MARVELLOUS to launch new West End theatre @sohoplace

Photo credit: Andrew Billington

Nica Burns has announced that the opening production of @sohoplace will be the New Vic’s much acclaimed production Marvellous, running from 15 October-26 November.

@sohoplace is the  first new West End theatre in 50 years, with a flexible, 602-seat auditorium, purpose built and  opening in-the-round. 

Directed by Theresa Heskins and performed by a talented company including neuro-divergent actors, Marvellous is the joyful, inspiring true story of Neil ‘Nello’ Baldwin who, defying all  expectations, has led and continues to lead, the most amazing life.  

Growing up in the 1950’s in less enlightened times, Neil Baldwin was not expected to be a success.  But Neil decided he was destined to do wonderful things and that his life was going to be marvellous.  And it is. 

He hitchhiked across the country, became a famous clown, got an honorary degree from Keele  University, was appointed Stoke City’s legendary kit man, appeared on the Queen’s New Year  Honours list and accepted a BAFTA award for the film made about his life. A friend to anyone he  meets, he became a local hero and an inspiration to the world. A reminder to us all not to let anything  stand in the way of your dreams, just go out and make them happen. 

Producer and Theatre Owner, Nica Burns, said: “Marvellous is precisely that, marvellous. A  wonderful production of a heartwarming and uplifting tale about an extraordinary man who decided  he would lead an exceptional life. And against all the odds, he has and does. The New Vic in North  Staffordshire, led by its brilliant director Theresa Heskins, is an absolute jewel of a regional theatre,  the cultural beacon of the area and the beating heart of its community. As we open our new theatre  in-the-round, we are honoured to be collaborating with and learning from the expertise of the New  Vic’s amazing team.” 

Following Marvellous, two new productions will be staged at @sohoplace; the first directed by Josie Rourke and the second by Dominic Cooke. Further information will be revealed in due course.

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