Former host of TV show Stars In Their Eyes and award winning actor Matthew Kelly returns to Salisbury Playhouse for one night only on Sunday 6th February, at 7.30pm for a special fundraising event – "An evening with Matthew Kelly". Many Playhouse regulars enjoyed Matthew’s performance in "Rough Crossing" in 2000 and this special evening is to help the Playhouse raise funds for a new Education/Community space and rehearsal room on the land outside the current restaurant area. Matthew agreed to give up his time so any funds raised from ticket sales could go directly to the Appeal. He will be on stage with Joanna Read, the Playhouse’s artistic director, who will interview him about his long and fascinating TV and theatre career and his life, with Matthew sharing anecdotes and stories and taking questions from the audience. Joanna said: "Many of our audience really enjoyed Matthew’s wonderful performance when he appeared here in "Rough Crossing. "He is fantastic company and has a very interesting life and career and I’m delighted to be able to welcome him back to Salisbury. "I hope our loyal audience members will support this event, all proceeds of which will go directly to our Appeal." Matthew told BBC Wiltshire: "I’m not one for bearing my soul, but if I have to, to get a new rehearsal room, then Salisbury Playhouse is definitely the place to do it!" Matthew trained as an actor in Manchester before working in repertory and major regional theatres across the country. He has appeared twice in the West End, most recently as Lennie in Of Mice and Men at the Savoy Theatre – a performance which earned him the 2004 Olivier Award for Best Actor. He is currently recording his first TV drama in which he will be playing a serial killer. Tickets for the event are £18 including a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, and all proceeds raised will go towards the Playhouse’s Appeal. | 
