Lorne Michaels, Crossroads Live and Sonia Friedman Productions are delighted to announce that Jennifer Ellison will play Ms Heron/Ms Norbury/Mrs George in selected cities in the 2026/2027 UK and Ireland tour of the award-winning MEAN GIRLS THE MUSICAL.
Jennier Ellison will perform in Bristol, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Wimbledon, Birmingham, Southampton and Newcastle.
As previously announced, Faye Tozer will play Ms Heron/Ms Norbury/Mrs George in Canterbury, Blackpool, Dublin, Crawley, Bradford, Norwich, Nottingham and Sheffield.
Jennifer joins Emily Lane as Cady Heron, Vivian Panka as Regina George, Kiara Dario as Gretchen Wieners, Sophie Pourret as Karen Smith, Georgie Buckland as Janis Sarkisian, Max Gill as Damian Hubbard, Ben Oatley as Aaron Samuels, Karim Zeroual as Kevin Ganatra and Joshua Elmore as Mr Duvall.
Charlie Barnard, Rebekah Bryant, Michael Dean-Wilson, Savannah Ffrench, Fergie Fraser, Thomas Gotobed, Jenny Huxley-Golden, Trisha Kumar, Sadie Levett, Arjun Mudahar, Jessie Odeleye, Stefanos Petri, Charlotte Pourret, Jack Rose, Tori Louise Ryan, Lillia Squires, Jayd’n Tyrone and Chay Wills complete the company.
Jennifer Ellison’s West End credits include Singin’ In The Rain at the Palace Theatre, Boeing Boeing at The Comedy Theatre, and Roxie Hart in Chicago at the Adelphi Theatre, Cambridge Theatre, as well as on a UK Tour and for the 10th Anniversary Gala. Her other theatre credits include UK Tours of Greatest Days, Legally Blonde, Calendar Girls, and a UK Arena Tour of The War Of The Worlds. Jennier’s television credits include Brookside for Channel 4, G’Wed, The Commander: Abduction, The Brief, and The Bill, all for ITV, and Hotel Babylon, The Nativity, and New Street Law, all for the BBC. Her other television credits include SAS Who Dares Wins for Channel 4, Dancing On Ice for ITV, for which she was a semi-finalist and performed on the National Tour, Hell’s Kitchen, which she won, With a Little Help From My Friends for ITV, and appearing as a judge on Dirty Dancing – Time of your Life and as a frequent guest on the ITV daytime show Loose Women. Jennifer also fronted the UK version of the hit US series Dance Moms for the Lifetime channel which followed Jennifer at her very own dance school and college Jelli Studios. Jennier’s film include playing Meg Giry in Phantom of the Opera for Warner Bros, and Tracey in The Cottage.
Meet The Plastics – Regina, Gretchen and Karen. They rule North Shore High and will burn anyone who gets in their way. Home-schooled Cady Heron may think she knows a thing or two about survival of the fittest thanks to her zoologist parents, but high school is a whole new level of savage. When Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a queen bee without getting stung. Expect iconic characters, razor-sharp wit, and killer songs.
MEAN GIRLS, the smash-hit musical comedy based on the iconic Paramount Pictures film of the same name, had its first West End performance at the Savoy Theatre on 5 June 2024, where it was seen by over 330,000 people and played until 8 June 2025. MEAN GIRLS recently took home the coveted ‘Best New Musical’ award at the 2025 WhatsOnStage Awards.
MEAN GIRLS had its world premiere in 2017 at the National Theatre in Washington, D.C and opened on Broadway in April 2018 at the August Wilson Theatre to ecstatic responses, where it played to packed houses. The show then went on a hugely successful US tour in 2019 and recently completed a second US tour. In addition, in 2024, Paramount Pictures released a new twist on the fan-favourite film from the comedic mind of Tina Fey with a fresh and fun re-telling of the story featuring sensational musical performances.
The musical MEAN GIRLS has a book by Tina Fey, music and vocal arrangements by Jeff Richmond, lyrics by Nell Benjamin, direction and choreography by Casey Nicholaw, scenic design by Scott Pask, costume design by Katrina Lindsay, lighting design by Kenneth Posner, sound design by Brian Ronan, hair design by Josh Marquette, musical supervision/vocal, dance, incidental and additional music arrangements by Mary-Mitchell Campbell, orchestrations by John Clancy, dance and incidental music arrangements by Glen Kelly and casting by Natalie Gallacher CDG for Pippa Ailion and Natalie Gallacher Casting.
Producers Kevin McCollum & Lucas McMahon and Mike Lavoie & Carlee Briglia are delighted to announce that Lolly Adefope will make her West End debut as Mary Todd Lincoln in OH, MARY! atthe Trafalgar Theatre. Lolly will play a 10-week season from 28 September until 5 December 2026.
The Olivier and Tony Award-winning smash hit comedy OH, MARY! is now booking until 2 January 2027.
