Whipping it Up by Steve Thompson
Directed by Caroline Doyle
Performances: Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th May 2011, Bell Theatre
Westminster runs the country but the Whips control Westminster.
It’s a week before Christmas, and the new Tory government is facing dissent over its latest Bill. With a precarious majority, the Whips’ office is out in full force, and they’ll stop at nothing to keep their MPs voting true blue.
But they’re in for a long night: boy scouts are rioting in Whitehall, five Tory rebels are on the loose, the Chief Whip’s standing in for Santa and the Deputy Chief Whip for the Opposition will do all in her power to bring them to their knees.
Premiered at The Bush Theatre, London, with Terry Johnson directing a cast led by Richard Wilson, the scandalously funny Whipping It Up blows the lid off the Despatch box and reveals the true secrets locked in the Whips’ safe.
This play could be described as a cross between “Yes, Minister” and “The Thick of It” but that wouldn’t do it justice. It’s funny and fast paced, with enough twists and turns to keep the audience guessing the entire time. It’s a small but perfectly formed slice of life in the Whips’ Office and is guaranteed to entertain.
All characters have a playing age. This is a guideline only, as are any physical descriptions. The most important thing is that the characters can play off each other effectively and have that “go for the throat” political instinct.
Cast
Alastair - Christopher Vian-Smith
Guy – Simon Gleisner
Tim – Paul Dineen
Maggie – Emma Howcutt
The Chief – Matthew Lyne
Delia – Helen Chadney
For more details, please contact Caroline Doyle, Director
Please note that although anyone may audition for a show at the South London Theatre, if cast you must be (or become) a member of the club. Proof of membership will be required at the first rehearsal. Membership information can be found here
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