Month: July 2022

SOUTH PACIFIC stars Julian Ovenden as Emile de Becquealongside Gina Beck as Ensign Nellie Forbush, Rob Houchen as Lieutenant Joseph Cable, Joanna Ampil as Bloody Maryand Sera Maehara as Liat. They are joined by David Birrell as Captain George Brackett, Stephen John Davis as Commander William Harbison, Antoine Murray-Straughan as Stewpot, Charlie Waddell as Professor and Olly Christopher as Sergeant Johnson. The role of Luther Billis will now be played by Douggie McMeekin who replaces the previously announced Lee Ross. Pierce Rogan will play the role at certain performances.

The cast is completed by Iroy Abesamis, Feline Andersson, Charlotte Coggin, Annabel Edwards, Leslie Garcia Bowman, Sergio Giacomelli, Ellie Jane Grant, Josh Kiernan, Matthew Maddison, Rachel Jayne Picar, Kate Playdon, George Renshaw, Pierce Rogan, Charlotte Scott, Trezel Sergeant, Nikhil Singh Rai, James Wilkinson-Jones and Eleanor Wainwright.

The production opens at Manchester Opera House on 16 July 2022 ahead of a season at Sadler’s Wells, London from 27 July to 28 August 2022 (with a press night on 4 August 2022) followed by a limited 10-week UK and Ireland Tour visiting Dublin, Newcastle, Birmingham, Glasgow, Cardiff, Nottingham, Edinburgh, Leeds and Canterbury. Chichester’s Artistic Director Daniel Evans, will once again direct Julian, Gina, Rob, Joanna and Sera as they reprise the roles they played to enormous critical and audience acclaim at Chichester Festival Theatre in the summer of 2021. www.southpacificshow.com

This powerful love story, set on a South Pacific Island during World War ll is brought thrillingly to life with a sensational cast of over thirty and a full orchestra in this epic new five-star production directed by Chichester Festival Theatre’s Artistic Director Daniel Evans. SOUTH PACIFIC boasts one of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most memorable scores, and this much-loved Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical features songs such as “Some Enchanted Evening”, “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair” and “Bali Ha’i”.

SOUTH PACIFIC is directed by Daniel Evans, with set and costume design by Peter McKintosh, and choreography and movement direction from Ann Yee. The Musical Supervisor is Nigel Lilley, Musical Director is Cat Beveridge and new orchestration is by David Cullen, with original Broadway orchestration by Robert Russell Bennett. The lighting designer is Howard Harrison, sound designer is Paul Groothuis, video designer is Gillian Tan, additional arrangements and Happy Talk orchestration is by Theo Jamieson, casting director is Charlotte Sutton CDG and additional children’s casting by Verity Naughton.

SOUTH PACIFIC is produced by Jamie Wilson, Jonathan Church Theatre Productions and Gavin Kalin.

New Wimbledon Theatre Studio – until 10^th July 2022

Reviewed by Carly Burlinge  

5***** 

Wimbledon Studio brings you the story of The Princess and the Dragon. Isola (Charlotte Ellen) is a princess with much ambition, but her time is now to become a Queen, where she is locked up in a tower by her father waiting for the perfect suiter to take her hand in marriage. But Isola is unhappy as she wants the freedom to be able to choose in life for herself. She didn’t choose to be princess and underneath it all she feels she’s just like everyone else. During her time locked up in the tower she makes friends with Dragon (Emily Carding) who flies up daily to visit her and keep her company. Together the two form a friendship and when Dragon sees that Isola is sad and unhappy knowing that he is also very lonely. He hatches a plan to give her the freedom she so truly wants and the company and friendship that he longs for. He offers to fly her away from all the expectations, onto a new adventure with no more rules or limits to a brave new world where she can be set free. Isola jumps at the chance and jumps onto his back where he whisks her away to his cave. She soon realises that things are not so great after all and that living in a cave with a dragon who keeps telling her what to do and leaving her to go out flying, again makes her feel trapped only in another way. From the cave she can see her whole kingdom that was once hers and decides to go back and talk to her parents. She feels her story is waiting and she’s going to let her heart lead her and in order to get home, courage will come from within. Dragon on the other hand is furious she is leaving and thinks she is ungrateful as he feels he has given her the world.  

This production is about friendship and how we treat others along with the outcome and responsibilities of our actions. It was fun to watch with some great songs and adventures along the way. Full of emotions such as happiness and sadness and about finding out who you really are. 

