Month: April 2022

Festival Theatre, Malvern – until Saturday 9th April 2022

Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau

4.5****

Private Lives was originally written by Noel Coward in 1930 as a vehicle for him and his close friend Gertrude Lawrence. The plot revolves around Elyot and Amanda, long since divorced, finding themselves suddenly face to face on adjoining balconies in a hotel in Deauville, much to their astonishment since they are both there honeymooning with their new respective partners. The situation spirals out of control rather rapidly over cocktails and reminiscences…

Nigel Havers plays Elyot (the part Coward played in the original run) and he could not have been more perfect. Always an attractive leading man, he seems to get more suave and elegant with age, looking right at home in this high class setting. He showed an impressive range of emotions, including jealousy and anger bursting forth in the middle of a jocular exchange. And his facial expressions showed an accomplished comic talent. A stellar performance.

Patricia Hodge (playing Amanda), likewise, is known as being a stunning, high class lady and so was the perfect lead to accompany Havers. She matched him in every respect and way (range, comedic timing etc) making them a thoroughly believable couple. I was shocked how beautiful her singing voice was; having a mellifluous tone which left me wanting more.

As you would expect from Coward, the script is quick fire, cutting and very much of its time. It reminded me of Aldous Huxley’s Crome Yellow in its fascinatingly cynical way of thinking and somewhat archaic (to our modern ears) style of conversation. That’s not to detract from the piece, indeed it was a reason to rejoice in a bygone era that is sorely lost.

The timing of the entire cast, dovetailing each line with comedic exactitude, was highly impressive. The delivery felt natural though, which I’m sure is a testament to all the wonderful actors as much as Director Christopher Luscombe’s decisive input. The first time honeymooners (Natalie Walter playing Sibyl and Dugald Bruce-Lockhart playing Victor) were excellent too, with fantastic performances from the moment they appeared to the culmination of the play when they really shone through a rather surprising, though perhaps inevitable, ending.

A special mention goes to Music Supervisor Nigel Hess for the clever use of song to draw our two main protagonists together (both in the moment and also into their shared past). A genius move and one of the highlights of this wonderful production. Indeed, music makes quite an impact throughout the work, not only in presenting a number of Coward’s own contemporary pieces but also on record (but I won’t spoil that surprise with an elaboration).

Amanda’s flat in Paris, overlooking the Champs Elysees, had an expansive (and expensive looking) grandeur that was a joy to behold. Impressive scale and oppulance from Designer Simon Higlett.

A triumphant inaugural show from The Nigel Havers Theatre Company and one of many more to come I’m sure. An auspicious start and fantastic evening’s entertainment which I highly recommend.

NEW ADVENTURES AND THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

ANNOUNCE CASTING FOR THE

MULTI-AWARD WINNING DANCE THRILLER

FOR 14 PERFORMANCES ONLY

FROM 9-19 JUNE 2022

DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY

MATTHEW BOURNE

New Adventures and the Royal Albert Hall are delighted to announce casting for Matthew Bourne’s “THE CAR MAN” reimagined in a spectacular new staging for the Royal Albert Hall’s 150th Anniversary. “THE CAR MAN” will play 14 performances only at the iconic venue from Thursday 9 – Sunday 19 June 2022.

The multi award winning, dance-thriller based on Bizet’s beloved Carmen, “THE CAR MAN” will be completely reimagined for the gladiatorial arena of the Royal Albert Hall,

adding a frisson of danger as the dancers perform throughout the auditorium amid stage designs by Olivier and Tony award-winner Lez Brotherston.

Featuring an expanded company of 65 dancers and musicians, a live orchestra and epic new designs, this will be the first time New Adventures performs a full production at this historic and world-renowned venue. The event is one of the highlights of the Royal Albert Hall’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

The title role of ‘Luca, The Car Man’, will be played by Will Bozier and Richard Winsor. Will Bozier, playing ‘Luca; for the first time, was last seen as ‘The Swan/Stranger’ in “Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake” in 2018/20 and also stars in the recent film version. Most recently, he has been featured in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Cinderella” at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.  Richard Winsor, also a former Lead Swan, has a history with “The Car Man” that goes back to his debut with New Adventures in 2001. He has played several roles within the production (including ‘Angelo’) and now returns in his debut as ‘Luca’. As well as playing a host of leading roles with New Adventures he was most recently seen as ‘Tony Manero’ at the Peacock Theatre in “Saturday Night Fever”.

The role of ‘Lana’ will be danced by Ashley Shaw and Zizi Strallen. Ashley Shaw has been a Principal performer with New Adventures since 2009 playing most of the leading roles in the repertory. She won a National Dance Award for her acclaimed portrayal as ‘Victoria Page’ in New Adventures “The Red Shoes” in 2018. Also returning to the role of ‘Lana’ is Zizi Strallen who won a National Dance Award for playing this role in 2016. Zizi is currently starring in the title role of “Mary Poppins” at The Prince Edward Theatre.

The role of ‘Angelo’ will be shared by Paris Fitzpatrick and Dominic North. Paris Fitzpatrick was most recently seen in Matthew Bourne’s newest work, “The Midnight Bell” and also created the role of ‘Romeo’ in New Adventures hit production of “Romeo and Juliet” in 2019. This will be his debut as ‘Angelo’. Dominic North, one of New Adventures most popular dancers for close to 20 years will return to the role of ‘Angelo’, a role that he also plays in the most recent film production. He was most recently seen as ‘Fritz’ in the hit production of Nutcracker!