BAFTA-nominee Lolly Adefope is a British actress, best known for her role in hit British sitcom Ghosts, created by the team behind Horrible Histories. The critically acclaimed sitcom ran for 5 seasons, has been nominated for 2 BAFTAs and picked up the Broadcast Press Guild Award for Best Comedy in 2024. Ghosts will return for a final outing as a feature film, Ghosts: The Possession of Button House, releasing in October. Most recently, Lolly starred opposite Himesh Patel and Richard E. Grant in HBO superhero satire The Franchise, a role for which she earned a BAFTA nomination for Female Performance in a Comedy. She will also soon be seen in Apple TV’s Prodigies, opposite Will Sharpe and Ayo Edebiri. Lolly was named as one of Vanity Fair’s Rising Stars of 2025. Previous to this, Lolly has had a variety of roles in notable television series, such as Hulu’s hit feminist comedy Shrill alongside Aidy Bryant, as well as This Time With Alan Partridge, Netflix’s Black Mirror, and TBS’s Miracle Workers. Lolly has also appeared in iconic British comedies such as Motherland, Lovesick, and Stath Lets Flats. Lolly has also appeared on the big screen in blockbusters such as Thea Sharrock’s Wicked Little Letters and Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn. Having also had a successful comedy career, Lolly performed her first solo show at Edinburgh Fringe in 2015, and was named one of The Guardian’s Rising Stars of 2017. She has appeared on Taskmaster, and has had guest appearances on The Last Leg, 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown and QI.
OH, MARY! currently stars Cole Escola as Mary Todd Lincoln, Giles Terera as Mary’s Husband, Dino Fetscher as Mary’s Teacher, Kate O’Donnell as Mary’s Chaperone and Oliver Stockley as Mary’s Husband’s Assistant.
From 17 August until 26 September, Jinkx Monsoon will play Mary Todd Lincoln, alongside Scott Karim as Mary’s Husband, Dino Fetscher as Mary’s Teacher, Kate O’Donnell as Mary’s Chaperone and Oliver Stockley as Mary’s Husband’s Assistant.
Full casting for 28 September onwards is to be announced.
OH, MARY! is a dark comedy about a miserable, suffocated Mary Todd Lincoln in the weeks leading up to Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Unrequited yearning, alcoholism, and suppressed desires abound in this 80-minute one-act play that finally examines the forgotten life and dreams of Mrs. Lincoln, through the lens of an idiot (playwright Cole Escola).
Declared “one of the best comedies in years” by The New York Times, OH, MARY! received Tony® Awards for Best Leading Actor in a Play (Cole Escola) and Best Direction of a Play (Sam Pinkleton), Drama League Awards for Outstanding Play and Outstanding Direction of a Play, as well as a special citation from the New York Drama Critics’ Circle. It was named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
OH, MARY! premiered off-Broadway at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in January 2024, before a Broadway transfer to the Lyceum Theatre in July 2024, where it broke box office records and continues to play to sold out audiences. It had its West End premiere at Trafalgar Theatre on 3 December 2025, where it has also broken Box Office records, and won Best Entertainment or Comedy Play at this year’s Olivier Awards. This Autumn, OH, MARY! will also launch a US National Tour.
In addition to ColeEscola (Writer) and SamPinkleton (Director), the full creative team includes dots (Scenic Designer), Holly Pierson (Costume Designer), Cha See (Lighting Designer), Daniel Kluger (Sound Design and Music), Drew Levy (Sound Designer), Leah J. Loukas (Wig Designer), David Dabbon (Arrangements) with Casting by Stuart Burt CDG. Associate creatives include Georgie Rankcom (Associate Director), Zoë Hurwitz (Scenic), Debo Andrews (Costume), Tom Turner (Lighting), Chris Reid (Sound), Kim Kasim (Wigs), Caitlin Morgan (Music Direction), Eleanor Dolan (Costume Supervisor), and Marcus Hall (Props Supervisor).
OH, MARY! is produced in the West End by Kevin McCollum & Lucas McMahon and Mike Lavoie & Carlee Briglia with Bob Boyett, The Council, Jean Doumanian Productions, Nicole Eisenberg, Jay Marcus & George Strus, Irony Point, Richard Batchelder/Bradley Reynolds, Tyler Mount/Tommy Doyle, Nelson & Tao, Palomares & Rosenberg, ShowTown Productions, Jamie Wilson Productions and Wessex Grove.
The Executive producers of OH, MARY! at Trafalgar Theatre are Wessex Grove
Nottingham Royal Concert Hall – until Saturday 15 August 2026
Reviewed by Louise Ford
3***
It’s all about the pies
When I was asked to review Waitress I was pleased as I do love a musical but I was also puzzled as I hadn’t heard of this particular one. This is a bit surprising as Waitress is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and has received a whole host of nominations both in the America and in the UK. It was the first Broadway musical created by an all female team. It was originally a book written by Jesse Nelson, which was turned into a film, with the script written by Adrienne Shelly. The rights were snapped up and the story was turned into a musical. The songs were written by singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles and the script by playwright Paula Vogel. So quite a gap in my musicals’ knowledge.
So onto the show. The story centres around three waitresses and a busy diner. There’s Jenna (Carrie Hope Fletcher), Becky (Sandra Marvin) and Dawn (Evelyn Hoskins), three waitresses who all have man trouble of one sort or another. They are an all female team of solidarity who support each other whilst delivering pies and coffee to the diners. The diner set is amazing (Scott Pask) it effortlessly moves from the kitchen, where Jenna is creating her magical pies to the front of house where most of the action takes place. In the background there’s a backdrop of a road leading out of town towards a vast horizon.
