This weekend, Quay Arts hosts three nights of Theatre Reviva!’s latest production, Were You Anyone Before Dad’s Army?
Were You Anyone Before Dad’s Army? is a charming, delightful, enlightening and uplifting story of a man who met both success and catastrophe with courage, resilience, dignity and good humour; in a production that acclaims the life of a remarkable man, and acknowledges both the 110th year since the start of the First World War and the 80th anniversary of D-Day in the Second World War – in both of which Arnold Ridley was severely wounded.
Speaks to anyone touched by love and loss
This play speaks sincerely and amusingly to the hearts and minds of theatregoers of all ages; to people who like stories of individuals who win through against the odds; to people who enjoy theatre and unassuming heroism and care for family and personal values – anyone indeed who has been touched by love and loss.
Pountney: An encouraging story of humble beginnings
Director, Graham Pountney, says,
“People should go and see this because it is an encouraging story of humble beginnings, immense and unexpected success, financial ruin and warm celebrity at the end.
“This is the missing history of Private Godfrey, the actor Arnold Ridley, and a life-affirming story of a self-effacing hero.”
Not-for-profit professional theatre company
The tale is told by an Isle of Wight based award-winning, not-for-profit professional theatre company, whose aim is to enthuse the local community and bring great work into its midst.
Theatre Reviva! received the Outstanding Theatre Award at the Brighton Fringe Festival 2023.
Theatre Reviva!
This is the start of Graham Pountney’s repertory company dream on the Island; to bring people with a passion into the creative arts together whether it be backstage, costume, lights, sound or onstage. And there are plans and dreams for more plays, even musicals in the future.
Theatre Reviva! Is a professional company that will create work here and tour it off the Island too.
A tribute to Arnold Ridley
This delightful play, that is a tribute to the Actor famous for playing Private Godfrey in the BBC tv series Dad’s Army – Arnold Ridley, is the kick-off point for this plan.
Directed by Isle of Wight professional actor/director/producer and resident Graham Pountney. Written by Nic Ridley, this play stars Mansel David as Arnold Ridley.
Where and when
Were You Anyone Before Dad’s Army is at Quay Arts on Friday 2nd, Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th August.
Tickets are available online from the Quay Arts Box Office, priced at £19 in advance or £21 on the door.
Our thanks to Theatre Reviva! for sponsoring this feature. They and other organisations taking paid promotion enables you to continue reading OnTheWight for free.
