A HARRY Potter star, an Edinburgh Fringe comedy show, gripping drama and more are on the bill of a week-long arts festival which begins this weekend.
Bafta-winning actor David Bradley.
Rugby Theatre’s Fringe Week, which takes place from May 2 to 10, will see a variety of acts appearing at the historic town centre venue.
The festival kicks off on Saturday (May 2) with Michael Mansfield KC, one of Britain’s most influential barristers, who represented victims and families in landmark cases such as the Hillsborough disaster, the Stephen Lawrence inquiry and the Birmingham Six miscarriage of justice.
On Sunday (May 3), Bafta-winning actor David Bradley, celebrated for his iconic roles in Harry Potter, Game of Thrones and Doctor Who, stars in an intimate and entertaining event in support of Birmingham Children’s Hospital, in which he will reflect on his remarkable career, with behind-the-scenes stories and plenty of good-humoured name-dropping along the way (3 May).
A powerful one-man play that brings the life of Richard Burton vividly to the stage takes place on Wednesday (May 6). Performed by local actor Lloyd Richards, Playing Burton explores the passion, brilliance and contradictions of one of the greatest actors of the 20th century.
On Thursday (May 7), Black Box Productions presents three short plays, including brand-new drama written by members of Rugby Theatre’s writers’ group.
Two Voices, One Evening of Poetry (Friday May 8) sees local poet Ann Atkins, along with best-selling author and poet Charlotte Faulconbridge, bring sharp humour, fierce honesty and energy to the stage.
Comedian Lou Cox.
In Having a Baby – The S*** They Don’t Tell You in Books (Saturday May 9), comedian Lou Cox performs a preview of her Edinburgh Fringe comedy show, with a no-holds-barred whirlwind of witty anecdotes and graphic storytelling about the emotional rollercoaster that is the journey to motherhood.
To close the week, the Rugby Irish Community Drama Group will perform The Field by celebrated Irish playwright John B Keane. In a small, rural community, a routine land sale sparks a fierce and dangerous battle. For ‘The Bull’ McCabe, the field he has worked for years is more than land – it’s pride, identity and survival.
Rugby Theatre’s joint artistic directors Emma Bright and Mark Tolchard said: “We are thrilled to yet again be bringing an eclectic mix of drama, comedy and spoken word to our stage, in order to showcase even more local talent and visiting acts.
“Fringe Week really does offer something for everyone – we hope to see you there!”
Fringe Week runs from May 2-10. Visit www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or call 01788 541234 for tickets.
