11 July - 24 August 1996

THE PHILADELPHIA STORY

by Philip Barry

Tracy Lord JORDAN BAKER
Dinah Lord LINDSEY FAWCETT
Margaret Lord UNA STUBBS
Sandy Lord IAN SHAW
Uncle Willie FRANK MIDDLEMASS
Liz Imbrie MARIE FRANCIS
Mike Connor RICHARD HAWLEY
George Kittredge STEPHEN HOGAN
Dexter Haven TOM MANNION
Seth Lord PETER HARDING
Mac JOHN AXON
Thomas JOHN PICKLES

Director JOSEPHINE ABADY
Set Designer SIMON HIGLETT
Costume Designer JOHANNA BRYANT
Lighting VINCE HERBERT
Sound STEVE BROWN / IAN DICKINSON
Dialect Coach JULIA WILSON-DICKSON
Fight Director RENNY KRUPINSKI

'The cast of The Philadelphia Story were rehearsing in the Royal Exchange just 45 minutes before the Manchester bomb went off last month. The gigantic Victorian building was damaged and now presents a forlorn boarded-up spectacle, but the theatre was determined that the show would go on. The company's admirable mobile theatre has been installed in an airy covered market...It's equally good to report that the theatre has a highly enjoyable hit on its hands...The play's humanity is palpable, the jokes excellent and you leave this plucky production experiencing a warm glow of pleasure.'
Charles Spencer The Daily Telegraph

'...a theatrical triumph...Jordan Baker is a delight as Tracy...the superb Una Stubbs endearingly fussing about...Another sure-fire winner for the Exchange.'
Alex Lindsay Sunday Express

'As is often the case after disasters, the company pulses with energy. And its first production here is a triumph...Simon Higlett's prairie-style furnishings are a marvel.'
Jeremy Kingston The Times

Following the damage caused by the IRA bomb of 15 June, the Royal Exchange Theatre was closed for major repairs and refurbishment. The company continued performing in their Mobile Theatre at Upper Campfield Market.