Beyond the Histories

Jonathan Slinger - 3 to 4 November 2009

2009-10-31T11:20:00.002Z

Jonathan Slinger is in an episode of Midsomer Murders called 'Things That Go Bump in the Night'. This episode, a repeat from 2004, was directed by Peter Smith. It will be shown on ITV1 on Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 November 2009 at 4pm. Jonathan plays Thomas Farr.

Jonathan Slinger - 1 November 2009

2009-10-31T11:16:00.002Z

Jonathan Slinger is part of BBC Radio 4's Classic Serial Bel Ami on Sunday 1 November 2009. Episode 1 will be broadcast on Sunday 1 November at 3.00pm on Radio 4. One presumes episode 2 will follow next week; watch this space. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. Jonathan is playing Bel Ami.

Thank you, Geraldine. ^_^

Julius D'Silva - 13 to 15 October 2009

2009-10-13T08:49:00.002+01:00

Julius D'Silva will be part of BBC Radio 4's Afternoon Reading on Tuesday 13, Wednesday 14, and Thursday 15 October 2009. 'Lyrical Ballads' features a selection of poems from Coleridge and Wordsworth. It will be broadcast on Tuesday 13, Wednesday 14, and Thursday 15 October 2009 at 3.30pm on Radio 4. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. You can also listen online for up to 7 days after broadcast. Julius is playing Samuel Taylor Coleridge.

Anthony Shuster - 4 to 11 October 2009

2009-10-10T10:04:00.002+01:00

Anthony Shuster is part of BBC Radio 4's Classic Serial Beau Geste on Sundays 4 and 11 October 2009. Episode 1 was broadcast on Sunday 4 October at 3.00pm; it is available to listen again online now, and will be repeated on Saturday 10 October at 9.00pm. Episode 2 will be broadcast on Sunday 11 October at 3.00pm. All on Radio 4. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. Anthony is playing Gussie.

Thank you, Geraldine. ^_^

Miles Richardson - 28 September 2009

2009-09-28T01:06:00.003+01:00

Miles Richardson will be appearing in an episode of Doctors called 'Wake Up Call'. The episode in question will be airing on BBC One on Monday 28 September 2009 at 1.45pm. Miles is playing Richard Lasko.

Nick Asbury - 7 October 2009

2009-09-18T20:33:00.003+01:00

Nick Asbury will be giving a Lunchtime Literary Talk on his book Exit, Pursued by a Badger at the Shakespeare Centre, Shakespeare Birthplace Trust (next to Shakespeare's Birthplace), Stratford-upon-Avon. The talk will take place on Wednesday 7 October 2009 at 1pm (doors open at 12.30pm). Tickets cost £4, £3.50 for concessions, or £3 for Friends of SBT, and can be purchased on the door. There will be a bookstall provided by the Shakespeare Bookshop, and Nick will be signing copies of his book.

Thank you, Jo! ^_^

Anthony Shuster - 30 September 2009 to 12 February 2010

2009-09-18T20:09:00.002+01:00

Anthony Shuster will be joining the cast of War Horse at the New London Theatre , London on 30 September 2009. The production is currently booking until 12 February 2010, and tickets are onsale now. This is the National Theatre's smash hit, based on the Michael Morpurgo novel, and is directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris. Anthony is playing Gefreiter Karl.

Thank you, Geraldine. ^_^

Keith Bartlett - 14 October to 14 November 2009

2009-09-18T19:39:00.002+01:00

Keith Bartlett will be appearing in The Spanish Tragedy at the Arcola Theatre, London. The production runs from 14 October to 14 November 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a revival of Thomas Kyd's classic revenge tragedy, and will be directed by Mitchell Moreno. Keith is playing the King of Spain.

Luke Neal - 20 September 2009

2009-09-18T19:37:00.001+01:00

Luke Neal will be appearing in an episode of Doc Martin. The episode in question will be airing on ITV1 on Sunday 20 September 2009 at 9.00pm. Luke is playing Andy.

Luke Neal - 19 September 2009

2009-09-18T19:29:00.002+01:00

Luke Neal will be appearing in an episode of Merlin called 'The Curse of Cornelius Sigan'. The episode in question will be airing on BBC One on Saturday 19 September 2009 at 6.40pm. Luke is playing Sir Geraint.

Clive Wood - 12 to 13 September 2009

2009-09-12T09:21:00.003+01:00

Clive Wood is in a two-part Casualty called 'Dawn of the ED'. These episodes will be airing on Saturday 12 September 2009 at 8.15pm and Sunday 13 September 2009 at 8pm on BBC One. Clive plays Tweedie.

Thank you, Jo. ^_^

Geoffrey Streatfeild - 21 October 2009 to 21 January 2010

2009-08-17T20:24:00.002+01:00

Geoffrey Streatfeild will be appearing in Pains of Youth at the National Theatre, London. The production runs from 21 October 2009 to 21 January 2010, and tickets are onsale now to advance bookers, and from 2 September to the general public. This is a new version of a 1929 Ferdinand Bruckner play by Martin Crimp, and it will be directed by Katie Mitchell.

Richard Cordery - 29 September to 29 October 2009

2009-08-17T20:10:00.002+01:00

Richard Cordery will be appearing in The Power of Yes at the National Theatre, London. The production runs from 29 September to 29 October 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a new play from David Hare about the current financial crisis, and it will be directed by Angus Jackson.

Thank you, mz_annethrope. ^_^

Forbes Masson - 29 October to 7 November 2009

2009-08-14T16:02:00.004+01:00

Forbes Masson will be appearing in A Tender Thing at the Northern Stage, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The production runs from 29 October to 7 November 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a new play from the inestimable Ben Power, and it is directed by Helena Kowt-Housen. Forbes is playing Romeo.

Thank you, Anna! ^_^

Jonathan Slinger - 20 August 2009

2009-08-14T15:50:00.001+01:00

Jonathan Slinger will be appearing in a episode of The Bill called 'Reaching Out'. The episode in question will be airing on ITV1 on Thursday 20 August 2009 at 9pm. Jonathan is playing Stephen Fairfax.

Letter from the Editor

2009-07-30T23:26:00.003+01:00

Good evening, all! I'm pleased, proud, and more than slightly perturbed to report that this blog has been running successfully now for over a year!

First things first: I'm experiencing some slight trouble with my email at the moment, so if you have any tip-offs, please direct them to the new email address. If you've sent anything that hasn't thus far appeared on the blog, I would hugely appreciate a resend!

And while we're all here, I'm just curious to know a few things, so if you have a few minutes, please comment with your answers to the following questions:

How did you first find this blog?
Have you made the effort to see/listen to something that you otherwise wouldn't have after reading about it here?
If so, what was it, and what did you think?
How regularly do you check this blog?
Do you consider this blog a useful resource, somewhat on the creepy side, deliciously between the two, or something else entirely?

