The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham – until 30th November 2024

Reviewed by Emma Millward

5*****

Let me start by saying that I am a sucker for a jukebox musical. There’s something so enjoyable about the familiarity of the songs and the overwhelming urge to sing along! (I did just about contain myself last night!) Here & Now is the new musical based on the songs of the pop group Steps. The story is not based on the group themselves but on an original book by Shaun Kitchener. The show was announced on 26th January 2024, making its world premiere at The Alexandra, Birmingham on 9th November 2024. Steps, ROYO and Pete Waterman, produce the show.

The show is set in a seaside supermarket called Better Best Bargains (the first of many nods to Steps). We meet Caz (Rebecca Lock), who encourages her workmates Vel (Sharlene Hector), Robbie (Blake Patrick Anderson) and Neeta (Hiba Elchikhe) to ‘take a chance on a happy ending’ and have a summer of love by approaching the people they love or ending relationships that have run their course. While all this is happening, Caz also must deal with the breakup of her relationship with Gareth (Gary Milner), her desire to adopt a child and the looming possibility of the supermarket closing down. Throughout the show, all four main characters get their moment to shine and epic songs to sing! 

The ensemble works well together, and they all have genuine chemistry, although Rebecca Lock steals the show. Her vocals are flawless throughout, and she belts out some of the Steps’ most famous songs, changing many of them from classic pop anthems to West End power ballads without too much distress to the hardened Steps fans in the crowd. Her renditions of ‘Heartbeat’ and ‘One For Sorrow’ in particular drew prolonged cheers and applause from the audience. Other standout characters were Jem (River Medway), who didn’t appear much throughout the show but made an impact whenever he appeared. His performance of ‘Chain Reaction’ had the audience captivated from start to finish. I will never look at washing machines the same way again, and I really want one that lights up!! Another character who appeared fleetingly, but always stole the scene was Patricia (Finty Williams), the supermarket manager. Her dodgy French pronunciations always drew loud laughter.

I must discuss one of the other main stars of the show, the songs! Over 22 songs are packed into the production. The refreshing thing about the show is the songs never felt ‘shoehorned’ to fit among the storyline, as can happen occasionally in jukebox musicals. Every song has its place and fits the scene it appears in. 

The costume design by Gabriella Slade was exquisite. Never has a supermarket uniform looked so bright and colourful. The set design by Tom Rogers is also excellent. Bright neon blues and pink signage adorned the walls, movable checkouts were used for full effect by the cast, and lots of Steps in-jokes were written through the backdrop and props. Watch for them as you watch, especially the wheelie bin that takes centre stage during Ben (Dan Partridge) and Neeta’s beautiful rendition of ‘Something in Your Eyes’. 

As the show concluded, we were treated to an eight-minute mega mix of the songs from the show. As it was a Gala Night performance, Steps themselves took to the stage to perform ‘Stomp’ before announcing the show would embark on a UK tour in 2025. By the show’s finale, the crowd was on its feet, and I’ve never heard such a loud and prolonged standing ovation before. Here & Now The Musical has so much potential. Judging by the audience reaction last night I predict a sell-out run on its upcoming tour. Whether or not you are a diehard Steps fan, there is something for everyone. Funny, often heartbreaking and unashamedly camp escapism all wrapped up with a fantastic soundtrack and an outstanding cast.

WENDI PETERS

TO STAR AS

FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS IN

GLORIOUS!

AT HOPE MILL THEATRE

Hope Mill Theatre are delighted to announce Wendi Peters as Florence Foster Jenkins in GLORIOUS! The True Story of The Worst Singer in the World, which will open at Hope Mill Theatre on 27 February 2025 for a limited run ending on 30 March 2025. Tickets on-sale Friday 22 November.

Written by Peter Quilter (End of the Rainbow) and directed by Kirk Jameson (I Am Harvey Milk) GLORIOUS! tells the hilarious and heartwarming true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, a 1940s New York socialite with dreams of becoming an opera star – despite her famously dreadful singing voice. As her notoriously off-key recitals gained a devoted following (including admirers like Enrico Caruso and Cole Porter), her performances became must-see events, culminating in an unforgettable, sold-out show at Carnegie Hall, where Florence performed Mozart in angel wings and a halo.

Stage and screen star Wendi Peters is best known for her long-running role as Cilla Battersby in the hit ITV show Coronation Street and most recently has been a regular on the BBC show Doctors as Nina Bulsara. Her other TV credits include Midsomer Murders (ITV), Hetty Feather, Hacker Time and Sadie J (CBBC). Wendi has also competed on various shows including Soapstar Superstar (ITV), Celebrity Mastermind (BBC), Celebrity Masterchef (BBC) and Celebrity Sewing Bee for Children in Need (BBC) which she won. Wendi was most recently seen as Mother Superior in the UK Tour of Sister Act. Her other theatre credits include: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (UK Tour), You Are Here (Southwark Playhouse), BIG The Musical (West End), The Game (Northern Broadsides) and White Christmas (West End; Festival Theatre, Edinburgh & Lowry, Salford).

Hope Mill Theatre’s Joseph Houston & William Whelton said: As Hope Mill Theatre enters its 10^th Anniversary year we are thrilled to share our first in house production of our celebratory milestone year. GLORIOUS! marks Hope Mill’s 37^th production in a decade, including productions at Hope Mill Theatre, on tour and transfers. It is an honour to have Wendi Peters join our already growing alumni of star performers, who have graced our stage, and in the wonderfully eccentric role of Florence Foster Jenkins, with a new production helmed by Kirk Jameson. This production marks the first in what will be an extremely exciting 2025 for Hope Mill Theatre

Wendi Peters said: I’m so thrilled to be playing such a ‘glorious’ character as Florence Foster Jenkins and I know I’m going to such fun portraying her.  I’m really looking forward to being back in Manchester and working at the wonderful Hope Mill theatre.

