Theatre / Performance Art
Go to a marvellous party this weekend
Following the recent acquisition of Oliver Messel’s personal archives, one of the 20th century’s leading theatre stars, Tom Marshman is bringing him to life in ‘I went to a marvellous party’.
Part art-installation, part performance, Messel was one the 1920s’ ‘bright young things’, and the Theatre Collection at the University of Bristol attained his catalogue of belongings in 2015. The archives provides a comprehensive history of the theatre star’s life and work.
Oliver Messel, courtesy of Vonalina Cake Photography
It’s free and drop-in and visitors are welcome to both explore the art installation created from the collection and enjoy a performance by Tom Marshman.
The Bristol performer is telling never-before-told stories about Messel’s life alongside other performers who play Hollywood starlets and theatre dames. Tom’s shows, well-loved within the city, are known for being sensory, stomach-churning, conversational, and sentimental all at once.
Tom Marshman performs as Oliver Messel, courtesy of Vonalina Cake Photograhy
Gemma Brace, exhibition and engagement officer at the Theatre Collection says: “Join us as he turns his hand to the hidden histories of Oliver’s life, celebrated through the stories of this marvellous party.”
The final performances by Tom Marshman will take place at Ashton Court Estate over the weekend of March 23 and 24, and more information can be found at www.bristol.ac.uk/news/2019/february/marvellous-party
Photos courtesy of Volanina Cake Photography
Read more: Preview: A Haunted Existence
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