It’s been on the backburner for more than five years, but Simon Naylor – creative director of Manchester city centre arts venue 53two – and the venue's producer, Alexandra Maxwell, are finally bringing new play Frank 4 Sophie 4 Eva to life (October 30-November 8).
Written by Doncaster-based Ian Watson, 1990s sit-com meets kitchen sink drama as the piece explores the current topic of male mental health and just how easy it is to hit rock-bottom, even if you’re always the funny guy.
In their 40s, Frank and Sophie's marriage is in trouble: no sex, no communication. But are they past the point of no return? Has Frank been too much of a pratt? Can Sophie relax a little? Is this just the final straw of a car-crash relationship?
Frank 4 Sophie 4 Eva will be the first time Simon and Alex have performed on the stage of the venue's current home - having previously played Macbeth and Lady Macbeth at the previous venue back in 2018. Simon said: ‘‘It’s terrifying; if anything it’s a stupid idea. Neither of us have been on stage properly in a few years. But we read the script half a decade ago and it always sat in our minds. Now just felt like the right time to do the show. It will make you laugh, it might make you cry but more than anything, you’ll be entertained… we hope.’’
The run will raise money for men's suicide prevention charity Andy’s Man Club, and at every performance literature and merchandise will be available and money wil be raised to support the charity, which offers free-to-attend, peer-to-peer support groups across the UK and online.
53two will be offering pay what you can tickets for those who can’t afford a full-price ticket; two of the shows will also be BSL interpreted. Performers, creatives and audience members will also have access to the venue’s recently-fitted Changing Places toilet - the first independent arts space in Manchester to have such a loo, offering increased independence to users.
More info and tickets here