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Off-West End Announcements – 3 July 2009

Youth theatre blooms at the Rose
Arthurian drama Pendragon promises to be the highlight of London’s first International Youth Arts Festival, which kicks off today at Kingston’s Rose Theatre. One of 60 events taking place over the next nine days, the production will feature giant puppets, masks, live music, magic swords and a 40-strong cast of local youth actors. Other must-sees include Tucked In’s post-apocalyptic fairy tale, Jackajack (5 July), and Zulu dance spectacle, Thule Siswe (9 July). www.iyafestival.org

Hello Kitty at the Lion and Unicorn
The latest play from award-winning Irish writer Joseph Crilly is to premiere at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre next month (11 August - 12 September). Set in 1829 Ireland, Kitty & Damnation follows the fortunes of a spirited country girl who meets actor Edmund Kean and follows him (and her dreams of fame) to London. Directed by Rafe Beckley, Giant Olive Theatre Company's show also features period drama stalwart Hugh Bonneville – if only in voice.

Pulling on your eyestrings
Exciting young theatre company Eyestrings showcase their talents at Hoxton's Courtyard Theatre this month with the premiere of Benjamin Askew’s new play In Bed With Messalina. The show, which runs from 14 July – 2 August, comes with strong credentials. Askew’s first play, The House of Gingerbread was a Fringe Pick last summer in Edinburgh and is currently being developed by BBC Radio Drama. Meanwhile, Eyestrings director Owen Horsley cut his teeth assisting Cheek by Jowl’s Declan Donnellan.

Mais, c’est pas vrai
Et finalement, just in time for Bastille week, trousers will be dropping and doors will be slamming all over the shop as Echange Theatre presents a sparkling pair of farces by that master of the genre, Georges Feydeau. Playing at Chiswick’s Tabard Theatre from 12-19 July, Madame’s Late Mother and A House Bath make up the first re-translated Feydeau double-bill seen on a British stage in 30 years. Samuel Miller, recent winner of The Sitcom Trials, and Gael Colin, currently at Greenwich Playhouse with The Maids, share directorial duties.

- by Nancy Groves - Theatregoer Reporter

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