Saturday marked the world premiere of Queen’s Theater Hornchurch’s first show of the spring season with a dazzling opening night. Wilco, expertly written by renowned journalist and TV writer Jonathan Maitland, will run until February 24th.
The star-studded event attracted celebrities including Gemma Redgrave, who won acclaim for her roles in Doctor Who, Holby City and Grantchester. Gemma, who is currently sharing screen space with Jason Statham in The Beekeeper, expressed her enthusiasm: It’s beautifully written, very well performed, and the music is great. Please come and see!
John Mitchie, known for his roles in Holby City, Coronation Street and Taggert, revealed his admiration for the Canvey Island legend, saying: “I’m a big fan of Dr Feelgood. I love Wilko Johnson and this cast tonight was just perfect for that. The music was spot on. Great show. Highly recommended!”
Patrick Gibson (Shadow and Bone, The Tudors), Richard Gibson (Alo Alo) and Penelope Rollins (award-winning voice actor) called the night “the best night imaginable” He praised the wonderful cast and great acting. music.
BBC Essex Radio’s Sadie Nine described the program as “absolutely brilliant” and called on people near Canvey Island to get involved.
The list of VIPs included Richard ‘Kid’ Strange, founder of mid-1970s proto-punk band Doctors of Madness, and Castle Point MP Rebecca Harris.
From standing ovations to heartfelt praise, the audience applauded the world premiere of this extravagant rock and roll extravaganza. The captivating blend of humor and emotion captivated viewers, who praised the cast’s talent, well-written script, and brilliant direction.
You can get a glimpse of the audience’s praise for “Wilko”.
• “It was such a great show. There was so much honesty to it. Great performances, great music, and so much to say about life… go see it!”
• “Great show. Great cast. Very well written and directed. We went last night and will definitely be back.”
• “A must-see for any fan of Dr. Feelgood or Wilko Johnson.”
• “It’s amazing. The actor who plays Wilco is amazing. The whole cast is amazing. Sometimes you’ll laugh, sometimes you’ll cry.”
• “Hats off to the author for giving such great insight into Wilco’s life and career.”
• “10/10 – I want to see it again!”
Wilco is a striking biographical drama with live music that celebrates the extraordinary life of Dr. Feelgood co-founder Wilko Johnson. In 2012, the iconic rock star was diagnosed with inoperable cancer and given only a year to live. He refused all medical treatment and was determined to make the most of his final months. That meant seeing the people, places, and things in his amazing life that meant the most to him. Then a miracle happened…
This new play combines words, rock’n’roll and quotes from the man himself to tell the amazing and uplifting true story of Essex legend Wilco.
Tickets start from £19 (plus QNext 65p fee), £8 for under 26s (11+). To book, call the ticket office on 01708 443333 or visit queens-theater.co.uk.
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