In a remarkable feat, a play that originated in a small 60-seat theatre pub has now graced the stages of London’s prestigious West End. “Gerry and Sewell,” based on Jonathan Tulloch’s novel “The Season Ticket” and the cult Geordie film “Purely Belter,” tells the story of two down-on-their-luck men from Gateshead who are determined to secure Newcastle United season tickets.
The play, written and directed by Jamie Eastlake, a lifelong Newcastle United fan, has made the leap from Whitley Bay to one of the best-known stages in the world. Eastlake described the experience as “surreal,” noting that the story’s universal appeal of “two people chasing a dream” is at the heart of the production, which also explores family drama.
For the cast, many of whom are making their West End debut, the opportunity to perform in the capital has been a dream come true. Newcastle actors Dean Logan and Jack Robertson, who play the titular characters Gerry and Sewell, expressed their excitement at “absolutely buzzing” to be taking the stage in London.
Packed with regional references and local dialect, the play serves as a love letter to Newcastle, a city that Eastlake is proud to represent. “My mam is coming at the weekend,” he said. “That’s when it will hit because people from Blyth don’t usually get to produce shows on the West End, especially about subject matter like this.”
The play’s journey to the West End was not without its challenges. Originally planned as a one-night performance, the team had just 11 weeks to get everything ready for a two-week run at the Aldwych Theatre. But the hard work has paid off, as “Gerry and Sewell” continues to captivate audiences with its heartwarming tale of friendship, determination, and the pursuit of a cherished dream.
The play will run at the Aldwych Theatre until January 24th, before heading to the Newcastle Theatre Royal from June 9th to 13th. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the Geordie spirit and the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries and touch the hearts of audiences across the country.
