Name: The Pillowman
Start: 2023-06-12
End: 2023-09-02
Location: Duke of York's Theatre

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The Pillowman [21329]

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In a totalitarian state a writer is questioned by the authorities about a spate of murders that bear similarities to her short stories. Is this life imitating art or something more sinister?

Born in London in 1985, Lily Allen is a multi-award-winning singer and songwriter, best known for hits including “The Fear”, “Not Fair” and “LDN”. In 2021, Allen made her West End debut in *[2:22 - A Ghost Story](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/show/222_a-ghost-story)* at the [Noel Coward Theatre](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/theatres/noel-coward-theatre).

Growing up, Allen was introduced to the performing arts from an early age. She lived in a theatrical family; the daughter of Keith Allen, who’s starred in plays including *Treasure Island* at [Theatre Royal Haymarket](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/theatres/theatre-royal-haymarket), and of film producer Alison Owen. She made her television debut at the age of three, and a musical career was in her sights as a highschooler.

In 2005, Allen signed to Regal Recordings to produce an album. However, her career took off after she uploaded music onto MySpace, racking up thousands of views. Lily Allen has released four albums, *Alright, Still* (2006), *It’s Not Me, It’s You* (2009), *Sheezus* (2014) and *No Shame* (2018). Her number one hits include “Smile”, “The Fear” and a cover of Keane’s “Somewhere Only We Know”. To date, she’s received 31 awards for her music, including Best British Female Solo Artist at the BRIT Awards.

Aside from her musical career, Allen has also hosted her own BBC Three television series, titled *Lily Allen and Friends*. Throughout the season, she was joined by performers including Joanna Page, James Corden and [Danny Dyer](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/actor-profile/danny-dyer).

In 2021, Allen made her professional stage debut in *2:22 - A Ghost Story* at the Noel Coward Theatre. Danny Robins' play saw Allen play a young woman that’s convinced ghosts inhabit her new home. Allen starred alongside Julia Chan, Hadley Fraser and Jake Wood. 

Lily Allen - LON

Age guidance: 14+ Please note the performance contains strobe lighting, flashing lights, loud sound effects, smoke effects and periods of darkness in the auditorium.

DNU - 2:22 A Ghost Story - Criterion - LON

2:22 A Ghost Story - Criterion

2:22 A Ghost Story - Criterion - LON Product Media

<a href="/actor-profile/lily-allen">Lily Allen</a> shrieks before she even says a word in <a href="/show/222-a-ghost-story">2:22: A Ghost Story</a>, which tips you off immediately as to the way Danny Robins's debut West End play is due to proceed. But the name-grabbing debut on view is, of course, singer-songwriter Allen, who was due some years back to be penning a major musical of Bridget Jones's Diary from which she parted company along the way.Instead, here Allen is, looking sleek and glam and very much forming part of the four-person ensemble that has been assembled by the director Matthew Dunster (of Hangmen renown, amongst other titles) in a putative scare-fest that is at heart the story of two couples in crisis. That shifting dynamic finds itself in thrall to numerous tropes of the genre - tricks of sound and light and sudden screams intended to elicit the same from the audience and which you'll either find nerve-shredding or cheesy, depending on your susceptibility to such things. To my mind, none of the jump-scare moments rival the frissons I recall from the comparatively undemanding likes of <a href="https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/show/the-woman-in-black">The Woman in Black</a>, but 2:22 A Ghost Story to its credit has far more on its mind, including a meditation on the debilitating legacy of loss that stays with you long after the collective nervous laughter from the crowd has ceased.Allen knows her way around a stage and is part of an acting family, so it's not much of a surprise that this isn't the deer-in-the-headlights moment some might have feared. (Madonna's Broadway and London stage runs, both of which I saw, have been cited by way of comparison but aren't really relevant.) In fact, Dunster keeps the actor whooshing around designer Anna Fleischle's attractive set, as Allen's character, Jenny, tries to make sense of footsteps she has been hearing in baby daughter Phoebe's room at 2:22 across successive mornings. (Quite why they don't simply bring Phoebe downstairs until the very final scene, rather than leaving her so long unattended, is left unanswered.)To try and make sense of this recurring conundrum, Jenny has enlisted over risotto and quite a lot of wine an assist from her sceptical, hyper-rationalist husband Sam (Hadley Fraser, the musicals veteran in expert form) along with Sam's longtime American psychoanalyst chum Lauren (Julia Chan) and her builder-boyfriend, Ben, who showed up to do Lauren's bathroom and evidently never left. That role seems intended as comic relief and is rather belligerently played as such by Jake Wood until such time as the character darkens and all bets are off. At one bizarre moment, Ben ends up in spiritualist mode rather like an EastEnders equivalent of <a href="https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/show/blithe-spirit">Blithe Spirit</a>'s Madame Arcati.Robins commendably has plenty on his mind, in marked contrast with usual shows of this kind: you don't expect societal commentary, for instance, from Deathtrap. But I'm not sure it's in the best of taste to compare ghosts to refugees, given the very real suffering experienced by the latter, and some of the angst is very clunkily expressed: "I want to be more than just a sponge," Jenny protests well into the second act, around the same time that we get the cod-philosophical "life is pointless and life is final."&nbsp;Elsewhere, Julia responds to the rising tensions by proffering herself as "Switzerland" in human form - evidence of a script that gathers humour into its fearful embrace.The evening is on stronger ground layering the strangeness on view in a stylish home whose skylight is singled out as a thing of beauty and whose sliding door seems to give way to a landscape of foxes whose piercing night cries (indices of copulation, we are told) are used several times to fearmongering effect. Add to all this a dodgy boiler, windows that seem mysteriously to open, and the unexplained presence of white spirit in the sink, and it's no wonder that Jenny is soon striding about with a hammer when, that is, one or another character isn't heard demanding the impossible from a mobile phone. (Alexa is given enough of a workout to merit inclusion on the payroll.)"This isn't The Exorcist," Sam maintains at one point, noting the absence of ectoplasm from an increasingly shouty narrative that wants to disturb on a human level well away from the familiar horror-landscape theatrics. (The film Ghost gets its own name check.) There's plenty said about the trauma of childbearing and class and marital tensions, not to mention the primacy in our psyche that is granted to fear over love, to command attention well before the sounds of thunder arrive seemingly on cue. If 2 22: A Ghost Story is remembered as the play that posited Lily Allen as a viable theatrical presence, its primary debt is owed less to the likes of, say, Andy Nyman's Ghost Stories than to the eternal challenge, at times truly fearful, that most of us will recognise inherent in simply being alive.<a href="/show/222-a-ghost-story">2: 22 A Ghost Story is at the Noel Coward Theatre to 16 October.</a>Photo credit: Julia Chan, Lily Allen, Hadley Fraser and Jake Wood in 2:22 A Ghost Story (Photo by Helen Murray)

