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THE HISTORY BOYS AT THE PLAYHOUSE + BONUS

Wed, 16 Sept 2009, 10:42 am
Brigida7 posts in thread

Anthony Howes’ last production in Perth as Artistic Director of Midnite will be Alan Bennett’s brilliant play The History Boys which will be performed at the Playhouse Theatre from 15-18 October.

A star cast of Edgar Metcalfe, Jenny McNae, Rick Hearder and Stuart Halusz will be joined by eight of Midnite’s best young actors in this multi-award winning play.

Set in a boys’ school in the 80’s, it follows a group of eight teenage boys preparing for the Oxbridge entrance examinations under the guidance of teachers with contrasting styles. Conflicts ensue. Not least because Hector, the old idealist, and Irwin, the young pragmatist, represent opposite conceptions of what the study of history should be.

An additional bonus for this show will be a free talk ‘Education for Exams or Life? – The History Boys’ that will take place in the Playhouse Function Room from 6.45 – 7.15 pm before the shows on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Lead by Professor Chris Wortham, The Dean of Perth Dr John Shepherd and Canon Frank Sheehan, the talk will point to the themes and issues addressed in the play.

This is just one of the reviews that the play received:

‘What is astonishing is how much territory Bennett manages to cover: the teaching and meaning of history, inflexible and imaginative approaches ...... But behind the almost ceaseless laughter lies a hymn to the joys of language, intellectual exploration and inspirational educators. In short, a superb, life-enhancing play.’ The Guardian

Bookings at BOCS.

Thread (7 posts)

BrigidaWed, 16 Sept 2009, 10:42 am

Anthony Howes’ last production in Perth as Artistic Director of Midnite will be Alan Bennett’s brilliant play The History Boys which will be performed at the Playhouse Theatre from 15-18 October.

A star cast of Edgar Metcalfe, Jenny McNae, Rick Hearder and Stuart Halusz will be joined by eight of Midnite’s best young actors in this multi-award winning play.

Set in a boys’ school in the 80’s, it follows a group of eight teenage boys preparing for the Oxbridge entrance examinations under the guidance of teachers with contrasting styles. Conflicts ensue. Not least because Hector, the old idealist, and Irwin, the young pragmatist, represent opposite conceptions of what the study of history should be.

An additional bonus for this show will be a free talk ‘Education for Exams or Life? – The History Boys’ that will take place in the Playhouse Function Room from 6.45 – 7.15 pm before the shows on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Lead by Professor Chris Wortham, The Dean of Perth Dr John Shepherd and Canon Frank Sheehan, the talk will point to the themes and issues addressed in the play.

This is just one of the reviews that the play received:

‘What is astonishing is how much territory Bennett manages to cover: the teaching and meaning of history, inflexible and imaginative approaches ...... But behind the almost ceaseless laughter lies a hymn to the joys of language, intellectual exploration and inspirational educators. In short, a superb, life-enhancing play.’ The Guardian

Bookings at BOCS.

Walter PlingeWed, 16 Sept 2009, 01:36 pm

Is this a collaborated production?

Is this a school production like West Side story was? I would like to know in advance of booking my tickets to avoid the disappointment I felt after witnessing the last Midnite Youth Theatre production!
Walter PlingeSun, 20 Sept 2009, 10:27 am

Agreed Michael. Quite often

Agreed Michael. Quite often misleading to newcomers buying tix to midnite shows... except they do say "youth". Most Perth theatre regulars would know what to expect from midnite, but I have made the mistake before. I saw one of their shows, paid too much, and vowed never to go back. Looking at the adult cast however, it would seem this would be a thoroughly worthwhile night out. I didn't know Mr Howes was leaving - it should be interesting to see if this operation continues without him.
Walter PlingeThu, 24 Sept 2009, 04:22 pm

Why was my comment mediated

Why was my comment mediated? just because I made an honest opinion of what I had seen? I wasn't being cruel or personal like other people have been on this site?
LabrugThu, 24 Sept 2009, 04:37 pm

Moderation

Moderation is a Democratic process and in order for your comment to be minimised in this manner, it would that the votes of several registered users who may object in some way with your statement. Then again, if someone was to support your statement, it would raise it up again.

It is a bit like Rating Averages that other web sites use.

As to why, I cannot say. Apparently some people thought you were a bit harsh? :shrug:

Absit invidia (and DFT :nono:)

Jeff Watkins
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Walter PlingeMon, 5 Oct 2009, 11:00 am

History Boys

Hi Michael Turner I'm in the Midnite production of History Boys. I'll be playing the boy who is notably stupider than the others!! This play only features Old-Boys of Midnite (I.e. over the age of 18-19). Almost all of us have had extensive experience post school. For my own part i've been in over 15 shows. I can understand your concern, but i can assure you that the standard will be incredibly high from all members of the cast. Working alongside such fantastic actors as Edga Metcalfe, Jenny McNae, Rick Hearder and Stuart Halusz has really made all the boys have to step up to the mark. I hope you come along cause i think it'll be something special
BrigidaSat, 10 Oct 2009, 09:05 am

HISTORY BOYS

I can only echo Spencer's comments. I saw the first run through last Sunday and was delighted to see the high standard of everyone concerned ..... It is going to be great. By the way, Spencer is wonderful as Rudd. Rick Hearder as the Headmaster brings such a funny side to his role ... he has enormous presence and uses it brilliantly. Go see.....
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