Dame Maureen Lipman to return to the West End in ALLEGRA
It has been announced that following a slew of five-star rave reviews on tour across the UK, national treasure Dame Maureen Lipman will return to the West End in Allegra, the smash-hit new comedy by two-time Olivier Award® nominated playwright Peter Quilter.
Following her acclaimed performance in Rose in the West End in 2023, Dame Maureen now returns in triumph leading this joyful heartwarming comedy, which will play at the Harold Pinter Theatre for a limited run from 8 July - 8 August.
The cast also features John Middleton (Emmerdale), Elizabeth Bower (Trollied), and Bailey Patrick (London Kills).
Allegra (Maureen Lipman) is full of joy. So much of it that she cannot stop herself from bursting into song. At home, in the street, even in shops and restaurants. Sometimes the music is only a fantasy in her head. But at other times, it results in a loud and disruptive performance that causes chaos in the village where she lives. Allegra’s brother, Ronen, and her carer, Anna, must somehow control her eccentricities and avoid angry visits by the local policeman. But is this possible without destroying the great happiness that fills Allegra’s heart?
Allegra is a moving comedy with spectacular song and dance sequences, but is also a touching and emotional examination of how, sometimes, the most beautiful of minds can start to disappear.
Dame Maureen said: “To find a comedy which can turn our current face of gloom into an upturned grin of happiness, is rare. Allegra is about a woman who is relentlessly upbeat - in more ways than one. Ibsen it isn’t.’’
Peter Quilter said: “Maureen is one of the great theatrical treasures of this country, and to have her bring Allegra to life is a joy and an honour.”
The production is directed and choreographed by Stephen Mear, with set and costume design by Justin Williams, lighting by Samuel Biondolillo, sound by Russell Ditchfield, video design by Ben Bull, and casting by Rob Kelly.