The set was very simple but had lots to offer in small props in order to tell the story with great costumes. Because it was a small venue it just felt more personal, and the children really seemed to enjoy themselves. I especially enjoyed the fact that the children could meet the Princess and the Dragon at the end and have their photo taken, making it even more special for the little ones. All in all, a very enjoyable production that is great for kids as well as adults 

Forum Theatre – 9th July 2022.

Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau

5****

The Carpenters Story is (as the flyer announces) “a musical journey through the glittering career of pop’s most famous brother and sister duo”. And that is exactly what you get!

The stage is a minimalist affair with the band performing in front of two large photos of Richard and Karen and a large video screen where a faux Radio Presenter began by giving us some background to the show and songs, including some truly hilarious news snippets for context of the Carpenters times (you could substitute Nixon for Johnson to bring that right up to date). This was a real bonus – complimenting the on stage action but never getting in the way of the reason we were there; the songs.

Where else to start but “We’ve Only Just Begun” and what a clever move to have Karen on the screen “singing” so that we could be fooled into thinking it was her we were listening to. In fact our lead vocalist tonight, Claire Furley, was already on stage, unlit, ready to be revealed by the spotlight showing just how good (and Karen like) she is! Beyond her gorgeous voice, it was a joy to see Claire thoroughly enjoying herself and the music so much. Her beautiful smile was infectious.

Phil Aldridge, Musical Director and pianist (ably filling Richard’s shoes), has a natural humor and was a very personable host. I particularly enjoyed his personal anecdotes which show how much he loves the music we are here to celebrate.

As you would expect, the hits just kept on coming and coming. In fact, there’s so many to be squeezed in that a medley of tunes was needed, so that we could have at least a snippet of those much cherished songs. A really well thought out set list, displaying a care and attention to detail (and to the fans) that is a credit to the show

The band was top notch and was proudly presented by Phil, giving each musician a moment in the spotlight to wow us (which they did). I’ll be honest, the saxophone has never been my favourite but Lynne Walker has opened my eyes to the breathtaking beauty of the sax. She also played flute and percussion and was simply sensational!

Perhaps the highlight of the show was “I Need To Be In Love”, Karen’s favourite song, presented in its original piano and vocal version which was very moving indeed. A fitting tribute. Then, aptly “Goodbye To Love” brought the set to its very much unwelcome close – as the multiple standing ovations attested to, we could have happily gone on all night! That the performers didn’t try to look like the carpenters and kept the presentation simple was a perfect approach – this was all about the music and was all the better for it. A sheer delight from start to finish and one that I cannot wait to catch next time they are near. Truly a show to make one feel on “Top Of The World”.

The Turbine Theatre – until 7th August 2022

Reviewed by Ely King

5*****

A-Typical Rainbow – Maybes are confusing, so it’s a good job this play is a definite success!

A-Typical Rainbow is a play written, and starring, JJ Green and produced by Aria Entertainment.

The play will run at The Turbine Theatre until 7th August before hopefully being picked up to continue in a new location. This piece of theatre is extremely important and needs to be seen by as many people as possible, it has the possibility to change the theatre as we know it.

This unabashed, unapologetically authentic tale of growing up as Autistic and LGBTQ+ is both heart-warming yet heart-breaking, the way JJ has balanced the sweet and comedic moments with the hard-hitting truths of life is phenomenal.

From touching on socialising as a child, to retaining relationships as an adult, A-Typical Rainbow follows the life of ‘Boy’ as he receives his diagnosis, undergoes therapy and the life that he leads as a result of this.

As someone who is Autistic, I was both excited but also scared to see this production, I was scared that it would either be too close to home, or that it would portray Autism in a way that I didn’t relate to, but there was no need to be scared, this piece of art is one of the most true-to-life shows I have ever seen.

One memorable scene is where the Doctor turns to Boy and asks “How do you feel?” and Boy responds “I don’t” such a short piece of dialogue is so incredibly strong and meaningful – people often would rather people have no emotion at all rather than be ‘over’ emotional.

One thing that people need to know about Autism is that it is different for each individual person, whilst there are certain traits that will be more widespread or more well known, it’s not as simple as a checklist or a bingo card of symptoms, yet JJ seems to somehow cover this universal spectrum in a way that can only be described as magical.

I have never felt more ‘seen’ than I have whilst watching A-typical Rainbow. To me, this is what theatre is all about.

It is powerful, it is thought-provoking, and it is what this industry needs.

This show will spark conversations that have the power to change how the industry treats disabilities – that is how important this play is.