The diner is owned by the cranky Joe (Les Dennis), with his specific meal order (cream on a separate plate), who turns out to be a fairy godfather at the end. The diner is managed by the short tempered Cal (Dan O’Brien), the waitresses, not surprisingly, run rings round him.
Whilst I loved the setting and the live band, on stage, I struggled a bit to understand the lyrics. The balance between the singers and the lyrics did not seem quite right. This improved in the second half, maybe my hearing had adjusted accordingly. The first half seemed confusing, busy, lively and a bit improbable. I couldn’t quite believe in the romance between Jenna and Dr Pomatter (Dan Partridge). The plot isn’t difficult to follow it just seemed a bit unlikely. The mix of kitchen sink drama and magical baking (sugar), didn’t always gel, for me. Also there are a lot of songs but none of them are particularly memorable.
Having said all of the above the acting and the singing is first class. The last two songs delivered by Jenna (She Used to be Me and Everything Changes) really captured the audience and had them on their feet.
So take a slice of marshmallow mermaid pie and a cup of thick black coffee, down to the Royal Concert Hall and see what you think for yourselves.
MOONLIGHT FLICKS OPEN AIR CINEMA, STORYHOUSE IN THE PARK, CHESTER – UNTIL 31ST AUGUST 2026
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
5*****
I went to Moonlight Flicks Open Air Cinema to watch Mamma Mia! —the first of six films this season—and honestly, I wasn’t quite prepared for how much I was going to love it. Picture this: a huge inflatable screen, a very British blanket of cloud overhead (but thankfully not a single drop of rain!), and that unmistakable buzz of people settling in for a night that already feels a bit special before the film even starts.
It was my first time, so I went in curious… and came out wondering why I haven’t been doing this every summer of my life.
Like Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, it’s not just about the show —it’s about the whole experience. There’s something so lovely about watching everyone arrive, juggling blankets, snacks, and chairs like it’s a competitive sport. Some people had hired chairs, others came fully prepared with their own, and a few (clearly the seasoned pros) had brought what can only be described as deluxe blanket nests. Once everyone settles, you can feel this warm, happy buzz ripple through the crowd.
And the food? Don’t even get me started. People were tucking into fresh wood-fired pizzas like it was a festival, drinks in hand, all very relaxed and “we’ve got nowhere else to be.” There’s even a bar, and you can pre-order everything—which feels incredibly organised for something that also involves sitting in a field watching ABBA under the stars.
One of the best bits is the headset system. Everyone gets their own, you can adjust the volume, and it somehow makes the whole thing feel both communal and personal at the same time. Although… I’ll admit, I did take mine off at one point. Not because of the sound quality—but because I could hear the audience softly singing along to the songs, and it was too good to miss.
And by the end? “Softly singing” had very much turned into full-on standing, dancing, belting-it-out-with-no-shame energy. Mamma Mia! was the perfect choice to kick things off—a proper feel-good, sing-your-heart-out kind of film that had everyone completely swept up in the moment.
I went expecting a nice evening. I left with a big smile, slightly hoarse from singing (no regrets), and already planning my next visit—this time with the family. Because honestly, this isn’t just a cinema trip… it’s a whole memory waiting to happen.
Producer Brian Fenty is delighted to announce the principal cast of the 75th Anniversary UK tour of Agatha Christie’s iconic thriller and the world’s longest running play, The Mousetrap. The tour will begin in Birmingham on 3 September 2026, running through to 2027 and visiting over 25 cities across the UK.
The UK tour welcomes new Director Hannah Chissick who, together with Casting Director Denise Silvey, have assembled a world-class cast as The Mousetrap enters its 75th anniversary.
Joining the cast are Emily Laing (One Life) as Mollie Ralston, Jack Hardwick (The Bodyguard UK tour) as Giles Ralston, Thomas Barrett (Summer Folk, National Theatre) as Christopher Wren, Clare Duffy (Pipe Dream, Union Theatre) as Miss Casewell, James Peake (The Invisible Man, Eastbourne Theatres) as Mr Paravicini and Alfie Richards (The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe, UK tour) as Detective Sergeant Trotter.
They join previously announced Nicholas Bailey (EastEnders) as Major Metcalf and Susan Penhaligon (A Fine Romance) as Mrs Boyle.
SOLVE THEATRE’S MOST FAMOUS MYSTERY.
Since 1952, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has captivated the world with silent clues, shifting shadows and the best-kept secret in theatre history. Now, the record-breaking classic embarks on its 75th Anniversary tour across the UK and Ireland.
A shocking murder rattles London. Far from the chaos,in a remote guesthouse seven strangers seek refuge. But when a police detective battles through a deadly snowstorm with a warning no one expects, it becomes clear the threat is already within their walls.
Every whisper hides a clue. Every story masks a lie. And as suspicion tightens its grip, one question chills the room: who among them is capable of murder?
Step into Monkswell Manor and solve the great British murder mystery that has kept the world guessing for generations.
THE MANOR AWAITS.
