Paul Smith

Paul Smith is a UK-based writer and theatre reviewer. His website - www.theatreplays.uk -contains all his writings and reviews. The website also contains a secondhand theatre script and book shop - 100s of scripts available.

Paul's writing covers a wide-range of genres from pantomime to gritty plays and monologues which have been performed across the UK.

Paul has directed and performed in many plays and musicals;

Acting credits include;
BOTTOM in A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM - Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, London
NICHOLAS in THE LIFE & ADVENTURES OF NICHOLAS NICKLEBY by David Edgar - The Barn Theatre, Surrey
THE CAT in HONK by George Stiles & Anthony Drewe - The Minack Theatre, Cornwall
GUY BURGESS in SINGLE SPIES - AN ENGLISHMAN ABROAD by Alan Bennett - Wellington Arts Centre, Somerset...

Paul Smith is a UK-based writer and theatre reviewer. His website - www.theatreplays.uk -contains all his writings and reviews. The website also contains a secondhand theatre script and book shop - 100s of scripts available.

Paul's writing covers a wide-range of genres from pantomime to gritty plays and monologues which have been performed across the UK.

Paul has directed and performed in many plays and musicals;

Acting credits include;
BOTTOM in A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM - Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, London
NICHOLAS in THE LIFE & ADVENTURES OF NICHOLAS NICKLEBY by David Edgar - The Barn Theatre, Surrey
THE CAT in HONK by George Stiles & Anthony Drewe - The Minack Theatre, Cornwall
GUY BURGESS in SINGLE SPIES - AN ENGLISHMAN ABROAD by Alan Bennett - Wellington Arts Centre, Somerset
FROLLO in QUASIMODO by Steve Humfress & Andy Rapps - The Mitre Theatre, Croydon & The Harlequin Theatre, Redhill

Directing credits include;
THE MADNESS OF GEORGE III by Alan Bennett - The Mitre Theatre, Croydon
HOUSE & GARDEN by Alan Ayckbourn - The Mitre Theatre, Croydon
SINGIN' IN THE RAIN by Betty Comden, Adolph Greene Arthur Freed & Nacho Herb Brown - The Epsom Playhouse
LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES by Christopher Hampton - The Epsom Playhouse
THE LIFE AND ADVENTURES OF NICHOLAS NICKLEBY by David Edgar- The Epsom Playhouse & The Mitre Theatre

Paul is a well respected professional theatre reviewer at some of the major touring and production houses in South West England.

Scripts

RUCTIONS

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

A walk with a dog leads to disaster and secrets being unleashed in an explosive family confrontation. Or does it? With an acknowledgement to J B Priestley.

A walk with a dog leads to disaster and secrets being unleashed in an explosive family confrontation. Or does it? With an acknowledgement to J B Priestley.

TRIGGER

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

A presentation about a new production of a Shakespeare play which gets more than a little bogged down in what Trigger Warnings to use.

A presentation about a new production of a Shakespeare play which gets more than a little bogged down in what Trigger Warnings to use.

12, ANGRY, MEAN

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Two people meet to discuss issues with Jeremy who is 12 years old.

Two people meet to discuss issues with Jeremy who is 12 years old.

A BLAST

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Two men meet at a bench in a secluded position in a park overlooking a town. Their meeting seems to have intent and is shrouded in stilted language and observation, but what is the truth behind the mystery?

Two men meet at a bench in a secluded position in a park overlooking a town. Their meeting seems to have intent and is shrouded in stilted language and observation, but what is the truth behind the mystery?

A BREAK

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Geeky Joe is followed to a park bench by the aggressive Josh. Their conversation is tense and uncertain.

Geeky Joe is followed to a park bench by the aggressive Josh. Their conversation is tense and uncertain.

A CHANCE

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Two women strike up a conversation on a park bench. The results of which may have significant consequences.

Two women strike up a conversation on a park bench. The results of which may have significant consequences.

A FAVOUR

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

An elderly man and a young man meet on a park bench. Lives will change as a result.

An elderly man and a young man meet on a park bench. Lives will change as a result.

A LAUGH

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Fred and Iris are taking a trip down memory lane as they reminisce about their life together in a small town and the many laughs they have had.

Fred and Iris are taking a trip down memory lane as they reminisce about their life together in a small town and the many laughs they have had.

A LIE-IN IN WINTER

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Mum is getting breakfast ready and is having real difficulty getting Billy to wake-up and go to school

Mum is getting breakfast ready and is having real difficulty getting Billy to wake-up and go to school

A MOMENT

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Glenn has found a discrete location to make a few business calls but is frustrated by the arrival of elderly Selina who keeps interrupting him…….

Glenn has found a discrete location to make a few business calls but is frustrated by the arrival of elderly Selina who keeps interrupting him…….

