We’ll Always Have Paris
Mill at Sonning
19th Jan to 11th March 2023
“Ah, Paris! The rooftops, the organ grinders music, The Frenchmen with a penchant for ‘English ladies…’
Three women of a certain age gravitate to Paris. There’s Nancy, a retired Headmistress determined to throw off her shackles; Anna, recently widowed – and free – after years of nursing a sick husband; and Raquel, a divorcee in search of eternal youth and a new toy boy. Add to the mix Charlot, an actor turned handyman who eventually fixes more than just a leaky shower and Madam Boussiron, the archetypal dragon of landladies.
Penned by the wonderful Jill Hyem – writer of TV series Tenko, Howard’s Way, Wish Me Luck, The House of Elliot – WE’LL ALWAYS HAVE PARIS is a feel-good play with laughter and tears. The promise of romance. Lovely love and not so lovely anger. Friendship and loyalty. And the advantages of growing old. Perhaps not La Vie en Rose, but certainly a night to leave you charmed, amused, thoughtful – and most definitely smiling.”
Review by Richard Lambert, 3 Stars
This is a delightful comedy about 3 friends who find themselves in Paris, two of them already living there while the 3rd friend joins for a holiday. Throw into the mix an overbearing landlady and a rugged handy-man, and the setup is ready to go!
The Mill at Sonning never fails to deliver a wonderful Set. Designed and constructed on-site it’s always impressive! The lighting is both extensive and restrained.
With great comic timing from this experienced cast, it’s the 2nd half of the show that comes alive and accelerates. Director Sally Hughes has included some rather fun scene change songs and staging that are perfectly timed to the tracks and done in back-light so we can also watch and enjoy. There is a subtle under-current of which woman the handy-man will obey – all rather tongue-in-cheek and seaside postcard saucy.
The play itself is a steady comedy that won’t trigger anyone – perfect for a few chuckles along the way and a truly lovely afternoon or evening.
Having had an incredible meal in a fabulous location, this is a truly remarkable theatre experience.
Photo Credit: Andreas Lambis
Cast:Debbie Arnold – RaquelBasienka Blake – Madame BoussironElizabeth Elvin – NancyRichard Keep – CharlotNatalie Ogle – AnnaCreative team:Director Sally HughesSet Designer Michael HoltCostume Designer Natalie TitchenerLighting Designer Graham WeymouthCasting Director Kate Plantin CDG
Ticket Link: Click here
ALL TICKETS INCLUDE A DELICIOUS TWO-COURSE MEAL IN THE RESTAURANT BEFORE THE SHOW.
FOR MATINEE PERFORMANCES:
Restaurant open and serving lunch from 12.15pm – 2pm
Performance starts 2.15pm
FOR EVENING PERFORMANCES
Restaurant open and serving dinner from 6.15pm – 8pm
Performance starts 8.15pm