The Small World of Clive Crudwick

Tickets: Adult £14, Concs £12

The premiere of an original stage show, written and produced in Bridport.

The Small World of Clive Crudwick combines ‘mockumentary’ film footage and live songs in a tragi-comic tale of creative ambitions, misguided friendship and male vulnerability.

The 75-minute show alternates between; filmed monologues delivered by Clive Crudwick to a documentary filmmaker; and live, original songs on stage – delivered by Clive with increasing conviction and ambition – solo at first, but progressing to a full band and string players.

Our hero has deadly serious intentions but the results are often unintentionally comic and the underlying story, involving his friend Norman, and Norman’s wife Eleanor, has tragic consequences.

A funny, warm and poignant portrait of creative aspiration, controlling behaviour and unrequited love.

Fundraiser for two local charities: Bridport Harmony mental health group and the Bank of Dreams and Nightmares.

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The Small World of Clive Crudwick is written and performed by long time Bridport resident Clive Whaley. The former filmmaker and mental health therapist has worked on the self-funded project for over 2 years and plans to use the live shows as fundraisers for mental health and creative writing causes. He is best known at Bridport Arts Centre for his 2010 sell out shows of the unique production Lonely Boys – described as a ‘documentary musical’ about men and their feelings – featuring Clive alongside Dewi Lambert and the late John Surry. The show was greeted by standing ovations and an extraordinary reaction from the audience.

Talking about the length of time since his previous big production Clive says, “It takes time to put something like this together, especially without any funding or support. It also takes courage to put yourself out there in the public eye. I’ve had my own mental health struggles since the last show and I guess it’s taken me more than 10 years to be ready to put my heart and soul on the line once more.

I hope people find it funny and moving. Maybe they will see a less common portrayal of masculinity – a man who is kinder, more lonely and more vulnerable than you often see. I think it’s quite a surprising format and will appeal to people who do not normally see themselves as theatregoers. Above all I hope people just have a great night out in the theatre. The Arts Centre is a perfect venue for this kind of intimate production.”

Writer, Director and Performer: Clive Whaley

Director of Photography: Elliot Millson

Musician and arranger: Pete Millson