Riccarton Players is bringing Willy Russell’s beloved comedy Shirley Valentine to Christchurch, with two actors sharing the iconic title role.

The production runs from 15 to 25 July at the Rangi Ruru Girls’ School Drama Theatre in Merivale, with Joanne Wheeler and Michelle Holland alternating as Shirley.

Production manager Michelle Histen said the play had a rare quality.

“Shirley Valentine is one of those rare plays that makes audiences laugh out loud one minute and quietly reflect the next. At its heart it’s about rediscovering who you are, no matter what stage of life you’re in,” Histen said.

The one-woman comedy follows Shirley Bradshaw, a middle-aged Liverpool housewife who chats to her kitchen wall as she prepares her husband’s usual Thursday night dinner of chips and egg, reflecting on the life she once imagined. When an unexpected opportunity to holiday in Greece comes along, she takes a leap of faith that changes everything.

“Although Shirley is a middle-aged Liverpool housewife, her story is universal. Anyone who’s ever wondered, is this all there is, or dreamed of doing something just for themselves will recognise a little of themselves in Shirley.”

Histen said having two performers share the role made the production particularly special.

“Joanne Wheeler and Michelle Holland each bring their own personality, warmth and humour to the character, making every performance a unique experience.”

Director Susan Cameron has created an intimate staging designed to make audiences feel as though they are sitting in Shirley’s kitchen, sharing her thoughts, dreams and observations about life.

Histen said the production would appeal well beyond those who remember the 1989 film starring Pauline Collins.

“Its themes of identity, family, relationships and finding the courage to embrace change are timeless. It’s the perfect night out for couples, groups of friends, mums and daughters, theatre lovers, or anyone looking for an evening that’s funny, moving and incredibly relatable.”

“People come expecting a few laughs and leave feeling genuinely uplifted.”

Shirley Valentine runs from 15 to 25 July at the Rangi Ruru Girls’ School Drama Theatre, 36 Merivale Lane. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for Gold Card holders and students, available at riccartonplayers.co.nz