Liverpool Everyman extends Shirley Valentine run

Shirley Valentine fans are being given an extra few days to catch the eponymous Liverpool housewife on stage in the city.

The Liverpool Everyman has announced it is extending the run of its acclaimed new production. It was due to close on March 29, but that has been pushed back to April 5.

Meanwhile a special fundraising ‘Evening with Willy Russell’ will also be held at the Hope Street theatre at the start of April.

The show, starring Helen Carter as Shirley and directed by Stephen Fletcher, has garnered four- and five-star reviews and received standing ovations since it opened its doors two weeks ago and at the end of the Everyman’s 60th birthday year.

A joint statement from chief executive Mark da Vanzo and creative director Nathan Powell said: “There’s been such a phenomenal response to Shirley Valentine’s homecoming, we’re thrilled to announce these additional performances.

“Helen Carter’s astonishing performance as the iconic Shirley, under the wonderful direction of Stephen Fletcher, has been a joy to behold, with standing ovations and so much love.

Above: Director Stephen Fletcher with Willy Russell. Photo by Olivia Carroll. Top: Helen Carter as Shirley Valentine. Photo by Andrew A B Photography.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Willy Russell for his support of this revival and for his generosity towards our fundraising campaign: An Evening with Willy Russell will be a very special night. Today’s announcement is a fitting finale to the Everyman’s 60th anniversary year.”

An Evening with Willy Russell takes place on April 2, where the playwright will sit down with Stephen Fletcher to discuss his career, the Everyman and the enduring appeal and legacy of Shirley Valentine. Tickets are £20.

Meanwhile the additional performances of the one-woman show take place on Thursday, April 3 at 1.30pm and 7.30pm, Friday, April 4 at 7.30pm and Saturday, April 5 at 2pm and 7.30pm.

Full details and booking HERE