News: World premiere of one-man play written and performed by Jack Holden

Aria Entertainment and Lambert Jackson Productions, in association with Shoreditch Town Hall, present the world premiere of Cruise, a brand new one-man play featuring live music written and performed by Jack Holden (War Horse, Ink).

The production will be streamed across platform stream.theatre from 15 April to 25 April 2021.

Cruise is set in 80s Soho, and is inspired by a true story. A celebration of queer culture, the show is an urgent, inspirational and moving tribute to the veterans of the Aids Crisis.

Directed by Bronagh Lagan and filmed at Shoreditch Town Hall, the show features a pulsating 80s soundtrack performed live by John Elliot.

Cruise is the true story of what should have been Michael Spencer’s last night on Earth. After being diagnosed with HIV in 1984, he is given four years to live. So with the clock ticking, he and his partner decide to sell their house, flog the car, spend everything they have and party like it’s the last days of Rome. When Dave dies two years later, Michael doubles down on his hedonistic ways, spending what little he has left and drowning himself in drink and drugs.

When is reaches the last night of his four-year countdown, Michael decides to go out with a bang. He puts on his favourite jacket, heads for Soho, and embarks on a long night of farewells. He says his goodbyes to friends, enemies and strangers; old haunts, dive bars, cafes, clubs and pubs; his brothers, sisters, allies and exes. He dances, sings, and says yes to everything and everyone. Then, with all his affairs taken care of, Michael survives. Michael has been given the gift of life; but what kind of life can he now live?

Creative team includes Holden (writer and performer), Elliott (music and sound design), Lagan (director), Jack Hextall (videography), Nik Corrall (designer), Jai Morjaria (lighting designer) Sarah Golding (movement) and Max Pappenheim (additional sound design).

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