GLORIOUS! follows Florence’s journey as she prepares for her concerts, builds an unlikely friendship with her young accompanist, Cosme McMoon, and pursues her passion despite all odds. At first bewildered by her lack of talent, Cosme gradually grows fond of her, swept into her world of indomitable spirit. This joyful play celebrates a woman who defied critics and embraced the laughter of her audience, making her dreams come true.

The play premiered at Birmingham Rep Theatre before moving to London’s West End in 2005 starring Dame Maureen Lipman and earned an Olivier Award nomination for Best New Comedy Since then, GLORIOUS! has delighted millions worldwide, translated into 25 languages and performed in 36 countries—including acclaimed productions in Sydney, Hong Kong, Vienna, Rio de Janeiro, Toronto, Madrid, and more. In 2016, Florence’s life was immortalized on film by Meryl Streep.

GLORIOUS! is produced by Hope Mill Theatre. With casting by Harry Blumenau CDG CDA.

Website: hopemilltheatre.co.uk/event/glorious

Facebook: @HopeMillTheatre

X: @hopemilltheatre

Instagram: @hopemilltheatre

LISTINGS INFORMATION

27 February – 30 March 2025

Hope Mill Theatre

113 Pollard St

Manchester

M4 7JA

Performances: Tuesday to Saturday/ 7.30pm & 2.30pm/ Sundays 1pm & 6pm

Tickets from: from £30

Box Office: 0161 275 9141

NEW MUSICAL

HERE & NOW

PRESENTED BY UK POP SENSATION

STEPS

TO TOUR THE UK & IRELAND

FROM AUGUST 2025

UK pop band Steps are delighted to announce that their official musical HERE & NOW, which has been wowing audiences in Birmingham for the last few weeks, will embark on a major UK and Ireland tour from August 2025 through to May 2026.

HERE & NOW began previews at The Alexandra, Birmingham on Saturday 9 November and will finish it’s run on Saturday 30 November 2024. The musical was The Alexandra’s fastest selling on-sale in history, which saw 50% capacity sold within 24 hours.

Featuring Steps’ most beloved hit songs, HERE & NOW isproduced by the band and ROYO with Pete Waterman and Fascination Management with an original book by Shaun Kitchener and is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh and choreographed by Olivier Award winning Matt Cole.

Casting for the UK and Ireland tour is to be announced.

Welcome to seaside superstore Better Best Bargains, where it’s Friday night, the vibe is right, and everyone’s dancing in the aisles. But when Caz discovers the shelves are stocked with lies and betrayal, the summer of love she and her friends dreamed of suddenly feels like a tragedy. Have they all lost their chance of a ‘happy ever after’? Or does love have other plans in store…

Steps (Claire Richards, Faye Tozer, Ian ‘H’ Watkins’, Lee Latchford-Evans and Lisa Scott-Lee) are the UK’s most successful mixed sex pop group of all time, with 14 top five singles, 4 number one albums, 22 million record sales, 500 million streams & 11 sold-out national arena tours under their belts. The band’s hits include #1 singles Tragedy/Heartbeat and Stomp, the gold certified One For Sorrow & Better Best Forgotten, the silver certified 5,6,7,8, Last Thing On My Mind, Love’s Got A Hold Of My Heart, Chain Reaction, all of which will feature in the musical alongside many more.

Steps’ 2017 comeback tour sold out all 300,000 tickets, making it one of the biggest pop tours of the year. The band have since continued to release new music including two further iTunes #1 singles, the Sia-penned What The Future Holds in 2020 and the Michelle Visage duet Heartbreak In This City in 2022. In 2022 Steps celebrated their 25th anniversary with a headline summer tour and released the #1 album Platinum Collection which means they join ABBA, Rolling Stones and Stereophonics as the only groups in UK history to score #1 albums in four consecutive decades.

Musical supervision, orchestrations and arrangements by Matt Spencer-Smith, set design is by Tom Rogers, costume design is by Gabriella Slade, lighting design by Howard Hudson, sound design by Adam Fisher, wigs, hair and makeup design by Sam Cox, casting by Will Burton for Grindrod Burton Casting, Music Technology by Phij Adams with Production Management by Setting Line.

Website: TheStepsMusical.com

Instagram: @TheStepsMusical

X: @TheStepsMusical

TikTok: @TheStepsMusical

Facebook: @TheStepsMusicalUK

2025/26 TOUR SCHEDULE

29 – 30 August 2025                         Aylesbury Waterside Theatre                       

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Aylesbury                       On sale 20 November

2 – 13 September                              Manchester Opera House

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Manchester                    On sale 20 November

16 – 20 September                            Glasgow Kings Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Glasgow                         On sale 20 November

23 September – 4 October                Dublin Bord Gais Energy Theatre                  0818719 377 (ROI)

                                                           bordgaisenergytheatre.ie                                 08442485101 (UK)

                                                                                                                                    On sale 29 November

7 – 11 October                                   Southend Cliffs Pavilion

                                                           www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk                             On sale 22 November

14 – 19 October                                 Woking New Victoria Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/new-victoria-theatre        On sale 20 November

21 – 26 October                                 Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre

                                                           aberdeenperformingarts.com On sale 26 November

28 October– 2 November                  Newcastle Theatre Royal                               0191 232 7010

                                                           www.theatreroyal.co.uk                                   On sale soon

4 – 9 November                                 London New Wimbledon Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Wimbledon                     On sale 20 November

11 – 16 November                             Nottingham Theatre Royal                             0115 989 5555

