Spend an evening in the company of the irrepressible Yorkshireman Barrie Rutter on Thursday 7 March at 7.30pm.
The former frontman of the renowned Northern Broadsides will share anecdotes and memories of a career of playing and directing Shakespeare's royal characters - their achievements, conquests and foibles - all over the world.
5 things to know about Barrie Rutter
1. Barrie Rutter formed his own theatre company after being told he could never play a King because of his Northern accent - Northern Broadsides was born.
2. Barrie was the founder of The Viaduct Theatre in Halifax. The underground viaduct which had been ravaged by fire was destined to become a car park before Rutter's visionary plans to make it into a vibrant performance space.
3. Barrie has been awarded an OBE for services to drama. “I had a laugh with Princess Anne who was the medal-giver that day. She said: ‘Do they all sound like you in the play?’ I said: ‘Yes, that’s why it’s called Northern Broadsides!’ We had a fun day.”
4. In 2009, Rutter directed Lenny Henry in a production of Othello. The decision to cast the comedian was questioned at the time but it is now considered one of the most iconic of productions. "He's six-foot five. He's beautifully black. And he's Othello."5. Barrie has appeared in many films and television programmes, including The Bill, Porridge, Minder and Fat Friends.
"A formidable, inspiring frontman. never afraid to be outspoken, he has lost none of his fervour to have a good time with audiences." Charles Hutch Press.
It is sure to be a memorable evening!
More information and tickets.