Director Bronagh Lagan and set designed Frankie Gerrard have worked together to create a beautiful set that is so simple yet so incredibly effective. There is a set of boxes that never leave the stage, yet there are scenes in a school, by a pond, in a bedroom and even in a circus. The was this tiny stage has been transformed deserves all of the praise.

Throughout the show, the use of projections helps to give the ‘imaginary’ scenes that extra ‘oomph’ to allude to the magic, ethereal feeling that Boy feels whilst travelling through his imagination.

Alongside JJ Green as Boy, five other cast members help bring the story to life. James Westphal, Conor Joseph, Joy Tan and Maya Manuel are all incredible in the multiple roles they play throughout the show.

Highlights are Conor’s rendition of a court judge, Joy’s portrayal of loveable Thomas, and Maya’s impeccable depiction of repellent Emily.

Let’s not forget swing Jack Chambers who has to be prepared to hop on stage at a moment’s notice to play any of the main ensemble.

Other than JJ, the only other cast member who dedicated their energy to one role is Caroline Deverill who portrays a struggling mother who is just trying to do what’s best for her son whilst balancing family life and a strained relationship.

Caroline has multiple audience-facing monologues throughout the show that are tear-jerkers and left me in awe. It shows the difficult decision a mother goes through to decide what to do and when to do it, knowing that if it goes wrong – it’s all on her.

One thing that JJ has done perfectly, though, is the complete lack of blame. Whilst there are hints of the world being cruel, and schools being useless with bullying, overall there is no ‘blame game’, the struggles that Boy goes through are not the Mother’s, Father’s or Doctor’s fault – nor are they Boy’s, thems the breaks. (If you know, you know)

Using a quote from the show “he will get overwhelmed growing up in a world that isn’t built for him” the struggles aren’t down to one individual, it’s society as a whole. Yet, if more people saw this performance, I believe attitudes would quickly begin to change.

There are a plethora of details throughout the show that are so cleverly done, from Boy’s sensitivity to sounds and scents to his preference for comfy/baggy clothes and through to the repetitive use of his comfort song.

Regardless of the scene or wardrobe choice though, Boy constantly has a lock on a chain around his neck – this is never literally explained, it is down to the audience to give it a figurative meaning.

To me, the fact it was locked after starting ABA therapy, shows how the therapy caused him to hold back and lock away his true self in order to blend into society – regardless of what it was doing to him internally. As soon as the lock was placed on him, he was unable to reach his imaginary world anymore and his creativity was stunted, to see that lock get removed at the end was an emotional moment.

The raw emotion emanating from the talented cast is palpable and you can tell just how much this show means to them.

Do not miss this show, it’s at The Turbine Theatre until 7th August and tickets are only £25!

WICKED PLAYS 6000^TH PERFORMANCE

Olivier, Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical

already the 9^th longest running West End musical in history

www.WickedTheMusical.co.uk

WICKED, the West End and Broadway musical phenomenon that tells the incredible untold story of the Witches of Oz, last night (7 July 2022) played its landmark 6000^th performance at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre.

“One of the most successful musicals of all time” (BBC News) and already the 9^th longest running West End musical in history, Wicked has now seen by more than 10 million people in London alone (and 60 million worldwide).  “The global sensation” (Independent) is the winner of more than 100 major international awards, including three Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy Award and ten theatregoer voted WhatsOnStage Awards (including ‘Best New Musical’ and three for ‘Best West End Show’).

Executive Producer (UK) Michael McCabe said: “As we reach the incredible milestone of 6000 performances, we take this opportunity to thank the remarkable team across the show, including our acting company, creatives, stage management, automation, lighting, sound, stage, wardrobe, wigs, orchestra, as well as all the management, venue and Box Office staff, whose professionalism and tireless dedication keeps the show running.

And to the more than 10 million people who have now seen Wicked in London, we offer our deepest gratitude.”

Wicked currently stars: Lucie Jones (Elphaba), Helen Woolf (Glinda), Ryan Reid (Fiyero), Sophie-Louise Dann (Madame Morrible), Gary Wilmot (The Wizard), Carina Gillespie (Nessarose), Nicholas McLean (Boq), Simeon Truby (Doctor Dillamond), Amy Webb (Standby for Elphaba), Lisa-Anne Wood (Standby for Glinda), Yuki Abe, Kofi Aidoo-Appiah, Meg Astin, Alishia-Marie Blake, Pàje Campbell, Grace Chapman*, Michael Colbourne, Fergus Dale, Nolan Edwards, Nicola Espallardo, Danny Fogarty, Laura Harrison, Amie Hibbert, Lucie Horsfall, Samuel How, Christian Knight, Nick Len, Jasmine Leung, Maggie Lynne, Rhidian Marc, PaddyJoe Martin, Jessica-Alice McCluskey, Stacey McGuire, Harry Mills, Lewis Newton, Natalie Spriggs, Samantha Thomas, Joe Thompson-Oubari and James Titchener.