While this whole affair did start off as an exercise in "if you want something doing, then do it yourself!", it has gradually changed into much more of a team affair. While I'm enormously grateful to all contributors for all tip-offs, I just want to do one more big thank you in particular to Anna, Carol, Eva, Geraldine, Hilary, Jo, and Polly! Between us, we've kept this blog pretty busy, I reckon. XD

So thank you for reading, and please note the new email address! ^_^

Chuk Iwuji - 25 July to 10 August 2009

2009-07-27T07:35:00.002+01:00

Chuk Iwuji is in three episodes of Proof. These episodes are repeated from 2005. They will be shown on ITV1 on Monday evenings starting from Monday 27 July 2009 at 9pm. This is only in the STV Central and STV Northern regions. Chuk plays Jake Zaria.

Thank you, Hilary and Jo. ^_^

Keith Bartlett - 29 August to 9 October 2009

2009-07-25T15:20:00.002+01:00

Keith Bartlett will be appearing in A New World at Shakespeare's Globe, London. The production runs from 29 August to 9 October 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a new play about Thomas Paine, and will be directed by Dominic Dromgoole. Keith is playing Franklin.

Nick Asbury - 26 September to 29 November 2009

2009-07-25T15:03:00.005+01:00

Nick Asbury will be appearing in the Shared Experience touring production of The Caucasian Chalk Circle. The tour will play the following:
West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds, 26 September to 17 October 2009
Richmond Theatre, Richmond, 20 to 24 October 2009
Nottingham Playhouse, Nottingham, 4 to 21 November 2009
Unicorn Theatre, London, 25 to 29 November 2009
This will be directed by Nancy Meckler.

Thank you, Anna and Jo. ^_^

Jonathan Slinger - 25 July 2009

2009-07-25T14:57:00.001+01:00

Jonathan Slinger is in an episode of A Touch of Frost called 'Mind Games'. This episode is a repeat from 2008. It will be shown on ITV1 on Saturday 25 July 2009 at 8.40pm. Jonathan plays Carl Meyer.

Thank you, Jo. ^_^

Clive Wood - 29 July 2009

2009-07-16T22:37:00.002+01:00

Clive Wood will be appearing in an episode of Midsomer Murders called 'Secrets and Spies'. The episode in question will be airing on ITV1 on Wednesday 29 July 2009 at 8pm. Clive is playing Geoffrey Larkin.

Rob Carroll - 15 July to 31 August 2009

2009-07-15T23:03:00.003+01:00

Rob Carroll is currently appearing in the Walking with Dinosaurs arena tour. The tour will play the following:
Nottingham Trent FM Arena, 15 to 19 July 2009
Sheffield Arena, 22 to 26 July 2009
Manchester MEN Arena, 29 July to 2 August 2009
London O2 Arena, 5 to 9 August 2009
Birmingham NIA, 12 to 16 August 2009
Liverpool Echo Arena, 19 to 23 August 2009
London Wembley Arena, 26 to 31 August 2009
Rob is alternating in the role of Huxley.

Luke Neal - 22 July 2009

2009-07-15T22:33:00.002+01:00

Luke Neal will be appearing in an episode of Midsomer Murders called 'The Dogleg Murders'. It's directed by Richard Holthouse, and will be airing on ITV1 on Wednesday 22 July 2009 at 8pm. Luke is playing Colin Fountain.

Patrice Naiambana - 9 July 2009

2009-07-13T23:00:00.005+01:00

Patrice Naiambana was in episode four of Torchwood: Children of Earth. This third series of the Doctor Who spin-off was five parts long and aired over the course of a single week, and it was directed by Euros Lyn. While it's too late to tune in the traditional way, the programme will be available through the BBC iPlayer until Friday 17 July 2009. Patrice played Defence Secretary.

Keith Bartlett - 16 July 2009

2009-07-10T12:19:00.003+01:00

Keith Bartlett will be appearing in an episode of New Tricks called 'The War Against Drugs'. The episode in question will be airing on BBC One on Thursday 16 July 2009 at 9pm. Keith is playing Norman Smith.

Thank you, Geraldine. ^_^

Geoffrey Streatfeild - 11 to 31 July 2009

2009-07-10T10:37:00.007+01:00

Geoffrey Streatfeild will be appearing in the Opera North production of The Weather Man. This triple bill of performance lecture, film, and chamber opera will be touring the following:
Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 11 July 2009
The Sage, Gateshead, 15 July 2009
Howard Assembly Room, Leeds, 17 to 18 July 2009
Riverside Studios, London, 30 to 31 July 2009

Nick Asbury - Exit Pursued by a Badger

2009-06-21T23:30:00.004+01:00

The wait is almost over! Nick Asbury's eagerly awaited Exit Pursued by a Badger: One Actor's Journey Through History at the RSC is due to be published this week, courtesy of Oberon Books. You can order your copy through Amazon, or - preferably! - your local independent bookshop. Nick will be signing copies of his book at the National Theatre, London, on Tuesday 23 June 2009, after the Shakespeare Blogged platform at 6pm, and Shakespeare's Birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon, on Sunday 19 July 2009 - as part of the RSC Open Day - at 1.30pm.

Chris McGill - 19 June to 31 August 2009

2009-06-21T23:19:00.002+01:00

Chris McGill will be appearing in the Shakespeare's Globe touring production of A Midsummer Night's Dream. The tour will play the following:
City Museum , Portsmouth, 19 to 21 June 2009
Ashton Court , Bristol, 23 to 28 June 2009
Leeds Castle , Maidstone, 30 June to 5 July 2009
Parham House , West Sussex, 7 July 2009
Shakespeare’s Globe, London, 8 to 11 July 2009
Herstmonceux Castle , East Sussex, 13 to 14 July 2009
Hestercombe Gardens , Taunton, 15 to 18 July 2009
Minack Theatre , Cornwall, 20 to 24 July 2009
Hedingham Castle , Essex, 27 to 28 July 2009
Gdansk , Poland, 31 July to 6 August 2009
Art Carnuntum Festival , Austria, 8 to 9 August 2009
St Augustine's Abbey , Canterbury, 12 to 16 August 2009
Newby Hall , Yorkshire, 18 to 19 August 2009
Georgian Theatre , Richmond, Yorkshire, 20 to 23 August 2009
Emmanuel College , Cambridge, 25 to 30 August 2009
St Donats , Glamorgan, 31 August 2009
This will be directed by Raz Shaw. Chris is playing Lysander, Quince, and Moth.

Jonathan Slinger - 25 June 2009

2009-06-18T13:06:00.003+01:00

Jonathan Slinger will be appearing in another episode of new BBC comedy series Krod Mandoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire called 'O Biclops, Where Art Thou'. The episode in question will be airing on BBC Two on Thursday 25 June 2009 at 9pm. Jonathan is playing Cyclops.

Maureen Beattie - 6 to 31 August 2009

2009-06-14T23:14:00.002+01:00

Maureen Beattie will be appearing in The Girls of Slender Means at the Assembly @ George Street Music Hall, Edinburgh. The production runs from 6 to 31 August 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is based on the novella by Muriel Spark, and is part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Jonathan Slinger - 11 June 2009

2009-06-11T18:40:00.002+01:00

Jonathan Slinger will be appearing in the first episode of new BBC comedy series Krod Mandoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire. The episode in question will be airing on BBC Two on Thursday 11 June 2009 at 9pm. Jonathan is playing Head Myrmidon.

