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“May I say how wonderful it is for you to have me?” 2026 is the centenary year of the great Kenneth Williams, one of Britain’s most distinctive and beloved performers. To mark this, join Simon Cartwright, Russell Davies, Mark Farrelly and Madeline Smith for an unforgettable journey through Kenneth’s extraordinary life. The performance showcases readings of scenes and sketches from his most iconic work, alongside moving and revealing extracts from his private diaries which will be shared onstage for the very first time. By turns hilarious and deeply poignant, this celebration pays tribute to the wit and brilliance of a true national treasure. There will also be a Q and A with the cast, and a chance to share your memories of Kenneth.
CAST
Simon Cartwright’s performance credits include: Bob Says Opportunity Knocks (BBC 1), The Man Called Monkhouse (Edinburgh Festival), Toast of London (Channel 4), The Last Laugh (film 2016), Howerd’s End (national tour) and he is currently playing Bob Monkhouse in The Last Laugh (West End, Off Broadway and national tour).
Russell Davies is a prolific broadcaster and journalist who edited Kenneth Williams’ diaries and letters. His award-winning work on BBC Radios 2 and 4 includes the series Word Of Mouth, and numerous programmes on jazz, literature and the history of radio comedy. He has hosted Radio 4's Brain of Britain since 2009.
Mark Farrelly's West End roles include Nick in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (Trafalgar Studios). He is a prolific writer / performer of solo plays which constantly tour: Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope, The Silence of Snow: The Life of Patrick Hamilton and Jarman. He wrote and appears in Howerd's End, alongside Simon Cartwright, and will be returning to the Corn Hall next February to play Quentin Crisp.
Madeline Smith's extensive credits in film, TV and theatre include roles in three legendary film franchises: Hammer (Taste the Blood of Dracula), Carry On (Carry On Matron) and James Bond (Live and Let Die). She has worked with talents as diverse as Frankie Howerd and Alec Guinness, and is still a much in-demand performer.
Approx. run time 115 minutes with an interval
Tickets £16 & £14 + booking fee
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Event Venue
The Grove Theatre, Eastbourne Library, BN21 4TL Eastbourne, United Kingdom, 6 Grove Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4TJ, United Kingdom
Tickets
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