Following its resounding success with a record-breaking run at the Theatre Royal Windsor and two sold-out weeks at Theatre Royal Bath, ‘Frank and Percy’ is poised to capture hearts and tickle funny bones at its forthcoming London stint.

Penned by emerging British playwright Ben Weatherill, ‘Frank and Percy’ presents a poignant yet witty exploration of an unexpected and heartwarming relationship between two men. United by their unwavering affection for their canine companions, Frank and Percy embark on a journey of human connection, navigating the complexities of love and companionship. Against the backdrop of a park where their dogs play freely, the play invites audiences to ponder whether Frank, a widowed schoolteacher, and Percy, a spirited elder statesman, should take the plunge into new romance or let sleeping dogs lie.

Director Sean Mathias syas, “‘Frank and Percy’ explores the fragility and joy of relationships, and what forges and strengthens bonds between humans, at a time when more than ever, we all need to love and support one another.”

The collaboration of McKellen and Allam, two titans of British theatre, promises an unforgettable theatrical experience that spans the breadth and range of the dramatic arts. McKellen’s illustrious career, which has garnered a Tony Award and six Olivier Awards, is complemented by Allam’s multifaceted contributions on stage, television, film, and radio.

Adding to the excitement, The Other Palace introduces a new writing development fund. A portion of ticket sales from future productions in the main house will contribute to this fund, specifically earmarked to support emerging playwrights and nurture the next generation of theatre makers. Details regarding the fund’s initiatives and the first open call for submissions will be announced later this year.

For more information and tickets head over to theotherpalace.co.uk.

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Adapted from Markus Zusak’s influential novel, The Book Thief is an accomplished translation to the big screen. Its fundamental success lies with an ensemble of acting talent who all pull together to make this such an involving film. When you have good actors, it elevates any story to the big screen and they all help give The Book Thief a nice platform to captivate an audience.

An impressive leading turn from Sophie Nélisse marks this as a heartfelt story with plenty of emotional pull. She works very well against the always reliable duo of Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson too. Nico Liersch’s portrayal of Rudy, Liesel’s best friend and would-be first love, is especially sweet and affecting. There’s even a cameo by Heike Makatsch (Alan Rickman’s love interest in Love Actually) as Liesel’s birth mother.

The film needlessly becomes distracted by Roger Allam’s imposing narration as ‘Death’. This is, however, a problem with the source material more than anything else. Allam handles his duties well and the thoughts of death are quite pivotal in the written form. The narration works well to set the mood and embrace key moments of the plot. But in a movie this feels slightly awkward and understandably doesn’t couple to the tones of realism the rest of the film strives towards.

The Book Thief is a very well made film with an affecting and heartfelt story. Full of breakout performances and focusing on the lives of everyday people during the war, The Book Thief paints a very involving picture that will stay with you for quite some time afterwards.

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