THE journey of how a lorry driver developed one of the most authentic and critically acclaimed shows on the theatre scene is coming to The Core Theatre in Solihull.
For many years Barry Steele has delighted audiences across the UK with his sell out show, ‘The Roy Orbison Story.’
Now, as he and his wife Lynne pick their way through the wreckage of the entertainment business caused by the pandemic, they’re telling their own story, backed by a brand new book, ‘Made of Steele’.
Lynnerr takes up the tale: “It was in 2019 that our eldest son Chris, completely surprised me by suggesting I write a book.”
“At the time I brushed the thought aside as ridiculous as I was simply too busy, living my life at the frantic and frankly stressful pace I had for the last 20 years or so promoting and producing the internationally renowned theatre show ‘The Roy Orbison Story’.
“That was until March 16, 2020 when that decision was taken out of our hands. Boris Johnson ordered all theatres to close with immediate effect due to the Covid 19 pandemic.”
As the music fell silenced and mass entertainment went into hibernation, Lynne decided to put pen to paper.
“I began to document our journey from being an HGV driver and civil servant, through to producing one of the most authentic and critically acclaimed shows on the theatre scene,” she said.
Midlands based, Barry and Lynne are performing the show at the Stourport Civic Theatre and The Core in Solihull talking about their journey which began in a holiday park talent competition in Cornwall.
‘Made of Steele’ is an honest and uplifting book detailing the many pitfalls that have beset us over the years, as we were completely naïve, and inexperienced. It documents our heart-warming, difficult and sometimes hilarious journey.
Specially produced during lockdown, Barry will be singing his favourite songs, while Lynne will be reading excerpts from the book and will also be taking specially selected questions from the audience.
“We’re not from a theatrical background and we have learnt our craft from doing the job on the ground, in an industry that keeps its tricks close to its chest and does not share information easily,” said Lynne.
“I am very proud of what two rookies have achieved, and I am very gratified to be part of a genre that brings enjoyment to so many people.
“So come and see us – Just two people on a stage, one who can sing, and one who can talk.
“Conversation and music – the key to life.”
‘Made of Steele – An audience with Barry and Lynne Steele’ is on June 30 at The Core in a performance compliant with lockdown rules.
For tickets call 0121 704 6962.
