Terrence Higgins Trust to benefit from charity reading of Rock Hudson play
On Sunday 9th December, HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust will present a unique and intimate stage reading of ‘Rock and Doris and Elizabeth’, the latest play by Tracy-Ann Oberman.
Starring Tracy-Ann Oberman, Frances Barber, Jonathan Hyde and James Lance, the radio play was first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 earlier this year. It explores the friendship between Hollywood star Rock Hudson and his two ‘leading ladies’, Doris Day and Elizabeth Taylor. The play imagines the days preceding Hudson’s astonishing appearance on Doris Day’s little-known cable TV show in 1985. At the time his obvious ill health created a media frenzy of speculation about the nature of his illness, which was later confirmed as being AIDS-related.
The original cast will reunite for a special fundraising evening at The Hampstead Theatre, London, with ticket proceeds coming to Terrence Higgins Trust. The stage reading will be followed by a question and answer session with the cast, plus a complimentary drinks reception.
Genevieve Edwards, Director of Fundraising, said: “It is hugely generous of Tracy-Ann to stage this special night in aid of Terrence Higgins Trust. It may be the last event in our World AIDS Day calendar this year, but it will also be one of the most spellbinding. ‘Rock and Doris and Elizabeth’ received rave reviews when it was broadcast, and for the reading to take place in a theatre gives a rare chance to see how the actors work. It’s all for a good cause too, with the money raised helping to fund services for people living with and affected by HIV in the UK.”
‘Rock and Doris and Elizabeth’ will take place on Sunday 9th December at The Hampstead Theatre, Eton Avenue, London NW3 3EU. The stage reading will begin at 7.30pm, with a drinks reception from 8.30pm – 9.30pm.
Tickets are £35 each, and are available from the Hampstead Theatre box office on (020) 7722 9301, or www.hampsteadtheatre.com.