Stage adaptation of much-loved TV sitcom is first to be commissioned by comedy legend’s estate
(Image: supplied image)
More than a quarter of a century after it was first screened on BBC One, the iconic Victoria Wood sitcom dinnerladies heads to Hull New Theatre next April. This new stage adaptation is the first piece of Victoria’s work to be commissioned by her estate.
The show features a storyline inspired by the beloved original TV sitcom episodes and characters and stars Les Dennis (Coronation Street, Only Fools and Horses The Musical) as maintenance man Stan with further star casting to be announced soon. Originally created, written and starring comedy legend Victoria Wood, dinnerladies ran for two acclaimed series and 16 episodes between 1998 and 2000, winning widespread critical acclaim and a devoted audience for its warmth, wit and brilliantly observed characters.
Winning a British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy in 2000, the sitcom was set in the canteen of fictional Manchester factory HWD Components, and followed the lives, friendships and workplace dramas of the staff and regulars who gathered there every day. Now, audiences will once again be reunited with the unforgettable world of dinnerladies, and the affectionate portrayal of everyday working British life.
This new adaptation features all the much-loved characters that made the show a huge British classic with a lasting place in comedy history, including Bren, Tony, Dolly, Anita, Jean, Twinkle, Philippa and Stan. Whether you are revisiting an old favourite or discovering it for the first time, dinnerladies will serve up a hilarious night out packed with heart, nostalgia and plenty of surprises during its Hull run, from April 13 to 17.
The Victoria Wood Estate said: “We are delighted to be bringing the joy of Victoria Wood’s much-loved classic dinnerladies back to the nation after more than 25 years. We hope that this new stage adaptation by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and directed by Sean Foley – featuring a story inspired by the original TV series – will take theatregoers across the UK straight back to the delights of the canteen and characters they grew to love.”
Speaking about joining the production, star of TV and theatre Les Dennis said: “I’m so thrilled to be on board with this new production of Victoria Wood’s dinnerladies. I’m lucky enough to say I knew Victoria – she and I performed on the comedy circuit in the 1970s and were both finalists on New Faces.
“I was always such a fan of her – both as a person, and as a comedic voice. Being part of this tour and seeing these beloved northern working-class characters brought to the stage is a perfect way to keep her legacy alive.
“I’m the first cast member to be announced as Stan, and I can’t wait to see which fantastic actresses will be bringing these amazing dinnerladies characters to life – they’re all such fantastic roles. I think fans of Victoria will be in for a real treat after hearing director Sean Foley’s plans for this tour.”
Tickets go on sale on Friday, July 3, at 10am. Book at the Hull City Hall Box Office, call 01482 300 306 or visit hulltheatres.co.uk