Repertory theatre is returning to the Key Theatre this month with award winning play Skylight.
Vivacity and Kindred’s co-production of Skylight by David Hare opens on February 26.
Skylight was originally produced at the National Theatre in 1995, before transferring to the West End and Broadway, where it won an Olivier Award for Best Play in 1996 and a Tony Award for Best Play in 1997.
The story revolves around schoolteacher Kyra Hollis and her recently widowed former lover Tom Sergeant, who attempt to rekindle their relationship.
The production heralds the return of repertory theatre to the Key and features a mix of multigenerational actors known to theatregoers in Peterborough.
Repertory Theatre is a tradition of high quality professional shows put on by a resident theatre company in local venues and has often presented the opportunity for more established actors to mentor younger ‘up-and-comers’, helping them gain experience as they cut their teeth alongside the established performers.
Philip Stewart is the production’s senior cast member and plays Tom Sergeant. Philip is an experienced theatre actor as well as a familiar face to the Key Theatre having previously appeared at the Key as Harold in The Full Monty and Abanazar in Aladdin alongside Peterborough panto legend Michael Cross.
Philip has also performed in plays and musicals across the country and around the world including the UK tour of Blood Brothers (Bill Kenwright) and Jesus Christ Superstar (Really Useful Group) in the United States.
Alice Welby plays Kyra Hollis and is an alumnus of the Key Youth Theatre. Trained at East 15 Acting School, Alice has begun racking up theatre credits across the country, including Wuthering Heights (Oxford Shakespeare Company), Crazy Sexy Cool Girls Fan Club (The National Theatre) and The Unnatural Tragedy (White Bear Theatre, London).
Also joining the cast is newly emerging actor Ben Landy in the role of Tom Sergeant’s son, Edward. Ben performed in Three by Harriet Braun at National Theatre: Connections in 2017 and will be known to Key Theatre audiences for his performances in KYT productions such as Legally Blonde and Guys and Dolls. Skylight by David Hare will be Ben’s first professional theatre appearance.
Director, Paul Collings says: “Kindred are excited to be working with Vivacity to bring in-house Rep back to the Key.
“My hope is that this project will offer the opportunity for the vast numbers of theatre professionals that have come through the ranks of KYT to come back to the building and showcase their talents for current audiences.
“I am already getting messages from people asking when it will be their turn! We also hope to offer more young people like Ben, the chance to undergo their first professional acting experience.”
Skylight by David Hare runs at the Key Theatre Studio from Wednesday February 26 – Saturday February 29 with matinees on Thursday and Saturday. Tickets start from just £13.50 (inc fees) and evening shows are eligible for the Key Theatre ‘3 shows for £30’ drama deal.
Book online at www.vivacity.org