Whitley Bay theatre to tell story of disgraced television presenter

Laurels Theatre in Whitley Bay have announced a production, brand-new to the North East, which will tell the story of a disgraced children’s television presenter.

The play, which is named Monkey’s Blood, debuted in 2019 at VAULT Festival in London, following a preview of the show at the Phoenix Theatre in Blyth, but will now have an official run in the North East.

Monkey’s Blood will star Jamie Eastlake, who has also co-written the production and is the co-founder of Laurel’s Theatre, alongside Stephen Robertson.

In an interview with Cultured. North East, Jamie said:  “It went down really well and we always thought it should have a proper run in the North East.”

The plot of Monkey’s Blood, which has been co-written by John Hickman, who has written for the likes of Eastenders and The Dumping Ground, will look at lead character Micky Holmes, reflecting on his life and the past which has come back to haunt him.

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The story of Micky Holmes will reflect the downfall of children’s television presenters in the real world, although given that the play was written and originally performed a few years ago, it is mere coincidence that the play may have some similarities to recent controversies.

Jamie explained: “The performing of the play is pretty draining, and the subject matter definitely touches on some serious stuff around the political and socio economic issues which play into Micky’s life story.”

However, the show will also be filled with humorous moments, mostly courtesy of Mickey’s foul mouthed monkey puppet pal named Colin, who is being brought to life by Emma Deborah Ward.

Jamie explained: “It’s a really collaborative piece. We’re kind of all directing it in the room, which is different to how I usually do things, but it really seems to work for this world.”

Monkey’s Blood will be performing at Laurel’s Theatre in Whitley Bay from Tuesday, August 1 and will run until Saturday, August 5.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Laurel’s Theatre website.