‘Rita’, Lana’s older sister, will be performed by Kayla Collymore and Kate Lyons. Kayla Collymore will be making her Principal debut in the role of ‘Rita’ in “The Car Man”. Kayla featured in New Adventures world tour of “Swan Lake” and can currently be seen in a variety of roles in New Adventures Nutcracker! Kate Lyons returns to the role of ‘Rita’, having played her to great acclaim in the recent film version. Kate joined New Adventures in 2010 for “Cinderella” and has featured in most of the company’s repertory since that time, most recently in “The Midnight Bell’.

The role of ‘Dino’ Lana’s violent husband will be played by Alan Vincent. Alan Vincent is returning to the show in which he created the title role of ‘Luca, The Car Man’ at the shows premiere in 2000. This time he will be playing the role of ‘Dino’ following a stellar career with New Adventures that saw him play leading roles in pieces as diverse as “Play Without Words”, “Nutcracker!” and ‘The Swan’ in “Swan Lake”.

Joining them are: Jonathon Luke Baker (Franco); Benjamin Barlow Bazeley (Fabio); Alistair Beattie (Marcello); Stephanie Billers (Delores); Isaac Peter Bowry (Elio); Cordelia Braithwaite (Mercedes); Ben Brown (Ricardo); Reece Causton (Dirk); Jade Copas (Natalie); Harrison Dowzell (Rocco); Cameron Flynn (Roberto); Rose Goddard (Sophia); Glenn Graham (Bruno); Bryony Harrison (Frankie); Shoko Ito (Elisabetta); Monique Jonas (Bianca); Nicole Kabera (Gina); Kurumi Kamayachi (Silvana); Katrina Lyndon (Monica); Rory Macleod (Marco); Andrew Monaghan (Vito); Stephen Murray (Chad); Harry Ondrak-Wright (Lorenzo); Edwin Ray (Alberto); Danny Reubens (Hot Rod); Sam Salter (Raf); Gabrielle de Souza (Giulietta); Catrin Thomas (Claudia); Christopher Thomas (Ugo) and Bryony Wood (Elsa).

Full Daily Principal Casting for the Royal Albert Hall Season will be posted on Tuesday 10 May.

Matthew Bourne’s vivid storytelling combines with one of the most passionately dramatic scores ever written, with musical arrangements by Terry Davies featuring Rodion Shchedrin’s Carmen Suite (after Bizet’s Carmen), to create a dance event like no other.

The 19th Century Spanish cigarette factory becomes a greasy garage-diner in 1960s America where a small-town’s dreams are shattered by the arrival of a handsome stranger. Fuelled by heat and desire, the inhabitants are driven into an unstoppable spiral of greed, lust, betrayal and revenge.

“THE CAR MAN” is directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne, with music by Terry Davies & Rodion Shchedrin’s Carmen Suite (after Bizet’s Carmen); designs by Lez Brotherston; lighting by Chris Davey and sound by Paul Groothius. 

For more information please visit: www.new-adventures.net

Facebook /MBNewAdventures    Twitter @New_Adventures     Instagram @MBNewAdventures

IN PICTURES: leading theatre industry figures presented with 2022 Special Recognition Olivier Awards by HRH the Duchess of Cornwall at Clarence House

Yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 5 April), this year’s five Special Recognition Olivier Award recipients were presented with their awards by Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall, during an event at Clarence House celebrating their outstanding contributions to the theatre industry.

HRH the Duchess of Cornwall attended the Olivier Awards in 2019, and was recently appointed Royal Patron of the National Theatre.

Lisa Burger, Executive Director and Joint Chief Executive of the National Theatre who has been part of the theatre’s executive for the past 20 years, has been awarded for her role in expanding the theatre’s reach, forging partnerships UK-wide and playing a key part in the industry’s pandemic recovery through initiatives like NT At Home.

Designer Bob King receives an award for creating some of theatre’s most iconic and instantly recognisable visuals for hit shows in the West End over a 40-year career – including the artwork for Oliver!, Back To The Future, Frozen, Mary Poppins, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical and many more.

Gloria Louis is awarded for her trailblazing career, which began front of house at the Strand Theatre (now the Novello), progressed into theatre management and now to a role as the inclusion and diversity lead for Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, using her knowledge, passion and dedication to inspire young people from all backgrounds about theatre careers.

Also recognised is Susie Sainsbury, whose long-time philanthropy and support of the arts has made a significant difference to theatre in London and beyond. She founded The Backstage Trust to fund live arts projects and was also instrumental in the creation of the Theatre Artists Fund during the pandemic.

Influential theatre school founder Sylvia Young has been recognised for giving countless students opportunities to study performing arts and go on to prolific careers in theatre, film and TV, since she first started teaching in 1972.

Julian Bird, Chief Executive of Society of London Theatre and Executive Producer of the Olivier Awards, said:

‘The Special Recognition Olivier Awards shine a spotlight on inspirational individuals doing vital work, often behind the scenes, who have been a force for good and helped shape our industry in a wide range of ways. The five people we are honouring this year have all inspired generations of colleagues and theatre audiences, been pioneers in their fields and are hugely deserving of this long-due recognition. It is a privilege to celebrate their achievements as part of this year’s Olivier Awards.’

The Olivier Awards will take place on Sunday 10 April at the Royal Albert Hall, hosted by Jason Manford. This year will see sustainability take centre stage, with guests walking a ‘Green Carpet’ of real, reusable grass, and headline sponsor Mastercard pledging to plant a tree for every public ticket sold via Priceless.com.

The full list of nominations for the Olivier Awards 2022 with Mastercard is available here: https://officiallondontheatre.com/olivier-awards/year/olivier-awards-2022/

#OlivierAwards

Hull New Theatre – until 10th April 2022

Reviewed by Catherine McWilliams

5*****

Hull New Theatre buzzed with energy as the Queens of Six hit the stage last night, we had waited two years to see this performance and we were not disappointed.

