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IAN DURY’S REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL COMES TO TRURO’S HALL FOR CORNWALL

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Following a hugely successful run in 2010, the hit show Reasons To Be Cheerful will be coming to Hall for Cornwall from 21 to 25 February.

The Graeae and the New Wolsey Theatre’s critically acclaimed production is a high-energy coming of age tale set in 1979 and celebrating the infectious music of Ian Dury and the Blockheads.

Part gig, part play, this gritty production is set in 1979 when Labour lost to the Tories, strikes rocked the nation, and Ian Dury and the Blockheads’ Reasons to be Cheerful (Part 3) climbed the charts. Die-hard fans Vinnie and his mates are desperate to see Ian Dury and the Blockheads at the Hammersmith Odeon, except the gig sold out weeks ago. However life has a habit of throwing strange things at you, and one night of frustration becomes something else entirely…

Featuring classic songs including Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick; Plaistow Patricia; Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll; Sweet Gene Vincent; Spasticus Autisticus and the titular Reasons to be Cheerful, this new musical was a huge hit when first performed – garnering outstanding reviews from the critics, fellow artists and audiences.

Graeae is a force for change in world-class theatre, breaking down barriers, challenging preconceptions and boldly placing Deaf and disabled artists centre stage. Artistically led by Jenny Sealey, Graeae’s signature characteristic is the compelling creative integration of sign language and audio description, which engages brilliantly with both disabled and non-disabled audiences. Championing accessibility and providing a platform for new generations of artists, Graeae leads the way in pioneering, trail-blazing theatre.

As the original disabled activist and musician, Ian Dury was a patron, staunch supporter and advocate of Graeae. The extraordinary wit and wisdom of Dury’s music and lyrics are brought to life by an exceptional cast of 13 actors and musicians, most of which are reprising their roles.

Evening performances are at 7.30pm with a Thursday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets are £10 to £20.50, with concessions, groups and school/college tickets available. Call the Box Office or book online at www.hallforcornwall.co.uk