Described in press materials as a "black comedy that explores society's obsession with celebrity, the manipulation and re-writing of truth and the exploitation of misery for entertainment," the play tells the story of "Barry, also known as 'Mr Saturday Night,' a TV comedian and presenter, who has never quite been able to grasp the celebrity lifestyle he so desperately craves. So when two corporate bankers lure him with the promise of serious money and the perks of fame, he greedily takes the bait. But celebrity comes at a price and Barry becomes the victim of a major tabloid newspaper sting." Dumb Show originally premiered at London's Royal Court Theatre in 2004, starring Douglas Hodge as Barry in a cast that also featured Rupert Graves and Anna Maxwell Martin.
This new production is directed by Rose Theatre artistic director Stephen Unwin and produced in-house by the theatre. Bhaskar (who will play Barry) was last seen on the London stage as King Arthur in the final cast of Monty Python's Spamalot at the Palace Theatre. He was also previously seen in the West End in Yasmina Reza's Art at the Whitehall Theatre. He is best known for his work on TV in "Goodness Gracious Me" and "The Kumars at No. 42." His film appearances include "Scoop," "Anita and Me," "The Guru, "Mystic Masseur" and "Notting Hill." His other television appearances include "Life Isn't All Ha Ha Hee Hee," "Chopra Town," "The Way It Is," "Love Soup" and "Position Impossible."
Fletcher, who will play tabloid journalist Greg, is best known as star of TV's "Hotel Babylon" and "Band of Brothers." His film appearances include "Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels." Cunliffe has appeared in the TV series "The Lakes" and appeared onstage in Amongst Friends (at Hampstead Theatre) and The Entertainer (Old Vic).
Unwin has previously directed The Winslow Boys, Miss Julie and Treasure Island at the Rose. He previously founded English Touring Theatre, directing almost 30 productions of new and classical work for the company both on tour and in the West End.
To book tickets, contact the box office at 0871 230 1552, or visit www.roseheatrekingston.org.
