THEATRE / Previews & First Nights

SHADES

Pauline Collins takes the lead in Sharman Macdonald's play set in 1950s Scotland which focuses on a woman torn between friend, son and lover. Directed by Simon Callow. Albery, London WC2 (071-867 1115). Now previewing; opens 23 July.

COLUMBUS

Jonathan Hyde plays Columbus in Richard Nelson's new play about the explorer for the RSC. Directed by John Caird. Barbican, London EC2 (071-638 8891). Now previewing; opens 22 July.

LES ATRIDES

British premiere of a spectacular cycle of plays directed by radical French director Ariane Mnouchkine which follow the tragedies of revenge and counter-revenge that attended the House of Atreus. There are two performances of each play: Euripides's Iphigenie a Aulis and Aeschylus's Oresteia trilogy: Agamemnon; Les Choephores; and Les Eumenides. Robin Mills, Bradford (0800 555871). Opens tomorrow.

TRAVELLING LIGHT

Double-bill from Ted Moore, Sandra and Second Hand Clothes, both set in a Northern town. BAC, London SW11 (071-223 2223). Now previewing; opens tomorrow.

FROM A JACK TO A KING

Bob Carlton's entertaining rock'n'roll musical based on Shakespeare's Macbeth transfers to the West End. Ambassadors, London (071-836 1171). Opens tomorrow.

DOUBLE TAKE

First stage play from Deborah Moggach. A frustrated housewife is given a second chance to live her life, this time with a different husband. See feature, p18. Minerva Studio, Festival Theatre, Chichester (0243 781312). Now previewing; opens 21 July.

PHILADELPHIA, HERE I COME]

Deserved West End transfer of the King's Head's beautifully acted production of Brian Friel's play. Wyndham's, London (071-876 1116). Previews from 21 July; opens 28 July.