Dates and Times
Sun 28 Sept @ 4:30pm, SQUEAK Cheltenham Sandford Park
This highly-acclaimed solo play - written and performed by Mark Stratford - tells the compelling story of the great Victorian actor-manager, Macready - the man to whom Charles Dickens dedicated his novel ‘Nicholas Nickleby.’
A must for drama fans, this remarkable true tale captures the sheer joy, graft and tribulations of a life lived in theatre.
It's a glorious tribute to a theatrical pioneer!
With passion, humour, emotion, and an array of characters, Stratford takes us on a journey through the fascinating world of Victorian theatre and the extraordinary, yet conflicted life of Macready, from his first tentative steps on stage in a tatty country theatre to his final ever performance at the mighty Drury Lane!
Nominated as an OffFEST finalist in the OFFIES AWARDS 2025
Running time: 80min
Suitable for Age 12+
Warnings: None
REVIEWS
★★★★★ Theatre & Arts Reviews
"Fringe Theatre doesn’t get much better than this"
★★★★★ Theatre & Tonic
"Stratford gives a polished, confident and relaxed performance. He knows his character inside out...This doesn’t feel like acting...it feels as if we are hearing from the man himself"
★★★★ LondonTheatre1
"...a wonderful example of a fascinating subject beautifully brought to life by an amazing writer/actor...Fringe theatre at its absolute finest"
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED SHOW - FringeReview
"...effortless story-telling, Stratford’s pace driving the narrative seamlessly…compelling and charming"
★★★★ Broadway Baby
"One not to be missed...Stratford’s remarkable ability to tell Macready's story and create characters brings it all to life”
★★★★ Fairy Powered Productions
"An entertaining, informative and impressive production"
★★★★ ReviewsGate
"A fascinating show which brings Macready to life"
CREATIVES
Written, staged, designed and performed by Mark Stratford
Presented by Stratford Productions
CAST:
Mark Stratford
Company website: www.stratfordproductions.co.uk
