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Shirley valentine.

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Book Shirley Valentine At Duke of York's Theatre, London

Sheridan smith is shirley valentine..

‍ Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband's chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note saying: 'Gone! Gone to Greece.' Shirley Valentine is the celebrated one-woman play written by Willy Russell , winning him his third Olivier Award. Sheridan Smith is a multi-award-winning actress with two Olivier Awards and a BAFTA. Matthew Dunster is a three-time Olivier Award nominated director whose work most recently has been seen on Broadway with Martin McDonagh's Hangmen and in the West End with 2:22 by Danny Robins. ‍

The Ambassador Theatre Group Limited Registered Address: 2nd Floor, Alexander House, Church Path, Woking, GU21 6EJ

Sheridan Smith in SHIRLEY VALENTINE. Photo John Wilson.

SHIRLEY VALENTINE. Sheridan Smith. Photo Helen Murray.

Shirley Valentine

You’ve seen the film, now see the play it was based on…

Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband’s chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket… One day she may just leave a note, saying: ‘Gone! Gone to Greece.’

Shirley Valentine is the celebrated one-woman play written by Willy Russell, winning him his third Olivier Award . Sheridan Smith is a multi-award-winning actress with two Olivier Awards and a BAFTA. Matthew Dunster is a three-time Olivier Award nominated director whose work most recently has been seen on Broadway with Martin McDonagh’s Hangmen and in the West End with 2.22 A Ghost Story by Danny Robins.

Shirley Valentine - Sheridan Smith

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Shirley Valentine

Book Shirley Valentine tickets to see Sheridan Smith in the classic rom-com

Sheridan Smith makes her long-awaited return to the West End stage in 2023, starring in Willy Russell’s uplifting rom-com Shirley Valentine . Smith delivers a joyful performance as the unappreciated housewife who jets off to Greece at the Duke of York’s Theatre . 

Shirley Valentine is a housewife who talks to the kitchen walls as she cooks her husband’s egg and chips. The dreams she had as a younger woman seem like a distant memory, replaced by a family who don’t appreciate her and the drudgery of daily life. But everything could change when her friend wins two tickets to Greece and invites her along. Shirley throws down her cooking utensils in favour of a sunny escape to the Mediterranean, and begins a life-changing adventure. 

Shirley Valentine is Willy Russell’s celebrated one-woman play, which many will remember from its 1989 film adaptation starring Pauline Collins . Playwright Russell’s other work includes Educating Rita and Blood Brothers . 

Olivier and BAFTA Award winner Sheridan Smith has starred in a host of West End shows including Funny Girl , Little Shop of Horrors and Legally Blonde . On television, she is known for portraying Cilla Black in biopic Cilla , as well as sitcoms Gavin & Stacey and The Royle Family. 

Shirley Valentine in London is directed by Olivier Award winner Matthew Dunster , whose most recent work, 2:22 A Ghost Story , has been wowing West End audiences at no less than three different theatres since 2021. 

Sheridan Smith steps into the globe-trotting, liberated shoes of a rom-com icon for this revival of the modern classic that teaches us all to follow our dreams. Don’t miss her latest star turn, as Shirley Valentine is open for a strictly limited season. 

Child friendly?

Shirley Valentine is recommended for ages 12+, and has some mild language and sexual references.

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Shirley Valentine Tickets

Sheridan Smith returns to the West End in Willy Russell’s one-woman play about a housewife who packs it all in for an adventure in Greece.

Sheridan Smith heads to Greece

Sorry this show closed 03 June 2023, we recommend these similar productions.

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Shirley valentine reviews.

• 5 Stars 82%
• 4 Stars 16%

User Reviews

Uncertain to start with as the wonderful Pauline Collins performance remains so vivid in the memory. However, Sheridan Smith is really a marvel. She is so likable, so empathetic, her timing is perfect – you cannot help but be taken on her journey wit Read more

I didn't know how this would work as a one woman show, but it was superb. The only critisism I would have, would be to peform more mid stage rather than at the front for some scenes due to the shape of the theatre. Not Sheridan's fault, she knocked i Read more

This is a great play. Well written with warmth and a lot of humour. The direction engaged me throughout, it was cleverly subtle. Love the use of colours in the set, costume and lighting. Throughly enjoyed it and Sheridan’s superb performance.

Shirley Valentine Tickets

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Shirley Valentine tickets are available now! 