                                                           trch.co.uk                                                         On sale 29 November

18 – 22 November                             Sheffield Lyceum                                            0114 249 6000

                                                           www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk                           On sale soon

25 – 29 November                             Liverpool Empire Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Liverpool                        On sale 20 November

2 – 13 December                               Theatre Royal Brighton

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Brighton                          On sale 20 November

15 – 28 December                             Stockton Globe

                                                           www.stocktonglobe.co.uk                               On sale 20 November

20– 24 January 2026                        Southampton Mayflower Theatre                  02380 711811

                                                           www.mayflower.org.uk                                    On sale 29 November

27 – 31 January                                 Belfast Grand Opera House

                                                           www.goh.co.uk                                                On sale soon

3 – 7 February                                   Cardiff Wales Millenium Centre

                                                           www.wmc.org.uk                                             On sale 6 December

10 – 15 February                               York Grand Opera House

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/York                                On sale 20 November

17 – 22 February                               Oxford New Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Oxford                            On sale 20 November

24 – 1 March                                      Edinburgh Playhouse

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Edinburgh                       On sale 20 November

10 – 15 March                                    Wolverhampton Grand                                  01902 42 92 12

                                                           www.grandtheatre.co.uk                                  On sale 22 November

24 – 28 March                                    Theatre Royal Plymouth                                01752 267 222

                                                           www.theatreroyal.com                                     On sale soon

31 March – 4 April                              Milton Keynes Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/milton-keynes-theatre        On sale 20 November

8 – 12 April                                         Blackpool Opera House                                 0844 770 0593*

                                                           www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk                On sale soon 

14 – 19 April                                       Norwich Theatre Royal                                   01603 630 000

                                                           www.norwichtheatre.org                                  On sale soon

21 – 26 April                                       Hull New Theatre                                            01482 300 306

                                                           www.hulltheatres.co.uk                                   On sale 22 November

28 April – 3 May                                 Leicester Curve                                              0116 242 3595

                                                           www.curveonline.co.uk                                   On sale soon

5 – 10 May                                         Leeds Grand Theatre                                      0113 243 0808                                                                      

                                                          www.leedsheritagetheatres.com                     On sale 6 December

Hall for Cornwall, Truro, Cornwall – until 23 November 2024

Reviewed by Kerry Gilbert

4****

Murder on the Orient Express is a stylish, seductive, quality production of a much-loved work that has been beautifully adapted for a new generation of fans.

Ken Ludwig’s new adaption of the Agatha Christie classic ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ brings beloved Belgian detective Hercule Poirot to the Hall for Cornwall!

First published in 1934, ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ continues to be one of Christie’s most popular novels 90 years later. Colourful characters stuck aboard an elegant train in a snow drift with a violently murdered corpse and no means of escape, is just as thrilling a premise now as it was then.

Winter 1934 and an avalanche stops the Orient Express in its tracks. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed eight times, his door locked from the inside. Trapped in the snow with a killer still on board, can the world’s famous detective, Hercule Poirot, crack the case before the train reaches its final destination?

The production was brought to life with three stunning 3D train carriages donned in full Edwardian décor. With a revolving stage and a few tables for breakaway scenes and clever use of an overhead screen to portray elements like snowdrift weather and even wheels chugging along the tracks, much like the plot, it always felt like things were on the move. The costumes were exquisite, and every inch of the stage is lit with pinpoint precision. So much thought has been put into drawing the audience into the heart of the play; I didn’t look away for a second. Twinned with excellent use of music and sound effects from the start building suspense of what is about to unfold.

The entire supporting cast was wonderful, Bob Barrett’s energy as Monsieur Bouc and the permanently frantic Greta Ohlsson, done so well by Rebecca Charles. While Simon Cottons’ abhorrent ‘businessman’ Samuel Ratchett makes for the ideal antagonist – but Michael Maloney is masterful as Poirot. Joining them are other engaging performances from Mila Carter and Christine Kavanagh as Countess Elena Andrenyi and Helen Hubbard – two of the more prominent suspects in the murder of Ratchett. More withdrawn initially, Iniki Mariano and Rishi Rian get their powerful moments in the second act – both with a more involved presence, tapping into the story’s painful and brutal elements, often forgotten.

‘Murder on the Orient Express’ is a stylish, seductive, quality production of a much-loved work that has been beautifully adapted for a new generation of fans. It’s a wonderful example of how to successfully transfer an established book to the stage. I would highly recommend going to see this intriguing and intense play, a fabulous night out for all Agatha Christie or theatre lovers, those who know the story and who are going in blind alike.

Awkward Productions in association with Goudie Events Announce World Tour!

Gwyneth Goes Skiing and Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story

North America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Europe

From January to April 2025

Awkward Productions, harbingers of queer chaos and brilliantly original theatre, are excited to announce that they are taking their viral theatrical sensations Gwyneth Goes Skiing and Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story on a World Tour from January 2025.

Gwyneth Goes Skiing will return to the slopes of Park City, Utah, the location of the real-life Gwyneth Paltrow ski trial, playing at the Egyptian Theatre from 8-18 January 2025, followed by Off-Broadway and Los Angeles premieres at Soho Playhouse in New York from 20-26 January and The Elysian Los Angeles from 30 January to 2 February.

Awkward Productions will then switch shows, costumes and candles and team up with Goudie Events to premiere their multiple award-winning, Edinburgh Fringe sell-out hit Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story in Thailand, Singapore, Australia & New Zealand (Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Newcastle, Brisbane, Auckland), Canada (Toronto, Calgary, Montreal) and Europe (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Brussels, Berlin, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Malmö, Gothenburg, Stockholm, Oslo and Helsinki). Dates in Asia, Australia, New Zealand and Canada will have pre-show support from UK RuPaul’s Drag Race’s Pixie Polite.

Awkward Productions was created by Linus Karp and Joseph Martin to bring ridiculous genre-mixing comedy, niche pop culture references, audience participation and queer joy to the stage. Their holy trinity of shows consists of Gwyneth Goes Skiing, Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story and how to live a jellicle life: life lessons from the 2019 hit movie musical ‘cats’. These shows have all achieved sold-out runs, toured the UK extensively, received international media coverage and won awards. An Awkward Prods shows isn’t performed for you, it’s performed with you – making each one unique.

Karp and Martin comment: “Our plans for world domination and queering the globe are finally coming true. Such a slay house down boots mama moment. A wise woman (Beyoncé) once asked: ‘Who run the world?’, and now we know that the answer to that question is AwkwardProds.”

Gwyneth Goes Skiing has enjoyed two sold-out and critically acclaimed runs in London following its premiere in December 2023 and it will play a third season at the Pleasance Theatre from 11 to 21 December 2024, direct from a UK and Ireland Autumn Tour.

Starring Linus Karp as the Goop-founding, Door-Sliding, Shakespeare-In-Loving, consciously uncoupling Hollywood superstar Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Martin as her nemesis Dr Terry Sanderson, this ever-evolving show about the Gwyneth Paltrow ski trial is a story of justice, betrayal and optometry, recounting the biggest case to rock the legal world since law was invented. The show makes the audience the jury, asking them to decide who’s guilty and who’s gooped.

Featuring original music by Leland (Troye Sivan, Cher), vocals by Cat Cohen (Edinburgh Comedy Award Winner) and Emmy and Golden Globe winner (and Broadway legend) Darren Criss (Glee, The Assassination of Gianni Versace) – and a special video appearance from drag legend Trixie Mattel as Gwyneth Paltrow’s mother, Blythe Danner, this queer extravaganza is “unlike anything else you’ll see.” (Attitude – ★★★★★)

Awkward Productions’ multiple award-winning, Edinburgh Fringe 2023 sell-out show Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story became an immediate cult-hit with audiences for its unique audience participation and staggeringly camp portrayal of the royals. Following its triumphant premiere, the show won the OffFest Award for Best Play and the prestigious LAURA Award. It then enjoyed two UK Tours, two big nights out at The Clapham Grand, a three-week run at the new Kings Head Theatre in London and a return to the Edinburgh Festival in August 2024.

Through a comedic and unhinged lens, the show highlights Diana’s ground-breaking stances on social and queer issues and allows her to finally speak her (un)truth and break free from the monarchy. Told by Diana from heaven, Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story is “so much more than just a show. It’s an experience. It’s a lifestyle. It is the moment” (The Reviews Hub – ★★★★★)

Linus Karp stars as Diana, Joseph Martin portrays both Charles and Camilla, while Geri Allen (Operation Mincemeat), Zina Badran (Doctor Who) and Broadway Star Jeanna De Waal (Diana: The Musical) complete the cast through multimedia magic.

Social media:  @awkwardprods          @Goudieevents

https://www.awkwardprods.co.ukhttp://www.goudieevents.com

Southwark Playhouse – until 30 November 2024

Reviewed by Claire Roderick

4****

Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bells’ meta-theatrical and charmingly self-referential show is every musical theatre nerd’s dream. Originally presented at the 2004 New York Musical Theatre Festival, the show is a musical about writing a musical.

With just three weeks to write something for the festival, Hunter (Jacob Fowler) and Jeff (Thomas Oxley) begin writing/performing their musical. Fowler and Oxley are a wonderful double act, sharing great chemistry and delivering lines about the dangers of using too many obscure references and derivative tricks with an arch glee. There is even debate about whether there should be musical accompaniment as they move across the stage. The secondary characters they bring in (don’t feel sorry for them, they get their own song about that) make wonderful foils for the men. Abbie Budden plays Heidi – still hungry and auditioning for ensemble/cover roles – and Mary Moore plays Susan – who has taken an office job in her frustration and self-doubt. Moore completely leans into Susan’s unhinged moments and performs Die, Vampire, Die! with an insane energy and powerhouse vocals – one of the highlights of the show. Budden captures the near mania of constant auditions and rejections brilliantly.

Together, with just four chairs and a keyboard (and musical director Tom Chippendale as Larry) – the quartet create a chaotic and loving portrayal of the creative process. There are songs for every stage of the journey, from seeking inspiration Monkeys and Playbills to the nagging spectres of self-doubt Die, Vampire, Die! The lyrics are complicated and the harmonies are glorious in the hands of this talented cast. There are a few earworms in the score, and the charming and affirmatory song about staying true to yourself and your vision, Nine People’s Favourite Thing has been on my playlist for years.

The theatrical in-jokes and references are non-stop – some very niche and historical 20 years after the first production – but there is also the obligatory jeopardy as Hunter is nearly convinced by the dark side (producers) to change the show for Broadway. Cheesy moments of clarity and camaraderie are thrown in along with the obligatory emotional ballad A Way Back to Then. Although sung hauntingly by Budden, this is punctuated with Hunter’s descriptions of the bizarre shows he and his brother staged when he was 10.

Director Christopher D. Clegg ensures that this production has a spontaneous and improvised atmosphere (not an easy thing with a 20-year-old show) with Hazel McIntosh’s vibrant set design allowing more movement around the stage.

[title of show] is a joyous, witty and heartfelt tribute to creatives and the theatre. It may be a little too niche for some, but if you love musical theatre, you should see this fabulously funny show.

Become one of the nine!

Hull New Theatre – until 23rd November 2024

Reviewed by Dawn Bennett

5*****

If you want a fabulous night out when every single member of the cast can act, sing and dance brilliantly Hairspray is the musical for you!

Hairspray is the story of 1960’s Baltimore in the USA, where cheesy TV shows are the norm and racial segregation is rife. Tracey Turnblad (Katie Brace) lives with her Mum, Edna, (Neil Hurst) and Dad, Wilbur, (Dermot Canavan). Along with her best friend Penny Pingleton (Freya McMahon) Tracey watches The Corny Collins (Joseph Bristow) television show and dreams of dancing on it and she worships from afar the star of the show Link Larkin (Solomon Davy). When auditions are announced Tracey goes along to try out for the show but director of the show Velma Von Tussle (Kirsty Sparks) has other ideas and along with her daughter Amber (Allana Taylor) make sure that Tracy doesn’t get the job. And when Little Inez (Katlo) also wants to audition Velma is horrified as black people and white people do not dance together on The Corny Collins Show. Tracy wants to change this and sets about trying to do it with Penny Pingleton, Link Larkin and Seaweed (Shemar Jarrett) with very funny consequences.

Hairspray does show how bad racial segregation was in America in 1960’s and how by giving people a voice that things can be changed and this is brilliantly done in this production.

Outstanding performances for me were Neil Hurst (Edna Turnblad) who along with Dermot Canavan (Wilbur Turnblad) they worked so well together especially when they sang, You’re Timeless to Me which was hilarious and very cheeky!

Katie Brace made a brilliant Tracy Turnblad she had a fabulous singing voice and was made for this part.

Kirsty Sparks absolutely nailed the part of Velma Von Tussle she played the characters nastiness and downright rudeness spot on and was great to watch.

Michelle Ndegwa who played Motormouth Maybelle … wow what a voice!!

The band, under Musical Director Richard Atkinson, were outstanding. The songs from Good Morning Baltimore to You Can’t Stop the Beat and the rest of the songs in this show are brilliant, catchy and work, along with the story line, to make a fabulous show.

All of the fabulous cast deserved the standing ovation that they got last night, there are very limited tickets left for this week in Hull and they really do deserve to have full houses for every performance so go and see it if you can!

Say It Again, Sorry?, Cuffe & Taylor and Live Nation presents: 

…Earnest?  

When the actor playing Ernest doesn’t show, it leads to a tumultuous twist on Oscar Wilde’s classic play with audience members taking centre stage  

Written by Josh King, Simon Paris and Say It Again, Sorry? | Directed by Simon Paris  

UK TOUR 16 February – 14 June 2025   

“A delightfully interactive, uproariously funny approximation of a familiar script. This show is a feast for theatre-goers of all levels of experience” ★★★★★ The Skinny (on The Importance Of Being… Earnest?)   

@SayItAgainSorry | sayitagainsorry.com | interactiveearnest.co.uk  

In a madcap spectacle that promises a completely new performance each night, the Edinburgh Fringe smash-hit where the audience step in for the cast of The Importance of Being Earnest returns for a UK tour of nearly 30 venues. Wilde’s much-loved play is delightfully derailed as audience members are asked to step into the spotlight to replace an ever-thinning cast, sparked by the lead actor playing Ernest failing to arrive on that famous cue. With stage whiskey being swapped, off-the-cuff auditions being held and portraits painted aplenty, ...Earnest? incorporates skilled slapstick and expert improv in this quintessentially British farce. Its innovative format aims to provide joy and connect audiences to their inner thespian.

The Importance of Being… Earnest? (now renamed to …Earnest?) premiered at Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2021 and returned for the three years following. The hour-long production has been extended into a full two act run for the UK tour. So far, the show has cast almost 2,000 audience members, proving that everyone, no matter their background or experience, has a place in the spotlight. Audience members have shared stories of quitting their jobs to chase acting dreams, local individuals stepping onto the stage for the first time and becoming community stars, and even strangers finding love after being cast and meeting backstage.  

Say It Again, Sorry? revolutionised theatre funding for …Earnest? by introducing micro-units, smaller, low risk, investment chunks that made investing accessible to first-time backers and those who typically contribute to crowd-funding campaigns. This inventive model ensured all investors saw a profit, regardless of unit size, encouraging repeat investment. It’s one of many ways Say It Again, Sorry? has broadened participation in their artistic and financial processes.  

Director and co-writer Simon Paris said “We are very excited to bring …Earnest? back to audiences across the country and share our unique blend of chaos, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling. This show celebrates the magic of live theatre- where anything can happen and often does. With its playful twists and interactive surprises, we invite audiences to step into a world where every moment is delightfully unpredictable.”  

Founded in 2018 by a group of friends, Say It Again, Sorry? is an award-winning (Derek Award for Best Comedy) interactive theatre company that aims to connect people to their inner artist and inspire creative expression in everybody. Their vision is for the public to recover ownership over their own creative power and contribute to the future of theatre as active participants, collaborators, and decision-makers.   

Running Time: 120 mins (not inc interval) | Recommended for ages 12+  

Company information  

Director Simon Paris Writers Josh King, Simon Paris and Say It Again, Sorry?  

Set designer Trynity Silk Lighting designer Catja Hamilton    

Sound designer Max Pappenheim Costume designer Libby Watson   Producer Simon Paris 

Cast  

Eleanor Judith Amsenga 

George Ashley Cavender 

Terry Guido Garcia Lueches  

Simon Slough Josh Haberfield  

Josh Ben Mann  

Jennifer Trynity Silk  

Graham Rhys Tees  

Listings information  

16 February – 14 June 2025  

MORE DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED 

19 February Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage   

Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

everyonetheatres.com/theatres/gordon-craig-theatre | 01438 363200   

22 – 23 February Wolverhampton Grand Theatre   

Lichfield St, Wolverhampton WV1 1DE  

7.30pm & 3pm | From £19.50  

grandtheatre.co.uk | 01902 429212  

25 – 26 February Exeter Northcott Theatre  

Stocker Rd, Exeter EX4 4QB  

7.30pm & 2.30pm | From £19.50  

exeternorthcott.co.uk | 01392 726363  

27 Feb – 1 March Lighthouse Poole   

21 Kingland Rd, Poole BH15 1UG  

7.45pm & 2.30pm | From £19.50  

lighthousepoole.co.uk | 01202 280000  

  

6 – 8 March MAST Mayflower Studios  

142 – 144 Above Bar St, Southampton SO14 7DU  

7.30pm & 2.30pm | From £19.50  

mayflower.org.uk | 02380 711811  

  

10 – 11 March Darlington Hippodrome   

Parkgate, Darlington DL1 1RR  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk | 01325 405405  

  

22 – 23 March Palace Theatre, Southend  

430 London Rd, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9LA  

7.30pm & 3pm | From £19.50  

trafalgartickets.com/palace-theatre-southend | 0343 3100030  

  

27 – 30 March Forum Theatre, Malvern Theatres  

Grange Rd, Great Malvern, Malvern WR14 3HB  

7.30pm, 2.30pm & 3pm | From £19.50  

malvern-theatres.co.uk/forum-theatre | 01684 892277  

  

1 April Hull Truck Theatre  

50 Ferensway, Hull HU2 8LB  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

hulltruck.co.uk | 01482 323638  

  

11 – 12 April Princess Theatre, Torquay  

Torbay Rd, Torquay TQ2 5EZ  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

atgtickets.com/venues/princess-theatre-torquay | 01803 211211  

  

16 April The Grand Theatre & Opera House Leeds  

46 New Briggate, Leeds LS1 6NU  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

leedsheritagetheatres.com | 0113 243 0808  

  

23 – 24 April Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham  

Theatre Square, Nottingham NG1 5ND  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

trch.co.uk | 0115 989 5555  

  

28 – 30 April Loughborough Town Hall  

39-40 Market Pl, Loughborough LE11 3EB  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

loughboroughtownhall.co.uk  

  

2 May New Victoria Theatre, Woking  

The Ambassadors, The Peacocks Centre, Woking GU21 6GQ  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

atgtickets.com/venues/new-victoria-theatre | 0844 871 7627  

  

7 – 8 May Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle  

109-113 Westgate Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4AG  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk | 01912 431171  

  

9 – 10 May King’s Theatre, Glasgow  

297 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4JN   

7.30pm | From £19.50  

atgtickets.com/venues/kings-theatre-glasgow | 0333 009 6690  

  

12 –13 May Lyceum Theatre, Crewe  

Heath St, Crewe CW1 2DA  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

trafalgartickets.com/lyceum-theatre-crewe | 03433 100050  

  

17 May The Alexandra, Birmingham  

Suffolk Queensway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B5 4DS  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

atgtickets.com/venues/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham | 01212 309077  

  

20 – 21 May Crucible Theatre, Sheffield  

55 Norfolk St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 1DA  

7.30pm & 3pm | From £19.50   

sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/crucible | 01142 496000  

  

22 – 23 May Wycombe Swan Theatre, High Wycombe  

St Mary St, High Wycombe HP11 2XE  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

trafalgartickets.com/wycombe-swan-theatre | 03433 100060  

  

24 – 25 May Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry  

University Of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL  

7.30pm & 3pm | From £19.50   

warwickartscentre.co.uk | 02476 496000  

  

28 – 29 May Theatre Royal Brighton  

New Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1SD  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

atgtickets.com/venues/theatre-royal-brighton | 0844 871 7627  

  

31 May The Hexagon, Reading  

Queens Walk, Berkshire RG1 7QF  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

whatsonreading.com/hexagon/whats-on | 01189 606060  

  

4 – 5 June Aylesbury Waterside Theatre  

Exchange St, Aylesbury HP20 1UG  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

atgtickets.com/venues/aylesbury-waterside-theatre | 01296 745100  

  

6 – 7 June Mercury Theatre, Colchester  

Balkerne Gate, Colchester CO1 1PT   

7.30pm & 2.30pm | From £19.50  

mercurytheatre.co.uk | 01206 573948  

  

9 June Royal & Derngate, Northampton  

19-21 Guildhall Rd, Northampton NN1 1DP  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

royalandderngate.co.uk | 01604 624811  

  

10 June Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham  

10 Regent St, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ  

7.30pm | From £19.50  

everymantheatre.org.uk | 01242 572573  

  

12 – 14 June Richmond Theatre, London  

1 Little Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ  

7.30pm & 2.30pm | From £19.50  

atgtickets.com/venues/richmond-theatre | 020 8332 4500  

Social media  

Twitter: @SayItAgainSorry  

Instagram @sayitagainsorry  

Facebook: facebook.com/sayitagainsorry  

TikTok: @sayitagainsorry  

Website: interactiveearnest.co.uk   

#InteractiveEarnest  

MISCHIEF MOVIE NIGHT (IN)

BACK ON STAGE AND SCREEN THIS

WINTER!

INCLUDING 8 SHOWS LIVE-STREAMED

AROUND THE WORLD

Performances from 18 – 23 December 2024 &

7 – 12 January 2025

LILIAN BAYLIS STUDIO,

SADLERS WELLS THEATRE, LONDON

www.MischiefMovieNight.co.uk

Tuesday 19 November 2024 – Making Merry Mischief, ‘the funniest theatre troupe in Britain’ (The Telegraph), are back in London for a strictly limited festive season with Mischief Movie Night (In), the improvised movie live on stage.

