December, 1977 – it’s nine years since the infamous ‘Watersplash Final’ – and the once revered “Uncle Eddie” has withdrawn into the protective walls of the The Queens Hotel.
Out front fanatical Rugby League fan Eddie Marlowe, grieving the recent loss of his father, is hellbent on speaking alone with his idol. Will he get that chance?
Playing The Joker is about one man’s dream to give rugby league a national profile – written by award winning author and former Sunday Mirror journalist Anthony Clavane (Leeds Lads).
Through a winning combination of gripping action and infectious humour, Playing the Joker presents a moving and funny slice of 1970s northern life.
After a sell-out run at the West Yorkshire Playhouse in November 2013, followed by a 2014 tour to rugby league clubs throughout the north of England, Playing the Joker is back on the road – 50 years on since the ‘Watersplash Final’. Featuring an all new talented cast of three including Leeds Rhinos forward Jamie Jones-Buchanan, and directed by Red Ladder’s Artistic Director Rod Dixon.
Recommended age 14+
Dates
Show Credits
Writer: Anthony Clavane
Director: Rod Dixon
Eddie M: Matthew Lewney
Eddie W: Michael Forrest
Doorman Dave: Jamie Jones-Buchanan/Jamie Smelt
Stage Manager: Tom Blackband
Set, Props and Costume: Antony Jones