Thank you, Eva. ^_^

RSC Ensemble 2009 to 2011 - update

2009-06-08T19:36:00.005+01:00

The new RSC ensemble has now opened their first three Shakespeare productions in Stratford-upon-Avon so I thought I'd do a bit of an update.

Current
The Winter's Tale (directed by David Farr)
The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 31 March to 3 October 2009
Theatre Royal, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 27 to 31 October 2009
Paul Hamilton - Dion
John Mackay - Camillo

As You Like It (directed by Michael Boyd)
The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 18 April to 3 October 2009
Theatre Royal, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 21 to 24 October 2009
Geoffrey Freshwater - Corin
Forbes Masson - Jaques
Sandy Neilson - Duke Senior
Katy Stephens - Rosalind
James Tucker - Silvius

Julius Caesar (directed by Lucy Bailey)
The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 15 May to 2 October 2009
Theatre Royal, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 3 to 7 November 2009
Paul Hamilton - A conspirator
John Mackay - Cassius

Forthcoming
The Comedy of Errors (directed by Paul Hunter)
The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 25 June to 15 August 2009
Theatre Royal, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 7 November 2009
James Tucker - Antipholus of Ephesus

The Drunks (directed by Anthony Neilson)
The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 21 August to 1 October 2009
Paul Hamilton
Sandy Neilson - Babitsky

The Grain Store (directed by Michael Boyd)
The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 10 September to 1 October 2009
Geoffrey Freshwater - Neighbour
John Mackay - Mortko
Forbes Masson - Samson
Katy Stephens - Flesheater
James Tucker - Local Educator

And tiny trickles of information have started to leak out for post-2009 productions as well. John Mackay will be playing Octavius Caesar in the Michael Boyd-directed Antony and Cleopatra in 2010, while Katy Stephens is set to play Regan for David Farr in the 2010 King Lear. Watch this space for more future information; whatever comes up will be shared!

RSC Open Day - 19 July 2009

2009-06-05T00:15:00.006+01:00

The RSC Open Day will be held in Stratford-upon-Avon this summer on Sunday 19 July 2009. There's already a full programme of events planned, with two in particular that should be of interest to anyone reading this blog.

All the World's a Stage, The Courtyard Theatre, 2.15 - 3.15pm
A panel including RSC Associate Designer Tom Pipe and Actor Chuk Iwuji discuss ways of working on the thrust stage and what the transformation of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre means to them.
£10, £5 for 16-25s. Please ring the Box Office on 0844 800 1114.

Exit, Pursued by a Badger: One Actor's Journey Through History at the RSC, Shakespeare's Birthplace, 1.30 - 2.30pm
Nick Asbury, a member of the Histories company, talks about his experience of performing as part of a long ensemble, captured in his newly published book. Nick's book will be available at The Courtyard Theatre Shop and he will be signing copies on the day.
£10, £5 for 16-25s. Please ring the Box Office on 0844 800 1114.

There's also many many more events, tours, talks, and activities planned. If the weather holds out, it should be just as fabulous as - if not more fabulous than - last year!

Visit the RSC website for more information and to buy tickets!

Thank you, Anna. ^_^

Jonathan Slinger

2009-06-05T00:02:00.002+01:00

Recently, four leading Shakespearean actors - including Jonathan Slinger - were given the opportunity to get up close and personal with London's Guildhall Library's copy of the First Folio. Actors discuss first folio of Shakespeare records their thoughts and reactions.

Thank you, Eva. ^_^

Katy Stephens

2009-06-04T23:52:00.002+01:00

There's a nifty little article on the Theatregoers' Choice for Best Actress in a Play 2008 Katy Stephens at WhatsOnStage.com. Katy Stephens On Life at the RSC Post-Histories discusses what it's like being an ensemble member, and also reveals a future role she'll be playing for the new ensemble in 2010.

Thank you, Kate. ^_^

Geoffrey Streatfeild - 30 May 2009

2009-06-04T23:24:00.003+01:00

Geoffrey Streatfeild was part of BBC Radio 4's Saturday Play on Saturday 30 May 2009. 'A Murder of Quality' is a dramatisation of the John Le Carre novel of the same name. While it's too late to tune in the traditional way, the programme will be available through the BBC website until Saturday 6 June 2009. Geoffrey is playing Rode.

Thank you, Geraldine. ^_^

Tom Hodgkins - 27 May to 12 September 2009

2009-05-07T23:02:00.003+01:00

Tom Hodgkins will be appearing in Arcadia at the Duke of York's Theatre, London. The production runs from 27 May to 12 September 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a welcome West End revival of the 1993 play by Tom Stoppard, and is directed by David Leveaux. Tom is playing Captain Brice.

Maureen Beattie - 8 May 2009

2009-05-07T22:53:00.003+01:00

Maureen Beattie will be part of BBC Radio 4's Friday Play on Friday 8 May 2009. 'Tough Love' is a drama about a mother learning that her son is a heroin addict. It will be broadcast on Friday 8 May 2009 at 9.00pm on Radio 4. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. You can also listen online for up to 7 days after broadcast. Maureen is playing Laura.

Matt Costain - 5 to 28 June 2009

2009-04-23T19:30:00.004+01:00

Matt Costain will be appearing in The Tempest at the Open Air Theatre, London. The production runs from 5 to 28 June 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a reimagining of the play for ages 6 and over, and it will be directed by Liam Steel. Matt is playing Ariel.

Thank you, Polly. ^_^

Nicholas Asbury - 19 April 2009

2009-04-14T21:14:00.002+01:00

Nicholas Asbury will be appearing in an episode of Heartbeat called 'Return Crossing'. The episode in question will be airing on ITV1 on Sunday 19 April 2009 at 8pm. Nick is playing Tomasz Burowski.

Thank you, Jo. ^_^

Geoffrey Streatfeild - 22 April to 6 June 2009

2009-04-14T21:09:00.005+01:00

Geoffrey Streatfeild will be appearing in The Contingency Plan at the Bush Theatre, London. The production runs from 22 April to 6 June 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a double-bill of plays - On the Beach and Resilience - by Steve Waters, and they will be directed by Michael Longhurst and Tamara Harvey respectively. Geoffrey is playing Will Paxton.

Thank you, Geraldine! ^_^

Lex Shrapnel - 8 to 23 May 2009

2009-04-12T15:13:00.003+01:00

Lex Shrapnel will be appearing in Serious Money at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Birmingham. The production runs from 8 to 23 May 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a very timely revival of the Caryl Churchill satire, and will be directed by Jonathan Munby. Lex is playing Grimes/Billy Corman.

Thank you, David. ^_^

Anthony Shuster - 24 April 2009

2009-04-12T14:39:00.002+01:00

Anthony Shuster will be appearing in Live Canon: The Bloomsbury Set at the Greenwich Theatre, London. The production is for two performances only, both on Friday 25 April 2009, and tickets are onsale now. Live Canon are a dedicated poetry-reading ensemble, performing new poems and premiering new settings of older works, and are directed by Helen Eastman.

