Celebrities join forces to mark Liverpool Everyman theatre anniversary
Liverpool's much-loved Everyman theatre will celebrate a landmark anniversary this year.
To mark the 60th anniversary of Everyman Theatre founding, and the ten-year anniversary of the Stirling Prize-winning new theatre opening, the Everyone Starts Somewhere campaign has been launched. The fundraising appeal has been launched with the support of many of the theatre’s alumni including Stephanie Beacham, Leanne Best, Kevin Harvey, David Morrissey, Willy Russell, Josie Sedgwick-Davies, Darci Shaw, Alison Steadman, Cathy Tyson and Julie Walters.
Cathy Tyson said: "I am indebted to the Everyman for giving me a start in my creative life... without them, I don't think I'd be where I am today." While Julie Walters added: "Happy Birthday Everyman! Forever in my heart."
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The aim for Everyone Starts Somewhere is to highlight the importance of regional theatres such as the Everyman, not just for theatre but also the film and tv industry around the world. There's also an ambition to raise £60,000 across the next 12 months towards talent development, supporting the award-winning Young Everyman Playhouse and bringing new diverse voices to the stages.
The 60th celebrations highlight this on-going commitment, beginning with the world premiere of The Legend of Ned Ludd by Joe Ward Munrow, and finishing in March 2025 with a revival of Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine, originally commissioned and staged by the Everyman.
The year also includes the world premiere of Tell Me How It Ends by Tasha Dowd, a graduate of Young Everyman Playhouse; a main stage production by Young Everyman Playhouse in July; Martin McDonagh’s The Lieutenant of Inishmore directed by Chris Sonnex (Artistic Director of Cardboard Citizens, one of the theatres’ Associate Companies); and the legendary Rock ‘n’ Roll panto, Rapunzel.
There will also be a series of events including An Evening with Alison Steadman on Tuesday , May 21. Alison Steadman said: "I'm thrilled to be returning to the Everyman to support their 60th Birthday campaign - Everyone Starts Somewhere.
"It's a theatre that means so much to me, giving me such a wonderful experience as a young actor to learn, gain confidence and take my first steps in the profession. That support of young talent continues to this day and I hope long into its next 60 years."
Further events will be announced. Mark Da Vanzo, CEO said: "The Everyman has always been a beacon of artistic innovation, offering a stage for playwrights, actors, and directors to experiment and create.
"That spirit of experimentation and creativity has been a driving force ever since, shaping the identity of Liverpool's theatre scene, inspiring generations of artists and reaching far beyond the city. This year feels like a unique opportunity to celebrate our past, while looking to the future.
"We’re grateful for anyone who feels they can support, either by making a donation, buying a ticket, or sharing on their social media what the Everyman means to them." To keep up to date with events and/or donate to the Everyman 60 campaign, visit https://www.everymanplayhouse.com/ev60