If someone were to ask you to describe Sir Bobby Robson in three words, what would you say? I will leave you with that thought for a while.
This new production Bobby Robson Saved My Life by Tom Kelly is a tribute to the former Newcastle United and England manager.
Directed by Jamie Brown, it focuses on three different stories but with one thing in common- that Bobby Robson each saved their lives.
We see Clair (Sam Neale) a single mother with an ill child, who looks to her own memories of going to see Newcastle United and meeting Bobby with her grandad to keep hope for her child. Mark (Charlie Richmond) used to be a football player but he had to stop after an injury, however with the help of Bobby, he continues his passion for the sport in a different way. And Tom (Donald McBride) is Bobby’s life long friend and he relives his memories with humour and warmth.
The three actors are talking directly to the audience, baring their heart, soul and so much love for Bobby. If you are a football fan and have never been to the theatre, make this your first trip- you will not be disappointed.
Everyone thinks they know Bobby Robson but this play not only shows what he meant to these three individuals but what he did in his own life. I had not realised how much work he had done for not only Newcastle United but other clubs as well.
Sir Bobby, who was born in Sacriston, County Durham, and played for Fulham, West Bromwich Albion and England before going into management, died on July 2009, aged 76, after a long battle with cancer.
If you have ever visited Newcastle and St James’ Park then you will have seen the statue of Sir Bobby. Ask any local and they will tell you that he was and forever will be a legend. As Clair said in the play, being a supporter of Newcastle United- being a Geordie is not a religion but it is close to being one.
Sir Bobby Robson Saved My Life is an emotional tribute that highlights how much of an impact Sir Bobby Robson had to everyone. No matter how much or how little involvement you had in football, everyone loved this legend.
Going back to the question at the start, my 3 words for Bobby would be, Football, Legend and Tenacious.
A portion of each ticket sale will be donated to The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which was launched in 2008 to help find more effective ways to detect and treat cancer and has since gone on to raise more than £13m.
Bobby Robson Saved My Life runs from Tuesday, July 16, to Saturday, July 20, at The Customs House, before moving on to the Regent Theatre in Ipswich, where Sir Bobby enjoyed great success with Ipswich Town, and the Tyne Theatre and Opera House.
For more information click here
https://www.customshouse.co.uk/theatre/bobby-robson-saved-my-life/
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