16 May 2024

Everything you need to know about The Glass Menagerie at Ally Pally Theatre

By Ally Pally

This month, Atri Banerjee’s acclaimed production of Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie, is coming to our Theatre from 22 May – 1 June.

What to expect from The Glass Menagerie?

The Glass Menagerie is a poetic portrayal of a family on the brink of change. This intimate and intense memory play explores the complex web of love and loyalty that binds families together.

Tom, a restless son, tries to escape a suffocating home life through cigarettes and long visits to the movies, while his sister, Laura, withdraws into her records and collection of glass animals. Their mother, Amanda, harbors dreams for them far beyond their shabby apartment. When Tom brings home a potential suitor for Laura, Amanda seizes the opportunity to try and change their fortunes forever. Watch the official trailer below.

Why is The Glass Menagerie famous?

The author, Tennessee Williams, stands as one of America’s greatest playwrights of the 20th century, renowned for timeless works like ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ and ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’. His captivating dramas continue to engage modern audiences, showcasing his enduring brilliance 70 years after their initial debuts. Additionally, The Glass Menagerie, one of his most famous works, is a semi-autobiographical piece that draws heavily from his own life experiences.

Why is The Glass Menagerie at Ally Pally a must-see?

The Glass Menagerie is a must-see play for its unique structure, poetic language and rich metaphors. Coupled with Atri Banerjee’s atmospheric lighting, striking set design and surprising score it’s an unforgettable theatrical experience.

When is The Glass Menagerie on?

The Glass Menagerie will be taking over our stunning Victorian Theatre from 22 May to 1 June.

How do I book tickets?

Tickets start at just £15, plus fees. You can book them here.

Where in Alexandra Palace can I see The Glass Menagerie?

The play is set in our stunning Victorian Theatre, originally opened in 1875, once entertained audiences of up to 3,000 with opera, pantomime, and ballet. Closed for 80 years, it was lovingly restored and reopened in 2018. The award-winning restoration project transformed it into ‘London’s oldest new theatre,’ featuring unique ‘arrested decay’ décor. Today, it hosts a year-round schedule of drama, comedy, and live music.

Who are the cast?

The cast includes BAFTA nominee Geraldine Somerville (Cracker, Gosford Park, and the Harry Potter film series) reprising her acclaimed portrayal of Amanda Wingfield, who is joined by new cast members Kasper Hilton-Hille (Tom Wingfield), Zacchaeus Kayode (Jim O’Connor), and Natalie Kimmerling (Laura Wingfield).

The creative team includes Atri Banerjee (Director), Rosanna Vize (Designer), Lee Curran (Lighting Designer), Giles Thomas (Composer and Sound Designer), Anthony Missen (Movement Director), Helena Palmer CDG (Casting Director), Darren Sinnott (Associate Director), Alys Whitehead (Associate Designer) and Robbie Butler (Associate Lighting Designer).