This one woman show is a celebration and affirmation of freedom for women everywhere. Willy Russell ’s classic monologue Shirly Valentine pays homage to one heroine who reclaims her dreams and finally puts herself first. Led by the incredible multi-award-winning actress and singer Sheridan Smith , Shirley Valentine will be playing at the Duke of York’s Theatre for a limited 12 week run in early 2023! Book your tickets today! 

About Shirley Valentine

Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband’s chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note, saying: ‘Gone! Gone to Greece.’

Shirley Valentine is the celebrated one-woman play written by Willy Russell , winning him his third Olivier Award. Sheridan Smith is a multi-award-winning actress with two Olivier Awards and a BAFTA. Matthew Dunster is a three-time Olivier Award nominated director whose work most recently has been seen on Broadway with Martin McDonagh’s Hangmen and in the West End with 2:22 by Danny Robins.

Sheridan Smith in Shirley Valentine  

Shirley Valentine is led by versatile legendary actress and singer Sheridan Smith (and this isn’t the first time she has played a Liverpudlian). Sheridan Smith rose to prominence through her early work in Sitcoms, making her TV debut in 1999, where she played the eccentric character Matilda in ITV’s comedy series Dark Ages . Later, Smith went on to become a household name through shows such as Gavin and Stacey and The Royle Family . Smith has received universal acclaim for leading roles in television dramas such as Mrs Biggs , Cilla , The C Word , Black Work , and The Moorside . After showcasing a stunning vocal performance in Cilla , Smith went on to release her debut self-titled album, which was certified Gold by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) for selling over 100,000 copies in the United Kingdom, where it also reached top 10 in the album charts.

Smith made her stage debut as Red Riding Hood in Into The Woods . She received an Olivier Award Nomation for her performance in Little Shop of Horrors , and later won an Olivier Award and WhatsOnStage Award for her role of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde. Smith has been hailed as “The Greatest Theatre Star of her Generation” by The Evening Standard, and with over a decade of experience in the television, film and theatre industry, she has been awarded an OBE for her contributions to entertainment.

The creatives of Shirley Valentine  

Shirley Valentine is written by English dramatist Willy Russell ( Blood Brothers , Educating Rita ). The production will be directed by Matthew Dunster (2:22 – A Ghost Story) and will be produced by David Pugh , Pugh said: “Back in 1986 I was lucky enough to see the first ever production of Shirley Valentine in Liverpool. I have begged Willy to one day let me produce a revival.” 

Shirley Valentine tickets are available to book now!

Don’t miss out on the chance to witness Sheridan Smith take on this heart-felt one-woman show, and watch Valentine find the beauty in her own inner-strength. Book tickets for the inspirational Shirley Valentine , coming soon!

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Running time, performance dates, venue information, recent reviews, latest shirley valentine news.

News / New Shows + Transfers

What is opening in london theatres this month (february 2023).

It's still winter, but the worst of it is hopefully over. February is the great month of everything in between. Our New Year's resolutions are behind us, and if we didn't quite stick to them, well, there's always next year. This February in London, get ready to say goodbye to coat weather and hello to spring as some of the biggest shows in London hit the stage. With this list of London theatre shows that take to the stage in February you'll be perfectly poised to treat yourself to after those long, cold winter months. February may just be the best month of the year!

3 Feb, 2023 | By Kevin Thomas

News / Features / Celebrities / Casting / New Shows + Transfers

Sheridan smith to star as shirley valentine.

It has recently been announced that British icon, actress and singer Sheridan Smith will star in  Willy Russel ’s one-woman show  Shirley Valentine . As one of the most powerful and influential women in the entertainment industry, Smith is sure to be the perfect choice to play the strong-willed Liverpudlian lass. Shirley Valentine will play at the Duke of York’s Theatre for a limited 12-week run in early 2023, and tickets will be available soon!

9 Dec, 2022 | By Kevin Thomas

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Shirley Valentine

Duke of york’s theatre.

Received nominations for Best Actress (Sheridan Smith) and Best Revival at the Olivier Awards 2024

SHIRLEY VALENTINE  is playing at the Duke of York’s Theatre for a limited 15 week run in early 2023!

SHIRLEY VALENTINE is the celebrated one-woman play written by Willy Russell , winning him his third Olivier Award. Sheridan Smith is a multi-award-winning actress with two Olivier Awards and a BAFTA. Matthew Dunster is a three-time Olivier Award nominated director whose work most recently has been seen on Broadway with Martin McDonagh’s Hangmen and in the West End with 2:22 by Danny Robins.

