Shirley Valentine
Starring Natalie Bassingthwaighte in a Career-Defining Role
Following triumphant seasons in Melbourne, Adelaide and Canberra, the joyous, life affirming comedy Shirley Valentine is heading to Sydney and Brisbane for strictly limited seasons. Shirley Valentine will play at Theatre Royal Sydney from 22-25 October followed by a season at Twelfth Night Theatre, Brisbane from 29 October- 8 November, with tickets on sale from Thursday 8 May. Starring leading lady of stage and screen Natalie Bassingthwaighte in the role of a lifetime, Shirley Valentine has captivated audiences and critics alike, bringing Willy Russell’s iconic, heartwarming story to vibrant new life.
This beloved one-woman play tells the inspiring and hilarious story of Shirley, a middle-aged, working class Liverpool housewife stuck in a life of routine. Talking to her kitchen wall, she dreams of escape and wonders what happened to the adventurous girl she once was.
When a friend invites her on a spontaneous holiday to Greece, Shirley takes a bold leap into the unknown. With humour, charm and grit, she rediscovers her passion for life and her sense of self. Will she return to her old ways, or will Shirley find a new life where she can finally be her true self?
Shirley Valentine is brought to life by acclaimed actress Natalie Bassingthwaighte. Known for her incredible versatility spanning film (Elvis), television (Neighbours, Underbelly, X-Factor) and stage (Chicago, Jagged Little Pill), Natalie’s portrayal promises to deliver a fresh, dynamic take on Shirley’s journey, capturing every laugh, tear and moment of courage.
Audiences and critics raved about the play and Bassingthwaighte’s performance:
“An impressive and endearing performance that had the audience on its feet” – The Age
“Deliciously funny, poignantly moving, inspiringly uplifting” – Simon Parris, Man in Chair
“Grab your girlfriends and make a night of it. You’ll leave the theatre laughing, inspired and maybe even planning your own adventure” – MelbourniseMe
“ An exceptional play, performed by an exceptional actor” – Impulse Gamer
“Absolute gold. Don’t miss this stunning production” – Thescoop.au
“Bassingthwaighte truly captivated with her superb portrayal. A phenomenal one-woman performance” – Thescoop.au
“Genuinely moving” – Limelight
An unforgettable, heartwarming journey of self-discovery that has captivated audiences worldwide. Don’t miss this chance to fall in love with Shirley’s wit, wisdom and wild spirit in a story that reminds us that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
