The Scarlet Pimpernel - Programme, 1985
Title
The Scarlet Pimpernel - Programme, 1985
Date
4 November 1985
Description
Selected pages from programme for Chicester Festival Theatre production of The Scarlet Pimpernel, starring Donald Sinden and directed by Nicholas Hytner.
What's the story?
Set during the reign of terror at the start of the French Revolution, The Scarlet Pimpernel was first published by Baroness Orczy in 1905, after a long London run of her stage play of the same name. The show had opened in Nottingham two years previously in 1903, presumably at the Theatre Royal.
This 1985 production was adapted by Beverley Cross, based on an old prompt copy of the original play script.
Sir Percy Blakeney was played by leading classical actor Donald Sinden, alongside a cast and director who were to become equally significant in their own right.
Director Nicholas Hytner went on to direct several major other productions including the global hit Miss Saigon in 1989 and eventually became director of the National Theatre from 2003 to 2015.
Michael Grandage was also to become a major theatre director, particularly as Artistic Director of the Donmar Warehouse from 2002 to 2012.
Alex Jennings was to become a leading actor for the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. This was the first time he worked with Nicholas Hytner and they were to work together many times in the future.
Michael Simkins is a familiar face on TV, film and in the theatre. Although he is also well known for his writing, including The Rules of Acting and What’s My Motivation, two very funny and highly recommended books about the acting profession.
This 1985 production was adapted by Beverley Cross, based on an old prompt copy of the original play script.
Sir Percy Blakeney was played by leading classical actor Donald Sinden, alongside a cast and director who were to become equally significant in their own right.
Director Nicholas Hytner went on to direct several major other productions including the global hit Miss Saigon in 1989 and eventually became director of the National Theatre from 2003 to 2015.
Michael Grandage was also to become a major theatre director, particularly as Artistic Director of the Donmar Warehouse from 2002 to 2012.
Alex Jennings was to become a leading actor for the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. This was the first time he worked with Nicholas Hytner and they were to work together many times in the future.
Michael Simkins is a familiar face on TV, film and in the theatre. Although he is also well known for his writing, including The Rules of Acting and What’s My Motivation, two very funny and highly recommended books about the acting profession.
Type
Programme
Location of item
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
Rights
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
Contributor
Researcher: David Longford