Anthony Shuster - 17 May to 1 June 2009

2009-04-12T14:36:00.002+01:00

Anthony Shuster will be appearing in Live Canon: The Pre-Raphaelites at the Finborough Theatre, London. The production is for six nights only - 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 May and 1 June 2009 - and tickets are onsale now. Live Canon are a dedicated poetry-reading ensemble, performing new poems and premiering new settings of older works, and are directed by Helen Eastman.

Maureen Beattie - 27 April to 1 May 2009

2009-04-12T14:30:00.002+01:00

Maureen Beattie will be reading Radio 4's Book of the Week, For All the Tea in China by Sarah Rose. It's a historical book about Robert Fortune, a Scottish gardener, botanist, plant hunter and industrial spy, and his efforts to steal the closely guarded secret of tea from China in the mid-nineteenth century. Selected extracts will be broadcast every weekday morning, from 27 April to 1 May 2009, at 9.45am on Radio 4. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. You can also listen online for up to 7 days after broadcast.

Maureen Beattie - 13 to 30 May 2009

2009-04-12T14:09:00.004+01:00

Maureen Beattie will be appearing in Ghosts at the Citizens Theatre, Glasgow. The production runs from 13 to 30 May 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a new version of the classic Henrik Ibsen play by Amelia Bullmore, and is directed by Jeremy Raison. Maureen is playing Mrs Alving.

Ann Ogbomo - 29 March 2009

2009-03-29T14:57:00.002+01:00

Ann Ogbomo will be appearing in an episode of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency called 'The Boy with an African Heart'. The episode in question will be airing on Sunday 29 March 2009 on BBC One at 9pm. Ann is playing Clara.

Maureen Beattie - 29 March 2009

2009-03-29T14:52:00.002+01:00

Maureen Beattie will be appearing in an episode of Lewis called 'The Quality of Mercy'. The episode in question will be airing on ITV1 on Sunday 29 March 2009 at 8pm. Maureen is playing Professor Gregson.

Thank you, Angela. ^_^

Maureen Beattie - 27 March 2009

2009-03-29T00:22:00.001Z

Maureen Beattie was on BBC Radio 4's Stanley Baxter Playhouse on Friday 27 March 2009. 'Astonishing Archie' is a comic play about two friends planning a friend's funeral. While it's too late to tune in the traditional way, the programme will be available through the BBC website until Friday 3rd Apri 2009. Maureen is playing Rev Margot Turnbull.

Laurence Olivier Awards - the results are in!

2009-03-08T23:25:00.003Z

CONGRATULATIONS! Having been nominated in four categories for this year's Laurence Olivier Awards, The Histories have received three awards! It's official; The Histories Cycle was the Best Revival, had the Best Costume Design, and gave the Best Company Performance (a brand-spanking new category, and a most auspicious start). Of course, if you're reading this, you already knew these things, but it's nice to see the official recognition. ;D

The full list of winners can be found here. Big congratulations also to the National Theatre of Scotland for the phenomenal Black Watch, and all other winners. ^_^

Geoffrey Streatfeild - 6 March 2009

2009-03-01T17:25:00.004Z

Geoffrey Streatfeild is part of BBC Radio 4's Afternoon Play on Friday 6 March 2009. 'Success Story' is a fictional story inspired by recent events and recorded in the week prior to transmission. It will be broadcast on Friday 6 March 2009 at 2.15pm on Radio 4. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. You can also listen online for up to 7 days after broadcast. Geoffrey is playing Ray.

Thank you, Jennifer. ^_^

Nicholas Asbury - 23 June 2009

2009-03-01T17:09:00.004Z

Nicholas Asbury will be making an appearance at the National Theatre, London, on 23 June 2009.

"Shakespeare Blogged: Nick Asbury and Simon Reade - 23 June, Cottesloe
Actor and RSC blogger Nick Asbury joins director and author Simon Reade for a light-hearted look at how Shakespeare the playwright would survive in today’s world of internet scrutiny and arts subsidy."

It may also interest you to know that Nick regularly presents for Stratford Community Radio on Friday mornings from 10am to 12 noon. You can tune in via the website.

Thank you Polly, Eva, and Jo. ^_^

Tom Hodgkins - 20 February to 14 March 2009

2009-03-01T17:04:00.002Z

Tom Hodgkins will be appearing in The Price at the New Vic Theatre, Basford. The production runs from 20 February to 14 March 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a new production of the Arthur Miller classic, and is directed by Robin Herford. Tom is playing Victor Franz.

Clive Wood - 4 March 2009

2009-03-01T16:53:00.002Z

Clive Wood will be appearing in an episode of Minder called 'Thank Your Lucky Stars'. The episode in question will be airing on Channel Five on Wednesday 4 March 2009 at 9pm. Clive is playing Felix Cornell.

Thank you, Jo. ^_^

Richard Cordery - 21 March to 31 October 2009

2009-03-01T16:34:00.002Z

Richard Cordery will be appearing in Spring Awakening at the Novello Theatre, London. The production runs from 21 March, is currently booking until 31 October 2009, and tickets are onsale now. It is a West End transfer of the Lyric Hammersmith production. This is the UK premiere of the award-winning Broadway musical, based on Frank Wedekind's controversial play, and will be directed by Michael Mayer. Richard is playing the Adult Men.

John Mackay - 23 February 2009

2009-02-17T16:16:00.003Z

John Mackay will be appearing in an episode of new ITV series Law & Order: UK called 'Care'. The episode in question will be airing on ITV1 on Monday 23 February 2009 at 9pm. John is playing Lindford.

WOS Theatregoers' Choice Awards - the results are in!

2009-02-17T15:59:00.003Z

Aaaaand it's a great big fat hearty congratulations to Katy Stephens for kicking the not-inconsiderable competition to the kerb and proving she is the theatregoer's choice for Best Actress in a Play for 2008. Huzzah and well done!

The full list of winners can be found here. Continued congratulations to Grandage, Donmar, and all other winners. ^_^

Geoffrey Streatfeild - 3 February 2009

2009-02-08T21:27:00.003Z

Geoffrey Streatfeild was part of BBC Radio 4's Weird Tales on Tuesday 3 February 2009. 'The Loop' is a half-hour chilling tale set in 1906, during the digging of the London Underground. While it's too late to tune in the traditional way, the programme will be available through the BBC website until Tuesday 10 February 2009. Geoffrey is playing Geoffrey Coombs.

Geoffrey Streatfeild - 9 February 2009

2009-02-08T21:08:00.002Z

Geoffrey Streatfeild is in an episode of Midsomer Murders called 'Orchis Fatalis'. This episode, a repeat from 2005, was directed by Peter Smith. It will be shown on ITV1 on Monday 9 February 2009 at 4pm. Geoffrey plays Jonathan Makepeace.

