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Macready! Dickens' Theatrical Friend

This compelling show - written and performed by Mark Stratford - tells the story of the great Victorian actor-manager, Macready - the man to whom Charles Dickens dedicated "Nicholas Nickleby."

A must for drama fans, this remarkable true tale captures the sheer joy, graft and tribulations (!) of a life lived in theatre.

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!

Age Guide: 12+

Running Time: 95 mins approx. including interval

★★★★★ "A fascinating play about the life and loves of William Charles Macready. Fringe Theatre doesn’t get much better than this"" Theatre & Arts Reviews

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED SHOW "...effortless story-telling, Stratford’s pace drives the narrative seamlessly. It is all compelling and charming" FringeReview

★★★★ "One not to be missed...Stratford’s remarkable ability to tell Macready's story and create characters brings it all to life” Broadway Baby

★★★★ "A fascinating and insightful production" LondonTheatre1

★★★★ "A fascinating show which brings Macready to life" ReviewsGate

★★★★ "An entertaining, informative and impressive production... Stratford’s account of Macready’s life whizzes by in the company of one remarkable actor sharing the story of another" Fairy Powered Productions

"An entertaining portrait...a timeless story of struggle, perseverance and sacrifice in making a living from one’s art" British Theatre Guide

"What a performance! Mark Stratford truly becomes Macready" Southwark News