THE STAGE version of a TV classic is coming to the boards in Reading.
The Hexagon is set to welcome the live production of Victoria Wood’s iconic, acclaimed series Dinnerladies.
The play features a new storyline inspired by the original TV run, which followed the lives of a group of factory canteen workers and the regulars who visited.
The series was critically acclaimed, running for just two seasons from 1998 to 2000, and garnered a British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy in 2000.
It is the first piece of the late comedian’s work to have been commissioned by her estate since her death in 2016.
The play was adapted by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and will be directed by double Olivier-award winner Sean Foley.
It will star Les Dennis, star of Coronation Street and the Only Fools and Horses musical stage show, as Stan the maintenance man.
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 theatre goers across the UK straight back to the delights of the canteen and characters they grew to love.”
Speaking about joining the production, Les Dennis added: “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.”
Dinnerladies will be touring theatres around the UK from January next year, including a show at Reading’s Hexagon in July.
Tickets are already on sale, and full details are available via: whatsonreading.com