Thank you, Jo. ^_^

Laurence Olivier Awards - nominations announced!

2009-02-03T13:34:00.003Z

The nominations for this year's Laurence Olivier Awards have been announced, and the Histories have received recognition in four categories.

Best Company Performance
- August: Osage County at the NT Lyttelton
- Black Watch at the Barbican
- The Histories at the Roundhouse
- The Norman Conquests at the Old Vic
- Sunset Boulevard at the Comedy

Best Revival
- The Chalk Garden at the Donmar Warehouse
- The Histories at the Roundhouse
- The Norman Conquests at the Old Vic

Best Set Design
- Todd Rosenthal - August: Osage County at the NT Lyttelton
- Neil Murray, projections by Gemma Carrington and Jon Driscoll - Brief Encounter at the Cinema, Haymarket
- Tom Piper - The Histories at the Roundhouse
- Soutra Gilmour - The Lover And The Collection at the Comedy
- Paul Brown - Marguerite at the Theatre Royal, Haymarket

Best Costume Design
- Tom Piper and Emma Williams - The Histories at the Roundhouse
- Matthew Wright - La Cage Aux Folles at the Playhouse
- Rob Howell - The Norman Conquests at the Old Vic
- Christopher Oram - Twelfth Night at the Wyndham’s

The winners will be announced at the annual awards ceremony held this year on Sunday 8 March 2009. Live coverage will be available on the evening through OfficialLondonTheatre.co.uk including, for the first time, live video footage.

Wela Frasier - 14 February to 8 March 2009

2009-01-31T22:57:00.004Z

Wela Frasier will be appearing in the Opera Group touring production of Down by the Greenwood Side. The tour will play the following:
Linbury Studio at the Royal Opera House, London, 14 to 19 February 2009
Oxford Playhouse, Oxford, 22 February 2009
The Anvil, Basingstoke, 26 February 2009
Howard Assembly Room at Opera North , Leeds, 7 to 8 March 2009
This will be directed by John Fulljames. Wela is playing St. George.

Jonathan Slinger - 3 February 2009

2009-01-30T21:40:00.002Z

Jonathan Slinger is in an episode of Midsomer Murders called 'Things That Go Bump in the Night'. This episode, a repeat from 2004, was directed by Peter Smith. It will be shown on ITV1 on Tuesday 3 February 2009 at 4pm. Jonathan plays Thomas Farr.

Thank you, Eva. ^_^

John Mackay - 31 January 2009

2009-01-30T21:34:00.003Z

John Mackay was on BBC Radio 4's Poetry Please this Sunday just gone, reading a selection of Robert Burns poetry to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the poet's birth. The programme will be repeated on Saturday 31 January 2009 at 11.30pm on Radio 4. You can tune in the normal way, or you can listen online now until Sunday 1 February 2009.

Thank you, Jo. ^_^

Clive Wood - 28 January 2009

2009-01-27T13:47:00.003Z

Clive Wood is in an episode of Midsomer Murders called 'Blue Herrings'. This episode, a repeat from 2000, was directed by Peter Smith. It will be shown on ITV1 on Wednesday 28 January 2009 at 4pm. Clive plays Dr. Clive Warnford.

Thank you, Eva. ^_^

Lex Shrapnel - February 2009

2009-01-20T23:16:00.003Z

Lex Shrapnel will be appearing in Channel Five's remake of classic TV series Minder. It is a six-part series, each episode lasting an hour, and is produced by Talkback Thames. It filmed in London during 2008. It will be broadcast on Channel Five on Wednesday evenings, from 4 February 2009, at 9pm. Lex is playing Jamie Collins.

Jonathan Slinger - 22 January 2009

2009-01-17T22:38:00.000Z

Jonathan Slinger will be appearing in an episode of BBC Drama series Hustle called 'Lest Ye Be Judged'. The episode in question will be airing on BBC One on Thursday 22 January 2009 at 9pm. Jonathan is playing Campbell.

Thank you, Carol. ^_^

Forbes Masson - spring 2009

2009-01-17T09:35:00.003Z

Forbes Masson is currently appearing in BBC comedy The High Life. This series with the most fabulous opening sequence, which Forbes wrote and starred in with Alan Cumming, is being repeated on BBC Four on Tuesdays at 9pm. Forbes is playing Steve McCracken.

I like to indirectly blame The High Life for being the reason I got into Shakespeare in the first place. It's a slightly long and dull story but I'm very grateful it happened. So you should rush to your televisions every Tuesday and give it its due! Thank you, Forbes. ^_^

Nicholas Asbury - 13 March to 20 June 2009

2009-01-15T22:09:00.007Z

Nicholas Asbury will be appearing in the Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company touring production of His Dark Materials parts 1&2. The tour will play the following:
Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Birmingham, 13 March to 18 April 2009
The Lowry, Salford, 23 to 26 April 2009
Oxford Playhouse, Oxford, 29 April to 3 May 2009
The Churchill, Bromley, 6 to 10 May 2009
Royal & Derngate, Northampton, 31 to 17 May 2009
Edinburgh Festival Theatre, Edinburgh, 19 to 23 May 2009
Quarry Theatre, Leeds, 28 May to 20 June 2009
This will be directed by Rachel Kavanaugh. Nicholas is playing John Faa, Jopari, Tialys, Cleric, and Scholar.

Thank you, Jo and anon. ^_^

Forbes Masson - 25 January 2009

2009-01-15T19:24:00.002Z

Forbes Masson will be appearing in a BBC Scotland production called No Holds Bard. It's a comedy mockumentary, directed by Brian Kelly, and was filming in Scotland during the early summer of 2008. It will be broadcast on BBC One Scotland on Sunday 25 January 2009 at 9pm, to coincide with the 250th anniversary of Robert Burns's birth. Forbes is playing Cronie McKay.

Anthony Shuster - 25 January 2009

2009-01-14T22:28:00.002Z

Anthony Shuster will be appearing in a BBC Drama production called A Short Stay in Switzerland. It's a one-off drama based on a true story, directed by Simon Curtis, and was filming in London from August 2008. It will be broadcast on BBC One on Sunday 25 January 2009 at 9pm. Anthony is playing Stephen.

Chuk Iwuji - May 2009

2009-01-14T17:10:00.004Z

Chuk Iwuji will be appearing in The Observer at the National Theatre, London. The production opens in May 2009, and tickets go onsale from Friday 13 March 2009. This will be the premiere of a new play by Matt Charman, performed in the Cottesloe Theatre, and will be directed by Richard Eyre.

Lex Shrapnel - spring 2009

2009-01-11T16:06:00.005Z

Lex Shrapnel will soon be starring in Channel Five's remake of classic TV series Minder. The series is due to air sometime in February 2009. The theme song - 'I Could Be So Good For You' - has been re-recorded by Glaswegian band Attic Lights and is being released as a single. It will be available digitally from 12 January 2009, with a physical release coming on 16 February 2009. And for the curious, here's the video, featuring Lex:

Geoffrey Streatfeild, Jonathan Slinger - 18 to 19 January 2009

2009-01-10T18:32:00.004Z

Geoffrey Streatfeild and Jonathan Slinger will be appearing in a BBC Drama production called Hunter. This two-part drama, directed by Colm McCarthy, filmed in London during September 2008. It will be broadcast on BBC One on Sunday 18 and Monday 19 January 2009 at 9pm. Geoffrey is playing DS Nick Dyer, and Jonathan is playing DC Miles.