* Maternity cover for Maggie Lynne.  Cast subject to change.

Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked imagines a beguiling backstory and future possibilities to the lives of L. Frank Baum’s beloved characters from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and reveals the decisions and events that shape the destinies of two unlikely university friends on their journey to becoming Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

Wicked has music and lyrics by multi-Oscar, Golden Globe and Grammy Award winner Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Pippin, The Prince of Egypt, Disney’s Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Enchanted and its forthcoming sequel Disenchanted). It is based on the bestselling novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire and written by Emmy and Tony Award nominee Winnie Holzman, creator of the landmark American television series My So-Called Life. Musical staging is by Tony Award-winner Wayne Cilento with direction by two-time Tony Award-winner Joe Mantello.

Wicked is produced by Marc Platt, Universal Stage Productions, The Araca Group, Jon B. Platt and David Stone. Executive Producer (UK) Michael McCabe.

Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire is published in the UK by Headline (the book is recommended for readers aged 16+). Wicked: The Grimmerie, a behind-the-scenes look at the musical by David Cote, is published in the UK by Hyperion.

Audience Protocols: the Apollo Victoria Theatre, owned and operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group, continues to maintain stringent public health protocols throughout the venue. For full information, please visit www.atgtickets.com/help/health-and-safety/

The Apollo Victoria Theatre, Wilton Road, London, SW1V 1LG

Official UK website: www.WickedTheMusical.co.uk

Twitter: @WickedUK  |  Facebook: /WickedUK  |  Instagram: @WickedUK

The Grammy Award-winning, Platinum-certified Original Broadway Cast Recording on Decca Broadway

The Rubens at the Palace is the official hotel partner of Wicked London  www.rubenshotel.com

Old Red Lion, Islington, London – until 30 July 2022

Reviewed by Debra Stottor

3***

If you’re familiar with Franz Kafka, you’ll be aware of the themes so often present in his work: isolation, alienation, mental and physical struggle – the epitome of ‘Kafkaesque’. Acclaimed German director Gabriele Jakobi’s adaptation of this Kafka short story homes in on all these themes, and adds animal rights into the mix.

An ape is captured during a hunting expedition in West Africa, bundled into a tiny crate and sent to Europe on a ship. Nicknamed ‘Red Peter’ because of his facial injuries, he is taunted and abused by his captors throughout the journey. He needs to survive and to do so, Red Peter learns to mimic the ship’s crew and their language from his cage – including less savoury behaviour such as spitting, smoking a pipe and drinking. By evolving to behave like a human being, Peter devises his escape and ultimately reaches civilisation. The play is his retelling of his life story and transformation to a leading Scientific Academy.

The details of the treatment he endured on board ship are not spared, but more fascinating is how he learns to imitate the humans around him by observation, and how he becomes socialised by ‘apeing’ their behaviour, and therefore of a scientific novelty.

Robert McNamara as Red Peter holds the audience’s attention, a slightly menacing presence as he paces across the stage, tapping his walking cane loudly as he goes and making just enough eye contact to make you feel uneasy.

This one-man play may be just an hour long, but it’s packed with talking points: man playing god, free will, slavery, socialisation, animal rights. The transformation of Red Peter from ape to man shows us the immense potential of animals combined with the worst cruelties of humans, and will leave you questioning whether we humans really are superior.

Report to an Academy was first staged in 2014 in Washington DC, and toured Europe soon after. This production is by Scena, of which McNamara is artistic director. The company brings the best international plays to Washington DC, stimulates cultural exchange between local and international artists, and nurtures original material for the stage; it occupies a unique position on the edges of modern drama.

This is a thought-provoking show, one that will keep you thinking well beyond your journey home.

Sunderland Empire, Sunderland – until 15th July 2022

Reviewed by Stee Leahy

5*****

If ever there were a perfect show, this is it!

Mamma Mia at the Sunderland Empire was theatrical gold. Led by the incredibly talented Sara Poyzer as Donna Sheridan, this feel good ABBA packed musical had everyone captivated, entertained and singing along from start to finish. 

The story follows Sophie, played superbly in this performance by understudy Phoebe Roberts as she invites her three potential fathers – Bill, Harry and Sam to her wedding on a remote Greek island. Phil Corbitt, Daniel Crowder and Richard Standing brought Sophie’s three dads to life perfectly. Each bringing something a little different to the show, and like Sophie, the audience loved each of them.

