Lenny Henry stars in Rudy's Rare Records in Hackney

Comedian and TV star Lenny Henry is to star in The Hackney Empire and Birmingham Repertory Theatre world premiere production of the stage adaptation of BBC Radio 4 sitcom Rudy's Rare Records. The comedy play is written by Danny Robins, writer of the four original radio series, and directed by Paulette Randall. It will play the Hackney Empire from 24 Sep 2014 to 05 Oct 2014. (Following its run at Birmingham Repertory Theatre 4 - Sat 20 Sep)

Joining Lenny Henry (Adam) on stage will be fellow cast members Natasha Godfrey (Tasha), Jeffery Kissoon (Clifton), Joivan Wade (Richie) and Larrington Walker (Rudy).

Synopsis: 'Rudy's Rare Records is a tiny down-at-heel old reggae record shop in Birmingham. It's one of a dying breed; a place with real soul, stacked with piles of vinyl, where the slogan is "if we don't have it - them don't mek it". It's owned by the charismatic, irrepressible, cantankerous Rudy Sharpe (Larrington Walker), reluctantly helped out by his long-suffering son Adam (Lenny Henry), but when the threat of developers looms, father and son must put their differences aside as they face a battle to keep the music alive. Rudy's Rare Records shows how desperate times draw families together, even when you can't stand the sight of each other.'

Rudy's Rare Records also features scenic design by Libby Watson, lighting design by Mark Jonathan, and musical direction by Joseph Roberts.

Lenny Henry is becoming a regular visitor to the UK theatre scene, having earned acclaim for playing the title role in 'Othello' at the West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds, on tour and at the West End's Trafalgar Studios. He also made his National Theatre debut playing Antipholus of Ephesus in 'The Comedy of Errors' and starred in 'Fences' at the Duchess Theatre. He is widely known for his TV roles and stand-up comedy performances, as well as his charitable work for the BBC's Comic Relief, which he co-founded.