Thank you, Carol and Eva! ^_^

RSC Ensemble 2009 to 2011

2009-01-10T17:52:00.012Z

While the new RSC ensemble has yet to be officially announced, possibly isn't complete, and is always subject to change, it turns out you can find casting details for the first few plays from the new ensemble if you don't mind clicking around the RSC website in a slightly convoluted manner. So here's the info we have so far!

The Winter's Tale - 31 March to 3 October 2009
Paul Hamilton - Dion
John Mackay - Camillo

As You Like It - 18 April to 3 October 2009
Geoffrey Freshwater - Corin
Forbes Masson - Jaques
Sandy Neilson - Duke Senior
Katy Stephens - Rosalind
James Tucker - Silvius

Julius Caesar - 15 May to 2 October 2009
Paul Hamilton - A conspirator
John Mackay - Cassius

These productions will all be at the Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, and tickets are onsale now. The Winter's Tale is directed by David Farr, As You Like It is directed by Michael Boyd, and Julius Caesar is directed by Lucy Bailey.

The other ensemble members include Charles Aitken, Adam Burton, Darrell D'Silva, David Carr, Brian Doherty, Noma Dumezweni, Dyfan Dwyfor, Phillip Edgerley, Christine Entwisle, James Gale, Mariah Gale, Gruffudd Glyn, Greg Hicks, Kelly Hunter, Ansu Kabia, Tunji Kasim, Richard Katz, Jonjo O'Neill, Dharmesh Patel, Peter Peverley, Patrick Romer, David Rubin, Sophie Russell, Oliver Ryan, Simone Saunders, Clarence Smith, James Traherne, Sam Troughton, Larrington Walker, Hannah Young, and Samantha Young.

Sadly, Clive Wood appears to be no longer involved in the new ensemble. Here's hoping it's because he's got something really awesome up his sleeve!

Huge thanks to everyone who helped me with this info! :D

Anthony Shuster - 11 to 19 January 2009

2009-01-05T00:13:00.003Z

Anthony Shuster will be appearing in Live Canon: Committed at the Finborough Theatre, London. The production is for four nights only - 11, 12, 18, and 19 January 2009 - and tickets are onsale now. Live Canon are a dedicated poetry-reading ensemble, performing new poems and premiering new settings of older works, and are directed by Helen Eastman.

Geoffrey Freshwater, Jonathan Slinger - 6 January 2009

2009-01-04T20:33:00.002Z

Geoffrey Freshwater and Jonathan Slinger are in an episode of Foyle's War called 'Enemy Fire'. This episode, a repeat from 2004, was directed by Jeremy Silberston. It will be shown on ITV1 on Tuesday 6 January 2009 at 3pm. Geoffrey plays Sergeant Rivers, and Jonathan plays Dr. Brian Wrenn.

Thank you, Eva. ^_^

Geoffrey Streatfeild, Chuk Iwuji - 25 December 2008

2008-12-29T00:37:00.004Z

On Thursday 25 December 2008, there was a fabulous documentary on More4 called To Be Or Not To Be In Shakespeare, devoted to the perils and joys of being a Shakespearean actor. It featured interviews with a whole host of RSC alumni, including Geoffrey Streatfeild, Chuk Iwuji, and Michael Boyd. While it is sadly too late to catch it on TV, it is still possible (and recommended!) to watch online until late January.

Thank you, Anna! ^_^

How to get your Histories fix this Christmas

2008-12-21T21:02:00.004Z

Television
Monday 22 December, 2pm - Rosemary and Thyme, ITV1, with Jonathan Slinger.
Tuesday 23 December, 7.55pm - Midsomer Murders, ITV3, with Geoffrey Freshwater.
Sunday 28 December, 8pm - The 39 Steps, BBC One, with Sandy Neilson.

Radio
Thursday 25 December, 2.15pm - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, BBC Radio 4, with Chuk Iwuji.
Saturday 27 December, 9pm - Coram Boy (part 2), BBC Radio 4, with Jonathan Slinger.

Theatre
Treasure Island, Theatre Royal Haymarket, London. Running until 10 January, with Matt Costain.
The Playboy of the Western World, Abbey Theatre, Dublin. Running until 31 January, with Chuk Iwuji.
Oliver!, Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London. Running until 29 September, with Julius D'Silva.

Online
Exploring Shakespeare - Henry V.
Exploring Shakespeare - Richard III.
YouTube - RSC transforms the Roundhouse.
YouTube - Final performance of the RSC's Histories.
WhatsOnStage.com Theatregoers' Choice Awards, voting open until 31 January.
Beyond the Histories.

Hope you all have a cracking holiday season, whatever you get up to, and a most delightful new year! We already have some awesome Histories-related productions coming up for 2009, and I'm very much looking forward to learning about more. :3

Keith Bartlett - 27 January to 7 March 2009

2008-12-21T14:29:00.004Z

Keith Bartlett will be appearing in The Lifesavers at Theatre503, London, and the Mercury Theatre, Colchester. The production runs from 27 January to 21 February 2009 at Theatre503, and tickets are onsale now. It will then transfer to the Mercury Theatre from 24 February to 7 March, and tickets are onsale now. This is a new play from award-winning playwright Fraser Grace, and will be directed by Paul Robinson.

Richard Cordery - 23 January to 28 February 2009

2008-12-21T14:11:00.002Z

Richard Cordery will be appearing in Spring Awakening at the Lyric Hammersmith, London. The production runs from 23 January to 28 February 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is the UK premiere of the award-winning Broadway musical, based on Frank Wedekind's controversial play, and will be directed by Michael Mayer. Richard is playing the Adult Men.

Jonathan Slinger - September 2008

2008-12-16T15:21:00.003Z

Jonathan Slinger has been filming a BBC Drama production called Hunter. This two-part drama, also featuring Geoffrey Streatfeild, has been filming in London during September 2008. There is no date for broadcast at present, but it is due to air on BBC One sometime in early 2009. Jonathan is playing DC Miles.

Maureen Beattie - 15 to 19 December 2008

2008-12-14T15:36:00.003Z

Maureen Beattie will be part of BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour Drama this week. A Small Town Murder is a crime mystery by Scott Cherry, and will be told in five parts. It will be broadcast daily from Monday 15 to Friday 19 December 2008 at 10.45am and 7.45pm on Radio 4. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. You can also listen online for up to 7 days after broadcast. Maureen is playing DI Long.

Jonathan Slinger - 14 and 21 December 2008

2008-12-08T19:44:00.004Z

Jonathan Slinger will be part of BBC Radio 4's Coram Boy radio adaptation. This is a new production of the popular novel by Jamila Gavin, adapted by Gavin for radio and directed by Celia de Wolff. It will be broadcast in two parts on Sunday 14 and Sunday 21 December 2008 at 3pm on Radio 4. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. You can also listen online for up to 7 days after broadcast. Jonathan is playing Alexander, as narrator.