Lily Allen makes an admirable stage debut in the scary and shouty '2:22: A Ghost Story'

Read our review of 2:22 A Ghost Story starring Lily Allen at the Noel Coward Theatre at London Theatre.

2:22 A Ghost Story starring Lily Allen Review | London Theatre

The Criterion Theatre is a gem of Victorian architecture located in the bustling heart of London, nestled within the world-famous Piccadilly Circus. Hidden away underground, this grand and storied venue brims with rich history and elegance. Built in 1874 by architect Thomas Verity, and designed in a striking Italian Renaissance style, the theatre seats 588 people across three levels. Notably, it is constructed predominantly from concrete, a characteristic unusual for its time. The theatre's magnificent gilded interior and treasured Criterion Bar sublimely enhance the overall patron experience.

Over the years, the Criterion Theatre has been the host to a variety of productions spanning several genres, including comedies, dramas, thrillers, musical concerts, and matinees. Its 'Criterion New Writing Programme' reflects its commitment towards nurturing potential playwrights and encouraging new work.

### How to Get There

The Criterion Theatre is conveniently served by several modes of public transportation. The nearest Tube station is Piccadilly Circus, served by the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines, a mere two-minute walk away. Numerous bus routes run along Piccadilly, Regent Street, and Shaftesbury Avenue, making the venue easily accessible. However, due to its central location, parking is limited and it's advisable to use public transportation if possible. The venue is within London’s Congestion Charge Zone, and for those choosing to drive, nearby parking is available at Q Park Chinatown in Newport Place.

Criterion Theatre - LON

Criterion Theatre

The Criterion Theatre is a historic Victorian theatre in London's Piccadilly Circus, easily accessible by tube and bus services.

The **Duke of York's Theatre** is one of the most prestigious theatres in the bustling city of London. Nestled in the heart of St Martin's Lane, it boasts a rich history dating back to its opening in 1892. The theatre is named after King George V and since its establishment, it has featured an array of stunning performances and world-renowned plays. The auditorium is an impressive spectacle in its own right, designed in proscenium style, with the capacity to accommodate up to 640 spectators. Over the years, it has maintained its classic Edwardian decor, adding to the immersive theatre experience it provides. Furthermore, the theatre has state-of-the-art technical facilities and provides excellent acoustics, ensuring an awe-inspiring experience. 

**How to get to the venue:** 

Duke of York's Theatre is well-connected to public transportation. The closest tube stations include Charing Cross, Leicester Square, and Covent Garden. Alternatively, several buses stop near St Martin's Lane. For those driving, there are car parks nearby. However, due to London's congestion charge, public transport is the most convenient and often, the easiest way to reach the theatre.

**Additional Information** 

Venue opens 1hr 30min before showtime. 
Please arrive with plenty of time. Latecomers will be admitted at a suitable point, which may be the interval.

Duke of York's Theatre - LON

Duke of York's Theatre

The Duke of York's Theatre is a prestigious historical venue in London, showcasing world-renowned plays with modern facilities. It's accessible via public transport.

Born in London in 1985, Lily Allen is a multi-award-winning singer and songwriter, best known for hits including “The Fear”, “Not Fair” and “LDN”. In 2021, Allen made her West End debut in 2:22 - A Ghost Story at the Noel Coward Theatre.

