David Pugh has just announced  a new production of WILLY RUSSELL’S classic comedy SHIRLEY VALENTINE starring Sheridan Smith in the one woman play directed by Matthew Dunster at London’s Duke of York’s Theatre for a 15 week run from Friday 17 February to 3rd June

Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband’s chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note, saying: ‘Gone!  Gone to Greece.’

 Shirley Valentine is the celebrated one-woman play written by Willy Russell, winning him his third Olivier Award. Sheridan Smith is a multi-award-winning actress with two Olivier Awards and a BAFTA. Matthew Dunster is a three-time Olivier Award nominated director whose work most recently has been seen on Broadway with Martin McDonagh’s Hangmen and in the West End with 2.22 by Danny Robins at the Criterion Theatre.  

 David Pugh, the five-time Olivier Award winning and Two-time Tony Award winning Producer said: “Back in 1986 I was lucky enough to see the first ever production of Shirley Valentine in Liverpool. I have begged Willy to one day let me produce a revival of Shirley Valentine when the casting was right. That day is now and both Willy and I believe that Sheridan Smith is the perfect Shirley Valentine.”

 Sheridan Smith said “As a mum now myself I’m delighted to be playing theatre’s best-loved mum and I am honoured to be entrusted by Willy Russell to bring his Shirley to life once again in the West End. Now, to practice cooking chips and egg!”

THIS PRODUCTION ENDED ITS RUN ON 3RD JUNE 2023