Theatre News

Sarah Lark Leads Whorehouse Revival at Union, 20 Oct

I’d Do Anything finalist Sarah Lark will star in a revival of Broadway comedy-musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas at the Union Theatre next month.

Directed by Paul Taylor-Mills and choreographed by Richard Jones, the production runs from 20 October to 12 November (previews from 18 October).

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas is based on the true story of legendary Texas brothel the Chicken Ranch, which operated from the 1840s to 1973. It is under the proprietorship of Miss Mona Stangley, having been left to her by the original owner.

Protected by a friendly Sheriff and frequented by politicians, football teams and others, the Chicken Ranch thrived in the small town of Gilbert, Texas. However, a crusading do-gooder Houston radio commentator and his conservative audience expose the Chicken Ranch, forcing it to shut its doors forever.

The original Broadway production, directed by Peter Masterson and Tommy Tune and choreographed by Tune and Thommie Walsh, premiered in 1978 at the 46th Street Theatre and ran for 1,584 performances. It was nominated for six Tonys (winning two) and eight Drama desk Awards (winning three). In 1982 it successfully made the transition to the big screen starring Dolly Parton and Burt Reynolds.

Sarah Lark, who plays Miss Mona, understudied Nancy and played the role many times in Oliver! at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane after being a finalist on BBC1’s I’d Do Anything casting show. Her other West End roles include Lucy in the 21st anniversary production of Snoopy!, The Witches of Eastwick, Beautiful & Damned and Mamma Mia.

Further casting to be announced.