Earlier this year the play celebrated its 30,000th performance in the West End and was presented with a Guinness World Records certificate for the record title of longest theatrical run. The genre-defining murder mystery opened in 1952 and continues to enthral audiences at London’s St Martin’s Theatre, now booking into its 75th year in 2027.
The tour is directedby Hannah Chissick with lighting design by Nic Farman, casting by Denise Silvey, and resident director Myles Brown.
OLIVER AWARD WINNING LAYTON WILLIAMS ANNOUNCES LAYTON LIVE UK TOUR FOR 2027
Olivier Award winner and Tony Award nominee Layton Williams will embark on a brand-new nationwide tour with LAYTON LIVE, a spectacular evening of music, dance and storytelling celebrating his extraordinary career on stage and screen. Tickets go on pre-sale from Monday 10th August 2026, with general sale opening on Tuesday 11th August 2026.
Marking the upcoming 20th anniversary of his professional stage debut, LAYTON LIVE takes audiences on a whistle-stop musical journey through Layton’s remarkable career – from his breakout performance in Billy Elliot to his acclaimed turn in Titanique, with stops at Cabaret, Hairspray, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, the Bad Education classroom and even the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom.
LAYTON LIVE will tour the UK from 23 February to 4 April 2027, visiting more than 20 towns and cities including Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Birmingham, Cardiff and Sheffield, before culminating in a major London performance at the Adelphi Theatre on Sunday 4 April 2027.
Backed by a company of exceptional performers, the show promises unforgettable behind-the-scenes stories, powerhouse vocals, spectacular choreography and many of the iconic songs and moments that have defined Layton’s career. With a strictly limited run of performances, audiences are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.
Born in Bury, Greater Manchester, Layton Williams began his professional career at just 12 years old in the title role of Billy Elliot in the West End. Since then, he has become one of the UK’s most celebrated musical theatre performers.
His stage credits include Titanique (Criterion Theatre), Cabaret (Playhouse Theatre), Everybody’s Talking About Jamie(Apollo Theatre), Kiss Me, Kate (Sheffield Crucible), Hairspray (UK Tour), Rent (The Other Palace), Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man and Lord of the Flies, Thriller Live (Lyric Theatre) and Billy Elliot (Victoria Palace Theatre).
Layton’s television and film work includes Bad Education (BBC), People We Meet on Vacation (Netflix), Strictly Come Dancing(BBC), I Hate Suzie (HBO), I Kissed A Boy (BBC), The Cleaner (BBC), Murder, They Hope (BBC), Benidorm(ITV), School for Stars(CBBC) and Beautiful People (BBC). This year he also makes his Netflix series debut as stylist Onassis in Geek Girl.
Beyond performing, Layton is the director of Pros From The Shows, which delivers professional performing arts experiences for young people through his acclaimed “Slay Clubs”. He is also a passionate advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
His accolades include three Black British Theatre Awards, a WhatsOnStage Award, the Olivier Award for Titanique in the West End, and a Tony Award nomination for the show’s Broadway transfer. Before embarking on the LAYTON LIVE tour, Layton will appear as King Herod in Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar.
LAYTON LIVE is a joyful celebration of two decades of one of British entertainment’s most dynamic performers, combining show-stopping musical numbers with the humour, honesty and charisma that have made Layton a favourite with audiences across theatre, television and beyond.
LISTINGS:
FEBRUARY 2027
Tuesday 23rd February NEWBURY CORN EXCHANGE
Wednesday 24th February HARROGATE ROYAL CONCERT HALL
Just two weeks ago, the young company of British Youth Music Theatre had only just met. In that brief time, they created a show, developed their characters, and shaped it into a strong, entertaining production.
Written by Joe Venable, who also provided the lyrics, with music composed and additional lyrics by Samuel MacDonald. Steve Elias directs the production.
Technical Difficulties is set in a senior school theatre, where a student production will count towards the cast’s end-of-year grades. From the very beginning, things start to go wrong.
The stage is fitted with a state-of-the-art safety curtain, brought to life through Sam Levy’s clever lighting design. Once activated, it becomes electrified, preventing anyone from passing through it.
When the curtain cannot be switched off, the students are separated from the backstage crew and cast, creating confusion, tension, and conflict.
As disagreements grow, sabotage is at play. Someone seems determined to stop the production from going ahead. The students must find out who is responsible, overcome the chaos, and decide whether they can still put on the show and earn the grades they deserve.
The choreography by DKFASH was performed confidently by the company and worked well alongside the singing and acting to create an enjoyable production.
The band, under musical director Josh Sood, was excellent. Together with the strong singing from the company, the music helped bring the script to life.
British Youth Music Theatre gives young people the opportunity to perform in a professional production on a professional stage. The entire company gave their all, delivering an excellent show that was warmly received and clearly enjoyed by the audience.
Bringing The Silence of the Lambs to the stage is no small feat, and this production delivers a striking, psychologically driven interpretation that shows clear promise. It approaches Harris’ world with a strong visual identity and a keen sense of why the story endures, reframing its themes of power, gender, and violence for a contemporary audience. The result is a thoughtful and unsettling retelling that commands attention, even as some elements still feel ripe for deeper development. Based on Thomas Harris’ 1988 novel and the 1991 film, Gina Gionfriddo’s new stage adaptation opened at Curve, Leicester, ahead of a UK tour.
