Rehearsals have begun for the forthcoming West End arrival of the award-winning comedy Harvey and while we can spot at least two Olivier Award winners behind their scripts, there’s not a rabbit in sight…
That might be because – and here’s where all you leporidae fanatics who saw Fatal Attraction eight shows a week might be ever so slightly disappointed – even though it might just be the most famous character in the show, no actual rabbits will feature in this production. Instead, James Dreyfus will have to make do with his imagination, which is exactly what his character Elwood excels at, sharing his life with his best friend, a six-foot tall invisible rabbit.
So, no rabbits then. What else can we offer you as incentive to book? How about a Pulitzer Prize – its late author was awarded the prestigious prize 50 years ago – and not one but two Olivier Award winners as part of its company; Gimme Gimme Gimme star Dreyfus and stage favourite Maureen Lipman as his on stage sister Veta. That’s not to mention their director, the much acclaimed Lindsay Posner, of course.
Fairly impressive we’re sure you’ll agree and all three can be seen above in Manuel Harlan’s photos when he snuck into rehearsals to capture the company in full preparational swing; poring over scripts and looking to Posner for advice.
So, while you’re waiting for Harvey to arrive at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in March following its premiere at the Birmingham Rep, play spot the invisible bunny – or Olivier Award winner – in the gallery above.