When mother of Sophie, Donna discovers her three old lovers in her home, comedy, chaos and old feelings start to resurface. 

Helping Donna navigated her emotions on the run up to her daughters big day are her two best friends, Rosie and Tanya – played by the insatiable Nicky Swift and Helen Anker respectively. Both ladies provide comic relief in all the right places. 

The simple yet very effective set and lighting transports you to Greece instantly! 

This really is an ensemble piece of theatre and each and every cast member played their part in bringing this show to life. 

The vocals from this cast are nothing less than perfection across the board. Crisp, clear and beautifully sung. I do however believe a special shout-out is in order for Sara Poyzer’s rendition of ‘The Winner Takes It All’. The end note was absolutely electric. 

The choreography by Anthony Van Laast was utterly brilliant, perfect!

Every single musical number in this show was an ABBA classic and the audience were left feeling nothing but comfort and feel-good energy. 

I can not recommend MAMMA MIA at the Sunderland Empire enough.

WELCOME TO BRADFORD THEATRES’
ASTOUNDING AUTUMN SEASON 2022

Bradford Theatres are delighted to announce the Autumn 2022 season which is packed with musicals, dance, music and top names in comedy and entertainment.

Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres says:
“It’s been wonderful to see so many of you continuing to visit our venues over the last few months. We’re now looking forward to our autumn season, which is bursting with entertaining and exciting events.

There’s an array of top quality shows on offer for everybody to enjoy during the autumn months. We start with a new production of My Fair Lady which opens the season at the Alhambra Theatre in September. This is followed by a range of brand-new musicals, much-loved favourites, world-class dance, the best in stand-up comedy, intimate evening talks, music and more!

I’m really delighted that our annual pantomime is back again this year – Jack & The Beanstalk – which will be packed with music, special effects and audience participation. This is a highlight of the year and promises to provide much laughter over the festive season.”

September
Festival of The Dead’s Rock Orchestra by Candlelight – Sunday 4 September 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Undr the Cosh – Wednesday 7 September 7.30pm, St George’s Hall. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. May contain some swearing
One Night of Elvis starring Lee ‘Memphis’ King – Friday 9 September 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
All Together Now Community Choirs – Times Like These – Saturday 10 September 7pm, St George’s Hall
Adele – The Journey So Far – Saturday 10 September 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Sinderella Drag Panto – Sunday 11 September 8pm, St George’s Hall. Age guidance: 13+
Mark Watson This Can’t Be It? Thursday 15 September 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley. Age guidance: 14+
What’s Love Got To Do With It? Thursday 15 September 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

Friendsical – Friday 16 – Saturday 17 September, St George’s Hall
Friendsical is an original and unique new parody musical inspired by the gang in Friends, the iconic TV show.

My Fair Lady – Thursday 22 September – Sunday 2 October, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Wed 28 Sep 7pm, Audio Described: Thu 29 Sep 2pm, Captioned: Fri 30 Sep 7pm
This sumptuous production, featuring over 30 members of cast on stage and a full orchestra, is the first major revival of Lerner & Loewe’s much-loved musical on tour for over 15 years and a truly loverly way to celebrate the theatre scene back in bloom! Age guidance 6+

Dr John Cooper Clarke – I Wanna Be Yours – Wednesday 21 September 8pm, St George’s Hall
Tom Stade – The High Road – Thursday 22 September 8pm, King’s Hall Ilkley. Age guidance: 16+
Elkie Brooks – Thursday 22 September 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
90s Live! – Friday 23 September 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
The Comedy Store – Friday 23 September 8pm, King’s Hall Ilkley. Age guidance: 18+
Dawn French is a Huge Tw*t – Saturday 24 September 7.30pm, St George’s Hall. Age guidance: 14+.
SELLING FAST!
Grimethorpe Colliery Band – Sunday 25 September 3pm, St George’s Hall
I’m Still Standing The Music of Elton John with Joel Buckingham & The Jets – Saturday 24 September 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Rave On featuring The Bluejays – Sunday 25 September 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
An Evening with Lucy Worsley – Tuesday 27 September 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley. Age guidance: 14+.
SELLING FAST!
The Black Blues Brothers – Thursday 29 September 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Expect jaw-dropping balancing acts, acrobatics with fire and human pyramids as The Black Blues Brothers use every chair, table and coat rack as part of their breathtaking routines!
The Manfreds Hits, Jazz & Blues Tour 2022 – Thursday 29 September7.45pm, King’s Hall Ilkley.
SELLING FAST!

