David Payne in “Churchill" at the Adler Theatre -- April 9.
Tuesday, April 9, 7 p.m.
Adler Theatre, 136 East Third Street, Davenport IA
With his play lauded by Theatre in Chicago as a work that "stands out for its blend of historical depth and personal insights," David Payne brings his nationally touring one-man show Churchill to Davenport's Adler Theatre on April 9, the piece allowing the British character actor to portray a famed historical figure previously portrayed by Gary Oldman, who won an Academy Award for playing Churchill, and Albert Finney, Brendan Gleeson, and John Lithgow, all of whom won Emmy Awards as the former British Prime Minister.
As the solo performance piece begins, Winston Churchill has just been awarded honorary United States citizenship by President John F. Kennedy. In recognition of this unprecedented occasion, the American-Oxford Society has asked the former Prime Minister to address them and discuss what this honor means to him. In the oftentimes funny, sometimes moving, and always engaging Churchill, veteran actor Payne brings Churchill to life onstage. Audiences will be delighted to hear of his exploits during the Boer War, his constant battles with Britain’s fellow politicians, and his special relationship with America and America’s presidents. But in the most telling passage of all, Churchill enlightens the audience with intimate and touching details of the two special women in his life: Queen Elizabeth, and Winston's wife Clementine.
Payne's portrayal of Churchill has garnered widespread acclaim, both for the depth of his performance and the play's insightful exploration of Churchill's character. The play aims to provide a broader perspective on the former Pime Minister's life beyond his role in World War II, and Payne's meticulous approach to embodying Churchill's deliberate speech and personality traits has resulted in a powerful theatrical experience. As stated in Theatre in Chicago, Churchill "strikes a balance between the humor and the gravity of Churchill's life, providing a comprehensive look at his political achievements and personal struggles. With elements reminiscent of popular productions like The Crown and Darkest Hour, Payne's show offers a fresh perspective on a figure who has been extensively portrayed in media."
The national tour of David Payne's Churchill comes to Davenport on April 9, admission to the 7 p.m. performance is $55, and tickets are available by calling (800)745-3000 and visiting AdlerTheatre.com.
