By Peter Douglas
THEATRE-lovers will get a blast from the past from this week as an adaptation of favourite sitcom ‘Steptoe & Son’ hits the stage.
After months of preparation, The 1812 Theatre Company in Ferntree Gully will hold its opening night of the show at the Lowe Auditorium this Thursday.
This classic British comedy tells the story of a middle-aged man and his elderly father who run an unsuccessful ‘rag and bone’ business.
Ian Johnson from 1812 Theatre Company said the show has a wide appeal.
“This is not a modern adaptation of the television show, but stays true to the original,” he said.
“The script is an adaptation from three episodes of the show.
“Such sitcom-based plays are appealing because the audiences are already familiar with the characters and themes.”
Mr Johnson said the production team has assembled a top cast and an amazing setting.
“We pride ourselves on producing visually stunning sets,” he said.
“Audiences will feel like they’re apart of the original live television show.”
Directed by Christine Grant, the show will feature Keith Hutton (Albert Steptoe) and Ed Kennett (Harold Steptoe).
Ms Grant, who has previously directed a similar show based on ‘The Vicar of Dibley’, said the comedy was still relevant for modern audiences.
“The humour in it hasn’t dated, it’s about the relationship between a father and son,” she said.
“This show aired in the 1960s but is still very funny, which shows how good the writing is.”
The series of stage shows starts this Thursday, 30 July, and runs until 22 August.
In the lead-up, The 1812 Theatre Company and the ‘Mail’ are giving away one double pass to any show of your choosing.
Simply email editor@mailnewsgroup.com.au and name your favourite character from the show.
For more information, visit www.1812theatre.com.au.
