It’s time for the West End to brace itself once again for “Grumpy Old Women”, a format that earned great success when the original was presented at the Lyric Theatre in 2006. This time around it makes its way to the Novello Theatre after a national tour brought it to the attention of audiences across the United Kingdom, with Jenny Eclair, Wendi Peters and Susie Blake all in tow. It is certain to put a smile on the face of any old grump, with an abundance of ailments to the age old problem of getting older.
From April 2010 audiences can enjoy the antics of Eclair, Peters and Blake as they unleash a show that has been described as an ‘orgy of middle aged mayhem’. It means that whilst most of us embrace the onset of age with class and dignity, “Grumpy Old Women 2: Chin Up Britain” shows us that there are alternatives as well. From sections such as Grumping through the ages to the Grumpy Guide to Safe Grumpy Rumpy Pumpy, it is certain to help anyone through hard times.
The show is likely to be a popular draw for those who are fans of the “Grumpy Old...” brand, with “Grumpy Old Women” proving to be a popular show for the BBC alongside its predecessor “Grumpy Old Men”. The format has spawned spin-offs, merchandise and live shows, with both “Grumpy Old Women” and the current “Grumpy Old Women 2: Chin Up Britain” demonstrating the brand’s lasting appeal.
Leading the show is Jenny Eclair, who has penned the production alongside Judith Holder. She is a veteran of the format having appeared in the original “Grumpy Old Women” at the Lyric Theatre in 2006, as well as the television series on BBC 2. Her other credits include “Steaming” at the Piccadilly Theatre in 1997 and “Mum’s The Word” at the Albery Theatre in 2003.
She stars alongside both Wendi Peters and Susie Blake, both of whom have appeared in ITV’s “Coronation Street”, as Cilla Battersby Brown and Beverley Unwin respectively. The pair have both appeared in various television shows and stage productions, with Peters’ credits including “Snow White and the Seven Dwarves” at the Orchard Theatre in Kent. Meanwhile, Blake has appeared in “Wicked” at the Apollo Victoria Theatre and “Noises Off” at the Piccadilly Theatre.
“Grumpy Old Women Live 2 – Chin Up Britain” appears at the Novello Theatre from Wednesday 14th April 2010 until Saturday 5th June 2010.