The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance
Theatre
August 22 - 25, 2018
PACT Theatre, 107 Railway Parade
Erskineville, NSW
Website: https://www.trybooking.com/381360
Description
In the 19th century, Joseph Merrick, a victim of rare skin and bone diseases, is the star freak attraction in travelling sideshows. Found abandoned and helpless, he is admitted to London's prestigious Whitechapel Hospital.Young physician Frederick Treves discovers that Merrick has an intelligent mind and introduces him to Victorian London society. Merrick slowly evolves from an object of pity to an urbane and witty favourite of the aristocracy and literati, only to be denied his ultimate dream – to become a man like any other.
The forthcoming production, directed by the acclaimed Debbie Smith, features a wonderful cast with Harley Connor as John Merrick; Nicholas Gledhill as Frederick Treves; Melanie Robinson as Mrs Kendall; William Jordan as Ross (Merrick's nasty manager); Marty O'Neill as Carr Gomm; Peter Hayes as Bishop How; Denise Kitching as Miss Sandwich; Madeleine Solomon; Claire Brew and Eoin O'Sullivan.
Winner of the 1979 Tony Award for 'Best Play' and 2015 Drama Desk Award for 'Best Revival of a Play', this classic play continues to inspire generations.
"Ravishing theatre….Utterly fascinating…A distinguished piece of work." – New York Daily News
"An enthralling and luminous play. Haunting, splendid…" – The New York Times
"Wonderful, moving and purely theatrical. A giant of a play!" – New York Post
"A moving drama, lofted on poetic wings, it nests in the human heart." – Time
"Pomerance's tale showcases the triumph of a very human spirit, personified by the sensitive, almost saintly Merrick." – Associated Press