Six was created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss to be performed by The Cambridge University Musical Theatre Society at the Edinburgh Fringe and takes the form of a pop concert with the Queens vying to be declared the Queen who had the worst experience with their husband Henry VIII. Each Queen tells their story in a bid to be declared the winner, making digs at the other Queens in a bid to score points.

At times the music was frenetic, as in the wonderfully mad “Haus of Holbein” but then it would be poignant and heart wrenching as for example Jane Seymour (Casey Al-Shaqsy) sang “Heart of Stone”. Whether solo performances or singing as a girl band, the performances were wonderful, the pace of the production was phenomenal, zipping along so fast with laugh out loud moments as the Queens sniped at each other or commented on their husband. Gabriella Slade’s fabulous costumes added to the experience, each suiting the character of their Queen perfectly. The set design by Emma Bailey was deceptively simple and Tim Deiling’s lighting design helped create the pop concert experience.

It would be wrong to single out a Queen for praise, as even when they were singing a solo piece this was very much an ensemble piece, safe to say the vocals were outstanding. Chlöe Hart (Catherine of Aragon), Jennifer Caldwell (Anne Boleyn), Casey Al-Shaqsy (Jane Seymour), Aiesha Naomi Pease (Anna of Cleves), Jaina Brock-Patel (Katherine Howard) and Alana M Robinson (Catherine Parr) you rocked and you ruled that stage!

The band aka “Ladies In Waiting” were on stage throughout the performance and were absolutely superb.

What I didn’t expect was to come away from the theatre having learnt something new, but I learnt more about the Queens at Six then I ever did in history at school! Six will also make you realise that the Queens had no control over their lives and that what we know about them is very much from a male perspective.

Six has no interval, which makes perfect sense as to stop it would break the energy of the performance. It is also short at 80 minutes, and I would have happily watched more but the stories were told and, in a sense, it reflects their lives which were short too.

Six is vibrant, fun and full of sassy women and fabulous music. It’s a cracking night out and if you get the chance you should go to the court of Six to be regally entertained.

“MAMMA MIA!”

CELEBRATES ITS 23^RD BIRTHDAY IN LONDON &

ANNOUNCES NEW BOOKING PERIOD

TO SUNDAY 5 MARCH 2023

AT LONDON’S NOVELLO THEATRE

Producer Judy Craymer is delighted to announce, on the day that the global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! celebrates its 23^rd birthday in London, the extension of its booking period to Sunday 5 March 2023 at London’s Novello Theatre, with tickets now on sale.

Judy Craymer said, “When we opened the show back in 1999, I never imagined we’d still be here 23 years later!  It shows the love the public hold for this feelgood musical set on a sunny Greek island.  It is joyous and positive – something we all need right now.  MAMMA MIA! is the original Girl Power musical about four amazing, strong females – and with a creative team to match!” 

The London cast stars Mazz Murray as Donna, Josie Benson as Tanya, Gemma Goggin as Rosie, Richard Trinder as Sam, Neil Moors as Harry, Stephen Beckett as Bill, Emma Mullen as Sophie, Jack Danson as Sky, Tegan Bannister as Ali, Sophie Matthew as Lisa, Michael Nelson as Eddie and Alexandros Beshonges as Pepper, with Natalie Langston playing the role of Donna at certain performances.

Also in the cast are Natasha Agnew, Chloe Ames, Gemma Atkins, Chloe-Jo Byrnes, Nicole Carlisle, Angus Good, Natalie Jayne Hall, Lauren Hampton, James Humpleman, Morgan Jackson, Frankie Jones, Grace Moorhouse, Jodie Nolan, Dan O’Brien, George Olney, Michael Storrs, Kyle Turner, Michael Tyler, Simon Willmont and Alex Woodward.  

Since premiering in London in 1999, the irresistible feelgood musical has captured the hearts of millions around the globe.  The sunny, funny tale of a mother, a daughter and three possible dads on a Greek island idyll, all unfolding to the magic of ABBA’s timeless pop masterpieces, has now been seen live on stage by 65 million people across the world and turned into two record-breaking movies – MAMMA MIA! The Movie and MAMMA MIA! Here We Go Again.

To date, MAMMA MIA! has been seen in 50 productions in 16 different languages grossing more than $4 billion at the box office.  In 2011, it became the first Western musical ever to be staged in Mandarin in the People’s Republic of China.   

MAMMA MIA! originally opened in London at the Prince Edward Theatre on 6 April 1999, before transferring to the Prince of Wales Theatre in 2004, and then to the Novello Theatre in 2012.  The London production of MAMMA MIA! has been seen by over 10 million people, played over 9,000 performances and has broken box office records in all three of its London homes.  

Produced by Judy Craymer, MAMMA MIA! The Movie became the highest grossing live action musical film of all time upon its release in 2008.  A second film, MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN, opened in July 2018 and is the most successful live musical movie sequel of all time.

With music & lyrics by Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus, MAMMA MIA! is written by Catherine Johnson, directed by Phyllida Lloyd and choreographed by Anthony Van Laast. The production is designed by Mark Thompson, with lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Andrew Bruce & Bobby Aitken, and musical supervision, additional material & arrangements by Martin Koch.

MAMMA MIA! is produced by Judy Craymer, Richard East & Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Novello Theatre

Aldwych

London WC2B 4LD

Ticket Prices: from £17.50*

*All prices include a £2.50 per ticket booking fee and £1.50 restoration levy

Early Bird Pricing – anyone booking four months or more in advance of the performance they are attending (Monday to Thursday performances only) will save £20 on Band A and Premium tickets, but only through Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, either online or by calling the Novello Theatre Box Office.

