It has now been officially confirmed that a new production of Willy Russell’s classic comedy Shirley Valentine, starring Sheridan Smith, will run at London’s Duke of York’s Theatre from 17 February 2023 for 12 weeks only.

Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband’s chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note, saying: ‘Gone!  Gone to Greece.’

Five-time Olivier Award winning and two-time Tony Award winning producer, David Pugh, said: “Back in 1986 I was lucky enough to see the first ever production of Shirley Valentine in Liverpool. I have begged Willy to one day let me produce a revival of Shirley Valentine when the casting was right. That day is now and both Willy and I believe that Sheridan Smith is the perfect Shirley Valentine.”

Sheridan Smith said: “As a mum now myself I’m delighted to be playing theatre’s best-loved mum and I am honoured to be entrusted by Willy Russell to bring his Shirley to life once again in the West End. Now, to practice cooking chips and egg!”

Shirley Valentine is directed by Matthew Dunster, with design by Paul Wills, lighting by Lucy Carter, and sound by Ian Dickinson for Autograph.

To book tickets, please click here.