Direct from its premiere at the Chichester summer festival, a new production of Coram Boy - adapted from Jamila Gavin's prize-winning novel set in 18th Century England - arrives at The Lowry in Salford in June (21-29).
Originally seen at the National Theatre in 2005 before transferring to Broadway, Coram Boy was nominated for several Olivier and Tony Awards and won the Time Out Live Award for best play.
At Gloucester Cathedral, Alexander Ashbrook, heir to an aristocratic estate, has his heart set on becoming a composer, but his stern father refuses to listen. His and other stories entwine over several years as two orphans find themselves on parallel adventures and the great composer Handel is at work on the score of Messiah, embodying the hope of love and salvation over evil.
Angels and abandoned children, glorious music and murder most foul feature in this colourful tale of 18th century England.
More info and tickets here