Performances begin on Wednesday 18 Dec at Lilian Baylis Studio, Sadlers Wells, with 8 shows being streamed live into living rooms worldwide from Friday 20 – Monday 23 December.

No two shows are the same, as the audience suggests a genre, location and title, and Mischief hilariously bring the show to life, complete with rewinds, fast forwards, directors cuts and a thrilling live score to laugh along to.

Starring them, directed by you,Mischief Movie Night (In)is a guaranteed comedy blockbuster, and the perfect family treat this Christmas.

Their recent, hugely successful run of Mischief Movie Night at The Other Palace in London played to sell-out houses this summer.

Tickets and streaming passes are on sale at www.MischiefMovieNight.co.uk, with limited availability to watch in person at the Lilian Baylis Studio.

Mischief Movie Night features Mischief original cast members and regulars including:  Bryony Corrigan as TBC, Charlie Russell as What Not Me?, Ellie Morris as Surely Not Now, Harry Kershaw as Time, Gentlemen Please, Henry Lewis as Not Sure, Henry Shields as I Suppose We’ll Find Out, Jonathan Sayer as Wait and See, Josh Elliot as No Idea, , Nancy Zamit as It’s a Slam Dunk, Niall Ransome as We’ll Never Know and Susan Harrison as Guess Who?  They will be joined by musicians Yshani Perinpanayagam, and Ed Zanders.

Originally created by Mischief for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the show transferred to the West End for a limited season, and during the pandemic was streamed globally and watched in over 50 countries, bringing laughter directly into families’ living rooms.  

Mischief Movie Night (In) is created by Mischief, with lighting by David Howe. 

BARN THEATRE CIRENCESTER ANNOUNCES FULL SEASON OF SHOWS FOR
2025 BUILT BY BARN SEASON, ALONG WITH NEW SPONSORSHIP FROM HOWDEN INSURANCE

INCLUDING THE WORLD PREMIERE OF
HAYWIRE – A NOT-SO-EVERYDAY STORY OF HOW THE ARCHERS WAS BORN
(1 SEPTEMBER – 11 OCTOBER)

A NEW COMEDY ABOUT CASTING THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS SPY
A ROLE TO DIE FOR (30 JANUARY – 15 MARCH)

A NEW SIMON READE ADAPTATION OF MICHAEL MORPURGO’S WWII MASTERPIECE
IN THE MOUTH OF THE WOLF (31 MARCH – 10 MAY)
WILLY RUSSELL’S HEARTWARMING CLASSIC
EDUCATING RITA (16 MAY – 28 JUNE)
HILARIOUS AND NOSTALGIA-PACKED MUSICAL
FRIENDS! THE MUSICAL PARODY (14 JULY – 23 AUGUST)
MOVING AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING MUSICAL REVIVAL
THE LAST FIVE YEARS (20 OCTOBER – 15 NOVEMBER)
RETURN OF THE BARN’S 2019 HIT FESTIVE SHOW
A CHRISTMAS CAROL (1 DECEMBER – 4 JANUARY)

CEO and Artistic Director Iwan Lewis, Executive Director Liam McMullan, and the whole team at the Barn Theatre in Cirencester, are delighted to announce details of the full 2025 Built By Barn season of work, including three world premieres, a new Simon Reade adaptation of a Michael Morpurgo classic, two musicals, a British timeless classic, a fresh new production of the Barn’s much loved 2019 festive show, and a series of co-productions with commercial producers, taking the Barn’s work around the UK. This work has been made possible thanks to the generous support of the whole season from Howden Insurance.

A cornerstone of the 2025 Built by Barn season will be the world premiere of Tim Stimpson’s play Haywire – A Not-So-Everyday Story Of How The Archers Was Born (Monday 1 September – Saturday 11 October.

This new play uses the magic of radio drama to whisk the audience back to the halcyon days when public gathered around their wirelesses to listen and lose themselves in the lives, trials and tribulations of a fictional farming family. Licensed by the BBC, it will be performed ahead of the 75th anniversary of The Archers which takes place in January 2026.

In a cold British December in 1950, producer Godfrey Baseley assembled a group of actors in a studio above a used car showroom in Birmingham, to record the first ever episode of The Archers. Now, 75 years later, the ‘everyday story of country folk’ remains a proud staple of British pop culture and a fixture at the top of the BBC’s download charts.

Haywire is a fond and funny celebration of one of British media’s most enduring creations, paired with a deep affection for the craft of radio.

It is a love letter to The Archers and the minds that created it – an exclusive invitation to experience the tears and laughter, the triumphs and calamities, that can happen both in front of and behind the mic.

The 2025 Built By Barn season will kick off in January with the world premiere of Jordan Waller’s comedy A Role To Die For (Thursday 30 January – Saturday 15 March, with a national press night on Tuesday 4 February).

Deborah has a problem. She’s responsible for casting the most famous role in Hollywood but the actor she chooses suddenly withdraws the day before the announcement. As the film starts shooting straight away, time is short to find a replacement. Her cousin wants to sell out, her son insists on going woke, and all she yearns for is the warm glow of Sean Connery’s unbeatable charm.

A Role to Die For is a wickedly funny tale of casting the next actor to play the world’s most famous spy.

A Role to Die For is a rip-roaring, wickedly funny comedy full of secret agents, secret agreements and secret family feuds. Directed by 2024 Olivier Award winning Derek Bond, and produced in association with Simon Friend and Bob & Co.

Continuing the Barn’s association with Michael Morpurgo and his stage adaptor Simon Reade, following Private Peaceful (2021) and The Mozart Question (2022), will be the world premiere of In The Mouth Of The Wolf (Friday 28 March – Saturday 10 May, with a national press night on Tuesday 1 April).

