Period comedy Cranford set for Lyceum Theatre visit in Crewe

Apr 6 2011 by Will Harris, Crewe Chronicle

POPULAR Victorian comedy drama Cranford opens at the Lyceum Theatre next week.

Last year marked the 200th anniversary of writer Elizabeth Gaskill, who lived near Knutsford and to celebrate the return of Ian Dickens Productions to Crewe as part of a major national tour.

An all-star cast includes The Royal’s Linda Armstrong, Ben Roberts from The Bill, Hollyoaks actor Jake Hendricks and film, stage and television actress Hildegard Neil.

Cranford is a witty, poignant comedy of early Victorian life in the genteel English country market town of Cranford.

Inhabited largely by women, the community thrives on co-operation and gossip. The domestic peace is constantly threatened by financial disaster, long-lost relatives, imagined burglaries, births and marriages.

Lyceum spokeswoman Philippa Unett said: “Made popular by the BBC’s adaptation, the non-stop liveliness of the irresistible characters and their small adventures, absurdities and major tragedies will not only provide endless entertainment but also capture your heart.”

The show runs from Tuesday until Saturday, April 16. Tickets are priced from £10.50-£18.50. To book, phone 01270 537333 or visit www.lyceumtheatre.net.