Sheridan Smith has taken on the iconic role of Shirley Valentine in a one-woman production at the Duke of York's Theatre in London's West End, and Nottingham's Vicky McClure was spotted cheering her on. The pair were snapped backstage on Friday, March 10.
In a role that was brought to life on screen in 1989 by Pauline Collins. Sheridan has already made history with this production. It was reported that the show broke box office opening figures racking up £4million in ticket sales. And the stars have turned out for her. In the audience on opening night for the Willy Russell play, Amanda Holden was spotted as well and former Brookside actress Claire Sweeney.
Pictures of Sheridan, 41, and Nottingham born actress Vicky McClure, 39, surfaced following Friday night's performance. The actors were caught sharing a laugh backstage. Both were dressed casually with McClure in black wide leg trousers, cream sweater and long black coat. While Smith wore jeans and black logo'ed hoodie.
Shirley Valentine has been described as a "joyous, life-affirming story" by the Duke of York's Theatre. After talking to the 'wall', mother and wife Shirley finally puts her own life in the spotlight after a trip to Greece opens her eyes to other possibilities.
Critics have endorsed the stage play with The Sun reporting: "Shirley Valentine was already a natural treasure but Sheridan has made the nation fall in love with her all over again. No one could have imagined that a one-woman play from the Eighties would break box-office records but theatre bosses are thrilled."
The report continued: "Sheridan has never been happier. She is adored on stage and has her son by her side. It is as if she is having her very own Shirley Valentine awakening." Following the press night performance she closed the show by welcoming her 22-month old son Billy onto the stage.
The show currently runs until June.
READ NEXT:
