Midland Fringe Shot from Beethoven: Edge of Silence. July 2026. This show brings one of history’s greatest musical geniuses vividly to life in an intimate one-man drama with live piano. Passionate, moving and laced with humour, it reveals the man behind the music — his loves, his struggles and his extraordinary determination to create as silence closed in.
Hidden Lives Theatre is a collaboration between actor and writer Mike Venables and classical pianist Rebecca Weston. Together, they create intimate, compelling productions that combine original storytelling with live music, bringing extraordinary figures from history vividly to life. Their work is designed to engage both regular theatre audiences and those discovering live performance in unusual and historic settings.
Mike Venables
Actor, writer and theatre-maker with a lifelong involvement in performance and drama.
"Venables is a unique talent." Euan Rose Reviews 2026
A former Head of Drama, he has spent more than four decades working with actors, speakers and performers, alongside his own work on stage. His acting has ranged from Shakespeare and contemporary drama to solo performance, with a particular interest in bringing complex characters and extraordinary lives vividly to life.
"Mike Venables' one-man show was intelligent, passionate and full-throated." Dr.Jefny Ashcroft Midlands Fringe Official Review
Rebecca Weston
Beyond the ordinary
Pianist • Actor • Teacher
Rebecca Weston is a pianist, actor and teacher with a lifelong passion for music and performance.
She studied Applied Music at Newcastle College before going on to study Music at Lancaster University, and now combines her musical background with teaching piano. Alongside her music, Rebecca has performed in numerous productions at both the Crescent Theatre and Oldbury Repertory Theatre.
She performs the live piano score for Beethoven: Edge of Silence. At the Midlands Fringe Festival, her playing was praised as “delightful, relevant and enhancing.”
“The live music, performed by the highly talented Rebecca Weston, was truly integrated.”
Midlands Fringe Review, 2026
Midlands Fringe Festival – Beethoven: Edge of Silence – July 2026
Rebecca is available to provide live piano music for weddings, celebrations and special events creating a relaxed and elegant atmosphere with music tailored to suit the occasion.
Whether you are looking for beautiful music for your wedding ceremony, drinks reception or a special celebration, Rebecca would be delighted to discuss your plans and the music you would love to hear.
Email now rebecca@rebeccaweston.co.uk