A PAIN

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Mary and Derek find themselves sitting on the same park bench together. Derek has things to get off his chest, but he seems to be talking to the world in general, oblivious to the fact there is someone else nearby.

Mary and Derek find themselves sitting on the same park bench together. Derek has things to get off his chest, but he seems to be talking to the world in general, oblivious to the fact there is someone else nearby.

A PLAN

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Two men have met at a bench overlooking a small town. They discuss the logistics of robbing a bank which they can see….

Two men have met at a bench overlooking a small town. They discuss the logistics of robbing a bank which they can see….

A PLEASURE

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Clifford and Stella meet on a park bench - but is it coincidence? A touching story of two lonely people for older actors.

Clifford and Stella meet on a park bench - but is it coincidence? A touching story of two lonely people for older actors.

A RIDDLE

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Derek has a problem with a simple word. It fills him with emotions. He cannot fathom out why. Or does he?

Derek has a problem with a simple word. It fills him with emotions. He cannot fathom out why. Or does he?

A SHOT IN THE LIGHT

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Arthur and Jessie’s peaceful day in the garden is spoilt by noise – time to do something about it.

Arthur and Jessie’s peaceful day in the garden is spoilt by noise – time to do something about it.

A THOUGHT

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

A vicar and a nun find themselves chatting together on a park bench – they find they have certain things in common

A vicar and a nun find themselves chatting together on a park bench – they find they have certain things in common

ADIOS AMIGO

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Tony reflects on some very sad recent events in his life.

Tony reflects on some very sad recent events in his life.

ALL THE RESIDENCE MEN

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Three ladies drink wine, chat and eye up men at their retirement home.

Three ladies drink wine, chat and eye up men at their retirement home.

ALTOGETHER

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Eustace has taken up a new lifestyle and he is happy to sell his new-found joy with others!

Eustace has taken up a new lifestyle and he is happy to sell his new-found joy with others!

BOX OFFICE

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

JACK is stuck in the box office of the theatre where he works – he would rather be on stage – but his job is to deal with customers.

JACK is stuck in the box office of the theatre where he works – he would rather be on stage – but his job is to deal with customers.

BRIAN JONES' DAIRY

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

It’s time to judge the entries into the cheese category at the local produce show – who will win?

It’s time to judge the entries into the cheese category at the local produce show – who will win?

BRIEFS ENCOUNTERED

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

The Police have visited Mary, but why? All will be revealed!

The Police have visited Mary, but why? All will be revealed!

CELL - BANG

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Edna is in a police station cell. How and why she finds herself there is something she explains. What is it that has happened? Do we really know?

Edna is in a police station cell. How and why she finds herself there is something she explains. What is it that has happened? Do we really know?

CELL - COMFORT

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Something has happened and Maddie finds herself in a police station – her life will change forever – she has no idea who to turn to for help,

Something has happened and Maddie finds herself in a police station – her life will change forever – she has no idea who to turn to for help,

CELL- DOUBT

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Len has found himself in a police cell, awaiting questioning. He has been in trouble with the law before but has reformed. Hasn’t he?

Len has found himself in a police cell, awaiting questioning. He has been in trouble with the law before but has reformed. Hasn’t he?

CELL - ME TOO

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Faye is 22 and has committed a crime. She has been arrested and is awaiting further questioning about her actions. But did she have good reason to do what she freely admits she did? Will the consequences of her action make matters worse for her?

Faye is 22 and has committed a crime. She has been arrested and is awaiting further questioning about her actions. But did she have good reason to do what she freely admits she did? Will the consequences of her action make matters worse for her?

CELL - JENNY

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Laurence finds himself in a police station cell. He has lashed out at his wife who he hates. He has been pushed over the edge and will face some consequences for his actions. Whatever the result, his life will change.

Laurence finds himself in a police station cell. He has lashed out at his wife who he hates. He has been pushed over the edge and will face some consequences for his actions. Whatever the result, his life will change.

CELL - CLOUT

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Jez is a young man with a past, but he is trying to reform. Is he the culprit here? Was he just in the wrong place at the wrong time? Do the police just want a quick solution?

Jez is a young man with a past, but he is trying to reform. Is he the culprit here? Was he just in the wrong place at the wrong time? Do the police just want a quick solution?

THE DEATHS OF JAMES MASON

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

The actor James Mason reflects on his acting career on the realisation that he met with fateful ends in rather more of his films than he had thought!

The actor James Mason reflects on his acting career on the realisation that he met with fateful ends in rather more of his films than he had thought!

DINNER

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Hilda and Ernest have had an unexpected guest. However, as they deal with the situation they are determined to have dinner as normal...

Hilda and Ernest have had an unexpected guest. However, as they deal with the situation they are determined to have dinner as normal...

