PROBLEM PLAY
Sheridan Smith’s troubled new West End show faces being cut short after audience backlash sees theatregoers fall asleep
And insiders say a number of the show’s investors have discussed potentially pulling the plug early
IT was supposed to be her triumphant return to the West End.
But Sheridan Smith’s lead role in musical Opening Night is turning into a nightmare.
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Despite the Cleaning Up actress deservedly getting heaps of praise for her part, critics have savaged the production for the poor plot — which has seen people falling asleep in their chairs — and questionable staging.
And, rather unsurprisingly, insiders say a number of the show’s investors have discussed potentially pulling the plug early.
A source said: “Sheridan has been a resounding success but the show itself has been far from it. To say it’s been polarising is an understatement.
“Reports of theatre goers walking out at the interval have really worried some of the investors.
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“No official meeting has been held yet, but a number of them have spoken about how they would go about serving notice on the theatre and cutting the run of shows short.
“At the end of the day, even though it’s entertainment, it’s a business and they are worried that poor ticket sales will mean they don’t make their investment back.
“Sheridan is a saving grace for Opening Night because of how good she is on stage, but even her star power can’t get the crowds in.
“Her turn in Shirley Valentine last year was sold out but there are still loads of tickets left for Opening Night.
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“It’s becoming a disaster.”
Trailer for Opening Night play starring Sheridan Smith
Canadian singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright wrote the music for the production.
The story follows actress Myrtle, played by Sheridan, who is reliant on booze as she rehearses for the opening night of a show alongside her ex.
Ahead of the show, Sheridan said: “Everyone thinks it is going to be a big, fun musical but it is very, very dark.
‘Through turmoil’
“It is a play within a play and everyone is just brilliant. It has been really therapeutic and fun.”
She added of the support from fans: “I go through such emotions in the show and you have to take a minute to calm down afterwards.
“The fans always come to support and it makes it all worthwhile.
“You put yourself through the turmoil but you do it for the loving people like that.”
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Theatre can be a cut-throat world and it sounds like this show might be the latest victim.
Get out while you can, Sheridan.
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