Performance Times:

Monday, Wednesdays – Saturdays 7.30pm

Matinees – Thursdays & Saturdays 3.00pm, Sundays 2.30pm*

*extra 3pm matinee on Monday 3 October 2022 & Monday 2 January 2023; extra 3pm matinee on Wednesday 3 & 17 August & 26 October 2022 & on Wednesday 15 February 2023; no matinee on Thursday 6 October 2022 or Thursday 5 January 2023; no performance on Sunday 9 October 2022

Christmas 2022/23 Performance Schedule

Monday 19 December                    3.00pm and 7.30pm

Tuesday 20 December                   NO PERFORMANCE

Wednesday 21 December             7.30pm

Thursday 22 December                 3.00pm and 7.30pm                      

Friday 23 December                       3.00pm and 7.30pm

Saturday 24 December                  NO PERFORMANCE

Sunday 25 December                    NO PERFORMANCE

Monday 26 December                    7.30pm

Tuesday 27 December                   7.30pm

Wednesday 28 December             3.00pm and 7.30pm

Thursday 29 December                 3.00pm and 7.30pm                      

Friday 30 December                       7.30pm

Saturday 31 December                  2.30pm and 7.00pm (please note earlier times)

Sunday 1 January 2023                NO PERFORMANCE

Currently booking to 5 March 2023

The performance lasts 2 hours and 35 minutes (including a 15-minute interval)

Box Office: 0844 482 5151

http://www.mamma-mia.com/

http://www.facebook.com/mammamiamusical

http://twitter.com/MammaMiaMusical  

Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge – until Saturday 9th April 2022

Reviewed by Steph Lott

5*****

Peter Travers sits in his lovely living room, a gift in his hand, checking the time and waiting for someone. That someone is his wife Laura and they are going to be late for a dinner party. The couple are meeting old friends to celebrate a fabulous business deal. Then Laura, without warning, announces that she’s not going, her life is empty and that she has nothing other than a coffin to look forward to.

An Hour and a Half Late, written by Gerald Sibleyras with Jean Dell, adapted and directed by Belinda Lang, explores the marriage of Peter (played by Griff Rhys Jones) and Laura (played by Janie Dee).

When Laura refuses to go to dinner, the bickering and Peter’s cajoling descends into an existential argument about their domestic life together; their children, jobs, and possible affairs. All the while, Peter has still not given up hope that if he can get Linda through this crisis, they still might make dinner! Ninety minutes later, they’ve worked through her problem; but they’ve destroyed their Farrow and Ball painted living room, reinvented their sex life using separate rooms and squeaky floorboards, and got mayonnaise on the cushions.

I loved watching Griff Rhys Jones in action in this role. Peter is a bit annoying with his never-ending witty jabs at his wife, and his refusal to really listen to her. But Rhys Jones delivers these pot-shots with superb pace and timing and the development of the argument into a contemplation of their marriage is very natural and I think struck a chord with many in the audience. Janie Dee’s Laura is more than a match for him; she returns Peter’s jibes in kind with her hostile and petty retorts to his jokes. The pair respond each other with ease, and their effortless interaction makes the show enjoyable. The couple’s genuine love and affection is very clear. Griff Rhys Jones and Janie Dee act very well together as a couple and carry the performance with emotion and realism. It never gets too serious, but neither is it glib or trivial. You like them and care what happens.

I think there are themes this play explores which are very familiar to anyone who has been married or in a long term relationship. The words one knows to use to hurt. The subjects that have never been addressed because life gets in the way. Decisions which are taken in good faith which have unintended consequences. There is good balance struck in the play; giving a nod towards the profound, potentially sad and existential, with a witty and clever dialogue that keeps the audience chuckling all the way through.

An Hour and a Half Late is a very well-crafted attempt to explore the issues that fester in long term relationships; life, death, tidiness and the meaning of it all with two characters, ostensibly no real problems and only 90 minutes on the clock.

I found this play very funny and judging by the chuckles around me, so did the rest of the audience. I think there are conversations and arguments that are very familiar and hilarious because of that familiarity.

Pleasance Theatre Trust announce more shows
to delight audiences this summer

The second official on-sale for Pleasance at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe brings theatre, comedy, children’s shows and music from bold, inventive creatives around the world. With a brilliant mix of highly anticipated debut shows, returning award winners showcasing new work and innovative artists trying something that little bit different, this unmissable programme has something for everyone.

True stories are often at the heart of new writing in theatre and this year is no exception: a story of grit, love and danger, Tiger Lady introduces us to Mabel Stark – the queen of the Circus and the only woman to step into the ring with seven tigers! Today I Killed My Very First Bird is a pacey, powerful and heartbreakingly authentic exploration of hope and despair. Lived experience is combined with immersive sound and bold storytelling, compellingly presented by Theatre Royal Plymouth. In Deaf Ears, a poignant and captivating solo show, therapist and Child of Deaf Adults (CODA) Joe Friedman explores what it is like growing up when your parents cannot hear.

Politics and societal expectations provide fascinating material for exciting writers. Rob Ward (Gypsy Queen, Away From Home) returns to the Fringe with The MP, Aunty Mandy & Me, a bittersweet tale of political campaigns, sexual consent and steam trains. Gut-wrenching, exhilarating new writing from Fringe First and Stage Award winner Luke Wright, The Remains of Logan Dankworth sees Logan faced with the looming EU referendum. An unmissable new play from Offie-Award nominee Sam Potter, Unicorn, follows a young woman trying to find a balance between her sexuality and what society expects of her.

Comedic elements bring us theatre filled with belly laughs. A dreamlike comedy Who Here’s Lost? is about what we value as we go along and how we present it to others, from Herald Angel Award winner Ben Moor (The Queen’s Gambit, IT Crowd). Mischief Theatre presents Charlie Russell Aims To Please, a hilarious and heart-warming show that hits as many solo Fringe show tropes and styles as possible within an hour.

