Monthly Archives: January 2018

Private Lives – Derby Theatre

Posted on January 30, 2018 by garylongden

**** Written by Noel Coward some 88 years ago in 1930, “Private Lives” is a comedy of manners showcasing his trademark wordplay, badinage and wit. Performed by the London Classic Theatre Co, this is Director Michael Cabot’s first foray into … Continue reading →

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The Perfect Murder – Sutton Arts Theatre

Posted on January 26, 2018 by garylongden

**** The Perfect Murder is a recent stage adaption by award – winning writer Shaun McKenna of the book by internationally- renowned, best-selling crime novelist Peter James. A comic thriller, it drew a full house for the opening night, reflecting … Continue reading →

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Boeing, Boeing – Highbury Theatre

Posted on January 24, 2018 by garylongden

Boeing, Boeing – Highbury Theatre **** France has produced some fine playwrights of weight and comedy – Molière, Racine, Yasmina Reza and Feydeau, to name but a few. But its most frequently performed playwright worldwide is Marc Camoletti, author of … Continue reading →

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Rebecca Watts v The In Crowd

Posted on January 21, 2018 by garylongden

It is unusual for  a poetry article to annoy me. A piece by Rebecca  Watts did just that. This is my response. Links to the offending article and associated material are to be found at the bottom of my piece. … Continue reading →

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Gallowglass- Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Posted on January 19, 2018 by garylongden

  *** It is not often that a theatre -goer witnesses a world premiere production. But that is what happened in Wolverhampton (where else would you choose?) at the Grand on a wintry Thursday night. Written by Ruth Rendell, writing … Continue reading →

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From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads – Derby Theatre

Posted on January 16, 2018 by garylongden

**** David Bowie bestrides late 20th Century pop culture like few others. He left a mark with his music, fashion, films, acting, stage production and artistic alchemy. On the one hand he has left much to work with. On the … Continue reading →

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Grange Theatre Walsall Closed for Urgent Repairs

Posted on January 13, 2018 by garylongden

All at Behind the Arras were saddened to learn of the Grange Players problem with their home, the Grange Playhouse, Broadway North, Walsall, adjacent to the Arboretum. Routine checks unearthed £60,000 worth of essential repairs, a sum way beyond the … Continue reading →

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From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads, Jan 15th16th 2018 – Derby Theatre, a Preview

Posted on January 8, 2018 by garylongden

I was fourteen when one summer’s day I heard another worldly sound coming through the open window of the house next door where a friend lived. I called around and asked who the artist was? “David Bowie, Moonage Daydream from … Continue reading →

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Behind the Arras Theatre Review of the Year 2017 by Gary Longden

Posted on January 2, 2018 by garylongden

  Reviewing theatre is a great job. I still get a shiver of excitement as the house lights dim, expectation tinged with uncertainty. When that goes I will stop. I have seen two shows a month this year at seven … Continue reading →

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