Kennedy Bloomer directs Fever Pitch, a new theatrical adaptation of Nick Hornby’s best-selling memoir about one man’s utter obsession with Arsenal Football Club.
Fever Pitch will star Ashley Gerlach as ‘Pete/Ensemble’, Gabrielle MacPherson as ‘Sarah/Ensemble’, Jack Trueman as ‘Nick’ and Louise Hoare as ‘Louise/Ensemble’.
Fever Pitch will open at The Hope Theatre in Islington on 31 August, playing until 25 September, tickets are on sale here.
You’re directing Fever Pitch at the Hope Theatre, what can you tell us about the play?
It’s a hilarious, exhilarating and heart-wrenching love letter to football and in particular Arsenal F.C. It’s been adapted for the stage by Joel Samuels into a 4-hander and we’re currently heading into our final week of rehearsals.
Why do you think Nick Hornby’s novel makes for a perfect stage adaptation?
At various points in the memoir, Hornby makes references to theatre and this really peaked my interest. Football is inherently theatrical – the drama, expression and emotions that you feel whilst watching those 90 minutes. It seemed like the perfect fit!
As an Arsenal fan yourself, how have you gone about instilling this passion in the cast?
I am! We’re lucky that two members of the cast are also proud Gooners too. Coming off the back of the Euros, we discussed our own individual reactions to the matches and in particular the final. We all have something we obsess about or love so the passion came really easily.
How have Arsenal Football Club gotten involved?
We have been in touch with the Arsenal Foundation who have been able to offer advice and spread the word about the show.
Does this feel bittersweet for you as it’s both your first and last in house production at The Hope?
It definitely does but mostly sweet. I can’t wait to bring my two loves together and also get people into The Hope who have perhaps never stepped foot there before. We’re offering 10% of all of our tickets free to Islington residents to say thank you to the community who have supported us and stood by us throughout the pandemic.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see Fever Pitch?
Book your ticket now before they’re gone and get ready for a brilliant night at the theatre!