Sign up to hear more about SHIRLEY VALENTINE theatre tickets with LOVEtheatre today!

What is Shirley Valentine about?

Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband’s chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note, saying: ‘Gone! Gone to Greece.’

Ticket Information

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Running Time

Cast & creatives.

Sheridan Smith (Shirley Valentine)

St Martin's Ln, Charing Cross, London WC2N 4BG, UK

Named in 1894 for King George V, the Duke of York’s Theatre was originally called Trafalgar Square Theatre. It often features transfers from Off West End theatres like the Almedia Theatre (The Doctor) or the Kiln Theatre (The Son).

Where is Shirley Valentine playing?

How long is shirley valentine and when does it finish, what is the age guidance for shirley valentine, stay up to date.

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Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, Charing Cross and Embankment

24, 29 and 176

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London St Martins Lane Hotel

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'Shirley Valentine' review – Sheridan Smith casts a spell in this endearing, if dated, one-woman play

Read our three-star review of Shirley Valentine at the Duke of York's Theatre, starring Sheridan Smith, running through 3 June. Get Shirley Valentine tickets on London Theatre.

Watching Sheridan Smith connect with an audience is truly mesmerising. Even while holding a West End stage, she makes every single person in attendance feel as if she’s sat at the kitchen table with them, chatting away like a lifelong friend.

It’s a magic power ideally suited to Willy Russell’s 1986 one-woman play Shirley Valentine , which relies on us investing heavily in his title character’s domestic troubles and modest, but ultimately cheer-worthy, ambitions.

Shirley is a working-class Liverpudlian housewife whose two children have left home. Her marriage barely exists; her belittling, semi-abusive husband only notices her when she makes him the wrong dinner (Smith actually cooks chips and egg live on stage). At 42, she’s completely lost her sense of self, and it takes a chance encounter with an old schoolmate to make her question: whatever happened to Shirley Valentine?

Thankfully, her pal Jane (recently divorced, budding feminist) intervenes to give Shirley, who has never been abroad, a golden opportunity: a two-week holiday in Greece, without her family. Will Shirley find the nerve to go, and will the trip prove transformative? Well, suffice to say this isn’t a story that ever confounds expectations.

Russell’s piece operates like a direct-address monologue, although technically Shirley addresses her kitchen wall rather than us - indicative of her desperate loneliness. It’s an irritating but effective device, giving us a strong sense of how this relentless and isolating routine has ground her down over the years.

However, several elements of Russell’s script are inescapably dated. In particular, I felt bludgeoned by the endless old-school comic one-liners: “Marriage is like the Middle East - there’s no solution”; “Sex is like Sainsbury’s - overrated.” There’s also an interminable riff on the discovery of the clitoris, which feels hopelessly tame in a post-Fleabag world, and a nativity anecdote that would only really interest you if it was about your own child.

But when Russell switches gear and has Shirley candidly, painfully expose her vulnerabilities - like recalling how a cruel headmistress damaged her confidence, making her feel that dreams were only for the clever or moneyed pupils - Smith (who has had her own struggles with mental health, famously during her run of Funny Girl ) is in her element. She gradually dims Shirley’s determinedly sunny facade, conveying a wealth of emotion in just a wavering smile.

Annoyingly, Russell’s overwritten piece doesn’t trust her - or us. Just as we’ve inferred something obvious, like that Shirley pretended to hate everything in her teens because she hated herself, or that she hasn’t left her husband because she’s scared of the unknown, the script spells that out for us. It starts to conflict with the characterisation: if she’s so au fait with every feeling, as though she’s gone through years of intense therapy, why is she so paralysed? It would make more sense if she was telling this story in retrospect, but it’s meant to be played in the present.

However, judging by the numerous chuckles and murmurs of recognition on my night, plenty of Russell’s observations still chime with people — including the suspicion when a woman is sitting on her own in a restaurant, or (groan) the embarrassing antics of Brits abroad. The tale’s brief use of a fantastical Greek lothario is rather wince-inducing, though, and I longed for more grit. With Smith’s chirpy telling lacking the acid moments of Pauline Collins’s original Oscar-nominated version, it risks descending into broad sitcom-meets-cloying wish fulfilment.

But then perhaps that cosiness is a tonic right now — and there’s no doubting the kitsch charm of Matthew Dunster’s production. Paul Wills supplies a 1980s mint-green kitchen (matched by Shirley’s trousers) and later a dazzling splash of blue sky, melting into a pink sunset - shimmering in Lucy Carter’s luscious lighting design. It’s basically Mamma Mia! without the ABBA.

