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Actress Celia Imrie, Stephanie Sinclaire and her daughter Katy Kastin at the launch of the new King’s Head season |
King’s Head theatre enjoying its second act
Future looks brighter for theatre plunged into crisis following death of producer as famous names give their backing
WHEN the King’s Head talismanic proprietor and producer Dan Crawford died in June 2005 the acting world held its breath: would life at the Upper Street playhouse ever be the same again?
After a tumultuous two and a half years the theatre has been plunged into crisis with some unfavourable reviews and dwindling ticket sales.
A series of special weekly galas have been held at the theatre with famous actors – including Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant, Prunella Scales, Sam West and Corin Redgrave – throwing their weight behind a campaign to restore the theatre to former glories.
Now Stephanie Sinclaire, Mr Crawford’s widow, has taken the helm as artistic director.
And on Tuesday she heralded a new dawn at an event announcing four world premieres for the 2008 season and bold financial plans aiming to guarantee the theatre’s future.
Ms Sinclaire said: “Thirty-two months ago the King’s Head was at its lowest point in history. Dan had died and the building was crumbling. But the theatre world came forward and rallied around us.
“I have borrowed from the US model of consortium commercial investment. It is called slate funding, meaning investors put their money into a whole season, investing in many shows. It is less of a risk.
Patron Celia Imre, attending the gala event, said she was delighted to support the theatre and that her performance on the King’s Head stage two years ago was among her “most memorable”.
Stage giants Sir Tom Stoppard, Cate Blanchett, Victoria Wood and Maureen Lipman sent messages of support to the theatre.
Sir Tom said: “The King’s Head is a pioneer.” Ms Blanchett said: “The King’s Head should be put on the cultural heritage list.” Founded in 1970, the King’s Head has transferred 37 shows to the West End.
The new season starts with the world premiere of theatre noir mystery, The Black and White Ball, with music and lyrics by Cole Porter.
Ms Sinclaire said: “One of the last things I did with Dan was rummage around in the archives of Vivien Ellis and we found a musical called Godiver. It is a hidden gem and one he believed was one of his best scores.
“We are presenting it as a tribute to Dan Crawford. It is sassy, sexy and contemporary.”
Thanks to Ms Sinclaire’s new financial regime, The King’s Head has new menus, a new logo and brochures.
Islington Mayor Barbara Hughes, attending the event, said: “It is a lovely thriving theatre and a great asset to Islington. We are delighted that it is able to produce its own work and we wish it well.” |
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