The Next Simon Russell Beale???

Theatregoers on last night's Group Outing to Charlotte Jones' Humble Boy at the Gielgud Theatre were initially disappointed to learn that star Simon Russell Beale was unwell and unable to perform, under doctor's orders. But a brave performance as modern-day Hamlet Felix Humble by Beale's understudy Paul Cawley was creating a buzz by the interval. Could we be reminiscing in years to come about the time we all 'discovered' this young actor when he stepped in to some very big shoes at the last minute? Although Cawley is no stage virgin, having a long list of fringe and regional credits, his performance in Beale's stead marks his West End debut. At the curtain call, Cawley received rousing applause and afterwards - joining our Group along with co-stars Denis Quilley and William Gaunt and other members of the production team for drinks - he was confronted by many excited Whatsonstage.com theatregoers praising his performance. Well, who knows what the future may hold? More immediately, Russell Beale is expected back on stage later this week.

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