WHEN a cast member at a Solihull theatre group disagreed with his director over the pronunciation of his character’s name he called in the author behind the original hit show to settle the argument.
And unfortunately for the man behind Solihull on Stage’s latest production, the Madness-inspired musical – Our House, it was he who was left red-faced.
Cast member Keith Parry contacted Tim Firth, who wrote the book which inspired the West End hit musical, when director Peter Haden insisted his character Emmo’s name was pronounced Emo – the name for a style of rock music or nickname for a person who follows it.
And much to Keith’s delight, Tim was only too pleased to confirm he was correct and Peter was wrong.
“I knew it didn’t sound right, so I’m glad the author put things straight,” said Keith.
“When Peter kept referring to me as Emo I thought there was only one way to solve it and when I contacted Tim he came straight back to me and said I was right and that it was Emmo.
“Considering he gets to tell us what to do all year, it’s always nice to get one on over on the director!”
Full of fun, energetic songs from much-loved British ska band Madness – the story follows Joe, who is forced to make a split decision with life-changing results.
Peter has since begrudgingly agreed to adapt the correct pronunciation in the production.
He said: “I suppose if the author says it is Emmo then it must be!
“Either way this is set to be a really great show, jam-packed with Madness songs but with a story everyone can enjoy.
“We can’t wait to bring this show onto the stage.”
SOS will perform Our House at Solihull Arts Complex from April 28 to May 2.
Visit www.solihullartscomplex.co.uk or call 0121 704 6962 to book tickets.
