Sarah Parks to play Marlene Dietrich at Stephen Joseph Theatre

 Marlene, starring acclaimed actress Sarah Parks, is a moving theatrical adaptation of the chequered life of Hollywood star, Marlene Dietrich.  

Set in the 1970’s, the legendary actress, singer and wartime glamorous beauty, Marlene Dietrich, is in the twilight years of her career and aged seventy, is preparing for her evening’s solo performance. Backstage, we see Marlene in her natural environment as she gives polished interviews to the press, gossips and makes many demands of those around her. However as curtain up approaches, we see her insecurities, nerves and need for applause rise to the surface. Marlene includes much loved musical favourites from a bygone era, such as You do Something to Me, La Vie en Rose and Lili Marlene.

Written by Pat Gems and directed by Chris Monks, Chris Monks says:

“Marlene Dietrich is a fascinating character: the globe-trotting star of film and cabaret, and at the same time the German hausfrau, the mother figure. She was the epitome of 20th century woman: bold, independent and combative; she created her legend, and, not tolerating the slightest dissent kept her iconic image in the public eye for 50 years. Marlene constructed a flawless facade, paving the way for the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Madonna, Jordan and Lady Gaga. Pam Gems’ play lifts the lid on Marlene’s successes and failures, and gives an actress a most challenging and thrilling role.”

Marlene is played by Yorkshire actress Sarah Parks, who has worked extensively both in theatre and television. Sarah Parks says:

Sarah says:
“Pam Gems manages to reach beneath the veneer of this dazzling life to touch the essential humanity of a woman, now in her seventies, whose professional career will soon be over. More than anything, it’s a play about courage.”

Marlene runs from 26 May to the 18 June and 24 August to the 3September, at Stephen Josepth Theatre in Scarborough.

For tickets contact the Stephen Joseph Box office on 01723 370541