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Richardson Creeper Transfers to Playhouse, 9 Feb

As previously tipped (See The Goss, 9 Sep 2005), Ian Richardson will return to the West End to star in a revival of Pauline Macauley’s 1964 psychological drama The Creeper. The production, directed by Bill Bryden, will open on 9 February 2006 (previews from 7 February) for a limited 12-week season at the Playhouse Theatre.

In The Creeper, Richardson plays Edward Kimberley, an eccentric member of the landed gentry, whose home is upset by the arrival of a young opportunist. Dark secrets emerge as the younger man, skilfully concealing his shady past, begins to exert his power and challenge the status quo.

A classical stage veteran whose many credits for the Royal Shakespeare Company include The Hollow Crown, Richardson was last seen in the West End in a 1997 production of The Magistrate at the Savoy. He’s joined in The Creeper cast by Oliver Dimsdale, Alan Cox, Robert Styles and Harry Towb.

Bryden’s revival was first seen at the Theatre Royal Windsor in August. Prior to its West End transfer, it will play a week apiece in Cambridge (from 23 January) and Malvern (30 January). The production is designed by Hayden Griffin, with lighting by Mick Hughes. It’s produced in the West End by Matthew Gale, Jenny King and Steve Wilkinson.

Currently at the Playhouse, Jonathan Kent’s revival of As You Desire Me finishes its limited season on 22 January 2005. It stars Kristin Scott Thomas, who has been nominated for her second Whatsonstage.com Theatregoers’ Choice Award for Best Actress for her performance in the Pirandello play (click here to vote now!).

- by Terri Paddock

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