Storyhouse to premiere new Tim Firth musical

A new musical by Tim Firth is set to be premiered at Chester Stoyhouse this spring.

Now is Good is described as a poignant, funny and heartfelt story about the greatest challenges currently facing humanity; how to help your children, where to hide your biscuits, and how to combat loneliness.

The musical, running from May 11-28, is directed by Joyce Branagh and arranged by Liverpool’s George Francis. It stars Michele Dotrice, with more casting to be announced.

When builder Ray and his son embark on a renovation project it unlocks a bank of memories, and with the arrival of some unexpected help it also takes an extraordinary turn.

Firth, whose previous musicals include This is My Family, Calendar Girls and The Band, said: “I like to think that shows pick their own titles. I stumbled on a phrase during my first chat with Storyhouse.

“In the intervening years, with the world seemingly on a different planet, I found myself writing a comic musical about combatting loneliness. Not only that. Apart from having live tigers on stage, it’s a story that involves one of the riskiest things ever attempted in a theatre.

“But we mustn’t lose our willingness to take risks in order to have fun. Life’s too short. Now is good. The title is having its day.”

Storyhouse producer Helen Redcliffe added: “Now is Good is a beautiful, tender and feelgood show which is filled with Tim’s trademark wit, humour and humanity as well as some fantastic melodies.”

Now is Good is at Chester Storyhouse from May 11-28. Tickets are on general sale from February 4 on the website HERE

Top: Tim Firth at Storyhouse. Photo by Kat Hannan