Much theatrical inspiration comes from the world of cinema; back after five sold-out Fringe seasons, Trainspotting Live is the acclaimed immersive adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s classic, staged in a bespoke venue unique to the show. The world premiere stage adaptation, inspired by the sequel to the cult classic Trainspotting, Irvine Welsh’s PORNO is set to be disturbing, shocking and extremely funny. Wes Anderson meets Hitchcock meets Spaghetti Western in this fast-paced, raucously funny and endlessly inventive OFFIE-nominated whodunnit in The Man Who Thought He Knew Too Much, with live, original music and virtuosic acrobatics from LET/Greenwich Award winners 2020.

The programme offers up phenomenal diversity of styles this year: fresh from wowing crowds opening for The Libertines and John Cooper Clarke, Luke Wright serves up banger after banger at the hottest late-night show in town – rock ‘n’ roll poetry at its visceral best in Luke Wright’s Late Night Dance Floor Fillers (poems). A worldwide sensation from Montreal to Beijing, the two exceptional drummers Fills Monkey are back with an exhilarating new show We Will Drum You, fusing musical styles from Rock and Heavy Metal to Latin and Jazz. Also programmed is the Edinburgh-based Scottish/African choir Shona the Musical Choir. These supremely talented artists are inspired by historical events around the Shona tribe in Africa and socio-political turmoil of Robert Mugabe’s rule of Zimbabwe; their incredible vocals were first seen at the Edinburgh International Festival in 2021.

There’s also family fun at the Pleasance this summer. From award-winning Covid researcher Professor Tom Solomon CBE who brought you Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Medicine, COVID for Kids follows the adventures of Corry the Coronavirus who causes chaos and misery until controlled by the Science Superheroes. Magic Gareth returns to the Courtyard with Magic Gareth’s Magic Eye – expect some kick-ass, eye-bending magic and a whole load of nonsense (and balloons) in this brandnew show for ages 4+. World record-breaking beatboxer SK Shlomo makes mad music with his mouth in SK Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids. He returns on his mission to empower the next generation of superstar beatboxers to find their true voice, no matter who they are!

With lots of shows already announced from the comedy programme, there are still many incredible comedians to pack into the programme. If comedy equals tragedy plus time, then boy, Sarah Keyworth’s Lost Boy is going to be good! You’ve seen her recently on Live At The Apollo, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Dark Horse (Comedy Special) on Amazon Prime Video, and many more. A show about the hair we want, the friends we have, and living the vast difference between virus and viral, expect frank and funny stand-up from Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer nominee Sindhu Vee. Sophie Duker, the sexy baby from Taskmaster and Best Newcomer Nominee 2019 is all grown up, and she’s back in her sparkling new stand-up show.

The Pleasance programme is excitingly packed full of brilliant comedians making their debut hours this summer: Join Sikisa for an epic house party and highly anticipated show – as seen and heard on Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club (ITV), Stand Up Sketch Show (ITV2) and The Off-Menu podcast. In this UK premiere, South Africa’s top ventriloquist Conrad Koch chats racism, apartheid and colonialism with his double international EMMY award nominated puppet friend, and South African TV star, Chester Missing. Hair is about one bizarrely life-changing haircut from musical comedy double act Shelf (who can boast over 1 million views on BBC Three). Meanwhile, rising star Rajiv Karia (Lazy Susan, BBC Three) wants to be your friend – and you really should support your friends – especially when they are doing their debut hour in Edinburgh.

Join up-and-coming Jamie D’Souza as he performs his first stand-up show, about the terrible teen emo band he was in and his first school crush. Soho Theatre’s Young Company alumnus, comedy talent and naive suburbanite Jake Farrell ponders, how far would you go for the people you love?, in his show about family, the future and Stevenage. Leicester Comedy Festival Best New Show Winner 2022 Ania Magliano tackles the stuff that matters, looking at LUSH, horse girls and buying a cat off Gumtree. No Scrubs is the highly anticipated show from BBC New Comedy Award finalist and junior doctor, Michael Akadiri, where he traverses the challenges of life within and outside the NHS. Lord Christian Brighty is the country’s most notorious rake, so prepare to swoon over TikTok’s answer to Mr Darcy (@brightybuoy). Aurie Styla (Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club (ITV)) has been looking at his own hilarious way of dealing with change and finally going GREEN (his real last name) … but what does being green actually mean?

Mind Mangler: Member of the Tragic Circles is the hilarious new comedy that will leave you gasping for breath from Mischief, the team behind Magic Goes Wrong and The Play That Goes Wrong. Mischief also step back to their roots with Mischief Movie Night, the improvised movie live on stage, where every show is different, as the audience suggest a genre, location and title.

Comedy’s miserable cheeky scamp and Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Will Duggan is returning with the weight of the world across his shoulders and some burning questions in his soul. International microstar Sean McLoughlin returns to the Fringe with his best stand-up show reminding us that the world may be a strange and scary place but life is still worth living! 2019’s Best Newcomer nominee and your favourite self-aware stand-up Helen Bauer is back with an hour about self-confidence, self-esteem and self-care. Visceral, real and achingly brave, Colin Hoult (After Life, Netflix) presents a hilarious meditation on life, death and literally everything in between in The Death of Anna Mann. After 21 years and 224 days Hal Cruttenden is back being single, but it’s all going to be fine and, instead of getting the therapy he clearly needs, he’s made a cracking show about it.

Character-comedians and IRL sisters Maddy and Marina Bye, who perform as the double-act Siblings, present a raucous hour of absurdist sketch comedy in Siblage. Watch multi-award winning impressionist Jess Robinson save the world in under an hour as she stars in Spitting Image, a brand new, musical multimedia, one-woman show.