World War II brought about an avalanche of tragedy, heartbreak and division, but what happens when that division is within your own family?

Brothers, Francis and Pieter are in disagreement. Living in turbulent times as one bloody war has ended and another stirs in the near future, tensions are high and they can both feel it. Francis is a dedicated pacifist, committed to peace and determined not to go backwards to a violent world. Pieter believes that peace can only be achieved by signing up to fight.

The event that occurs after this is one that will change Francis’ life forever.

Steadfast in their beliefs and determined to make change, these brothers find themselves at war not only with the enemy but also with themselves.

Simon Reade’s stage adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s poignant true story brings to life the experiences of the author’s uncle during World War II. This powerful and moving production invites the audience to witness an emotional journey of love, loss, war, and hope.

In early summer, Barn audiences can enjoy a new production of Willy Russell’s classic play, Educating Rita, directed by Stephen Unwin (Friday 16 May – Saturday 28 June, with a national press night on Monday 19 May). Casting will be by Ginny Schiller.

Rita, a working-class hairdresser, wants more from her life. When she signs up to an Open University course, she meets Frank a middle aged disillusioned academic. Her zest for life re invigorates him and a journey of rediscovery begins. Willy Russell’s timeless classic is a story of class, power, freedom and self-discovery.

The 1980’s stage play by Willy Russell was made into a movie in 1983 starring Michael Caine and Julie Walters. It won multiple major awards for best actor and best actress and was nominated for three Academy Awards. Caine and Walters both won BAFTA and Golden Globe awards for best actor and actress. A timeless British classic that has won the hearts of audiences for decades.

The Barn is proud to partner with producers Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale and Oskar Eiriksson to create the brand-new production of Friends! The Musical Parody, (14 July – 23 August), opening in Cirencester before a major UK and Ireland tour.

With all your favourite moments, plus a runaway bride, and some questionable sandwich habits, this Friends, The Musical Parody serves up nostalgia with a side of sarcasm and lots of OH. MY. GAWD energy!

Directed by The Full Monty’s Michael Gyngell, with book and lyrics by Bob and Tobly McSmith, music by Assaf Gleizner and set and lighting design by Andrew Exeter, Friends: The Musical Parody is a side-splitting musical comedy packed with all of the iconic moments from all 10 seasons of the beloved television series. Originally produced NY by Theatre Mogul and Lynn Shore, this uncensored, fast-paced romp features an entirely original musical score and showcases the escapades of the world’s most famous group of twenty-somethings as they tackle the challenges of work, life and love in 1990s Manhattan.

The penultimate show of the season will be musical classic The Last Five Years, written by Tony Award winning Jason Robert Brown (Friday 17 October – Saturday 15 November, with a national press night on Monday 20 October).

Journey with Cathy and Jamie as they navigate their marriage, their creative careers and the trials that come with intertwined lives.

The Last Five Years is a musical that cleverly explores the rollercoaster journey of two New Yorkers as they navigate their five-year marriage. Filled with iconic songs, the play first Premiered at Chicago’s Northlight Theatre in 2001 and was then produced Off-Broadway in March 2002. In 2014 a film adaptation starring Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan was released.

The Barn Theatre’s 2025 Christmas show will be a new production of Alan Pollock’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (Monday 1 December 25 – Sunday 4 January 26, with a national press night on Wednesday 3 December). Premiered at the Barn in 2019, this is a fresh take on this magical story, but bolder and bigger than ever.

Be enchanted by the moving tale of Ebenezeer Scrooge who on Christmas Eve is forced to confront his legacy and experience the magic and mystery of the ghosts from his past, present and future.

A Barn twist on the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol is sure to leave you feeling warm and fuzzy this winter.

CEO & Artistic Director Iwan Lewis said, “Our 2025 season is all about welcoming new audiences to GET HOOKED ON THEATRE and feel the unique thrill of live entertainment. With three world premieres, our new, highly affordable season subscription, and a lineup that spans modern classics to contemporary musicals, we’re opening our doors to everyone. This season isn’t just about showcasing incredible stories; it’s about making theatre as accessible and inviting as a cozy night at home with Netflix.

I also couldn’t be more thrilled to work alongside the brilliant Tim Stimpson, whose deep connection with The Archers brings an authenticity to Haywire. Having the invaluable support of Jeremy Howe, the editor of The Archers, and the BBC, is a true privilege, and I’m deeply grateful for their trust in the Barn Theatre in telling this story. This production is a labour of love, a celebration of one of the world’s most enduring and cherished dramas. It’s an honour to bring this story to life for audiences and pay tribute to 75 years of laughter, heartache, and community woven into the fabric of British culture”

The Barn Theatre is an award-winning producing-house in the heart of the Cotswolds, on a mission to inspire communities and champion the power of storytelling.

The Barn Theatre is also delighted to announce that Howden, one of the UK’s leading insurance brokers, as the official sponsor of the 2025 season.

As proud sponsors of the British & Irish Lions rugby team, Howden has demonstrated a strong commitment to championing British culture across a range of sectors. Their support of the Barn Theatre’s ‘GET HOOKED ON THEATRE’ campaign highlights their dedication to fostering creativity and enriching communities through the arts.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Howden as the official sponsor of our 2025 Season,” continues Iwan Lewis, “Their support enables us to continue creating world-class productions while engaging and inspiring new audiences.”

Client Director, Howden, George Seatter said of their sponsorship:

“I’ve seen the magic of the Barn Theatre first hand with their amazing work through the incredible ‘Built By Barn’ productions.  For Howden to sponsor the 2025 season is extremely satisfying.”

Further details for all shows to be announced.