October
Luke Kempner – Macho Macho Man – Monday 3 October 7.30pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 14+
Gilbert O’Sullivan in Concert – Wednesday 5 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
The Pitmen Poets – Thursday 6 October 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
The Rat Pack Tribute Show Swingin’ at the Sands – Thursday 6 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Dick & Dom In Da Bungalow Live! – Friday 7 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Troy Hawke Sigmund Troy’d! – Saturday 8 October 8pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 18+
Milton Jones – Milton Impossible – Sunday 9 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

Mum’s The Word – Monday 10 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Leo Sayer The Show Must Go On – Tuesday 11 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
The Proclaimers – Thursday 13 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall. SELLING FAST!
Don’t Stop Believin’ The End of the Night Anthem Show – Friday 14 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Boyzlife The Old School Tour featuring Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden – Saturday 15 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo – Friday 14 & Saturday 15 October, Alhambra Theatre
Post Show Q&A, Friday 14 October with members of the company. Free to show bookers only.
Originally from New York, the Trocks are now loved world-wide for their sassy spoofs and hilarious homages to classical ballet, where 16 dancers each transform into two personas, both male and female!

Royal Shakespeare Company First Encounters Twelfth Night – Saturday 15 October 2.30pm
RSC First Encounters productions are created to give 7 – 13 year olds a fantastic first experience of Shakespeare whilst also being brilliant introductions for anyone new to his work.

Jongleurs Comedy Legends – Sunday 16 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall. Age guidance: 14+
With Mike Gunn, Ninia Benjamin, Paul Tonkinson and Jarred Christmas – four comedy legends – one hilarious night!

Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – Monday 17 – Saturday 22 October, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thu 20 Oct 7.30pm, Captioned: Fri 21 Oct 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 22 Oct 2.30pm
With stars from The London Palladium, Alexandra Burke and Jac Yarrow, the show features songs that have gone on to become pop and musical theatre classics, including Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me, There’s One More Angel In Heaven and Go, Go, Go Joseph.

Francis Foster Online Provocateur – Tuesday 18 October 7.30pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 14+
King of Pop starring Navi – Saturday 22 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Gilbert and Sullivan Savoyard Concert – Sunday 23 October 3pm, St George’s Hall
The Bootleg Sixties featuring The Overtures – Monday 24 October 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley

The Cher Show – Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 October, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thu 27 Oct 7.30pm, Captioned: Fri 28 Oct 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 29 Oct 2.30pm
Three Chers is better than one! Three West End stars play Cher telling the incredible story of her meteoric rise to fame, flying in the face of convention at every turn.

An Evening with Adam Frost – Tuesday 25 October 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley. Age guidance: 14+
Spend an evening with the award-winning British garden designer and Gardeners’ World presenter, as he shares advice and amusing stories from a lifetime in the garden.

Soweto Gospel Choir Freedom – Wednesday 26 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Ned Boulting Retour de Ned – Wednesday 26 October 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
The Magical Music of Harry Potter Live in Concert – Friday 28 October 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Glenn Moore – Saturday 29 October 8pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 14+

November
SIX – Tuesday 1 – Saturday 5 November, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thu 3 Nov 8pm, Captioned: Fri 4 Nov 6pm, Audio Described: Sat 5 Nov 4pm
From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power.
Recommended for ages 10+

Rob Auton The Crowd Show – Friday 4 November 7.30pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 14+
That’ll Be The Day – Friday 4 November 7.30pm, St George’s Hall. Age guidance: 12+ (contains adult humour)
Beth Nielsen Chapman Crazytown Tour 2022 – Sunday 6 November 8pm, King’s Hall Ilkley

Saturday Night Fever – Tuesday 8 – Saturday 12 November, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thu 10 Nov 7.30pm, Captioned: Fri 11 Nov 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 12 Nov 2.30pm
This show is a homage to the 1977 John Travolta classic film with more drama, more music, and hot new choreography which is sure to have you dancing in the aisles. Please note this show contains adult themes and strong language.