Award-winning performer and viral YouTube sensation with 40 million+ views, Chris Turner presents his most ambitious show yet: a one-man comedy and hip-hop spectacular. Legendary magician Joz Norris has perfected the hardest magic trick of all time – making an entire audience think and blink in unison. Nothing can possibly go wrong! Cursed to return to the Fringe, multi award-winning stand-up Alasdair Beckett-King unravels life’s shallowest mysteries. Shropshire’s worst writer, Christopher Bliss (8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown) has decided to pull on his socks and sandals, comb his curtains, and leave Shropshire to bring his fifth show to the Pleasance. All aboard The Cambridge Footlights International Tour Show 2022, where we join five of the Footlights’ best comedians to swap stories and trade tales

Get Off Comedy Fundraiser aims to work to eradicate sexual harassment in the industry we love. The line up will be announced in due course, but past phenomenal acts include Russell Howard, Nish Kumar, Sara Pascoe, Daliso Chaponda, Stephen Bailey, Rachel Fairburn and Sikisa. The Pleasance Comedy Reserve is back for its 16th year at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with another four brilliant new acts (Abi Clarke, Dee Allum, Katie Green and Tadiwa Mahlunge), hand-picked by the Pleasance and supported by the Charlie Hartill Special Reserve Fund. This is your chance to discover the most exciting comedy newcomers before they become household names. The show has launch the careers of Jack Whitehall, Roisin Conaty, Joe Lycett, Jamali Maddix, Darren Harriott, Sophie Duker,
Nigel Ng and 57 others!

With more shows to be announced over the coming months, there will be comedy, theatre, circus, magic, dance, kids’ shows and much more, alongside support for some of the most innovative newcomers through artist development strand Pleasance Futures. The Pleasance should certainly be the pick of your Fringe this August.

THE SMASH HIT, SELL OUT ALMEIDA THEATRE PRODUCTION

OF MULTI AWARD-WINNING DIRECTOR

ROBERT ICKE’S

THE DOCTOR

WRITTEN BY ROBERT ICKE

VERY FREELY ADAPTED FROM PROFESSOR BERNHARDI BY ARTHUR SCHNITZLER

STARRING THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED JULIET STEVENSON

WILL TOUR FOR THREE WEEKS TO BRIGHTON, BATH AND RICHMOND

BEFORE A WEST END RUN AT THE DUKE OF YORK’S

FROM 29 SEPTEMBER – 11 DECEMBER 2022

★★★★★

The Guardian, The Telegraph, Financial Times, The Sunday Times, WhatsOnStage

★★★★

The Times, Evening Standard, The Observer, Independent, The Stage, Metro

Robert Icke’s (Animal Farm, The Wild Duck, Hamlet, Mary Stuart, Oresteia, 1984) sold- out, five-star Almeida Theatre production, The Doctor, will tour to Brighton (5-10 September), Bath (13-17 September) and Richmond (19-24 September) before transferring to the Duke of York’s Theatre from 29 September – 11 December 2022.

Olivier Award winner, Juliet Stevenson, ‘delivering one of the peak performances of the theatrical year’ (The Guardian), will reprise her role as Professor Ruth Wolff. Juliet won a Critics’ Circle Award and was nominated for an Evening Standard Award for Best Actress for her performance in this role.

Juliet Stevenson said “I am beyond thrilled that The Doctor is travelling to Brighton, Bath and Richmond and then onto the West End. So much has happened in the last two years since we first played the show – I am so excited to share these new resonances and conversations with audiences, everywhere we go. Never has this debate been more needed”

The Doctor, by Robert Icke, very freely adapted from Professor Bernhardi by Arthur Schnitzler, has been critically lauded since it opened at the Almeida in August 2019. The play headlined the Adelaide Festival in 2020, before it was due to transfer to the West End. This was delayed until 2022 due to the outbreak of Covid-19.

This is the third West End transfer for Robert Icke and Juliet Stevenson, following the critical and commercial smash-hit productions of Mary Stuart and Hamlet. She most recently voiced one of the puppets in Robert Icke’s current production of Animal Farm.

In a divisive time, in a divided nation, a society takes sides.

The latest smash-hit by “Britain’s best director” (Telegraph) is a “provocative, wonderfully upsetting” (Independent) whirlwind of gender, race and questions about identity, “one of the peaks of the theatrical year” (Guardian) and a “devastating play for today” (Financial Times). 

The production has designs by Hildegard Bechtler, lighting by Natasha Chivers, sound and composition by Tom Gibbons and casting by Julia Horan. Further casting will be announced in due course.

3800 STALLS TICKETS – PRICED AT JUST £25 will be available across the run exclusively for NHS employees and blue light workers (which includes emergency services, those who work in the social care sector and the armed forces). These tickets are available via the official box office ATG Tickets (just select the ‘NHS/Blue Light’ option whilst booking, and present one ID per transaction when you arrive).

The Doctor is produced by Ambassador Theatre Group Productions & Almeida Theatre, Gavin Kalin Productions, Sonia Friedman Productions & Wessex Grove.

MISCHIEF RETURN TO THEIR COMEDY ROOTS WITH THREE SHOWS AT THE 75^TH EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FRINGE

Mischief today announces their return to Edinburgh Festival Fringe, with three productions for 2022. The Olivier Award nominated improv show, Mischief Movie Night runs at the Pleasance at EICC (Pentland Theatre), 3 – 28 August, with full cast to be announced. Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields create a brand new comedy, Mind Mangler: Member of the Tragic Circle at Pleasance Courtyard (Beyond), 3 – 28 August; and Charlie Russell tries to make everyone happy in her new heart-warming show, Charlie Russell Aims To Please at Pleasance Courtyard (Below), 3 – 27 August.