But, even if the lessons about learning to love yourself and how (gasp!) women, too, can enjoy sex feel rather hoary, the core message of not leaving any “unused life” resonates deeply after Covid. And it’s a pleasure to see Smith back centre stage, once more casting her spell.

Shirley Valentine is at the Duke of York's Theatre through 3 June.

Photo credit: Sheridan Smith in Shirley Valentine (Photo by John Wilson)

Originally published on Mar 2, 2023 00:27

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Sheridan Smith

Shirley Valentine is lost. She's a wife, a mother... and what else? She has no idea, but she's feeling a strong need to escape and rediscover herself. That's why there's an airline ticket to Greece in her handbag. One fine day Shirley might leave. And that day is getting closer. Will she make the decision to go on holiday without the kids and her other half Joe?

Shirley Valentine is a beloved one-woman play written by Willy Russell which won him his third Olivier Award.

Sheridan Smith is also an award-winner with multiple accolades, with two Oliviers and a BAFTA under her belt. Director Matthew Dunster has been Oscar nominated three times and his work has recently been seen on Broadway, in Martin McDonagh's Hangmen . He's also no stranger to the West End, having recently been responsible for Danny Robbins' 2.22: A Ghost Story at the Criterion Theatre.

What's the plot of Shirley Valentine ?

Scouser Shirley Valentine is bored stiff. A 42 year-old working class housewife, she's stuck in a rut. Her dreams have been forgotten, she has few friends, and her husband and children don't appreciate her.

But when her flamboyant friend Jane wins a trip for two to Greece, Shirley says yes. When Jane goes off for a holiday romance of her own, Shirley is left to fend for herself in Greece. Shirley loves everything about Greece. She's not interested in finding fish and chips, she's in it for the experience.

When she meets Costas Dimitriades, the owner of a nearby tavern, he helps her fulfil a dream of drinking wine by the seashore in the same place where the grapes were grown. He promises to keep his hands to himself, and her self confidence grows as time passes. Shirley doesn't fall for Costas, but she falls deeply in love with life once more. She decides not to go home, to stay in Greece instead and get a job.

Shirley's husband Joe is angry and confused by her running away, and begs her to come home. Shirley loves her new life, but will she return to Joe and if so, how? Will they ever drink wine by the sea as a married couple? Or will it all end?

No wonder Shirley Valentine theatre tickets are predicted to sell out fast. Come along and see for yourself!

Who is Shirley Valentine for?

Shirley Valentine is an adult story for grown-ups, about ordinary relationships and the things that make them come unstuck.

Buy tickets for Shirley Valentine

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Shirley Valentine Official Theatre Tickets

Our central reservation system connects you directly to the Duke of York's Theatre box office system. We provide live & full availability for Shirley Valentine tickets, from VIP and premium, to top price and discount tickets, helping you choose the perfect tickets for your budget. Pick your seats from our interactive seating plan and get your theatre tickets emailed to you instantly after your booking. Simply present your e-tickets at the door on the day and experience what London & the West End have best to offer: the magic of theatre. Buying tickets for Shirley Valentine has never been easier.

Shirley Valentine Ticket Information

Saturday, 3 June 2023

Once booked, tickets to Shirley Valentine are usually non exchangeable and non refundable as per our terms & conditions. In practice, however, we will do our best to accommodate your request as long as we are notified at least 48 hours before the performance. Please contact us for more information.

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We have a great selection of cheap Shirley Valentine tickets. We can help you save up to 70% on Shirley Valentine tickets! If you're looking for discount theatre tickets have a look below for our latest offers for Shirley Valentine at the Duke of York's Theatre.

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Shirley Valentine reviews

What to expect:

• Recommended for:
• Couples (92%)
• Theatregoers (100%)

Latest customer reviews

All reviews are from customers who have been invited to leave a review just after seeing Shirley Valentine .

Please note the reviews below are from an old production of Shirley Valentine .

Sheridan Smith was amazing in her role as Shirley Valentine. A phenomenal one woman show. Great acting. There were both poignant and funny moments. Wonderful day. A must see!!!

K Reviewed on 27 May 2023 by Kirstie Leicester , United Kingdom

Sheridan Smith what a star! Absolutely world class. Laughed and cried and would do it all again. A fabulous night out.

