Award-winning comedy Shirley Valentine is coming to Canberra – and it’s starring Natalie Bassingthwaighte
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You read that right: Australian pop-culture legend Natalie Bassingthwaighte is coming to Canberra to take over the stage.
And while you might know (and love) her as Izzy from Neighbours or as the lead singer of the Rogue Traders, trust us when we say you’ve never seen her like this. Why? Because the queen of theatre, screen and music will be taking on the role of a lifetime as Shirley Valentine, starring in the award-winning stage show (and one of the world’s most popular plays).
Natalie Bassingthwaighte in a cult 1990s one-woman stage show about self-discovery, laughter, and second chances? Say no more.
Written by Willy Russell and directed by Lee Lewis, Shirley Valentine tells the much-loved, inspiring and hilarious story of Shirley, a middle-aged, working-class Liverpool housewife stuck in a life of routine.
Talking to her kitchen wall, she dreams of escape and wonders what happened to the adventurous girl she once was. So, when a friend invites her on a spontaneous holiday to Greece, Shirley takes a bold leap into the unknown. And from there, you can only imagine what happens.
“Before Fleabag, before Prima Facie, before RBG and Julia there was Shirley Valentine,” says Director Lee Lewis.
“Shirley was the original clarion call for women to break out of the boxes they had been shoved in and make a new deal with life filled with joy and potential. Shirley has a voice that still speaks to everyone about wanting more and believing in yourself. Shirley is the courage, the laughter, the friendship and the ballsiness we all hope to have when facing huge obstacles. She is the OG.”
Taking over The Canberra Theatre from Wednesday 19 until Sunday 23 March for a strictly limited season, pre-sale for tickets starts on Tuesday 18 February before opening to general sale on Wednesday 19 February.
And with only five days to see the acclaimed actress in her element, you’ll want to grab tickets to this must-see theatrical event.
“Having witnessed the response to the production in Melbourne and read the rave reviews, I’m thrilled audiences in Canberra will now be able to experience this heartwarming and timeless classic starring the formidably talented Natalie Bassingthwaighte,” says Canberra Theatre Centre Director, Alex Budd.
No matter if you know the story or are discovering it for the first time, with the promise you’ll be laughing, crying, and cheering for Shirley’s bold new chapter, it sounds like just the reminder we need that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
And also, a really fun night out. See you there?
THE ESSENTIALS
What: Shirley Valentine
When: Wednesday 19 until Sunday 23 March
Where: Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, London Circuit, City
Tickets + more information: canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Images supplied.