Clarice Starling, Mollie Gallagher, an ambitious FBI trainee, is pulled into the hunt for a serial killer known as Buffalo Bill, Sam Jackson. To track him, she must seek insight from the brilliant but imprisoned psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter, John Partridge, whose chilling intellect and psychological games force her to confront her own fears. As their uneasy alliance deepens, Clarice races against time to stop a killer before he strikes again.
Partridge delivered a solid, well-measured performance, grounding Hannibal Lecter with poise and control, but he never quite reached the calculating, quietly sinister edge that gives the character his unsettling power. The result was compelling, yet missing the sharper psychological menace that typically defines Lecter.
Mollie Gallagher looked suitable in her role as Clarice Starling but her performance fell short. The over-confident masculine strut and stance; coupled with the persistent, exaggerated hand gestures were distracting and often felt amateurish. Her accent slipped, her volume and diction were inconsistent, and the slow, fumbling “quick draw” drained tension from the closing scenes as she faces ‘Buffalo Bill’.
Sam Jackson brought an aloof, distracted energy to Jame Gumb, and that unsettling detachment made the character’s crimes feel even more despicable. His position for much of the production—perched high above Lecter’s cell—visually reinforced his isolation and the warped distance he maintains from humanity.
The supporting ensemble were excellent in their multi-roles, bringing a wide range of sharply defined characters, each with their own distinct presence. Mark Peachy added welcome flashes of light relief as the entomologist, punctuating the darker moments with well-timed humour.
The standout of the production is Michael Taylor’s set. Its industrial, grimy prison aesthetic transitions seamlessly into multiple locations, with clever touches that consistently elevate the storytelling. Lecter’s cell — doubling as an elevated platform for Gumb — creates an oppressive, claustrophobic atmosphere that anchors the entire piece. George Reeve’s visual projections are striking, heightening the drama throughout, while Carolyn Downing’s sound design and Howard Hudson’s lighting work in tandem to intensify key moments and enrich the overall experience. Props, particularly the prosthetics, are exceptional, adding a gruesome, visceral layer that deepens the production’s darker tone.
Nikolai Foster’s direction is assured and highly effective, making strong use of the staging and maintaining a tight pace throughout. His vision brings clarity and momentum, though a couple of small details missed the mark: from Starling towel-drying her supposedly “wet” hair, which was visibly dry, to an FBI agent aiming only at a staircase rather than the targets with the rest of the team.
The only significant drawback is the reduced stage space, which meant that audience members at the ends of rows occasionally missed action set further back. Combined with the minor directional slips, these moments slightly disrupted an otherwise tightly executed production design.
Overall, this is a strong production with clear potential. The design elements are exceptional and the direction largely assured, creating a compelling atmosphere throughout. With more fully developed lead performances to match the calibre of the production team, the play could evolve into a truly gripping and memorable piece of theatre.
Orange Tree Theatre (OT) today announces the full cast for their major revival of T.S. Eliot’s classic Murder in the Cathedral, presented in Richmond’s St John the Divine Church and directed by OT’s Artistic Director Tom Littler with the OT’s Community Director, Francesca Ellis. Following its run in Richmond, Murder in the Cathedral will transfer to Theatre Royal Bath.
Joining the previously announced David Suchet (Thomas Becket) are Mensah Bediako (Third Priest), Ben Caplan (Second Tempter, Second Knight), Paul Hickey (Second Priest), Jyuddah Jaymes (First Tempter, First Knight), Michael Lyle (First Priest), Nick Sampson (Third Tempter, Third Knight), Jad Sayegh (Messenger) and David Yelland (Fourth Tempter, Fourth Knight). In Richmond, the Chorus will be led by Sally Cheng, Sonya Cullingford, Chyna-Rose Frederick and Rebecca Thorn, who will then be joined in Bath by Rebecca Askew, Florence Dobson, Samantha Dorsey, Beatrice John, Yuki Sutton and Hannah Whitehouse. For the performances in Richmond, the Women of Canterbury will be played by a community ensemble.
The production opens at Richmond’s St John the Divine Churchon 19 October, with previews from 12 October and runs until 7 November before transferring to Theatre Royal Bath from 10 to 21 November.
OT’s Artistic Director, Tom Littler said today, “It’s a particular pleasure to welcome this exceptional company to join David Suchet, who leads the production as Becket. Murder in the Cathedral is one of the great achievements of twentieth century verse drama, and Eliot’s questions of conscience and power feel as urgent now as when he wrote them. I’m especially proud that our Women of Canterbury will be played by members of our community ensemble, continuing the Orange Tree’s commitment to building genuine links with the people and communities around us. This is set to be a truly special production, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.”
