It is wonderful to see that the taste for classic drama is not waning. There are major productions of Chekov and Ibsen in the New Year, and it is pleasing to see that classic drama originating closer to home is also in vogue. This is exemplified by London theatre Southwark Playhouse’s production of ‘The Rivals’, which will run from 12th to 30th January. Like many of the best comedies, Sheridan’s play deals with matters of the heart.

Jessica Swale directs and Cara Newman designs. The cast is truly stellar and the show will almost certainly sell all of the theatre tickets for this small venue.

Celia Imrie plays Mrs Malaprop: the word ‘malapropism’ derives from this amusing character, and having Imrie, one of our best loved actresses, play her character is extremely exciting. She has starred in many successful films, including ‘Calendar Girls’, ‘Nanny McPhee’ and ‘St Trinians’. Her television work includes ‘Dinner Ladies’, ‘After You’ve Gone’ and ‘Kingdom’. Her previous theatre work includes ‘Plague Over England’ and ‘Acorn Antiques – The Musical’ in the West End, ‘Habeas Corpus’ at the Donmar Warehouse and Sheridan’s other well-known play ‘The School for Scandal’, for the Royal Shakespeare Company.

The show also stars Ella Smith, who formed part of the cast in ‘Fat Pig’ in the West End and ‘Love’s Labour’s Lost’ at the Rose Theatre in London. She also stars in the new St Trinian’s film, ‘The Legend of Fritton’s Gold’.

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