A Reviewed on 16 May 2023 by Angela Dublin , Ireland

If you would like a good laugh with a good dose of Shirleys advice for life, do yourself a favour and catch a performance. It will put a smile on your face and give you lots to think about.

K Reviewed on 16 May 2023 by Katherine East Fremantle , Australia

Sheridan Smith was amazing - she made the audience feel part of the show and made us laugh and almost cry!

J Reviewed on 20 April 2023 by Jenny Hatfield , United Kingdom

Simply amazing - definitely a must to go and see the brilliantly talented Sheridan Smith.

K Reviewed on 08 April 2023 by Kim Nottingham , United Kingdom

Sheridan Smith was wonderful. Perfectly cast!

P Reviewed on 06 April 2023 by Paul Chilton , United Kingdom

D Reviewed on 04 April 2023 by Des Chalfont St. Giles , United Kingdom

Funny from the start. Sheryl Sheridan is dazzling. Her actimg is superb and unforgettable. It was a great show in every detail.Totally recommendable.

J Reviewed on 28 March 2023 by Juan Xinzo De Limia (ourense) , Spain

Excellent performance by Sheridan Smith. She captured the character of Shirley and carried us on her journey right through the show.

E Reviewed on 17 March 2023 by Ettie Dunshaughlin , Ireland

Excellent well acted

R Reviewed on 06 March 2023 by Roger Larnaca , Cyprus

Sheridan Smith returns to the West End in Shirley Valentine

by Eleni Cashell | Friday, December 9 2022, 11:43

Multi-award winning actress Sheridan Smith is returning to the West End stage in a new production of Shirley Valentine .

Directed by Matthew Dunster , the production will run at London's Duke of York Theatre from 17 February for 12 weeks.

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Shirley Valentine Tickets

About Shirley Valentine

Do you want to escape the real world? Dream big, go to Greece, and book Shirley Valentine tickets on TodayTix.

The two-time Olivier Award-winning actress Sheridan Smith plays the central role. The Funny Girl and Hedda Gabler star is no stranger to playing a Liverpudlian — she portrayed singer and television host Cilla Black in Cilla . Smith will now return to the stage as a Scouse woman, playing ambitious housewife Shirley in Willy Russell ’s life-affirming story.

London Theatre raved about Smith, saying that “Sheridan Smith’s [ability to] connect with an audience is truly mesmerising. She makes every single person in attendance feel as if she’s sat at the kitchen table with them, chatting away like a lifelong friend.” Matthew Dunster directs the BAFTA-winning actress.

While Shirley spends her days cooking and cleaning for the family, she yearns for something more. So when her friend invites her on a trip to Greece, she immediately packs her bags for the adventure of a lifetime. Quickly, Shirley discovers there's more to life than motherhood. Discover how an unsuspecting holiday results in Shirley changing her life forevermore.

17th February, 2023

3rd June, 2023

Duke of York's Theatre

Adrian watches a musical

See it if You hunger for Greece and a monologue delivered with heart.

Don’t see it if You don't like a monologue format or something that's like a time capsule.

See it if A masterful performance from Sheridan Smith

Don’t see it if Dated play

See it if One women show by Sheridan Smith, she’s so talented- what a show!

Don’t see it if If you like to see different characters in a show then this wouldn’t be for you

William Gran Canaria

See it if Fabulous one woman show Sheriden Smith was first class. Loved every minute

Don’t see it if You don't like monolgues

Stars on stage

Sheridan Smith

Shirley valentine cast and creative team.

By : Willy Russell Director : Matthew Dunster Cast list : Sheridan Smith Design : Paul Wills Lighting : Lucy Carter Sound : Ian Dickinson for Autograph

Location: West End Railway station: Charing Cross Bus numbers: (Charing Cross Road) 24, 29, 176; (Strand) 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 87, 91, 139 Night bus numbers: (Charing Cross Road) 24, 176, N5, N20, N29, N41, N279; (Strand) 6, 23, 139, N9, N15, N11, N13, N21, N26, N44, N47, N87, N89, N91, N155, N343, N551 Car park: Chinatown (5mins) Directions from tube: (5mins) Take Charing Cross Road to St Martin’s Court, head down until the end and then take a right onto St Martin’s Lane until you reach the theatre on your right.

More information about Shirley Valentine

There's more to Shirley than cooking chips and eggs. Her time away is transformative: she realises what makes her happy, she begins to enjoy herself, and she has fun. Shirley Valentine explores the importance of finding your voice and purpose in a complicated world.