Thank you, Carol. ^_^

John Mackay - 15 May to 2 October 2009

2008-12-08T19:35:00.001Z

John Mackay will be appearing in Julius Caesar at the Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon. The production runs from 15 May to 2 October 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This particular production is one of the first plays from the new long-term RSC ensemble, and will be directed by Lucy Bailey. John is playing Cassius.

WOS Theatregoers' Choice Awards - nominations announced!

2008-12-05T19:12:00.005Z

The nominations for this year's WhatsOnStage.com Theatregoers' Choice Awards have been announced, and the Histories have received recognition in six categories.

The SPOTLIGHT Best Actress in a Play
- Deanna Dunagan – August: Osage County at the NT Lyttelton
- Katy Stephens – The Histories, RSC at the Roundhouse
- Lesley Sharp – Harper Regan at the NT Cottesloe
- Lindsay Duncan – That Face at the Duke of York’s
- Margaret Tyzack – The Chalk Garden at the Donmar Warehouse
- Penelope Wilton – The Chalk Garden at the Donmar Warehouse

The AMBASSADOR TICKETS Best Ensemble Performance
- August: Osage County – at the NT Lyttelton
- Black Watch – National Theatre of Scotland at the Barbican
- Brief Encounter – at The Cinema, Haymarket
- Into the Hoods – at the Novello
- The Histories – RSC at the Roundhouse
- The Norman Conquests – at the Old Vic

Best Shakespearean Production
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream – at Shakespeare’s Globe
- Much Ado About Nothing – at the NT Olivier
- Othello – at the Donmar Warehouse
- The Histories – RSC at the Roundhouse
- The Merry Wives of Windsor – at Shakespeare’s Globe
- Twelfth Night – at the Tricycle

The SEATCHOICE Best Director
- Emma Rice – Brief Encounter at The Cinema, Haymarket
- Michael Grandage – Othello & The Chalk Garden at the Donmar Warehouse & Ivanov, Donmar West End at Wyndham’s
- Matthew Warchus – The Norman Conquests at the Old Vic
- Michael Boyd – The Histories, RSC at the Roundhouse
- Rupert Goold – The Last Days of Judas Iscariot at the Almeida, Six Characters in Search of an Author at the Gielgud & No Man’s Land at the Duke of York’s
- Samuel West – Dealer’s Choice at Trafalgar Studios & Waste at the Almeida

Best Set Designer
- Eugene Lee – Imagine This at the New London
- Klara Zieglerova – Jersey Boys at the Prince Edward
- Miriam Buether – In the Red & Brown Water at the Young Vic
- Neil Murray – Brief Encounter at The Cinema, Haymarket
- Rob Howell – The Norman Conquests at the Old Vic
- Tom Piper – The Histories, RSC at the Roundhouse

The AKA Theatre Event of the Year
- David Tennant returning to the stage in Hamlet for the RSC
- The launch of the Donmar West End season at Wyndham’s
- La Clique’s London debut at the Hippodrome
- The in-the-round transformation of the Old Vic for The Norman Conquests
- The RSC’s staging of The Histories at the Roundhouse
- Widespread protests over arts funding cutbacks

Voting is open now until 31 January 2009. with the winners to be announced in the week commencing 9 February 2009. You can only vote once from each IP address, so make sure you're casting the votes you want to be casting. Tell your friends, and get voting!

Sandy Neilson - January 2009 to mid-2011

2008-11-29T21:12:00.005Z

Sandy Neilson will be returning to the RSC as part of the new long-term ensemble. The ensemble will be together from January 2009 to mid-2011, and will be part of such exciting times as the very first performances in the new Royal Shakespeare Theatre in 2010, and the 50th anniversary of the RSC in 2011.

David Warner - 2008/2009

2008-11-25T18:46:00.004Z

David Warner has been filming an ITV drama called Albert's Memorial. This one-off dark comedy, about a trio of World War II veterans, has been filming in France and Germany during 2008. It is due to air on ITV 1 sometime in 2009. David is playing Frank.

Evening Standard Theatre Awards - the results are in

2008-11-24T18:33:00.007Z

There is good news and there is bad news concerning the Evening Standard Theatre Awards. The bad news is that the Histories Cycle did not receive any awards in any of the categories for which it had been nominated. The good news is that it was such an astounding achievement that the lovely Veronica Wadley - editor of the Standard and chair of the judging panel - chose to award the RSC a special editor's award for this indisputable event of 2008. :D

The full list of winners can be found here. Congratulations to Michael Grandage and all at the Donmar for the simply splendiferous year you're all having! ^_^

In the meantime (and I promise this is the last time I'll bring it up!), if you fancy doing some nominating of your own, the WhatsOnStage.com Theatregoers' Choice Awards are accepting nominations for who should be shortlisted for their annual awards. If you have some spare minutes in the day, there are surely worse ways to spend them than seeking recognition for everyone's favourite ambitious Shakespeare project. ;) And hurry; nominations close Sunday 30 November!

Geoffrey Freshwater - 28 November 2008

2008-11-22T18:24:00.002Z

Geoffrey Freshwater will be appearing in an episode of Doctors called 'Buried'. The episode in question will be airing on BBC One on Friday 28 November 2008 at 1.45pm. Geoffrey is playing Brian Hedley.

Katy Stephens, Forbes Masson, Clive Wood - 18 April to 3 October 2009

2008-11-21T18:28:00.011Z

Katy Stephens, Forbes Masson, and Clive Wood will be appearing in As You Like It at the Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon. The production runs from 18 April to 3 October 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This particular production is one of the first plays from the new long-term RSC ensemble, and will be directed by Michael Boyd. Katy is playing Rosalind, and Forbes is playing Jacques.

The new ensemble will also include Greg Hicks, Kelly Hunter, Noma Dumezweni, and Mariah Gale. Hopefully they'll announce the entire ensemble soon; I can't wait to see who else is involved!

Thank you, Eleanor and mz_annethrope. :)

Chuk Iwuji - 16 December 2008 to 31 January 2009

2008-11-19T22:22:00.004Z

Chuk Iwuji will be appearing in The Playboy of the Western World at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin. The production runs from 16 December 2008 to 31 January 2009, and tickets are onsale now. This is a new version of J.M. Synge's early twentieth century play, updated by Bisi Adigun and Roddy Doyle, and will be directed by Jimmy Fay. Chuk is playing Christy Mahon.

Nicholas Asbury

2008-11-16T21:02:00.004Z

As I imagine most of you are aware, Nicholas Asbury kept us well entertained for the duration of the Histories Cycle; not just onstage, but also on the RSC website with his insightful, hilarious, and just plain wonderfully written blog. Well, come 2009, Oberon Books will be publishing his collected thoughts in the form of a book (provisionally) entitled Exit Pursued by a Badger. So spread the word, make sure your local bookshop knows you'll be buying a copy, and start making space on your bookcase next to your Histories Brochure!

