ART – APRIL 23-28
Three of Britain’s most respected actors are set to bring a classic comedy exploring the nature of male friendship to life.
Nigel Havers, Denis Lawson and Stephen Tompkinson will star in ART from April 23-28 at Norwich Theatre Royal which explores the relationship between three pals.
When one buys a piece of art, it alters the relationship between them and gives them the chance to explore their friendship.
The play is packed with laughs and has also won a host of awards including an Olivier, Tony and Moliére.
All three leads are also hugely experienced and beloved by audiences. Nigel Havers boasts a strong theatrical pedigree for the likes of the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, and countless West End and touring productions including Richard II, The Importance Of Being Earnest, Single Spies, and previous productions of ART. He is also a familiar face on the small screen in the likes of Don’t Wait Up, Pennies From Heaven, A Horseman Riding By, Downton Abbey, and Coronation Street.
Co-star Denis Lawson is also a familiar face on TV gaining an Emmy nomination for his role as John Jarndyce in the BBC’s Bleak House, with other notable credits including DI Steve McAndrew in New Tricks, roles in the movies Local Hero and the original Star Wars trilogy, an Olivier Award-winning performance as Jim Lancaster in Mr Cinders in the West End, and an Olivier nomination for portraying George in La Cage Aux Folles also in the West End.
Meanwhile Stephen Tompkinson also boasts a distinguished acting pedigree. He last appeared in Norwich in Sign Of The Times in 2009 directed by former Norwich Theatre Royal chief executive Peter Wilson. His other previous work includes the West End run of Spamalot, the West End and touring productions of Charley’s Aunt, productions for Ipswich’s Wolsey Theatre, and TV roles in the likes of Wild At Heart, Trollied, Drop The Dead Donkey, Ballykissangel and the critically acclaimed Eric, Ernie And I.
Stephen said people are in for a treat. “People will love it. It is not just a play about three men because it is from a woman’s point of view,” with Denis adding: “It does not date. It still feels fresh.”
And the show’s run in Norwich will be particularly special for Nigel as he has strong links to the area. He said: “My family is from there originally, so there is a connection. There is even a Havers Road in Norwich.”

Listing:
ART, Monday 23-Saturday 28 April at 7.30pm with Wed and Sat matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets £8-£35. Discounts for Friends, Corporate Club, Over-60s, Under-18s and Groups.
To book, log onto www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000.