CityLife

Claire's tested by multiple roles

Claire and Matthew outside the Coliseum

FORMER Brookside star Claire Sweeney and actor Matthew Rixon, son of Matthew Kelly, are getting to know each other well at the moment, writes Ruhubia Akbor.

They are the only actors in Jim Cartwright’s quick fire observational comedy Two at the Oldham Coliseum from October 8-24.

Set in a pub, Claire and Matthew will play 14 different characters under the direction of Joyce Branagh, sister to actor Kenneth Branagh, their roles vary from the typical hands-on ’money-in-till’ landlord and ’gossipy heart of the bar’ landlady to a little boy and an old woman.

Although she’s been a bit hit in the West End, Claire admits she is somewhat out of her comfort zone.

“I’m more scared here,” she said. “Singing and dancing on the big stage is my comfort zone. I haven’t done any straight acting since Clocking Off five years ago but I know I’m in safe hands.”

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the award-winning play initially written for fellow Brookside stars Sue Johnston and John McArdle.
 
“There’s so much to learn at the moment and it feels like I’ve got a big mountain to climb but it will soon all start to come together,” she said.

“It’s beautifully written, fun, lots of pathos and a bit of everything for everyone. If you drink in a pub and love people watching then you’ll really love this piece.”

Two will be at the Oldham Coliseum from October 8-24. Call box office on 0161 624 2823 or visit for details.