TIP TOP SUCCESS FOR LOCAL THEATRE COMPANY AS TICKETS FOR OUTDOOR PERFORMANCES SELL OUT

A local theatre company is celebrating after demand for tickets for an event being staged as part of the Welsh Assembly trial of live performances at Theatr Clwyd led to an additional performance being scheduled which has also now sold out.

Chester and Wrexham based Tip Top Productions were invited to take part in the Welsh Assembly's trial of outdoor performances being staged at Theatr Clwyd as part of the first steps to bring live performance back to the Mold venue and to help shape Welsh Government guidance to enable the safe re-start of live performances in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic.

When tickets for their evening performance of "Musical Magic" quickly sold out and with so many people on a waiting list, the company, founded in Wrexham by Peter Swingler OBE in 1989 were delighted to be asked by Theatr Clwyd to schedule a Matinee performance. Such has been the demand for tickets that the additional show also sold out within a day of going on sale. Both shows take place on Sunday 27th September at 3.30pm and 6pm and will feature songs from popular West End and Broadway Musicals performed by a cast drawn from Tip Top's talented performers.

Strict social distancing measures will be in place for both performances and audience members are being asked to bring suitable portable camping seating or rugs, cushions etc with them so as to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Theatr Clwyd's newly created outdoor performance space.

Musically directed for Tip Top Productions by Simon Phillips, the show will be directed by Phil Cross. Joining Phil on stage will be Josie McHugh, Annie-May Howarth, Natalie Brett, Ashley Sollars, Rhian Lyon and Rob Lyon and will feature songs from musicals including The Sound of Music, Into the Woods and Shrek.

Speaking about being invited to schedule the additional performance Phil said "We were amazed at how quickly the evening event sold out, it highlights that our membership and audience are really keen to see some live performances again after a long gap. We are thrilled that we've been given the opportunity to add a matinee performance, giving more people a chance to come and see us!"

Steve Davies, Artistic Director of Tip Top Productions, said "This is a wonderful opportunity for us. Like many of our friends in the performing arts, we are missing the thrill of live theatre. Performing as part of this Welsh Assembly trial season is a wonderful step back onto the stage and we hope that the success of this trial will pave the way for a full return for us all very soon”.

In addition to Tip Top's performances at Theatr Clwyd, the company's own "Lockdown Season", an ongoing season of virtual events including play readings, open mic nights, quizzes and new writing showcases being staged via Zoom continues throughout September and details can be found online at www.chestertheatre.co.uk

Tip Top Productions was founded in 1989 by Peter Swingler OBE. Since 2007 it has run the Forum Studio Theatre in Chester(formerly Chester Gateway Theatre), staging 6 in-house productions per year including a Pantomime and playing host to visiting companies. In addition, the company also periodically stages productions at other venues including Theatr Clwyd.