Mark Thomas Black and White – Wednesday 9 November 8pm, King’s Hall Ilkley. Age guidance: 16+
Tales From Acorn Wood – Thursday 10 & Friday 11 November, King’s Hall Ilkley
Barry Steele & Friends – Friday 11 November 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Joe Black Club Cataclysm – Friday 11 November 8pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 16+
Gladys: Midnight Train To Georgia starring Hayley Ria Christian – Saturday 12 November 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Jon Richardson The Knitwit – Sunday 13 November 8pm & Thursday 17 November 8pm EXTRA DATE ADDED, St George’s Hall. Age guidance: 14+

The Commitments – Monday 14 – Saturday 19 November, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thu 17 Nov 7.30pm, Captioned: Fri 18 Nov 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 19 Nov 2.30pm
The Commitments is the story of Jimmy Rabbitte, a young working-class music fan, who shapes an unlikely bunch of amateur musicians and friends into the finest soul band Dublin has ever produced. Recommended age 12+

Jack Carroll Walking Funny – Thursday 17 November 7.30pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 16+ Contains strong language and adult themes.
Jerry Sadowitz Not For Anyone – Friday 18 November 8pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 18+
Paul Chowdhry: Family Friendly Comedian – Monday 14 November 8pm, St George’s Hall.
Recommended age 14+

The Osmonds: A New Musical – Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 November, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thu 24 Nov 7.30pm, Captioned: Fri 25 Nov 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 26 Nov 2.30pm
The Osmonds: A New Musical tells the official story from Jay Osmond about the five brothers from Utah who were pushed into the spotlight as children and went on to create smash hits decade after decade.

Christmas with Blake – Tuesday 22 November 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Clinton Baptiste – Clinton Vs Ramone – Thursday 24 November 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley. Age guidance: 14+
Sara’s Crafting Christmas – Thursday 24 November 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Craft Your Christmas with Sara Davies is the perfect warm up for the festive break, with plenty of practical demonstrations, creative ideas and a healthy slice of Sara’s down to earth know how.
Stage 84 Presents Christmas Spectacular 2022 – Saturday 26 November 2pm & 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Orchestra of Opera North presents The Best of the West End – Sunday 27 November 4.30pm, St George’s Hall
The Fairytale of New York – Monday 28 November 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

Girl from the North Country – Tuesday 29 November – Saturday 3 December, Alhambra Theatre
Captioned: Fri 2 Dec 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 3 Dec 2.30pm
Experience the legendary songs of Bob Dylan like you’ve never heard them before, in the internationally acclaimed musical Girl from the North Country. After its premiere at London’s Old Vic Theatre and a sell-out West End season winning two Olivier Awards, this truly unique and deeply moving theatre event now comes to Bradford direct from Broadway where it has been nominated for a Grammy Award and an incredible seven Tony Awards, including Best New Musical.

December
Whitney: Queen of the Night – Friday 2 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
G4 Christmas – Wednesday 7 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Steve Steinman’s Anything For Love The Meat Loaf Story – Thursday 8 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Bootleg Beatles – Friday 9 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Great Yorkshire Chorus Christmas Spectacular – Saturday 10 December 7.15pm, St George’s Hall
Justin Moorhouse Stretch & Think – Saturday 10 December 8pm, The Studio. Age guidance: 14+

Jack and The Beanstalk – Saturday 10 December 2022 – Sunday 22 January 2023, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thu 15 Dec 2pm & Sun 15 Jan 5pm, Audio Described: Thu 5 Jan 2pm & 7.15pm, Captioned: Sun 8 Jan 5pm, Relaxed: Tue 10 Jan 6pm. Fe-fi-fo-fum, a giant of a panto your way comes! Starring Bradford panto legend Billy Pearce as Farmer Billy, Emmerdale star and King of the Jungle Danny Miller as Jack
and Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK runner-up Divina De Campo as The Spirit of the Beans, this magical adventure follows our hero Jack, who along with his family, fights to outwit the evil giant and win riches beyond his wildest dreams.

Kate Rusby at Christmas – Wednesday 14 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
80s Live! – Thursday 15 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
The George Michael Story – Thursday 15 December 7.45pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Brighouse & Rastrick Band Christmas Concert – Friday 16 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
The Comedy Store – Friday 16 December 8pm, King’s Hall Ilkley. Age guidance: 18+
The Drifters – Saturday 17 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

East 17 Stay Another Day Christmas Tour 2022 – Wednesday 21 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
With special guests S Club All Stars and Blazin’ Squad
Orchestra of Opera North presents The Snowman & The Nutcracker – Sunday 18 December 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

To book for all of these shows please contact the Box Office on 01274 432000
or visit our website: bradford-theatres.co.uk (Booking fees apply)

Theatre Royal Concert Hall Nottingham – until Saturday 9 July 2022

Reviewed by Amarjeet Singh

5*****

I knew I was in for a treat when the delightful ladies serving me pre-show drinks were bristling with excitement and overflowing with a multitude of accolades for Singin’ in the Rain.

