Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse theatres have announced a huge lineup of new shows, including world premiere productions from local creatives.
The programme of work is the first under new creative director, Suba Das and aims to affirm the theatres' commitment to artistic innovation, talent development and social change. The programme features many collaborations between a range of UK theatrical organisations and local artists.
The first show to be announced is A Billion Times I Love You, which will run at the Everyman from September 27 to October 8. The show is supported by Liverpool's Homotopia and is produced by Patrick Maguire, a graduate of the award-winning Young Everyman Playhouse (YEP) programme, which is celebrating its 10th year.
READ MORE: Best budget hotels in Liverpool with rooms from £31 a night
There will also be a range of musical and comedy events taking place. The Everyman will host an evening with Melanie C on September 14. Melanie C: In Conversation will see the Spice Girls star tell her story to celebrate the release of her new book, Who I Am.
2023 will see a bold new musical version of Alice in Wonderland with Stockroom and High Times and Dirty Monsters produced with 20 Stories High and Graeae. Full details on these shows will be announced later this year.
Suba Das' first director role at the theatres will be this year's Everyman rock 'n' roll panto, which will be a new version of Red Riding Hood. He has assembled a diverse and multi award-winning creative team for the popular show, aiming to blend the brilliance of past shows with innovative new voices.
In March 2023, Das will direct the 40th anniversary of Top Girls, with tickets on sale this November. Suba Das said: "The Liverpool Everyman, together with the Playhouse, have long held one of the greatest reputations in the world as powerhouses of new writing and talent development - it's what drew me to this incredible role and opportunity.
"I'm unbelievably privileged to have joined a team who are committed to change and transformation, and ensuring we're a theatre that now leads the way in developing an even wider array of voices and stories that reflect our city and the world we live in.
"It's challenging for us all right now as we emerge from a pandemic and into a cost of living crisis, so it's been a joy to spend my first three months in my new home connecting with old friends and making new ones. It's through these partnerships and projects that I hope we can ensure that even in tough times, our audiences and artists continue to choose our theatres as their home too - a place where they know their stories and experiences are valued and celebrated."
An adaptation of the acclaimed novel, The Beekeeper of Aleppo will run at the Playhouse from March 1 to 11. Also at the Playhouse, Frantic Assembly will return with Othello in October, the English Touring Theatre will re-imagine The Importance of Being Earnest and Pilot Theatre will perform a stage adaptation of Noughts and Crosses.
At Christmas, hit musical SIX will be back at the Playhouse for an extended run following its previous sell-out visit. Aside from their on-stage offerings, the theatres are committed to further opening up their spaces to allow people to meet and feel connected. The Everyman will see the return of Life Rooms, a partnership with NHS Mersey Care. The free NHS service provides a safe and welcoming space for people to meet others, access opportunities and learn about community resources.
To find out more about events at the Everyman and Playhouse, click here
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
READ NEXT:
Paolo Nutini to visit Liverpool's M&S Bank Arena as part of huge 2022 UK tour
'Beautiful' Liverpool sun trap and beer garden you may not even know exists
'Secret Garden' glamping site 40 minutes from Liverpool Love Island fans will love
Paw Patrol Live comes to Liverpool's M&S Bank Arena this month - how to get tickets
Alfresco terrace with live music opens in the heart of the city
