Last chance: WIT ft. Julie Hesmondhalgh at Royal Exchange

A play rarely performed in the UK, Julie Hesmondhalgh takes to the stage of the Royal Exchange once more to star in Pulitzer Prize award-winning WIT. Lancashire-born Hesmondhalgh is no stranger to winning awards herself as she takes up the part played by Emma Thompson in the acclaimed film adaptation of Margaret Edson’s play. Arriving in January, the story tells the tale of Professor Vivian Bearing’s battle with cancer and her journey through experimental treatment. Probing and exploring the bigger questions of humanity, the play is an emotive reflection on the fragility of existence and power of redemption. This moving depiction is directed by Raz Shaw (The God of Soho, Cymbeline, Gambling). He brings this story to Manchester whilst also writing his first book, documenting his own experience and recovery from cancer. Fresh from creating podcast series Cancer Talk, Shaw’s personal insight brings a unique perspective to the piece.

Thu 21 Jan – Sat 13 Feb, Royal Exchange Theatre, St Ann’s Square, Manchester M2 7DH. Tel: 0161 833 9833, times and prices vary, www.royalexchange.co.uk