DONNY OSMOND TURNED ME GAY

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Mervyn is ready to admit something he has kept a secret for many years. It is going to be good to get it off his chest!

Mervyn is ready to admit something he has kept a secret for many years. It is going to be good to get it off his chest!

EVERYTHING, EVERYWHERE, ALL OVER THE PLACE

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

A Mother has lost various things in the house and with trepidation enters her teenager’s bedroom.

A Mother has lost various things in the house and with trepidation enters her teenager’s bedroom.

FUNERAL JOY

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Perry has always wondered what his own funeral would be like and decides to find out!

Perry has always wondered what his own funeral would be like and decides to find out!

THE GOD BOTHERER

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

M often speaks to God – inadvertently usually, like many people.

M questions any faith they might have had as life continues on its course.

A series of spoken messages.

M often speaks to God – inadvertently usually, like many people.

M questions any faith they might have had as life continues on its course.

A series of spoken messages.

GUIDE ME

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

The marriage of Rich and Clara is going through a crisis. A break up is on the cards as Rich looks to move on with friend Jack. A medical intervention may well cancel or delay Rich's plans.

A PLAY INSPIRED BY A PORTRAIT - PLEASE SEE ALSO; HAPPINESS & ISAAC

The marriage of Rich and Clara is going through a crisis. A break up is on the cards as Rich looks to move on with friend Jack. A medical intervention may well cancel or delay Rich's plans.

A PLAY INSPIRED BY A PORTRAIT - PLEASE SEE ALSO; HAPPINESS & ISAAC

HAMLET IN ANTARCTICA

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

5 theatre folk gather to discuss a forthcoming production of Hamlet for a prestigious occasion. Their discussions vary and conflict as they seek to be politically correct and all-inclusive.

5 theatre folk gather to discuss a forthcoming production of Hamlet for a prestigious occasion. Their discussions vary and conflict as they seek to be politically correct and all-inclusive.

HAPPINESS

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Three siblings reflect on their upbringing after a gathering in a London apartment. But emotions are running high. All eventually becomes clearer.

A PLAY INSPIRED BY A PORTRAIT - PLEASE SEE ALSO; GUIDE ME & ISAAC

Three siblings reflect on their upbringing after a gathering in a London apartment. But emotions are running high. All eventually becomes clearer.

A PLAY INSPIRED BY A PORTRAIT - PLEASE SEE ALSO; GUIDE ME & ISAAC

HAPPY NEW YEAR?

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Mervyn isn’t a fan of New Year celebrations and isn’t afraid to vocalise his thoughts on the subject. Grumpy? You bet he is!

Mervyn isn’t a fan of New Year celebrations and isn’t afraid to vocalise his thoughts on the subject. Grumpy? You bet he is!

HEIR APPARENT

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Following a somewhat tragic and disrupted childhood, George Buckingham is fostered by a number of families before ending up on a farm in Devon. Then, one day, he receives a mysterious invitation to a grand house in London – an invitation which he accepts and which leads him to discover himself, his real heritage and the world around him – and love. A fantasy set in 1930 where liberality was possible, if you knew...

Following a somewhat tragic and disrupted childhood, George Buckingham is fostered by a number of families before ending up on a farm in Devon. Then, one day, he receives a mysterious invitation to a grand house in London – an invitation which he accepts and which leads him to discover himself, his real heritage and the world around him – and love. A fantasy set in 1930 where liberality was possible, if you knew the right people. Fun, daft and maybe a tad sentimental.

I WILL NEVER PLAY HAMLET

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Eric, 73, reflects on his career and reflects on the one role that eluded him.

Eric, 73, reflects on his career and reflects on the one role that eluded him.

I WILL NEVER PLAY JULIET

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Alice is an older actor who looks back on her life, reflecting on the role she always wanted to play but was never destined to - despite her belief that she would be ideal!

Alice is an older actor who looks back on her life, reflecting on the role she always wanted to play but was never destined to - despite her belief that she would be ideal!

ISAAC

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

An art exhibition, a trio of voices, a life-changing moment. What will happen during this evening which has been waiting to happen for so many years?

A PLAY INSPIRED BY A PORTRAIT - PLEASE SEE ALSO GUIDE ME & HAPPINESS

An art exhibition, a trio of voices, a life-changing moment. What will happen during this evening which has been waiting to happen for so many years?

A PLAY INSPIRED BY A PORTRAIT - PLEASE SEE ALSO GUIDE ME & HAPPINESS

THE LAST RITES OF ORSON WELLES

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

The great Hollywood star Orson Welles is in the twilight of his career but has found work advertising wine on television commercials. But the process takes its toll and as he films one commercial he finds himself remininscing about one of his favourite film roles and how much he identifies with him.