Thank you, Eleanor. ^_^

Jonathan Slinger

2008-11-08T22:51:00.004Z

Back in August, Jonathan Slinger gave an interview to staff of the Department of Theatre Studies at the University of Warwick. Interview with Jonathan Slinger is all about Richard II, a role with which Jonathan has quite an exciting history stretching back much further than the Histories Cycle. Easily one of the better half hours I've spent recently, so definitely give it a listen!

Thank you, Eva. ^_^

Evening Standard Theatre Awards - nominations shortlist confirmed

2008-11-07T14:33:00.008Z

The nominee shortlist for this year's Evening Standard Theatre Awards has been confirmed, and although Jonathan Slinger's amazing Richards sadly did not make the cut, the Histories are still receiving recognition in two categories.

THE SYDNEY EDWARDS AWARD FOR BEST DIRECTOR
- Michael Boyd - The History Cycle (Royal Shakespeare Company at the Roundhouse)
- Michael Grandage - Othello/The Chalk Garden/Ivanov (Donmar West End at Wyndham's and Donmar Warehouse)
- John Tiffany - Black Watch (National Theatre of Scotland at Barbican)

THE MILTON SHULMAN AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NEWCOMER
- Felicity Jones - The Chalk Garden (Donmar Warehouse)
- Lex Shrapnel - Henry IV Part I (Royal Shakespeare Company at The Roundhouse)
- Ella Smith - Fat Pig (Trafalgar Studios and Comedy Theatre)

The awards will be announced on Monday 24 November 2008.

In the meantime, if you fancy doing some nominating of your own, the WhatsOnStage.com Theatregoers' Choice Awards are accepting nominations for who should be shortlisted for their annual awards. If you have some spare minutes in the day, there are surely worse ways to spend them than seeking recognition for everyone's favourite ambitious Shakespeare project. ;)

Geoffrey Streatfeild - September 2008

2008-11-07T13:58:00.005Z

Geoffrey Streatfeild has been filming a BBC Drama production called Hunter. This two-part drama, a sequel to 2007's Five Days, has been filming in London during September 2008. There is no date for broadcast at present, but it is due to air on BBC One sometime in early 2009. Geoffrey is playing DS Nick Dyer.

Antony Bunsee - 2008

2008-11-07T13:06:00.002Z

Antony Bunsee has joined the cast of Hollyoaks. This soap opera, now in its thirteenth year, airs at 6.30pm every weekday evening on Channel 4, with an omnibus edition on Sunday mornings. Antony is playing Gov Roy.

Thank you, Helen. ^_^

Evening Standard Theatre Awards - nominations longlist announced!

2008-11-05T01:44:00.009Z

The nominee longlist for this year's Evening Standard Theatre Awards has been announced, and the Histories have received recognition in three categories.

BEST ACTOR
- Kenneth Branagh - Ivanov (Donmar West End at Wyndham's)
- David Calder - King Lear (Shakespeare's Globe)
- Adam Godley - Rain Man (Apollo)
- Chiwetel Ejiofor - Othello (Donmar Warehouse)
- Will Keen - Waste (Almeida)
- Simon Russell Beale - Much Ado About Nothing (National's Olivier)
- Jonathan Slinger - Richard II and Richard III (RSC at the Roundhouse)
- Kevin Spacey - Speed-the-Plow (Old Vic)

THE SYDNEY EDWARDS AWARD FOR BEST DIRECTOR
- Lucy Bailey - Timon of Athens (Shakespeare's Globe)
- Michael Boyd - The History Cycle (Royal Shakespeare Company at the Roundhouse)
- Rupert Goold - Six Characters In Search Of An Author (Gielgud)/No Man's Land (Duke of York's)/The Last Days Of Judas Iscariot (Almeida)
- Michael Grandage - Othello/The Chalk Garden/Ivanov (Donmar West End at Wyndham's and Donmar Warehouse)
- Katie Mitchell - The Women of Troy (National's Lyttelton)
- Emma Rice - Brief Encounter (Kneehigh at Cinema Haymarket Theatre)
- Alan Rickman - Creditors (Donmar Warehouse)
- John Tiffany - Black Watch (National Theatre of Scotland at Barbican)

THE MILTON SHULMAN AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NEWCOMER
- Michelle Dockery - Pygmalion (Old Vic)
- Luke Evans - Small Change (Donmar Warehouse)
- Felicity Jones - The Chalk Garden (Donmar Warehouse)
- Joseph Mawle - The Last Days Of Judas Iscariot (Almeida)
- Lex Shrapnel - Henry IV Part I (Royal Shakespeare Company at The Roundhouse)
- Ella Smith - Fat Pig (Trafalgar Studios and Comedy Theatre)

The full shortlist should be available on Friday 7 November 2008, and the awards themselves will be announced on Monday 24 November 2008.

In the meantime, if you fancy doing some nominating of your own, the WhatsOnStage.com Theatregoers' Choice Awards are accepting nominations for who should be shortlisted for their annual awards. If you have some spare minutes in the day, there are surely worse ways to spend them than seeking recognition for everyone's favourite ambitious Shakespeare project. ;)

Is it just me or is this US election malarkey totally exciting?! :D

Keith Dunphy - November 2008

2008-11-02T14:41:00.004Z

Keith Dunphy will be part of BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour Drama this week. Tune in for dramatisations of key scenes from Chekhov's life based on Irene Nemirovsky's biography. They will be broadcast at 10.45am and 7.45pm on Radio 4. You can either tune in the traditional way, or listen online. You can also listen online for up to 7 days after broadcast. Keith is playing Sasha Chekhov.

Keith Bartlett, Geoffrey Freshwater, Alexia Healy - October 2008

2008-11-02T14:09:00.011Z

Keith Bartlett was in an episode of Doctors called 'Hunger Strike'. The episode in question first aired on BBC One on Friday 10 October 2008 and was directed by Bob Tomson. Keith played Stephen Privett.

Geoffrey Freshwater was in a two-episode story of The Bill called 'Hold Me Tight'. The episodes in question first aired on ITV1 on Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 October 2008 and were directed by Richard Standeven. Geoffrey played Bob Riley.

Alexia Healy was in an episode of The Bill called 'Fools Rush In'. The episode in question first aired on ITV1 on Thursday 23 October 2008 and was directed by Jamie Annett. Alexia played Ellie Greenhill.

It's startlingly difficult to keep on top of the long-running drama series like these. If anyone knows of any handy links or cunning ways of keeping track, I'd be very pleased to hear from you! As ever, apologies for the hindsighted post. :(

Anthony Shuster - 24 November to 20 December 2008

2008-11-02T12:20:00.003Z

Anthony Shuster will be appearing in The Ballad of Crazy Paola at the Arcola Theatre, London. The production runs from 24 November to 20 December 2008, and tickets are onsale now. This is a new translation of a play by Arne Sieren, translated by Stephen Greenhorn, and will be directed by Nadia Latif. Anthony is playing Raymond.