Actor showdown in Vivid’s ‘A Life in the Theatre’

Teesside performers, Vivid Theatre Company are coming to ARC this July with their strongest and latest creation, A Life in the Theatre.

Four years after their sell-out debut Squirrels, Vivid’s version of David Mamet’s play is a funny and moving concoction about the complexities of backstage life and how painful it is to pass the torch on to a new generation.

A Life in the Theatre follows two repertory actors, John and Robert, who have finished yet another performance. Robert, the older actor, is slowly discovering that the world has outgrown an old-school classical actor such as himself. Robert wants to teach him the ways of the world but John knows it all and has no need for a mentor, particularly one that uses his towels all of the time.

This portrayal of old school versus up-and coming follows other successes Duck Variations, which debuted at Edinburgh Festival in 2007 and the 2009 hit Sexual Perversity in Chicago.

Originating from Teesside, Vivid Theatre Company have stated that it is their mission to contest the perceived notion that only London creates good theatre, and the press reviews suggest that their efforts have had good results.

"Captivating performances in an absorbing production. Vivid theatre indeed." Edinburgh Guide

"Vivid Theatre Company at the top of their game." The Crack

The homegrown Teesside talent, who have performed at numerous international arts festivals and north east venues as well as the Edinburgh Festival, will showcase their skills in this clear and well acted piece. They are committed to giving audiences the opportunity to learn and the right to enjoy the theatrical experience.