Quintessential Comedy | Devoted to British Comedy

As a follow up to our news of Catherine Tate appearing at the Hays Literary Festival, we’ve been informed that the actress is appearing in a new West End production…

Opening on 25 July at the Duke of York’s Theatre in London’s West End, Under the Blue Sky stars Catherine Tate in a cast list that includes Francesca Annis and Chris O’Dowd.

David Eldridge’s play is both funny and touching - three subtly connected love stories that reveal in turn the roller-coaster ride of lust in its prime, the sacrifices of a life in public service and unrequited passions. In the long shadow of the twentieth century, Eldridge’s play gives us an all too recognisable portrayal of the way in which uncertainties, misunderstanding and the unsaid lead to unexpected results for three couples who seem destined never to say the right thing.

Tate’s previous theatre credits include Neil LaBute’s Some Girls at The Gielgud Theatre, The 24 Hour Plays at the Old Vic and on Broadway, The Exonerated at Riverside Studios, A Servant to Two Masters for the Royal Shakespeare Company and The Prince’s Play and The Way of the World for the National Theatre.

Francesca Annis (Anne) has most recently been seen on television as Lady Ludlow in the BBC’s award-winning Cranford, a role she will reprise in a two part Christmas Special in 2009. Her last stage appearance in the West End was opposite Joseph Fiennes in Epitaph for George Dillon at the Comedy Theatre.

Chris O’Dowd (Nick), is best known for his performance as Roy in Channel 4’s hit comedy series The IT Crowd, and is making his West End stage debut in Under The Blue Sky. Previously his television credits include the hugely popular BBC comedy series Roman’s Empire and The Clinic for RTE as well as Doc Martin, The Amazing Mrs Pritchard, The Year London Blew Up, Red Cap and Showbands.

Under The Blue Sky received its world premiere at the Royal Court Jerwood Theatre Upstairs in September 2000, where it was directed by Rufus Norris.

Anna Mackmin directs this new production which runs 15 July – 20 September with performances Monday – Saturday at 7.45pm, with Matinees Thursday and Saturdays at 3pm.

Tickets range from From £15 - £47.50, with concessions available for booking online, and you can find out more at www.underthebluesky.co.uk