OT IN THE CHURCH
T.S. ELIOT’S MURDER IN THE CATHEDRAL
Directed by Tom Littler
with Francesca Ellis
Orange Tree Theatre
12 Oct – 7 Nov 2026
Theatre Royal Bath
10 – 21 November 2026
Cast: Mensah Bediako (Third Priest), Ben Caplan (Second Tempter, Second Knight), Sally Cheng (Chorus Leader), Sonya Cullingford (Chorus Leader), Chyna-Rose Frederick (Chorus Leader), Paul Hickey (Second Priest), Jyuddah Jaymes (First Tempter, First Knight), Michael Lyle (First Priest), Nick Sampson (Third Tempter, Third Knight), Jad Sayegh (Messenger), David Suchet (Thomas Becket), Rebecca Thorn (Chorus Leader), David Yelland (Fourth Tempter, Fourth Knight)
Creative team: Tom Littler (Director); Francesca Ellis (Associate Director); Rob Jones (Set Designer); Cat Fuller (Costume Designer); Peter Mumford (Lighting Designer); Max Pappenheim (Sound Designer & Associate Music Director); Michael Waldron (Music Director); Orlando Gough (Composer); Matilda James CDG (Casting Director); Lizzi Kew Ross (Movement Director); Emily Chase (Casting Assistant); Flora Emily Thomson (Assistant Director); Zoë Thomas-Webb (Associate Costume Designer).
For good or ill, let the wheel turn.
1170. A nation divided. Once the best of friends, King Henry II and his Archbishop, Thomas Becket, are now mortal enemies. Ignoring his allies’ fears, Becket, the ‘turbulent priest’, returns to Canterbury, tempting the monarch’s wrath. As the women of Canterbury seek shelter in the sacred space of the cathedral, four knights ride out on a deadly mission.
The only question: who will blink first?
T.S. Eliot’s 1936 verse drama is one of his crowning achievements. In it, he explores questions that haunt his writing: of worldly and spiritual authority; faith and doubt; temptation and martyrdom.
David Suchet returns to theatre to play Thomas Becket. Besides his iconic role as Hercule Poirot, the Emmy Award-winning Suchet’s five-decade stage career includes Amadeus, Oleanna, and All My Sons. OT Artistic and Community Directors Tom Littler and Francesca Ellis unite a top-flight professional cast with a community ensemble to stage a sweeping drama filled with live music by Orlando Gough.
Murder in the Cathedral is generously supported by Linda Christmas.
Mensah Bediako plays Third Priest. His theatre credits include Kubulaya – Away From Home (Roots Mbili Theatre), Miss Myrtle’s Garden (Bush Theatre), On the Ropes, The View From Nowhere (Park Theatre), Driving Miss Daisy (Barn Theatre), Much Ado About Nothing (RSC), Invisible Me (Bloomsbury Festival), Oedipus (UK tour), Master Harold and the Boys, One Man Two Guvnors (National Theatre), Clybourne Park (Wyndham’s Theatre), The Water Engine (The Old Vic), Piaf (Donmar Warehouse), and Tobias and the Angel (Young Vic Theatre). His television credits include Death in Paradise, Y Swn, Romantic Getaway, Andor, In the Long Run, and Chasing Shadows; and for film, Flavia De Luce, Area Boy, Wonder Woman, and Baseline.
Ben Caplan plays Second Tempter and Second Knight. His theatre credits include Sunny Afternoon, The Exorcist (UK tours), Faygele, Sherlock Carol (Marylebone Theatre), Redlands (Chichester Festival Theatre), Macbeth, The Merchant of Venice (Globe Theatre), The End of the Day (Park Theatre), The Winter’s Tale (RSC), Describe the Night (Hampstead Theatre), The Knowledge (Charing Cross Theatre), Abigail’s Party (Theatre Royal Bath, UK tour), Hedda Gabler (Sailsbury Playhouse), Hotel Play, Seven Jewish Children (Royal Court Theatre), The Common Pursuit (Menier Chocolate Factory), The Glass Menagerie (Young Vic), Two Thousand Years (National Theatre), and Everything is Illuminated (Soho Theatre). His television credits include Call The Midwife as series regular PC Peter Noakes, Pierre, Ink Black Heart, Lagging, Small Axe, Silent Witness, Midsummer Murders, Maigret, X Company, The Coroner, New Blood, The Lost Honour of Christopher Jeffries, Whitechapel, Dark Matters, The Runaway, Trinity, The Passion, Maxwell, The Candidate, Judge John Deed, Dwarfs, Band of Brothers, A Touch of Frost, Solider Soldier, and The Perfect Blue; and for film, Jay Kelly, Golda, Pretty Red Dress, The Commuter, Leap Year and RocknRolla.
Paul Hickey returns to the Orange Tree to play Second Priest – he previously appeared in Little Light. His theatre credits include Reykjavik (Hampstead Theatre), Brokeback Mountain (Soho Place), Macbeth, The Deep Blue Sea (Royal Exchange Theatre), Waste, Children of the Sun, Peer Gynt, Romeo and Juliet, Playboy of the Western World (National Theatre), Who Cares, O Go My Man, Fewer Emergencies (Royal Court Theatre), Incognito (Live Theatre, Newcastle), The Last Yankee (The Coronet Theatre), Fred’s Diner, Wallenstein (Chichester Festival Theatre), In the Next Room (Ustinov Studio Bath), Ghosts (Arcola Theatre), Fall (Traverse Theatre), Protestants (Soho Theatre), Aristocrats, The Plough and the Stars, The Silver Tassie, Howling Moon Silent Sons (Abbey Theatre), Dealer’s Choice, My Night with Reg (Birmingham Rep), The Merchant of Venice (RSC), In a Little World of Our Own, Pentecost, Halloween Nights, Pentecost (Donmar Warehouse), Drink, Dance, Laugh, Lie (Bush Theatre), Red Roses and Petrol, and Lady Windermere’s Fan (Tricycle Theatre). His television credits include Grace, Hijack, House of the Dragon, Angela Black, Red Rock, Catherine the Great, The Last Czars, Three Girls, Critical, Whitechapel, Sunshine, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, Nuremberg: Nazis on Trial, Friends and Crocodiles, Murder City, Rebel Heart, Father Ted, The Informant, and The Governor; and for film, Professor and the Madman, War Machine, Bitter Harvest, 100 Streets, Noble, The Devil’s Harvest, On the Edge, When the Sky Falls, Nora, Ordinary Decent Criminal, Saving Private Ryan, The General, Quando, The American, The Matchmaker, and Michael Collins.