Lily Allen - Stars on Stage | London Theatre

Lily Allen - 124x124px

Steve Pemberton is best known for his association with The League of Gentlemen, the hit 1999 television series created by Pemberton, Reece Shearsmith, <a href="/actor-profile/mark-gatiss">Mark Gatiss</a> and co-writer Jeremy Dyson. The programme ran for 3 series on BBC2 and spawned a movie and a stage production in 2005.

Pemberton began his career on the fringe theatre circuit as a founding member of the 606 Theatre group, working with Tom Hadley, Gordon Anderson and producer Shane Walter. His television work includes guest appearances in Whitechapel, Shameless, Benidorm, Happy Valley and Doctor Who, and he has been seen on the big screen in Mr. Bean’s Holiday in 2007 as well as the previously mentioned The League of Gentlemen movie, The League of Gentlemen’s Apocalypse.

He made his musical theatre debut in 2007 as ‘Man in Chair’ in The Drowsy Chaperone which played at the <a href="/theatres/novello-theatre">Novello Theatre</a>, and he returned to musical theatre in 2011 at the <a href="/theatres/donmar-warehouse">Donmar Warehouse</a> in a production of the Tony Award winning The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. <a href="/reviews/the-25th-annual-putnam-county-spelling-bee">Read a review of&nbsp;The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee&nbsp;here</a>. In 2012, he then starred in&nbsp;She Stoops To Conquer&nbsp;at the <a href="/theatres/national-theatre">National Theatre</a>, and <a href="/reviews/she-stoops-to-conquer">you can read a review here</a>. He then starred in Dead Funny&nbsp;at the <a href="/theatres/vaudeville-theatre">Vaudeville Theatre</a> in 2016.

&nbsp;

Steve Pemberton - LON

Dead Funny [2648]

Dead Funny

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The Vaudeville Theatre is one of the most distinguished theatres in London. Perched on the Strand in London's West End district, the theatre has been a pillar of the city's performing arts scene and a symbol of London's rich cultural history. With a capacity of 690, it offers an intimate setting that brings audiences closer to the performances. The auditorium, embellished with opulent detailing, provides a breathtaking atmosphere that exalts the theatre experience. Historically, it has been home to notable plays and musicals featuring some of the world's most renowned actors and actresses. Beyond its aesthetic beauty and historic significance, it is celebrated for its commitment to presenting excellent productions which cater to a wide variety of theatrical tastes.### How to Get to the Venue ###It is readily accessible not only to the locals but also to foreign tourists. For those planning to arrive by tube, the nearest station is Covent Garden which is approximately 5 minutes walk. Alternative tube stations include Charing Cross (10 minutes walk) and Holborn Station (11 minutes walk). For anyone planning to use a bus, services 6, 9, 11, 15, 23, 77A, 91, 139, 176 all stop near the theatre. Those driving are suggested to use the MasterPark at Trafalgar Square and Chinatown car park.

Vaudeville Theatre - LON

Vaudeville Theatre

The Vaudeville Theatre is a historic venue in London's West End, known for its intimate setting and diverse productions.

Steve Pemberton is best known for his association with The League of Gentlemen, the hit 1999 television series created by Pemberton, Reece Shearsmith, Mark Gatiss and co-writer Jeremy Dyson.

Steve Pemberton - Stars on Stage | London Theatre

Steve-Pemberton-124x124px

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*The Book of Mormon* comes from South Park creators __Trey Parker__ and __Matt Stone__, and *Avenue Q* co-creator __Robert Lopez__. *The Book of Mormon*, winner of nine Tony Awards® and four Olivier Awards, including Best Musical for both, follows a pair of Mormon boys sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far away a from Salt Lake City as you can get. 

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AGATHA CHRISTIE’S THE MOUSETRAP is the world’s longest-running play. This thrilling West End production is THE genre-defining murder mystery from the best-selling novelist of all time… case closed!

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The Duke Of York’s Theatre opened as the Trafalgar Square Theatre in 1892.The playhouse received its current name three years later in 1895, in honour of the future King George V. 

Famous productions to play at the Duke Of York’s Theatre include David Belasco’s *Madame Butterfly* in 1900 – Puccini was in the audience and famously turned the story into an opera. J. M. Barrie's famous creation *Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up* opened at the theatre on 27 Dec. 1904.

Typically, the Duke of York's Theatre is home to short-running plays, with West End and Broadway stars appearing.

## Duke of York's Theatre Seating Information

The auditorium has three levels – Stalls, Royal Circle and Upper Circle.

The Stalls offer good legroom throughout, and the raking of the seats is very good, noticeably from Row D onwards. 

In the Royal Circles, there is no visual obstruction from the Upper Circle. 

The seats in the Upper Circle curve towards the stage. The final two rows of the Upper Circle are bench seats.

## Additional Information

Venue opens 1hr 30min before showtime. 
Please arrive with plenty of time. Latecomers will be admitted at a suitable point, which may be the interval.

Duke of York's Theatre - London Theatre

Duke of York's theatre, initially Trafalgar Square Theatre in 1892, was renamed in 1895. It typically showcases short-running plays with West End, Broadway stars, and has three auditorium levels.

Duke of York's Theatre - TodayTix

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