The Rainbow Connection comes to the Unity

The Rainbow Connection had me at "takes references from Breakfast at Tiffany's and queers the traditional romance of the movie". This new play comes to the Unity later in the month and examines the friendship between a gay boy and straight girl.Joe is agoraphobic and anti-social, Shelly is just the opposite. Joe likes Breakfast at Tiffany’s -  when Shelly sees a black-and-white film she thinks there’s something wrong with the TV. Joe has experienced a recent tragedy, and Shelly is hanging on the dubious promises of a married lover. Joe is gay. Shelly isn’t. To say they don’t have much in common would be an understatement.A bittersweet comedy by writer Joanne Sherryden (who won a Scouseology award for her play Wannabe)  and director Paul Goetzee, the founder of Liverpool Lunchtime Theatre, The Rainbow Connection stars Angela Simms and Dan O’Brien, last seen together in Rita, Sue and Bob Too at the Theatre Royal St Helens.The play began life as an abridged production at Manchester's 24/7 Festival and has grown from there. Sherryden says: "It’s a comedy with a lot of heart. When Paul asked me if I’d consider developing it into a full length piece and putting it on in Liverpool I jumped at the chance. I love the Unity and think the piece will sit well in the space, and hopefully audiences will enjoy the tempestuous journey of the characters."There is a preview on February 21 with a Q&A with the writer and cast afterwards, and the show runs until February 23.