Scoundrels set to shake up seaside with songs and scams in new stage show
Cromer and Sheringham Operatic Society presents a stage version of the classic comedy film Dirty Rotten Scoundels, which is coming to Cromer Pier's Pavilion Theatre in May/June 2019. Picture: SUE BIGNELL - Credit: Archant
A classic comedy pitting conman against conman is coming to a north Norfolk stage.
Left, Joseph Betts as Freddy and Peter Howell as Lawrence in Cromer and Sheringham Operatic Society's stage version of the classic comedy film Dirty Rotten Scoundels, which is coming to Cromer Pier's Pavilion Theatre in May/June 2019. Picture: SUE BIGNELL - Credit: Archant
Cromer and Sheringham Operatic and Dramatic Society (SCODS) are putting on a musical performance of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, based on the 1988 film starring Steve Martin, Michael Caine and Glenne Headly.
Martin Rodwell, the show's director, said audiences were in for a treat.
Mr Rodwell said: "This is a show that is so hilariously funny and exciting to direct it is beyond comprehension why it hasn't received greater critical acclaim giving greater status in the world of musical theatre.
"If you've seen the film and loved it then seriously come along to the musical, you will be sure to see all that tickled you in the film and so much more."
From left, Matt Scantlebury as Andrew, Joseph Betts as Freddy and Peter Howell as Lawrence in Cromer and Sheringham Operatic Society's stage version of the classic comedy film Dirty Rotten Scoundels, which is coming to Cromer Pier's Pavilion Theatre in May/June 2019. Picture: SUE BIGNELL - Credit: Archant
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels sees debonair English con artist Lawrence - played by Peter Howell - at home on the French Riviera, where he seduces wealthy society ladies out of their cash to support his lavish lifestyle and regal claims.
Things becomes decidedly more interesting when young and enthusiastic rival Freddy, played by Joseph Betts, lands in town to threaten Lawrence's exploits.
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And at the crux of it all is the charming Christine, played by Andrea Wilson, whom the duo both try to con out of her fortune as part of a bet, with the loser obliged to leave town.
A hilarious battle of cons ensues that will keep audiences laughing, humming and guessing to the end.
Andrea Wilson as Christine in Cromer and Sheringham Operatic Society stage version of the classic comedy film Dirty Rotten Scoundels, which is coming to Cromer Pier's Pavilion Theatre in May/June 2019. Picture: SUE BIGNELL - Credit: Archant
David Yazbecks wrote the score for the stage version, and musical director Mark Sharp leads the show's live band on a musical journey covering everything from hoedown to ballads and jazz to French chanson.
Georgie Kemp choreographed the dance moves.
The musical premiered on Broadway in 2005, and was nominated for 11 Tony awards. I
t has since had runs around the world, including in Australia where it was called "the best musical to hit Sydney this century" and on the West End.
The show runs from May 25 to June 1 at Cromer Pier's Pavilion Theatre, with both evening performances and matinees.
For more details or to book tickets, go to www.cromerpier.co.uk.
