Actress Amanda Abbington has bagged an exciting new gig as the lead in the upcoming theatrical memoir, When It Happens To You.
Aged 52, the elated actress shared her excitement about joining this rewarding project. This announcement follows reports of her former Strictly Come Dancing co-star Giovanni Pernice’s unexpected exit from the popular dance show.
With her career moving forward, Amanda is set to take centre stage in When It Happens to You, a memoir crafted around Tawni O’Dell’s poignant experiences whilst trying to keep her family united after a devastating incident. The Sherlock actress, confessed she was totally engrossed by the book the moment she started reading it, and she’ll be at the helm of a strong supporting cast.
The well-respected Artistic Director from Park Theatre, Jez Bond will be directing this play. Speaking on her involvement, Amanda reflected: “When Jez sent me When It Happens to You, I immediately read it in one sitting I couldn’t put it down. The story is important and necessary, and the characters are nuanced, complex and completely relatable.”
“The Mother character of Tara is a gift of a role for any actor, and I’m thrilled to be working with Jez Bond who I know will direct the piece with the care and sensitivity it deserves.”, reports the Mirror.
Jez Bond has expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming theatrical production, stating: “When It Happens to You is an important, timely and powerful piece of theatre. I’m thrilled to be working with Amanda Abbington who read the play and, like me, immediately felt compelled to do it. The best theatre is often a story told simply that connects to the heart of the audience, and I can’t think of a more powerful play to present within the intimate setting of Park200. By equal turns heartbreaking and hopeful, we invite you in to experience this truly theatrical page turner.”
This announcement follows reports that Giovanni Pernice may have danced his last tango on Strictly Come Dancing, despite being in discussions for the upcoming series. The BBC reportedly remains “very keen” to keep the 33 year old Italian dancer, who has been at the centre of controversy due to claims from past celebrity partners about his demanding training approach, including comments from actress Amanda.
An internal memo without Giovanni’s name on the list of this year’s professional dancers has sparked rumours of his exit. Reports suggest that Giovanni is looking for new opportunities on television.
Amidst these speculations, the BBC has released a statement tonight about Giovanni’s future, indicating that official announcements will be made ‘in due course’.
Amanda Abbington, who had previously voiced her grievances regarding Giovanni’s training methods, left the show in October. She later disclosed that she was diagnosed with mild post-traumatic stress disorder following her stint on the competition.
