After a long absence from professional theatre, Joseph Blatchley is making his return with his translation of Chekhov's seminal piece 'The Seagull' at The Arcola Theatre.

The cast includes Geraldine James and Roger Lloyd Pack and the show will open in June 2011.

Jo has been an inspirational teacher at leading drama schools in London for the last 20 years. He has helped to shape the early experiences of a huge number of actors and given them priceless tools that they carry through their career. You definitely never forget working with Jo and we hope his ex-students will relish the opportunity to give back and help Jo achieve his goal.

So far, all the funds have been raised by Jo himself. He has raised the money through giving workshops and classes. The last amount (£1000) is needed for the set, costume and then the running costs when the show is open. So even when we begin the performances, it still won't be too late for you to reach generously into those pockets and help!

We have a letter of support from Griff Rhys Jones too!

My name is Abigail Boyd and I am alumni of Guildhall School of Music and Drama and now run Smoulder Productions. I worked with Jo whilst at drama school and feel privileged to be helping co-produce Seagull with Runaway Theatre (Joseph Blatchley's production company). Let's make it happen for Jo!

Any contribution is very gratefully received.

Thank you