Maureen Lipman will star in Allegra, a new comedy that will play Richmond Theatre as part of a UK before opening in London’s West End.
Written by Peter Quilter, Lipman’s role in Allegra marks the first time she will tour the UK in 20 years. It is produced by Thomas Hopkins Productions and SAMS Entertainment.
Allegra (Maureen Lipman) is full of joy. So much of it that she cannot stop herself from bursting into song. At home, in the street, even in shops and restaurants. Sometimes the music is only a fantasy in her head. But at other times, it results in a loud and disruptive performance that causes chaos in the village where she lives. Allegra’s brother, Ronen, and her carer, Anna, must somehow control her eccentricities and avoid angry visits by the local policeman. But is this possible without destroying the great happiness that fills Allegra’s heart?
Allegra is a moving comedy with spectacular song and dance sequences, but is also a touching and emotional examination of how, sometimes, the most beautiful of minds can start to disappear.
Quilter will have the rare distinction of four plays running across the UK in 2026: Allegra; the 20th anniversary tour of Glorious! starring Wendi Peters and Matthew James Morrison; Step By Step on UK tour with an all-star cast; and Jinkx Monsoon will star as Judy Garland in a revival of End of the Rainbow at Soho Theatre in Walthamstow.
Allegra plays Richmond Theatre from June 8-13, 2026. Tickets here.
Top image: Allegra artwork (image supplied)