Dennis to make WYP debut
February 5, 2009
The West Yorkshire Playhouse announced today that Les Dennis is to make his first appearance at the Leeds theatre in its forthcoming production of Bradford-born playwright JB Priestley’s When We Are Married. The production, which is to be directed by WYP artistic director Ian Brown, is a joint one with Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse that will be performed at the WYP between 4 and 25 April, before resuming at the Liverpool Playhouse between 30 April and 23 May.
Although best known as the host of ITV gameshow ‘Family Fortunes’ between 1987 and 2002, Liverpudlian Dennis has also done much stage work. In addition to his recent roles in award-winning comedy musical Eurobeat and West End successes Chicago and Me and My Girl, Dennis has appeared in Misery (Oldham Coliseum), Cherished Disappointments in Love (Soho Theatre) and Neville’s Island (Birmingham Repertory Theatre), among others. Recent examples of his extensive television work include Extras, Holby City and The Bill.
Upon announcement of his acceptance of the part of Herbert Soppitt in When We Are Married, Dennis said: “Ever since I saw Priestley’s Dangerous Corner at West Yorkshire Playhouse I have wanted to work at the theatre. I am thrilled that my chance to do so is in a Priestley play. When We Are Married is a wonderfully funny ensemble piece that still has relevance for today’s audiences. Herbert Soppitt is a lovely part and, for me, the added bonus is that I also get to play the role in my hometown of Liverpool.”
Brown subsequently explained the background to Dennis’ WYP debut, saying, “I’d been talking to Les Dennis about working on a play with him for quite some time, so when I began to think about my new production of JB Priestley’s When We Are Married I immediately thought of Les. The role of Mr Soppitt appeared to be a perfect fit; it just seemed like a really great part for him. Alongside his television and comedy work, Les has a fine and extensive theatrical career. I’m so pleased that he has agreed to be part of this production.”
-Simon Walker
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