Mischief was founded in 2008 by a group of acting graduates of LAMDA and began as an improvised comedy group performing annually at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe from 2009. This marks the company’s first month-long run back at the Festival since they presented The Play That Goes Wrong in 2013.The productionwent on to win an Olivier Award, and has since played to an audience of over two million with productions in over 30 countries. In August 2021 itbecame the longest running play at the Duchess Theatre (since the theatre opened in 1929), and is the longest running comedy in the West End.

Henry Lewis and Jonathan Sayer said today, “We’re absolutely delighted to be heading back to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe this year. The fringe is full of amazing memories for us and to be part of the 75^thanniversary with three shows, including new work is incredibly exciting.”

Charlie Russell also commented, “I’m thrilled to be able to create new work with Mischief, and to be returning to Edinburgh and sharing with festival audiences who have supported us from the beginning and helped us get to where we are now.”

MischiefEdFringe.com | MischiefComedy.com

@MischiefComedy

@TheMindMangler

CHARLIE RUSSELL AIMS TO PLEASE

Written and performed by Charlie Russell

Pleasance Courtyard (Below)

3 – 27 August at 3.15pm

Charlie Russell wants to do a show in Edinburgh, but all she can think about is what she wants people to think of it and ultimately, of her.

So rather than focusing on what she wants to say, she’s just going to create a show that will please absolutely everyone by trying to hit as many solo fringe show tropes and styles as possible within an hour. That’s doable, right? 

Charlie Russell is an actor, writer, improviser, and Creative Associate of Mischief Theatre. Charlie is an original creator and cast member of all of Mischief’s work so far, including The Play That Goes Wrong (UK tour/West End/Broadway), Peter Pan Goes Wrong (Pleasance/West End/BBC1 adaptation), The Comedy About a Bank Robbery (West End), Groan Ups (West End), Mischief Movie Night (London/UK tour) A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong (BBC1), and The Goes Wrong Show (BBC1). Charlie co-produced (as part of Mischief) the Mischief Movie Night (London/UK tour, 2017/2018). In 2019 she produced Piano_Play (Edinburgh Festival Fringe). Her other acting credits include And Then There Were None (BBC1 & Mammoth Screen).

MISCHIEF MOVIE NIGHT

Pleasance at EICC (Pentland Theatre)

3 – 28 August at 6.30pm

Starring them, directed by you, every show is different with you suggesting a genre, location and title, and Mischief hilariously bring the show to life, complete with rewinds, directors cuts, thrilling live music and DVD extras that will have you howling with laughter.

Over 100,000 households tuned in from over 45 countries to watch the live streamed version in lockdown, now see Mischief’s Olivier-nominated improv delight live on stage.

MIND MANGLER: MEMBER OF THE TRAGIC CIRCLE

By Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields

Pleasance Courtyard (Beyond)

3 – 28 August 2022 at 9.30pm

Mind Mangler returns to the stage at the 2022 Edinburgh Fringe following a reasonably good two-night run at the Luton Holiday Inn conference centre, suite 2b. His new spectacular is predicted to spiral into chaos as he attempts to read your mind.

Performed by Henry Lewis and Jonathan Sayer.

Jonathan Sayer is an Olivier Award-winning writer, actor, producer and Director of Mischief. His work has been performed in over 40 countries worldwide. Theatre credits include Mischief Movie Night In (co-creator/actor/producer – live stream), Magic Goes Wrong (writer/actor – West End/Lowry/UK Tour – Nominated for Best New Entertainment/Comedy Play – Olivier Award 2020, co-created with magicians Penn & Teller), Groan Ups (writer/actor – West End/UK tour), Mischief Movie Night (co-creator/actor/producer- West End/UK tours – nominated Best New Comedy – Olivier Award 2018), The Comedy About a Bank Robbery (writer/actor- Criterion Theatre/UK tour), Peter Pan Goes Wrong (writer/actor- UK tour/West End), The Play That Goes Wrong (actor/writer – Lyceum Theatre,Broadway/Duchess Theatre, West End/UK and international tour – Best New Comedy – Olivier Award and WhatsOnStage Award), Lights! Camera! Improvise! (actor, improviser, producer – Spirit of the Fringe Award 2013, Best Improv Show Award 2012) and Happy Birthday Simon (actor, Orange Tree Theatre). Television credits include The Goes Wrong Show (BBC1, writer/actor), Peter Pan Goes Wrong (BBC1, writer/actor/associate producer), The Royal Variety Performance: The Play That Goes Wrong (ITV, writer/actor), A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong (BBC1, writer/actor). Jonathan has also appeared in We are Most Amused and Amazed (ITV1), Keep it in the Family (ITV1), Children in Need 2020 (BBC1) and Comic Relief 2022 (BBC1). Jonathan is a trustee for Mousetrap Theatre Projects and is the co-chair of Ashton United Football Club. He is currently working on his first book.

