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Opera House to present London’s National Theatre’s The Audience

Starring Helen Mirren

Submitted Photo London’s National Theatre production of The Audience will be screened Friday at 7 p.m. at the 1891 Fredonia Opera House.

The 1891 Fredonia Opera House will present an encore screening of London’s National Theatre production of “The Audience,” starring Helen Mirren, on Friday, Aug. 9, at 7 p.m. The encore screening is part of National Theatre Live’s celebration of 10 years of bringing great theatre to audiences around the world via satellite.

“The Audience” was broadcast live via satellite in 2013 when it was initially staged in London’s West End. The production then moved to Broadway for a limited engagement run. Mirren earned a 2015 Tony Award as Best Leading Actress in a Play for her performance as Queen Elizabeth II.

For 60 years, Queen Elizabeth II has met with each of her 12 Prime Ministers in a private weekly meeting. This meeting is known as “the audience.” No one knows what they discuss, not even their spouses.

From the old warrior Winston Churchill, to the Iron Lady Margaret Thatcher, right up to today’s meetings with the current prime minister, the Queen advises them all on matters both public and personal. Through these private audiences, we see glimpses of the woman behind the crown and witness the moments that shaped a monarch.

“The Audience” is written by Peter Morgan (“The Queen”) and directed by two-time Tony Award-winning and Academy Award-nominated director Stephen Daldry. The production was nominated for three Tony Awards; and in addition to Mirren’s win, Richard McCabe was awarded Best Featured Actor in a Play for his performance as Prime Minister Harold Wilson.

Tickets to The Audience are $15 ($10 Students) and may be purchased in person at the Opera House Box Office or by phone at 716-679-1891, Tuesday through Friday, 1-5 p.m. They also may be purchased online any time at www.fredopera.org. This program is part of the Stage on Screen Series which is generously sponsored by Dr. James and Marcia Merrins.

The Opera House is equipped with assistive listening headsets for the hearing-impaired. Simply request one from any usher or Opera House staff member. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.fredopera.org.

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