Dibnah Role Recast in Octagon Play Date: 14 March 2011
The role of Fred Dibnah in the Octagon Theatre Bolton’s forthcoming production of The Demolition Man will now be played by Colin Connor. The original actor John Branwell, has unfortunately had to pull out prior to the start of rehearsals for health reasons.
John’s agent issued a statement confirming the situation: “John has been suffering from acute anxiety and, given his history of high blood pressure, he was advised by his doctor to take time out. He expects to make a full recovery.”
Connor, who will be stepping in to play the role of Fred Dibnah, is delighted to be taking on the role. He is no stranger to the Octagon Theatre, having recently finished playing the role of Friar Lawrence in Romeo and Juliet, alongside Michelle Collins in the role of the Nurse. The two will be reunited again for The Demolition Man, playing husband and wife this time, as Collins takes on the role of Sheila Dibnah.
Artistic Director, David Thacker, commented: “I am thrilled that Colin has agreed to take on the role of Fred, we are both delighted to be working together again. This will be the fifth time that I have cast Colin in an Octagon production, following exceptional performances in Trevor Griffith’s Comedians last season, and A Streetcar Named Desire, Love on the Dole and Romeo and Juliet this season. Colin is a diverse and talented actor who will handle the character and humour of Fred with the respect that the role deserves. Obviously we are all wishing John Branwell a thorough and speedy recovery, and hope that he will be back to full health soon.”
Michelle Collins has made numerous TV appearances in television favourites such as Casualty, Marple, Doctor Who and Hotel Babylon, to name just a few, but is perhaps best known for her role as Cindy Beale in EastEnders.
Aelish Michael’s new play, researched in collaboration with some of Fred’s closest friends, focuses on the last few years of Fred Dibnah’s eventful life.
The Demolition Man is at the Octagon from Thursday 7 April – Saturday 7 May 2011. Tickets are from £9.50 on 01204 520661
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