Sue Devaney to star as ‘Our Gracie’

Gracie Fields in 1934

The Oldham Coliseum will be staging ‘Our Gracie’ next month, a play which charts the story of Gracie Field’s life, with Rochdale actress Sue Devaney in the starring role.

House Manager at the Coliseum David Rustidge, has special memories of the late star, having met her when he was holidaying on the Italian island of Capri, where Gracie had a home, in the 1950s.

He said: “We went to see her home and she was sitting around a pool which I think the public could use as well. My father went straight up to her and asked if she would have her photo taken with me and she was really happy to. She was very warm and friendly and was more than happy to speak to holidaymakers from Rochdale.

“My grandfather had always listened to her records, so I’d grown up with them and was very aware of who she was. She was sitting at the table with a young Grace Kelly and Aristotle Onassis was paying her a visit. She was at the height of her fame, but was still happy to take pictures with fans.”

Our Gracie is showing at the Oldham Coliseum from 4 – 26 March. For tickets, please contact the box office on: 0161 624 2829.