Henry Lewis is an Olivier Award-winning writer, actor and Director of Mischief, whose work has been produced in over 40 countries worldwide. Theatre credits include Mischief Movie Night In (co-creator/actor/producer – live stream), Magic Goes Wrong (writer/actor – West End/Lowry, 2020 Olivier nominee for Best New Entertainment/Comedy Play, co-created with Penn & Teller), The Goes Wrong Show (BBC1, writer/actor), Groan Ups (West End, writer/actor), Mischief Movie Night (West End/UK tours – 2018 Olivier Award nominee for Best New Comedy), The Comedy About a Bank Robbery (West End—2017 Olivier Award nominee for Best New Comedy), The Play That Goes Wrong (writer/actor, West End/Broadway/UK and international tours —2015 Olivier Award winner of Best New Comedy and WhatsOnStage Awards 2014), Peter Pan Goes Wrong (BBC1, West End/UK tour — 2016 Olivier nominee for Best New Comedy), A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong (BBC1, writer/actor). Henry has appeared at The Royal Variety Performance (ITV1), We are Most Amused and Amazed (ITV1), Keep it in the Family (ITV1), Children in Need 2020 (BBC1) and Comic Relief 2022 (BBC1). Henry produced and performed in the critically acclaimed revival of Mercury Fur (Trafalgar Studios— Off-West End Awards nominee for Best Production), Beasts & Beauties (Hampstead Theatre) and produced the UK premiere of Tracy Letts’ Superior Donuts (Southwark Playhouse—winner of Peter Brook Empty Space Award). Henry created and founded The Mystery Agency.

Henry Shields is an Olivier award-winning writer, has been a member of Mischief Theatre since 2009 and is a Creative Associate of the company. Theatre credits include Magic Goes Wrong (writer/actor – West End/Lowry/UK Tour – Nominated for Best New Entertainment/Comedy Play – Olivier Award 2020, co-created with magicians Penn & Teller), Groan Ups (West End, writer/actor), Peter Pan Goes Wrong (writer/actor – 2016 Olivier Award nominee for Best New Comedy), The Comedy About a Bank Robbery (writer/actor), The Play That Goes Wrong (writer/actor – winner 2015 Olivier Award and WhatsOnStage Award for Best New Comedy), The Nativity Goes Wrong (writer), and The Busy Body (Southwark Playhouse). Television credits include The Goes Wrong Show (BBC1), Peter Pan Goes Wrong (BBC1), and A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong (BBC1).

Mind Mangler and Mickey are based on characters originally created in Magic Goes Wrong

by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer & Henry Shields and Penn & Teller

LISTINGS                                                                                                                                                                             

Box Office: www.pleasance.co.uk

CHARLIE RUSSELL AIMS TO PLEASE

Pleasance Courtyard (Below)

3 – 27 August (except 15 August) at 3.15pm

Tickets:

£12.50 – £14 (concessions: £10.50 – £12)

3 – 4 August: £10 (previews)

8 – 9 August: 2 for 1

MISCHIEF MOVIE NIGHT

Pleasance at EICC (Pentland Theatre)

3 – 28 August (except 15 August) at 6.30pm

Tickets:

£17 – £19.50 (concessions: £15 – £17.50)

3 – 4 August: £10 (previews)

8 – 9 August: 2 for 1

MIND MANGLER: MEMBER OF THE TRAGIC CIRCLE

Pleasance Courtyard (Beyond)

3 – 28 August (except 15 August) at 9.30pm

Tickets:

£16 – £18.50 (concessions £14 – £16.50)

3 – 4 August: £10 (previews)

8 – 9 August: 2 for 1

All Mischief shows will include access performances with dates confirmed soon. Please visit MischiefEdFringe.com for announcements. 

Leeds Grand Theatre – until 9 April 2022

5*****

A whole host of children with more talent and courage in their little fingers, than I will ever have in a lifetime, lead this fabulous production.

Based on the Jack Black film of the same name, Dewey Finn (Jake Sharp) is a rock star in his head and a waster in real life.  No job, living in the spare room of his friend Ned (Matthew Rowland) and hated by Ned’s girlfriend Patty (Nadia Violet Johnson) and thrown out of his own band.  But all of this changes when Dewey takes a phone call intended for Ned, inviting him to teach at the prestigious Horace Green Prep School.  Dewey Finn is suddenly substitute teacher Mr Schneebly and the chaos ensues.

After witnessing his class being taught to play Mozart by Principal  Rosalie Mullins (Rebecca Lock), Dewey realises he has a band and sets about changing them from classical musicians to rock stars so they can compete in Battle of the Bands.

With three sets of youngsters playing the individual roles, it’s fair to say the future of musical theatre is assured with the insane talent of these amazing child performers.  Eva McGrath, Emerson Sutton, Thomas Harvey and Isaac Forward who play Freddy; Chloe Marler, Marikit Akiwumi, Daisy Hanna and Ivy Balcombe who play Katie; Oliver Forde, Angus McDougall, David Gluhovsky and Oliver Pearce who play Lawrence;  Joseph Sheppard, Harry Churchill, Hanley Webb and William Laborde who play Zack;  Wilf Cooper, Logan Matthews and Alfie Morwood who play Billy;  Keira Laver, Florrie May Wilkinson and Saffia Layla who play Summer; Jasmine Djazel, Souparnika Nair and Angel Lucero who play Tomika; Hadlee Snow, Darmani Eboji, Devon Francis and Riotafari Gardner who play James; Lily Rose Martin, Elodie Salmon and Paris Banyong who play Marcy; Caelan Wallington, Alex Shotton and Nesim Adnan who play Mason; Kyla Robinson, Eden Anthony and Elisha Kerai who play Shonelle; Ophelia Parsons, Jemima Newman, Ava Masters and Inez Danielak who play Sophie

The grown up band (Sam Hall, Eddie Tatton, Ben Castle, Adam Smith, Dan Humphries, Gordon Wilson and Stephen Hill) led by Michael Riley are wonderful and it’s nice to see them cheering on the ultra talented youngsters

I still find it hard to equate the people who wrote The Phantom of the Opera and Downton Abbey could collaborate to write a rock musical, but the Lords have done an excellent job.  Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music and Julian Fellows book, come together with Glenn Slater’s fabulous lyrics and Laurence Connors assured direction to give us one of the best shows that I’ve reviewed in a long time.