The Buzz from the Bardette: Kenneth Branagh, Two Dames, Gorgeous Gowns And A Sing-Along
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Rebecca Usher
Two Dames, gorgeous gowns and a sing-along – A new panto? No, I’m talking about the Olivier Awards.
After a glittering evening, the winners are in and what an exciting evening it was at the annual Olivier Awards.
The Kinks Musical Sunny Afternoon were big winners, taking home 4 trophies including Best New Musical, Outstanding Achievement in Music, Best Actor in a Musical and Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical. Wowee! I am ashamed to say I haven’t yet seen the show, however I have quickly rectified that situation and booked myself in for a Sunny Afternoon.
After a fabulous year, the Young Vic (deservedly so) also picked up 4 awards for Ivo Van Hove’s A View From The Bridge and Mike Bartlett’s Bull, including a Best Actor gong for Mark Strong. I was blown away by A View From The Bridge when I saw it last month and therefore no surprises on such a great win, Strong’s performance was sensational and captivating.
First up of the Dame’s was Angela Lansbury who was awarded Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Blithe Spirit. At nearly 90 years old, and as a child growing up with Bedknobs and Broomsticks, this was a real highlight for me – Bedknobs the Musical anyone? I sadly missed this production but always wished I had. It seems Lansbury has been getting a glimpse of the latest shows in the West End recently including Gypsy and Sweeney Todd. I’m hoping to find her my neighbour at an upcoming show (one can dream).
The second Dame was Judi Dench who presented Kevin Spacey with Outstanding Achievement for his time at The Old Vic. He hands over the reins later this year after a magical 10 year run as Artistic Director. Possibly the biggest surprise of the evening was his rendition of 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'… I insist everyone head over to YouTube now to catch it if you missed it. Absolute gold.
Now, social media has been all of a buzz recently at the news Kenneth Branagh is to take over the Garrick Theatre with a new season starting in October. He brings with him a bushel of stars including Dame Judi Dench, Lily James and Richard Madden, not to mention the man himself performing in most. His season includes The Winter’s Tale, Harlequinade, The Painkiller, Romeo and Juliet and The Entertainer. Tickets are on sale now, this is not to be missed!
I’ve got an exciting week ahead, particularly as I’ll be seeing Homeland hunk Damian Lewis in American Buffalo at the Wyndham’s Theatre. He’s joined by a stellar cast including John Goodman and Tom Sturridge in this revival of David Mamet’s gripping play. It’s running for a strictly limited season so make sure you don’t miss out.
Have a theatre filled week!
The Bardette