Whoever knew that a wake could be so much fun? Natasha Gordon, it turns out, whose hit debut play Nine Night follows the events of a traditional Jamaican Nine Night Wake.
The touching and subversively funny play follows a family reunited by the passing of beloved grandmother Gloria. But this is no ordinary bereavement, as the family hold a party that lasts over a week, trying to simultaneously celebrate her life while marking her death.
The West End transfer of Nine Night begins previews at Trafalgar Studios on 1 December, and from the looks of things, preparations have been just as mirthful as the show’s first run suggested. Take a look at some of the preparations below through Helen Murray’s photos…
The company of Nine Night
Oliver Alvin-Wilson
The company of Nine Night
Playwright Natasha Gordon will take the role of Lorraine in her acclaimed debut play. She is joined by Oliver Alvin-Wilson (Robert), Michelle Greenidge (Trudy), also nominated in the Stage Awards for Best West End Debut, Hattie Ladbury (Sophie), Rebekah Murrell (Anita) and Cecilia Noble (Aunt Maggie) who return to their celebrated NT roles, and Karl Collins (Uncle Vince) who completes the West End cast.
Natasha Gordon and Hattie Ladbury
Karl Collins
Oliver Alvin-Wilson and Karl Collins
Oliver Alvin-Wilson, Natasha Gordon and Hattie Ladbury