Natalie Bassingthwaighte, celebrated star of stage and screen, is set to return to heatre in Shirley Valentine, one of the world’s most beloved plays.
Directed by Lee Lewis, this uplifting one-woman show will light up Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre for a strictly limited season starting 30 January.
Written by Willy Russell, Shirley Valentine tells the hilarious and inspiring story of a middle-aged Liverpool housewife stuck in the monotony of her daily routine.
Talking to her kitchen wall, Shirley reflects on her unfulfilled dreams and wonders what happened to the adventurous young woman she once was. When a friend invites her on an impromptu holiday to Greece, Shirley takes a leap of faith, embarking on a journey of self-discovery, courage, and reinvention.
Bringing Shirley’s story to life is Natalie Bassingthwaighte, renowned for her dynamic performances across film (Elvis), television (Neighbours, Underbelly, X-Factor), and stage (Chicago, Jagged Little Pill). With her charisma and versatility, Bassingthwaighte promises to deliver a fresh, heartfelt portrayal of Shirley, capturing every laugh, tear, and moment of triumph. Don’t miss this joyous celebration of rediscovering life’s possibilities and embracing the courage to start anew.
Director Lee Lewis said: “Before Fleabag, before Prima Facie, before RBG and Julia there was Shirley Valentine. Extraordinary women standing centre stage and telling the world that things have to change!”
“Shirley was the original clarion call for women to break out of the boxes they had been shoved in and make a new deal with life filled with joy and potential. Shirley has a voice that still speaks to everyone about wanting more and believing in yourself. Shirley is the courage, the laughter, the friendship and the ballsiness we all hope to have when facing huge obstacles. She is the OG.”
