Cricket fans can be in for a humorous but insightful evening when one man show, Jack’s Ashes, comes to Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 1 May.
Jack’s Ashes tells the story of former professional cricketer, Jack, as he steps up to give his team talk to motivate the players, but as the wickets fall the anecdotes from his career prove less than inspirational.
Jack’s Ashes is to be performed in the month of Mental Health Awareness Week (13 – 19 May). The show offers an insight into the mental frailties and distractions that can lead to ruin.
The production was developed with professional sports bodies and mental health charities; and has been designed to use humour to reduce stigma and promote conversation around mental fitness. There will be a post-show chat featuring current Hampshire County Cricket players – Chris Wood, Ian Holland and James Vince.
Described as ‘the perfect balance of humour and heart’, Jack’s Ashes was written by Matt Banes and Tim Marriott – who also stars. Banes is a former professional cricketer, while Marriott is an award-winning producer and performer who starred in the BBC sitcom, The Brittas Empire; and his show, Shell Shock, exploring PTSD.
Jack’s Ashes also includes recorded contributions from the cricketing world including from Lancashire, England and Sky Sports’ legend David ‘Bumble’ Lloyd, Ed Cowan, Robert ‘Crash’ Craddock and Aussie all-rounder Shane Watson.
The show won the Best Theatre Award at Adelaide Fringe 2023 with Tim Marriott being awarded Best Actor at the Edinburgh Festival Awards 2023. Jack’s Ashes is brought to the stage by Marriott’s company, Smokescreen Productions. Marriott last performed at Theatre Royal Winchester in Watson: The Final Problem, in May 2023.
Jack’s Ashes will be at Theatre Royal Winchester on Wednesday 01 May at 7.30pm. Recommended age: 12+. Tickets available from just £6. For more information or to book tickets, visit: theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk or call 01962 840 440.
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