He would have turned on Saturday, April 16, when Portstewart theatre company, Big Telly, bring their smash hit stage production to the city. Based on the book by Milligan, directed by Zoë Seaton, with music by Paul Boyd, the show boasts an all-star cast, including Paddy Jenkins (Game of Thrones, Dancing Shoes; the George Best Story), Patrick J O’ Reilly (Gulliver, Cabaret), Keith Singleton (Hatch, One Sandwich Short of a Genius), John O Mahony (As you like it, Mrs Browns Boys, Fr.Ted), Giles Stoakley (A midsummer night’s Dream, A tale of two Cities) and Paul Alexander Boyd (multi award-nominated writer, composer, and theatre director). Set in Ireland in 1922 the Ulster Boundary Commission has drawn the new border straight through the small town of Puckoon. With the church separated from its own graveyard and drink now thirty percent cheaper in one corner of the pub, life in the newly divided village will never be the same again. Milligan’s comic masterpiece is an irreverent and hilarious story which takes the mick, celebrates the absurd, and paints a picture of a simple life that borders on the ridiculous. Zoë Seaton described the process: “Channelling Milligan to get the perfect blend of chaos and comedy. “Can’t wait to work with this new mix of comic genii to quote Spike....’rubbing my hands with glee. I always keep a tin of glee handy”. The show has garnered excellent reviews with Whatsonstage.com saying: ““It is easy see why this rumbustious romp of a show has been a huge hit barnstorming around Ireland. “The wildly talented company of six actor-musicians attack Spike Milligan’s absurd comic novel with inspired physical gusto...” The stageonline describes it as: “A rip-roaring piece of physical theatre...Hugely entertaining ...a glossy production which looks great!” Big Telly’s smash hit stage production will come play at The Playhouse on Saturday, April 16. Tickets are £11/£8 and are available from The Playhouse Box Office on (028)71268027 or online at www.derryplayhouse.co.uk