After a Liverpool premiere, Russell’s Shirley Valentine premiered at the Vaudeville Theatre in 1988. The show won the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy and Best Actress for Pauline Collins. Many actresses have taken on Willy Russell's feisty female, notably Meera Syal and Jodie Prenger. Now Shirley Valentine in London is back in full force with Sheridan Smith at the Duke of York's Theatre in spring 2023.

What to Watch For:

• When Shirley Valentine premiered in Liverpool, the original actress was struck down with appendicitis. As a result, Russell starred in early performances.
• Pauline Collins played the Liverpudlian housewife in the Shirley Valentine film. Collins won a BAFTA for Best Actress in a Leading Role and also earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.
• Willy Russell’s stories often focus on a character from Liverpool. His other shows include Educating Rita, Our Day Out , and Blood Brothers .

Unfortunately, tickets for this event are no longer available.

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Shirley Valentine starring Sheridan Smith extends by popular demand

Published on

December 14, 2022

douglasmayo

Sheridan Smith rivals her great friend Peter Kay by announcing an extension to her West End season of Shirley Valentine By Popular Demand.

Will Russell's Shirley Valentine starring Sheridan Smith will now play for 15 weeks at the Duke Of York's Theatre from 17 February 2023. Tickets are on sale now.

Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband’s chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note, saying: ‘Gone!  Gone to Greece.’

Producer David Pugh said: “Both Sheridan and Shirley seem to have been taken into people's hearts, and whereas we might not be playing arenas like Peter Kay, but, like him, we are keeping seat prices down due to the cost of living with reduced price previews and no booking fees, allowing theatre to again be completely accessible to more people.” Sheridan Smith said, “ I am so chuffed by the response that I’m playing Shirley in the West End. You guys are incredible, and the demand has been so much that I’ve decided to extend for an extra three weeks. So, come and see me as Shirley Valentine at the Duke of York’s Theatre. See you there!”

Shirley Valentine is written by Willy Russell, directed by Matthew Dunster, designed by Paul Wills, with lighting design by Lucy Carter, sound design by Ian Dickinson for Autograph and is produced by David Pugh.

BOOK TICKETS Join our mailing list to stay informed. SHIRLEY VALENTINE PERFORMANCE INFORMATION Venue: The Duke of York's Theatre

St Martin's Lane

London WC2N 4BG

Season Dates:

17 February - 3 June 2023

Ticket Prices:

£20, £25, £45, £60, £75 with reduced price previews.

Performance Times:

Monday to Saturday at 7.30pm

Wednesday and Saturday at 2.30pm

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Shirley Valentine

Duke of York's Theatre , London's West End

About This Show

Shirley Valentine is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband’s chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note saying: ‘Gone! Gone to Greece.’

Shirley Valentine is the celebrated one-woman play written by Willy Russell, winning him his third Olivier Award. Sheridan Smith is a multi-award-winning actress with two Olivier Awards and a BAFTA. Matthew Dunster is a three-time Olivier Award nominated director whose work most recently has been seen on Broadway with Martin McDonagh’s Hangmen and in the West End with 2.22 by Danny Robins.

Show Details

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Shirley Valentine 2023

Shirley valentine - 2023 - west end history , info & more.

Duke of York's Theatre

*Shirley Valentine* is the joyous, life-affirming story of the woman who got lost in marriage and motherhood, the woman who wound up talking to the kitchen wall whilst cooking her husband's chips and egg. But Shirley still has a secret dream. And in her bag, an airline ticket. One day she may just leave a note saying: 'Gone! Gone to Greece.' *Shirley Valentine* is the celebrated one-woman play written by __Willy Russell__, winning him his third Olivier Award. __Sheridan Smith__ is a multi-award-winning actress with two Olivier Awards and a BAFTA. __Matthew Dunster__ is a three-time Olivier Award nominated director whose work most recently has been seen on Broadway with Martin McDonagh's Hangmen and in the West End with 2:22 by Danny Robins.

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The Capitol Theatre Port Hope has released a summer season filled with live theatre, concerts, comedy, and a galvanising series of special events.

Cape May Stage has announced its 34th season as Cape May's premier professional theater. They invite you to join them as they present the 2023 season filled with award- winning plays that will entertain you, make you feel, and make you think, all while enjoying an intimate theatrical experience in the historic Robert Shackleton Playhouse.

A new production of Willy Russell's classic comedy SHIRLEY VALENTINE, starring Sheridan Smith and directed by Matthew Dunster, is coming to London's Duke of York's Theatre from Friday 17 February 2023 for 12 Weeks.

