Westovian Theatre group in final preparations for 'fast paced and exciting' Cluedo production
A new South Shields theatre production based on an iconic board game starts this week.
One of the region’s most loved theatres will open its doors this week for a brand new production based on an iconic board game.
Written by Sandy Rustin, Hunter Foster and Mark Bell and based on the original screenplay by Jonathan Lynn, Cluedo! brings the beloved game to life by the Westovian Theatre Society.
The comedy features a cast of 11, some of whom are making their stage debuts this week. Playing the role of Miss Scarlett is Sarah Richardson, who said: “I am delighted and terrified to be playing Miss Scarlett.
“I was really shocked when I got the part, but everybody has been so lovely and welcomed me into the Westovian family. I can’t wait to share the fun and passion we’ve had preparing the show with the people of Shields”.
The cast also features a father-daughter duo in the form of Gavin O’Doherty playing Wadsworth the butler and his daughter, Beth, who is taking the role of Mrs Peacock.
He said: “To be on stage is an honour in itself, but to be sharing the stage with my amazingly talented daughter Beth is something that I’m incredibly proud of.
“Mind you, if she fluffs any lines, she’s disowned!” he joked.
Cluedo is the latest production to be directed by Hannah Potter, who has become well known for comedy at the Westovians in South Shields.
Hannah’s last show Fallen Angels won the district award for Best Drama and was also included in the three show shortlist for the prestigious Councillor's Award.
“This show has been so much fun to direct,” said Hannah. “It's very fast paced and energetic, and I have loved creating the world of Boddy Manor with the set design, tech and music.
“We have had a whole team of volunteers working tirelessly backstage to pull everything together, and although big shows like this do come with challenges, everyone has really come together to get this production to where it needs to be.”
The show will run from Wednesday, July 8 until Sunday, July 12, finishing with a 1pm matinee on the Sunday. Tickets are available through the venue’s website.