Tribute to legendary actress celebrates revue’s golden age

Music and monologues by the late actress Joyce Grenfell will be brought to life in a one-woman show at the Ropery Hall, at the Ropewalk art gallery.

Written and performed by West End actress Cheryl Knight to mark the 100th anniversary of Grenfell’s birth last year, Turn Back the Clock is based on extracts from the entertainer’s broadcasts and letters and harks back to the golden age of revue.

Ms Knight, who uses a bare minimum of props and will be accompanied by pianist Alice Farnham, said: “In this show, there’s quite a bit about her musical collaborations.

“It’s a very gentle, feel-good show but there’s a couple of poignant numbers people don’t expect that change the mood and often the audience say those are their favourite songs. The wonderful thing about Joyce was she was able to get under people’s skins.

“She really loved people, and was a great observer of humanity and its quirks.

“In her monologues, she creates characters from completely different backgrounds to her own posh background and in such a warm way.”

The show begins at 7.30pm and tickets cost £12 and £10. To book call (01652) 660380.