Originally a masterpiece of American cinema, Singin’ in the Rain is often regarded as one of the best films of all time, receiving two Academy Award nominations and featuring on countless ‘Best Of’ lists ever since. Set to the infectious MGM score including the melodies “Make ‘em Laugh” and “Singin’ in the Rain”, Jonathan Church’s acclaimed stage production is a perfect tribute to this beloved film.

Singin’ in the Rain is about the dashing, one dimensional, romantic/ swashbuckling silent film star and matinee idol, Don Lockwood and his glamorous blonde screen partner/deplorable diva, Lina Lamont. Their movie monopoly comes to a halt with the invention of the talking picture. Studio bosses pressure the duo to change their silent romantic drama into their first sound picture. There’s only one problem, a serious problem, Lina Lamont may have screen idol looks but her voice is a shrill, screechy New York squawk that will turn audiences away in their droves. Already being outshone by other talking pictures, the studio must come up with a solution, and fast. Enter Kathy Seldon, a strong willed, outspoken, angel voiced chorus girl who not only threatens to steal the show, but also the heart of Don Lockwood. The diva in Lina Lockwood will never stand for this and what ensues is as entertaining and enthralling as what occurred in the motion picture first seen in 1952.

Sam Lips, Charlotte Gooch, Ross McLaren & Jenny Gayner are spectacular in this critically acclaimed production of Singin’ in the Rain, and along with a hugely talented ensemble cast they dazzle with colour, comedy and a tsunami of talent.

I offer no spoilers, but the way the show honors ‘Singin’ in the Rain’, the film’s most iconic musical sequence, with over 14,000 liters of water used on stage each night, its executed with flair and aplomb. With pitch perfect wit, an abundance of charm, ‘Make ‘Em Laugh’ was masterfully, if not manically performed, with amazing acrobatics and classic slapstick.

What was truly wonderful to see and experience, was how much the cast enjoyed themselves. During the final number, a rousing rendition of ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ which included the whole cast, there was a lot of playfulness and regression and some audience interaction.

It goes to show you are never too old to be splashing in puddles, to be falling in love or to be ‘Singin’ in the Rain’. This is a musical not to be missed.

Leeds Playhouse and Opera North – until 16th July 2022

Reviewed by Dawn Smallwood

5*****

Co-produced by Leeds Playhouse and Opera North, A Little Night Music, Sondheim’s musical bittersweet comedy, returns to the Leeds Playhouse after it made its debut last summer. It first opened on Broadway in 1973 and Sondheim’s music and lyrics for the musical is based on Hugh Wheeler’s book.

A Little Night Music tells or accurately unravels and reveals the stories of the complicated romantic lives and liaisons among several characters. Particularly the Armfeldt family including Madame Armfeldt, a former courtesan (Dame Josephine Barstow); Desiree, her daughter and actress (Sandra Piques Eddy) and Desiree’s daughter, Fredrika (Agatha Meehan).

The experiences begin to unfold with its aplenty show stopping musical numbers, set to Sondheim’s ingenious music and lyrics, from beginning to end and the experiences being shared aren’t exactly straight forward. In Act One, the building up of revelations intriguingly and musically build up to “The Weekend in the Country”, an invitation at Madame Armfeldt’s estate. The Quintet (Gillene Butterfield, Amy Freston, Claire Pascoe, Dean Robinson and Tim Ochala-Greenough), made up of five characters, interlude with reprises and waltzes, during the story’s progression in the Acts One and Two.

The musical numbers include the ever popular “Send in the Clowns” where Desiree (Piques Eddy) expresses reflectively the personal journey she is on and looks back on the affair she had with Frederick Egerman a lawyer (Quirijn de Lang), and regrets not accepting his proposal and marriage. She realises at the time there is no turning back as Frederick is in a loveless marriage with Anne, his new wife (Corinne Cowling).

Lucy Hinds’ choreography works very well with the music, singing, dancing, and performance of the talented company with the majority returning from the 2021 production. The open stage, courtesy of Madeleine Boyd, Chris Davey and Sebastian Frost, complements the staging of this production. The musical is tended successfully by Oliver Rundell, the conductor, and the orchestra of Opera North.

Under the director of James Brining, A Little Night Music, is unmissable with an excellent performance from the company who are supported by talented musicians and creators. All to be unravelled and revealed at “The Weekend in the Country”. All comedies generally end all well and with the visual paused look from Madame Armfeldt at the very end, one can acknowledge that at least some of characters’ journeys have ended as such. A fitting tribute to Sondheim!