Main House

The Dresser

Inspired by memories of working as Donald Wolfit's dresser as young man, Ronald Harwood's evocative, affectionate and hilarious portrait of backstage life is one of the most acclaimed dramas of modern theatre.

It is 1942 and in a war-torn provincial theatre an aging actor manager, known to his loyal acting company as 'Sir', is struggling to cling on to his sanity and complete his two hundred and twenty seventh performance of King Lear.

It is down to Norman, Sir's devoted dresser, to ensure that in spite of everything, the show goes on. For sixteen years Norman has been there to fix Sir's wig, massage his ego, remind him of his opening lines and provide the sound effects in the storm scene. 

Norman will be played by one of the UK's most unique and best loved entertainers. Julian Clary's successes encompass television, radio, films, writing and stand up comedy, which he has performed all over the world. His West End starring roles range from London Palladium pantomimes to Taboo.

Playing 'Sir' will be Matthew Kelly, winner of an Olivier Award for Of Mice and Men. His other West End credits include Waiting for Godot with Ian McKellen, Comedians and Troilus and Cressida. His many television credits include the award-winning thriller Cold Blood, Benidorm, Bleak House and Moving On.

Ronald Harwood's plays include Taking Sides, Equally Divided and Quartet. His screenplay for the film of The Dresser received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Screenplay. He won an Academy Award for The Pianist.