Theatre Severn is set to host Mark Farrelly’s critically acclaimed solo play, Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope, a production that has captivated audiences across the UK and in New York City.
Farrelly, known for his work in Howerd’s End, Jarman, and The Silence of Snow, both wrote and performs this compelling piece.
Naked Hope offers a unique glimpse into the life of the legendary Quentin Crisp, portraying him at two distinct stages. The first act finds Crisp in his Chelsea flat in the late 1960s, reflecting on a lifetime of societal rejection and physical abuse endured for his flamboyant homosexuality.
The play then transports the audience to New York in the 1990s, where a much older Crisp, finally accepted by society, shares his hard-won wisdom on living authentically. His famous quote, “Life will be more difficult if you try to become yourself. But avoiding this difficulty renders life meaningless. So discover who you are. And be it. Like mad!”, encapsulates the play’s central message.
This production is a “glorious, truthful and uplifting celebration” of Quentin Crisp and a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance. Originally produced by Seabright Productions Ltd and directed by Linda Marlowe, who also directed The Silence of Snow, the play runs for 75 minutes without an interval.
Naked Hope has garnered considerable praise from critics. Broadway Baby called it “a masterclass,” while Time Out described it as “an uncanny feat of resurrection” and lauded Farrelly’s “total mastery of his audience.” Theatrescene.net hailed Farrelly’s Off-Broadway debut in the play as “a sensational performance.”
Even Boy George has praised the production, saying, “Wonderful. Mark Farrelly channels Quentin Crisp brilliantly. It’s important to keep his voice alive!” Peter Tatchell has also endorsed the play, calling it “a great show and a terrific performance.”
Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope comes to Theatre Severn on Wednesday 5th March at 7.30pm. To book see theatresevern.co.uk.
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