Asher, Kelly & Pace join Horne in Charley’s Aunt at Menier
Further casting has been announced for the Mernier Chocolate Factory’s forthcoming revival of Charley’s Aunt which, as previously announced, stars Mathew Horne and opens on 1 October 2012 (previews from 20 September).
Joining Horne in Ian Talbot‘s production will be Jane Asher, Sam Kelly and comedian Norman Pace.
First performed in 1892, Charley’s Aunt tells the story of two friends awaiting the arrival of one’s Aunt Dona Lucia. The two wish to propose to their true loves, but need the presence of Dona Lucia to chaperone. Time is ticking and Charley’s Aunt gets delayed. Desperate, the boys blackmail their friend Lord Fancourt Babberley (Horne) to pose as the missing Aunt. True to comedic form, all falls apart and that’s when the fun begins.
Jane Asher will play Donna Lucia. Asher recently appeared on stage as Lady Bracknell in The Importance of Being Earnest in rep with Farewell to the Theatre, both directed by Stephen Unwin at The Rose Theatre, Kingston. Other theatre credits include: Festen (Almeida and Lyric Theatre), House & Garden (National) and Things We Do for Love (Gielgud).
Sam Kelly will play Brassett. Kelly’s recent theatre credits include Mike Leigh’s Grief at the National Theatre, Wicked at the Apollo Victoria and War and Peace directed by Polly Teale. His many television credits include Outnumbered, EastEnders, Boys from the Black Stuff, Porridge and ‘Allo ‘Allo’.
Norman Pace plays Spettigue. Pace was last at the Chocolate Factory in the comedy Breakfast With Jonny Wilkinson. Other theatre credits include Dry Rot (UK tour), Donkey’s Years (Comedy), Chicago (Adelphi) and Honk (National). As one half of the well known comedy duo Hale and Pace, he’s a familiar face from his many comedy television series.
With set and costumes designed by Paul Farnsworth and lighting design is by Jason Taylor, Charley’s Aunt runs until 10 November 2012.
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