Jyuddah Jaymes plays First Tempter and First Knight. His theatre credits include Sherlock Holmes (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), Delay, Choir Boy (Bristol Old Vic), Twelfth Night (Young Vic Theatre), The American Clock (The Old Vic), 1883 (Shoreditch Town Hall), and Romeo and Juliet (Almeida Theatre). His television credits include Amadeus,Clique, Brassic, Django, Grantchester, Sanditon, and Hijack; and for film, Fight or Flight, Hard Truths, The Boys in the Boat, Criminal and The End of It.
Michael Lyle plays First Priest. His theatre credits include Twelfth Night, A Christmas Carol (RSC), The Mousetrap, The History Boys (UK tours), Amadeus (National Theatre), The Game of Love and Chance (Arcola Theatre), Season’s Greetings (Stephen Joseph Theatre, New Vic Theatre), No Villain (Trafalgar Studios), A Super Happy Story About Feeling Super Sad (Hull Truck Theatre), Screwface (Bush Theatre), Belle: Rapid Write Response, The Sexual Awaking of Peter Mayo (Theatre503), Home Theatre (Theatre Royal Stratford East), Talking to Alice (Greenwich Theatre), This One Goes Out to All My Motherf*ckers Back Home (Soho Theatre), Sweet Love Remember’d (Shakespeare’s Globe), For the Best (Unicorn Theatre), and Lord of the Flies (Watford Palace). His television credits include The Sandman and The Last Hours of Laura K; and for film, My Grandson Charlotte, Number One Fan, New World, and Nuryan.
Nick Sampson plays Third Tempter and Third Knight. His theatre credits include Richard II, La Belle Sauvage, The Book of Dust (Bridge Theatre), The Unfriend (Wyndham’s Theatre), Horse Play (Riverside Studios), Plenty (Chichester Festival Theatre), and Antony and Cleopatra (National Theatre). His television credits include Dirty Business, Brian and Margaret, I Jack Wright, The Gold, Sister Boniface Mysteries, Belgravia, Catastrophe, Doc Martin, Witness for the Prosecution, Genius, and Home Fires.
Jad Sayegh plays Messenger. His theatre credits include Plays from Palestine (Royal Court Theatre), A Very Clownless Show (Playhouse East), A Brief Play About Rage (The Cockpit), The Glass Menagerie (The Yard Theatre), and The Ocean and the Star (The Space U.K. Edinburgh).
Emmy Award-winning David Suchet returns to theatre to play Thomas Becket. His theatre credits include The Prince (Wyndham’s Theatre), Peter Pan (Bristol Hippodrome), The Importance of Being Earnest (Vaudeville Theatre), The Last Confession (International tour), Long Day’s Journey Into Night, All My Sons (Apollo Theatre), Complicit (The Old Vic), The Last Confession (Chichester Festival Theatre, Theatre Royal Haymarket), Once in a Lifetime (National Theatre), Amadeus (The Old Vic, Music Box Theatre, Ahmanson Theatre), Oleanna (Royal Court Theatre) and Othello (RSC). His television credits include Agatha Christie’s Poirot. The Au Pair, His Dark Materials, Press, Urban Myths: The Dali and The Cooper, Capitaine Marleau, Decline and Fall, Doctor Who, Peter Pan Goes Wrong, Hidden, Richard II, Great Expectations, Going Postal, Diverted, Maxwell, Flood, Dracula, A Bear Names Winnie, Henry VIII, George Carman QC, The Way We Live Now, NCS (National Crime Squad), Victoria and Albert, Soloman, Seesaw, Moses, The Curious, The Cruel Train, Separation, The Life of Agatha Christie, Secret Agent, and Kings and Castles; and for film, American Assassin, Mercy, Effie, The Bank Job, Act of God, Foolproof, Live From Baghdad, The In-Laws, Sabotage, Wing Commander, A Perfect Murder, Sunday, Executive Decision, Deadly Voyage, The Lucona Affair, When The Whales Came, Bigfoot & The Hendersons, A World Apart, To Kill A Priest, The Last Innocent Man, Crime Of Honour, Iron Eagle, Murrow, Falcon & The Snowman, Gulag, and Greystroke: The Legend of Tarzan.
