The Old Hamptonians Amateur Dramatic Society, (OHADS), realise a three year ambition when they are finally able to stage an evening dedicated to the comic genius of Tony Hancock.In their production, simply titled “Hancock”, the OHADS team will present an innovative presentation of the work of The Lad himself ,based upon the legendary radio half hours, and staged productions of those most famous of TV performances, “The Blood Donor” and “The Radio Ham”.
The first half of the evening’s entertainment will be a recreation of a BBC radio theatre studio in the 1950s, where the cast will perform, "live" and “on air”, two of the funniest “Hancock Half Hour” radio shows.The second act is devoted to a staged performance of one of the most famous, funniest and fondly remembered half hours in Television history, “The Blood Donor” or “The Radio Ham”.
The ambitious programme will run for one week, from Monday 12th April to Saturday 17th April inclusive, and will see two separate shows alternating each night.The 12th, 14th, 16th and 17th April shows, starting at 7.45 p.m. will feature the radio performances of “The Scandal Magazine” and “The Succession: Son & Heir”, backed by the stage version of “The Blood Donor”.The evening performances of the 13th and 15th April,again starting at 7.45 p.m., and the Saturday Matinee on 17th April, (curtain up 2.45 p.m.) will feature the radio broadcasts of “Hancock in Hospital” and “The Picnic”, followed by a staging of “The Radio Ham”.
The production is very much a labour of love on the part of director Harry Medawar, who is a longstanding member of the Tony Hancock Appreciation Society.This production is very much an affectionate tribute. We are very grateful to Alan Simpson, Ray Galton and Tessa Le Bars for allowing us the opportunity of sharing our admiration for Tony’s interpretation of Ray and Alan’s writing in such an exciting and engaging way.
Whilst there have been other stagings of episodes of Hancock's Half Hour in the past, it is believed that this is the first time that any theatrical group has put together an entire evening based upon the varied facets of the Hancock oeuvre, or performed six different shows during the course of a one week run.In order to create an intimate atmosphere, ensuring that the audience are part of the ambience of the event, the show is being performed in the Noel Coward Theatre Studio at Hampton Hill Playhouse.
Tickets for all performances are £9.However,for those who wish to take in all six shows over two nights,there is a special discount of £15 for two different night performances.
However, a word of warning! This event has really captured the imagination of the local audience and tickets are already selling well.For tickets and bookings , the OHADS Box Office number is 020 8979 4596 from March 22nd to April 4th. From April 5th, the number changes to 020 8977 4926 before 9pm. Please note that only cash and cheque payments can be accepted, but tickets may be reserved for “on the door” collection and payment.It is hoped that many people will want to take the opportunity to see this unique and affectionate tribute to The Lad Himself.
