.”

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