The great Hollywood star Orson Welles is in the twilight of his career but has found work advertising wine on television commercials. But the process takes its toll and as he films one commercial he finds himself remininscing about one of his favourite film roles and how much he identifies with him.

LAWRENCE'S ARABICA

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Two ladies have having coffee in a shop. A third coffee is required!

Two ladies have having coffee in a shop. A third coffee is required!

MARY POPS IN

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Billy and Dan are engrossed in their computer game – they are suddenly interrupted!

Billy and Dan are engrossed in their computer game – they are suddenly interrupted!

THE MODEL OF A MAN

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Sam is an aspiring fashion model - his journey to achieve in his chosen career has been arduous and devastating. However, he is determined to exert his will and determination to reach the goals he has set himself. A monologue which lifts the lid on the torment suffered by some in a stark and compelling narrative.

Sam is an aspiring fashion model - his journey to achieve in his chosen career has been arduous and devastating. However, he is determined to exert his will and determination to reach the goals he has set himself. A monologue which lifts the lid on the torment suffered by some in a stark and compelling narrative.

MURDER AT THE 'ORIENT EXPRESS'

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

A crime has been committed at the Orient Express. Detective Chief Inspector Pear is perplexed!

A crime has been committed at the Orient Express. Detective Chief Inspector Pear is perplexed!

NEXT OF KIN

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Archie is in his hospital bed. Frustrated by everything around him and by the constant questions he is asked about his next of kin.

Archie is in his hospital bed. Frustrated by everything around him and by the constant questions he is asked about his next of kin.

A NICE SEAT IN THE STALLS

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Judith and her friend Felicity enjoy attending funerals. They enjoy the food at the wake most of all. But when they get bored with funerals they decide that trips to the theatre might be more fun. A comedy with sadness.

Judith and her friend Felicity enjoy attending funerals. They enjoy the food at the wake most of all. But when they get bored with funerals they decide that trips to the theatre might be more fun. A comedy with sadness.

ONCE UPON A TIME AT PENGE WEST

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

A group of people await their morning train to London. Will it be on time?

A group of people await their morning train to London. Will it be on time?

ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Nathan is taking a coach to London where he is running the London Marathon; Elise is taking the coach to London to support her granddaughter who is also running the London Marathon. The two enter into a discussion about life and running – but is everything as it seems?

Nathan is taking a coach to London where he is running the London Marathon; Elise is taking the coach to London to support her granddaughter who is also running the London Marathon. The two enter into a discussion about life and running – but is everything as it seems?

THE PORTRAIT

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

In honour of his 80th Birthday, a portrait is commissioned by the Houses of Parliament for Winston Churchill. The artist Graham Sutherland is asked to complete the painting. The result is a conflict of artistic visions and a damaging conclusion

In honour of his 80th Birthday, a portrait is commissioned by the Houses of Parliament for Winston Churchill. The artist Graham Sutherland is asked to complete the painting. The result is a conflict of artistic visions and a damaging conclusion

PROPER NAMES

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Peter is frustrated after he is picked up for spelling someone’s name incorrectly. He opens up a can of worms!
MONOLOGUE
This play contains adult language.

Peter is frustrated after he is picked up for spelling someone’s name incorrectly. He opens up a can of worms!
MONOLOGUE
This play contains adult language.

TASTY

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Two people are sitting at a table. There is food and drink. They talk. Why are they there? What is happening? By the end of the play we find out.

Two people are sitting at a table. There is food and drink. They talk. Why are they there? What is happening? By the end of the play we find out.

TEA

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

The local vicar is having huge issues with one of his more strident parishioners and so decides to invite her to the vicarage for tea. They have alot of air to clear, but how will they do it?

The local vicar is having huge issues with one of his more strident parishioners and so decides to invite her to the vicarage for tea. They have alot of air to clear, but how will they do it?

TUPPENCE

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

A cup of tea and a biscuit and some company is all Lisa wants for. However, her memory is not what it was and the company doesn't seem to be there. Lisa isn't sure what is what anymore.

A cup of tea and a biscuit and some company is all Lisa wants for. However, her memory is not what it was and the company doesn't seem to be there. Lisa isn't sure what is what anymore.

THE UNDERSTUDY

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

Malcolm has been the permanent understudy for the great actor Sir Giles Ross, but he has never taken to the stage. And he is bitter about it! How can he find a way to make Sir Giles miss just one performance!

Malcolm has been the permanent understudy for the great actor Sir Giles Ross, but he has never taken to the stage. And he is bitter about it! How can he find a way to make Sir Giles miss just one performance!

ZOO LOO

by Paul Smith

Synopsis

A visitor to a Zoo is struggling to find a toilet, an employee is slightly unhelpful.

A visitor to a Zoo is struggling to find a toilet, an employee is slightly unhelpful.