Oxford Playhouse will open the national tour of The Shark Is Broken, a critically acclaimed play that delves into the turbulent behind-the-scenes creation of Jaws, Hollywood’s first blockbuster. The production will run from Thursday 23rd January to Saturday 25th January 2025, marking the play’s first stop on its highly anticipated UK tour.
A Peek Behind the Scenes of the Cinematic Classic Jaws
Co-written by Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon, The Shark Is Broken takes audiences to the filming of Jaws in 1974. Inspired by the experiences of Ian’s father, Robert Shaw, who played the iconic character Quint, the play imagines the tensions, camaraderie, and chaos aboard the tiny boat where the movie’s lead actors spent countless hours battling temperamental weather and a faulty mechanical shark.
FADE IN: The Atlantic Ocean, 1974. Filming is delayed once again. Veteran actor Robert Shaw clashes with his co-stars, Hollywood newcomers Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider. Ego battles, comedic frustrations, and heartfelt revelations unfold amidst the rolling waves, creating a fascinating exploration of the pressures behind making cinematic history.
Ian Shaw will reprise his role as Robert Shaw, starring alongside Dan Fredenburgh as Roy Scheider and Ashley Margolis as Richard Dreyfuss.
A Celebrated Production
Since its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2019, The Shark Is Broken has garnered widespread acclaim, including an extended run in London’s West End in 2021, where it earned an Olivier Award nomination for Best Comedy Play. The production then transferred to Broadway in 2023, where it played at the John Golden Theatre for a 16-week season, receiving praise for its wit and charm.
Critics have lauded the play for its razor-sharp humour and poignant exploration of relationships. The Guardian called it “deliciously entertaining,” while Chortle described it as “a funny and touching tribute to an iconic film.”
Why You Should See It
The Shark Is Broken offers something for everyone: film buffs will appreciate the nods to Jaws and its cultural impact, theatre enthusiasts will enjoy its rich character dynamics, and newcomers will be drawn in by its humour and heart. This is a rare opportunity to glimpse the human side of a Hollywood legend and the challenges of filmmaking before the age of CGI.
What Audiences Are Saying
“Deliciously funny and unexpectedly moving.” – The Scotsman
“A must-see for Jaws fans and theatre lovers alike.” – BroadwayWorld
“Sharp, witty, and brilliantly acted.” – The Stage
Tickets and Booking Information
Tickets for The Shark Is Broken at Oxford Playhouse start from £14 and are now available. Secure your spot by contacting the Box Office on 01865 305305 or visiting www.oxfordplayhouse.com. Early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
The Shark Is Broken Tour Dates and Venues
| City | Venue | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Oxford | Oxford Playhouse | Thu 23 – Sat 25 January |
| Malvern | Malvern Theatres | Tue 28 January – Sat 1 February |
| Salford | The Lowry | Tue 4 – Sat 8 February |
| Richmond | Richmond Theatre | Mon 17 – Sat 22 February |
| Nottingham | Theatre Royal | Wed 26 February – Sat 1 March |
| Bath | Theatre Royal | Mon 3 – Sat 8 March |
| Canterbury | Marlowe Theatre | Tue 11 – Sat 15 March |
| Newcastle | Theatre Royal | Tue 18 – Sat 22 March |
| Guildford | Yvonne Arnaud Theatre | Mon 24 – Sat 29 March |
| Plymouth | Theatre Royal | Mon 31 March – Sat 5 April |
| Brighton | Theatre Royal | Mon 7 – Sat 12 April |
| Cheltenham | Everyman Theatre | Tue 22 – Sat 26 April |
| Poole | Lighthouse | Tue 29 April – Sat 3 May |
| Birmingham | The Rep | Tue 6 – Sat 10 May |
| Dublin | Gaiety Theatre | Tue 13 – Sat 17 May |
The Cast of The Shark Is Broken
- Ian Shaw: Co-Writer, portraying Robert Shaw
- Dan Fredenburgh: Roy Scheider
- Ashley Margolis: Richard Dreyfuss
Don’t Miss the Tour’s Opening Night
The Oxford Playhouse’s hosting of the national tour launch is a testament to its reputation as a premier venue for thought-provoking theatre. This limited three-day run promises to set the tone for a successful UK-wide tour.
Whether you’re a lifelong Jaws fan or simply curious about the drama behind the silver screen, The Shark Is Broken is a theatrical event not to be missed. Dive into the choppy waters of filmmaking history this January and experience the magic for yourself.