Shirley Valentine History

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‘Shirley Valentine’ review

Sheridan Smith is tremendous in Matthew Dunster’s skilled revival of Willy Russell’s monologue, equal parts uplifting and chilling

Time Out says

Willy Russell’s classic 1986 monologue ‘Shirley Valentine’  should  feel dated, 37 years on. Played by  Sheridan Smith in its first London revival in an age, its eponymous heroine is a Liverpudlian housewife whose children have grown up and left home, and who now largely lives to swig white wine – a drink she has only just discovered – talk to the wall and have her unseen husband Joe’s dinner ready for him the precise moment he gets home. She fully admits to being unhappy here, or at least, desperately wishes for more than Joe can possibly offer her. But she’s too old to start over. As she reminds us, repeatedly, she is… 42 . 

Forty-two! 

Not wanting to play the blinkered middle-class naif here, but I think it’s reasonable to say that mandatory housewifery, default early twenties parenthood, and the assumption that life ends at 40 are all things that have fallen by the wayside in the last few decades of British society. It’s obviously not as simple as that. But times have changed.

Surprisingly, though, I found that the aspects of Shirley’s situation that now feel more extreme and alien are what give Matthew Dunster’s revival a real edge. There’s something almost Beckettian about her ritual of tending to Joe’s rigidly unchanging needs; her inability to leave their house in any meaningful form certainly has a dark absurdity;  Paul Wills’s vaguely Rachel Whitread-esque set speaks of her being trapped inside a machine for living.

I’m not saying Russell didn’t intend to make this point originally. But there’s clearly an earthier note to the foreground in Shirley’s confessional chatter and lairy anecdotes, as she dwells on her ‘feminist’ mate Jane’s recent offer of a two-week girls’ holiday to Greece: a dream to Shirley, but beyond the pale as far as Joe is concerned. 

What really makes this revival work, however, is Sheridan Smith. It’s easy to forget what a stupendous actress she is, but wow: she channels both the darkness and the light in Shirley with incredible deftness. It’s important we feel for her, and see that she’s not been dealt the best hand in life – notably by the cruel headmistress who crushed her aspirations. But it’s also important we don’t see her as a victim, as pathetic. Smith’s Shirley has a sense of power, a mischief in her eyes as she describes her failure to break away from Joe. She recognises it’s a bad situation; you sense she could end it quite easily, if only she saw the point. She’s certainly not in denial. But she sees him as an absurd, vulnerable child to be tended to rather than a bully to be feared. Tending to him gives her purpose, and she’s been conditioned to believe that it‘s the only purpose she has now, no point in leaving.

So in the first act, at least – no spoilers, eh? – she stays home and puts on a show for us, a bright, raucous narration through her life that’s equal parts funny and sad, but delivered without self-pity, and underpinned by the sense that she is in fact using the opportunity to psyche herself up to take Jane up on her offer. 

Although Russell’s greatest success came in the ’90s with the revival of ‘Blood Brothers’, ‘Shirley Valentine’ was effectively his last major new work: after a prolific couple of decades on stage and screen he basically just stopped writing stuff when he hit 40. Maybe he felt over the hill! It’s a shame to think what else could have come, but also what a play to go out on. Yes, it’s a big-hearted celebration of working-class potential and all that stuff people associate with Russell. But it’s also a canny and in some ways chilling look at the systematisation of society, and our natural propensity to see ourselves as cogs in a machine. And this is an expert revival, blessed with a true star performance, alive to every aspect of ‘Shirley Valentine’, from its big heart to its troubled soul.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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Shirley Valentine

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Past Events

Here are the most recent UK tour dates we had listed for Shirley Valentine. Were you there?

February 2020

• Thu 27 Feb → Sun 15 Mar Belfast, Lyric Theatre Shirley Valentine

November 2017

• Mon 6 Nov → Sat 11 Nov Dartford, Orchard Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger

October 2017

• Mon 23 Oct → Sat 28 Oct Newcastle upon Tyne, Theatre Royal Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 2 Oct → Sat 7 Oct Northampton, Royal & Derngate Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger

