Strictly Come Dancing star Janette Manrara is taking on a fresh career venture, teaming up with Stranger Things actor Noah Schnapp for the world premiere of a new stage production. The duo will feature in Affluenza, a work written and directed by Andy Sandberg.
Premiere at Riverside Studios
The production is scheduled to premiere at Riverside Studios in London. The drama unfolds in the affluent Hamptons and centres on the consequences of a teenager's drink-driving incident, which culminates in tragic results. Its core narrative examines whether excessive wealth can distort an individual's moral compass.
According to the production's synopsis: "When a teen's drunken car ride ends in devastation, the verdict comes down to one question. Is it possible to be too affluent to know the difference between right and wrong?"
Themes and Cast Announcement
The production will also address themes including privilege, family legacy and accountability, while examining the US justice system. Its synopsis continues: "Set in the ultra-wealthy Hamptons, the show explores themes of moral accountability, family legacy and the American justice system, while asking: 'Do any of us truly understand the cost and generational impact of privilege and opulence?'"
Former Strictly star Janette revealed her participation on social media, expressing her enthusiasm about joining the production. She wrote: "I can finally say that I will be joining the cast of the world premiere of AFFLUENZA at Riverside Studios in London." She also spoke candidly about her enthusiasm for embracing a completely different form of storytelling.
New Chapter for Janette
Having previously connected with audiences through dance, movement and presenting, the star was refreshingly open about her passion for narrative, reports Wales Online.
She added: "I have always loved telling stories - through dance, movement and presenting. Now, I get to tell one in a whole new way... and this one is a conversation starter. New chapter. New challenges. Excited for what's to come."
Her announcement was greeted with a wave of enthusiasm from fans, while her husband and fellow Strictly dancer Aljaž Škorjanec was amongst those to offer his congratulations. He wrote: "Proud doesn't describe it! Well done Bučka." Janette also received an outpouring of support from several of her Strictly colleagues, including Gorka Márquez, Fleur East, Jowita Przystał, Dianne Buswell and Amy Dowden.
The production will afford Janette the chance to take on a fresh creative role, trading the dancefloor for the world of theatre alongside Schnapp.
