Showcasing world class drama, dance and music, Cambridge Arts Theatre’s new spring programme offers something to satisfy theatregoers of all ages and tastes. Beginning this month is a bit of the Bard, as The Winter’s Tale gets a fresh spin courtesy of Cheek by Jowl. One of Shakespeare’s greatest plays, this acclaimed theatre company will be wowing audiences with their trademark energy and intensity until 4 February.
Next up, Cambridge University’s Marlow Society deliver Edward II, Christopher Marlow’s absorbing historical masterpiece. Running 8-11 February, this gripping drama promises to captivate audience members with its narrative of responsibility and deceit.
Another edge-of-your theatre experience arrives on 13 February, when Gaslight stops by for a six night run. Widely acknowledged as one of the greatest thrillers ever written, this suspense-filled production features an all-star cast including Keith Allen, Kara Tointon and Rupert Young. More drama comes with Death of a Salesman, Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer prize winning depiction of Willy Loman, a lonely older man taking his last shot at success (2-6 May).
Poised to be a highlight of the season at the Arts Theatre is Escaped Alone, a new play by Caryl Churchill which has drawn effusive praise from critics. Four women of advancing age sit in a sunlit garden for the duration of this short but exquisitely formed play, chit-chatting about life, the world, and the inevitable apocalypse.
Perhaps you’re in the mood for a laugh? Cambridge Footlights return to the venue on 12 and 19 March, bringing with them stand-up, skits, sketches and songs, whilst Invincible, by Torben Betts, is a riotously funny story of class and culture (1-4 March).
Also looking to tickle your funny bone will be Silver Lining by Sandi Toksvig, which tells the story of five extraordinary women who find themselves living in a retirement home (7-11 March), and Abigail’s Party: Mike Leigh’s classic suburban comedy, which runs 10-15 April and stars Amanda Abbington of Sherlock fame.
There’s dance, too, courtesy of the groundbreaking Richard Alston Dance Company, who bring superb choreography and spellbinding talent to the theatre from 20-21 of this month, and song, when English Touring Opera present both Puccini’s Tosca and Gilbert & Sullivan’s Patience in April.
Closing the spring season on a high note is Fracked!, political satirist Alistair Beaton’s sharp comedy which follows the story of a band of protestors in a pretty village under threat from big business energy companies (22-27 May).
For full listings and to book tickets, visit the Arts Theatre website.
