Tom Marshmann

A show about theatre, queer friendships, and grief, through the story of two of Britain’s best loved stage animals, Maggie Smith and Kenneth Williams, and the bond he shared with his dear friend, the late artist Clare Thornton. They are on a journey together to master their craft.

Playing with the juxtaposition of the ‘performer’ in public and private, the narrative not only includes Kenneth’s and Maggie’s success, but a sensitive portrayal of issues such as depression, OCD, and the loneliness of Kenneth’s one bedroom flat. Through the use of projections, Tom examines their characters as apparitions within the theatre, and considers his own relationship with the late artist Clare Thornton. Their shining intimacy belongs to a particular moment in history, allowing narrator Tom to reflect on this close friendship of his own, now lost. 

Television and radio interviews, newspaper articles, diaries, and memoirs, have created the backbone for this new work by Tom Marshman.

‘Tom Marshman is an outstanding artist whose recent work raises fascinating questions about dramatic character. Tom seems to be creating a character who floats somewhere between an imagined version of Tom and an imagined version of Kenny”

TOM MORRIS, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, BRISTOL OLD VIC

“A playful and moving account of these beautiful friendships”

THE EVERYDAY MAGAZINE

TICKET OFFERS

Save £6 when you book any 3 theatre/dance shows

Explore more of our theatre and performance programme, and enjoy money off your tickets! Save £6 when you book for three shows from our performance programme. Book any three theatre or dance shows and your £6 discount will be applied automatically.

Dream Festival 2022: Cygnet Theatre

We have a huge variety of events. Something for everyone. From community workshops at the Library, children’s shows at Cygnet Theatre, stand-up comedy at Topsham Brewery, folk music at the Corn Exchange, professional development workshops, storytelling at the RAMM, music at St Nicholas Priory, youth shows at the Hall and Multi-Story Orchestra in IKEA’s car park.

Bringing art to unexpected places and helping everyone find their creative spark. Welcome to Cygnet’s Dream Festival.

VENUE: AUDITORIUM, EXETER PHOENIX

*Subject to a £1.50 ticketing system charge. We don’t charge this to make a profit. Find out more >>

Image credit: Jack Offord