Ipswich theatre lovers are being invited to step back in time when Swich Up Productions presents the acclaimed comedy Home, I’m Darling this July.
Directed by Martie Blanchett, the Olivier Award-winning play explores what happens when a couple attempts to live a picture-perfect 1950s lifestyle in the modern world, creating a witty and thought-provoking comedy filled with humour, heart and unexpected twists.
The production centres on Judy and Johnny, a couple who have embraced a nostalgic dream life inspired by the 1950s. Their home, fashion, appliances and daily routines all reflect a bygone era, while the realities of modern life continue to knock at the door.
“It’s all very idyllic at first,” Blanchett explained.
“But as the story unfolds, the cracks begin to show.”
The play examines relationships, expectations and the pursuit of an idealised lifestyle through a mix of sharp comedy and clever social commentary. Audiences can expect themes ranging from marriage and family dynamics to friendships and the challenges of balancing fantasy with reality.
Blanchett said she fell in love with the script the first time she read it.
“I won’t direct a show unless I fall in love with the script,” she said.
“It was love at first read. The humour is intelligent, the writing is beautiful, and I could immediately see the characters and the world of the play.”
Written by British playwright Laura Wade, Home, I’m Darling won the prestigious Olivier Award for Best New Comedy in 2019 and has since become a favourite among theatre companies around the world.
Leading the cast as Judy is Lauren, who is making her first appearance in a straight play after years of performing in musical theatre productions.
While audiences may recognise her from recent productions such as Kinky Boots, she admits the move from musicals to a dialogue-heavy comedy has been a significant challenge.
“So many more lines,” she laughed.
“I really threw myself in at the deep end.”
Despite the challenge, Lauren said she immediately connected with the character and the play’s unique aesthetic.
“There wasn’t a huge leap between me and Judy,” she said.
“My house is already very mid-century inspired, and I loved the script from the first page. I laughed out loud straight away.”
The production also features a strong supporting cast including Linda Shephard, Liz Ball, Courtney Moran and Jamie Spence, bringing together some of Ipswich’s most experienced and recognisable theatre performers.
Switch Up Productions has built a reputation for delivering high-quality local theatre, with previous productions including Kinky Boots, Jekyll & Hyde, It’s a Wonderful Life and The Drowsy Chaperone earning praise from audiences and industry awards alike.
Blanchett said the company’s goal has always been to bring professional-quality productions to Ipswich while showcasing local talent.
“We want to give the community something different and maintain a high standard in everything we do,” she said.
Home, I’m Darling will run from 17 to 25 July at the Cambrian Hall in Ipswich.
Tickets are available through TryBooking, with booking links available via the Switch Up Productions social media pages.
With its award-winning script, talented local cast and a nostalgic trip back to the 1950s, organisers believe Home, I’m Darling is set to be one of Ipswich’s standout theatre productions of the year.
0 Comments