September 2017

• Mon 18 Sep → Sat 23 Sep New Brighton, Floral Pavilion Theatre & Blue Lounge Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 11 Sep → Sat 16 Sep Blackpool, Grand Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Tue 5 Sep → Sat 9 Sep Norwich, Theatre Royal Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 24 Jul → Sat 29 Jul Festival Theatre (Malvern Theatres) Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 17 Jul → Sat 22 Jul Brighton, Theatre Royal Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 10 Jul → Sat 15 Jul Shrewsbury, Theatre Severn Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 3 Jul → Sat 8 Jul Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Tue 27 Jun → Sat 1 Jul Cardiff, New Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 19 Jun → Sat 24 Jun Salford, The Lowry Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 12 Jun → Sat 17 Jun Swindon, Wyvern Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Tue 6 Jun → Sat 10 Jun Coventry, Belgrade Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Tue 30 May → Sat 3 Jun Edinburgh, Kings Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 22 May → Sat 27 May Nottingham, Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Tue 16 May → Sat 20 May Canterbury, Marlowe Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Tue 2 May → Sat 6 May Glasgow, Kings Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 24 Apr → Sat 29 Apr Sheffield, Lyceum Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Tue 18 Apr → Sat 22 Apr High Wycombe, Swan Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 10 Apr → Sat 15 Apr Bath Theatre Royal Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 3 Apr → Sat 8 Apr Leeds Grand Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 27 Mar → Sat 1 Apr Milton Keynes Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 20 Mar → Sat 25 Mar Richmond Theatre, Surrey Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 13 Mar → Sat 18 Mar Woking, New Victoria Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Mon 6 Mar → Sat 11 Mar Birmingham, The Alexandra Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger
• Thu 2 Mar → Sat 4 Mar Bromley, Churchill Theatre Shirley Valentine (Touring), Jodie Prenger

Summer Season 2025 Announcement

Shirley valentine, shirley valentine.

• BSL Interpreted
• Captioned Performance

By Willy Russell

Sally Reid reprises her award-winning ‘outstanding’ performance as Shirley Valentine in Willy Russell’s iconic play.    

Shirley Valentine is a celebration of women, freedom and what it means to find yourself again. We meet Shirley, a bored, middle-aged wife and mother as she contemplates what has happened to her youth. She feels lonely, disenchanted and in a rut. Her children are all grown up and she’s stuck at home with only the kitchen wall to talk to. Shirley dreams of a better life, free from the chains of her domestic boredom and an unappreciative husband.  

When her best friend suggests a trip to Greece, Shirley packs her bags, leaves a note on the cupboard door and heads off for a fortnight of rest and relaxation.   

In Greece, she meets Costas, rediscovers herself, finds happiness and everything she has been missing. She realises that there is more to life than the dull, mundane existence she leads back home. Now, Shirley has a big decision to make.  

Sally Reid received an Outstanding Performance award for her role in Shirley Valentine from the Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland.  

USEFUL INFORMATION

Venue : Auditorium

Dates : 4 Jul – 28 Sep 2024

Running times : 2 hours 10 minutes, including a 20 minute interval

Recommended Age Guidance : 11+

Accessible Performances

Audio Description 23 Aug 2pm, 12 Sep 7.30pm. Ask about a Touch Tour

BSL 21 Sep 2pm

Captioned 28 Aug 2pm

Matinee Audience Club : 28 Sep

Summer 2024 Diary

Summer Season 2024 Brochure

Ticket Info or call box office 01796 484626

“Reid has the comic muscle to bring in the big laughs, but also the control to draw us in to Shirley’s most vulnerable secrets. Long before the play’s escapist release, she has turned us into intimates. Her insecurities, almost whispered, are ours. She is devastatingly good.” The Guardian

“At its heart, and quite beautifully captured by Sally Reid in an understated but glorious performance, is a timeless quest for the human right to be ourselves, rather than what society demands that we be. And in Shirley Valentine that story is told by a woman of such self-deprecating wit and charisma that no audience can resist her; particularly when she is played by an actress who also perfectly embodies those qualities, and who is rightly cheered to the echo, as Shirley’s story reaches its happy end, and perhaps a new beginning.”  The Scotsman

Quintessential Review

“Reid deserves all the flowers – her performance is warm, vulnerable, and completely engaging…a fine actress performing at the top of her game”

Plays to See

“Sally Reid dazzles in this superb adaptation”

Mix Up Theatre

“Comedic timing of a genius and the performance of a generation”

All Edinburgh Theatre

“Tour de force”

The Guardian

Edinburgh Guide 

The Scotsman

Braw Theatre

Broadway World

Reviews Hub

Director  Elizabeth Newman

Designer  Emily James

Lighting Designer  Jeanine Byrne

Composer and Sound Designer  Patricia Panther

Shirley  Sally Reid

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