David Yelland plays The Fourth Tempter and Fourth Knight. His theatre credits include And Then There Were None (UK tour), Farm Hall, All Our Children (Jermyn Street Theatre), The Habit of Art (National Theatre), Witness for the Prosecution (London County Hall), The Winter’s Tale (Globe Theatre), Taken at Midnight (Chichester Festival Theatre, Theatre Royal Haymarket), An Ideal Husband, Mrs Warren’s Profession (Gate Theatre), For King and Country (Southwark Playhouse Borough), Nicholas Nickleby (Chichester Festival Theatre), Troilus and Cressida (RSC), Man and Boy (Duchess Theatre), and Henry IV (Donmar Warehouse). His television credits include The Outlaws, The Diplomat, Father Brown, Endeavour, Reg, The Crown, Poirot as series regular George, Foyle’s War, Bones, Spooks, Law and Order: UK, Mystery!, Waking the Dead, The Line of Beauty, Rocket Man, Bad Girls, Love Soup, Strauss Dynasty, The Bretts, A Little Princess, Nancy Astor, Secret Army, Rumpole of the Bailey, and David Copperfield; and for film, Happy Ending, Hunter Killer, Coriolanus, Private Peaceful, and Chariots of Fire.
Sally Cheng returns to the Orange Tree – she previously appeared in this summer’s open-air Loves Labour’s Lost / Much Ado About Nothing.Her other theatre credits include My Neighbour Totoro (Gillian Lynne Theatre), The Sound of Music (Pitlochry Festival Theatre), Twelfth Night (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), The Wizard of Oz (The Watermill Theatre), Tony! The Tony Blair Rock Opera (Leicester Square Theatre), Richard II (Guildford Shakespeare Company), Twelfth Night, A Christmas Carol (RSC) The Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 and 3/4 – The Musical (The Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch), The Play that Goes Wrong (Duchess Theatre), A Christmas Carol, A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Scoot Theatre), The Wind in the Willows, For Services Rendered (Jermyn Street Theatre), The Last of the Pelican Daughters (Bristol Old Vic), A Christmas Carol, The Emperor and the Nightingale (Theatre by the Lake), Shadowlands (Chichester Festival Theatre), Macbeth (Watermill Theatre), Robin Hood (Orange Tree Theatre), Footprints on the Moon (Finborough Theatre), and Singin’ In the Rain (Bolton Octagon, Salisbury Playhouse, New Vic Theatre).
Sonya Cullingford’s theatre credits include The BFG, West Side Story (RSC), Ballet Shoes, Hex (National Theatre), May Contain Food, Vestige (The Place), 101 Dalmatians (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), Baal (Bristol Old Vic), Elizabeth (Barbican), The Wind in the Willows (The Royal Ballet and Opera, Vaudeville Theatre), The Indian Queen (English National Opera), The Drowned Man: A Hollywood Fable (Temple Studios), and Secret Cinema: The Red Shoes (Tabacco Docks). Her television credits include Capturing Lee Miller, Blast, and Egon Schiele: Dangerous Desires; and for film, The Survivor, In the Trap, The Mummy, The Danish Girl and Les Misérables.
Rebecca Thorn’s theatre credits include Elektra (Duke of York’s Theatre), Macbeth (Shakespeare’s Globe), The Devil’s Disciple, and Fair Ladies at a Game of Poem Cards (National Theatre).
Chyna-Rose Frederick’s theatre credits include Clueless The Musical (Trafalgar Theatre), Pericles (RSC), The Crucible (National Theatre); and for film, Matilda.
Rebecca Askew’s theatre credits include Eyam (Shakespeare’s Globe), As You Like It (National Theatre), Peter Pan (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), Tongue-Tied (Linbury Theatre ROH), Critical Mass (Almeida Theatre), Tall Stories, Hotel (international tours), Here All Night (The Coronet Theatre, On the Beach Brighton), Dart’s Love, Jilted (Riverside Studios), Flam (Tron Theatre, International tour), Breathe (The North Wall Arts Centre Oxford), Goalmouth (The Glasshouse International Centre for Music), and In Their Own Words (Quarterhouse, Folkestone).
Florence Dobson’s theatre credits include Anna Karenina (Chichester Festival Theatre), The Invention (Hampstead Theatre), A Mirror (Trafalgar Theatre), Cold Threats (London Performance Studios), and This Might Stranger (The Bread and Roses Theatre). Her television credits include Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story and Compulsion; and for film, Blitz.
Samantha Dorsey’s theatre credits include I Wish My Life Were Like a Musical (Gilded Balloon, Edinburgh), High School Rebellion, The Bells and The Barricades (The Crazy Coqs), Les Misérables (Sondheim Theatre), Jekyll & Hyde (The English Theatre, Frankfurt), and Anything Goes (Upstairs at the Gatehouse).
Beatrice John’s theatre credits include As You Like It, Twelfth Night, A Christmas Carol andDick Whittington (UK tours).
Yuki Sutton’s theatre credits include The Baddies (UK and Ireland tour), Billie the Kid (Vaudeville Theatre), Ride (Charing Cross Theatre), Tokyo Rose (Southwark Playhouse, UK tour), Sam Wu is Not Afraid of Ghosts (Polka Theatre), and The Poison Belt (Jermyn Street Theatre). Her television credits include Theodosia and Ruby Speaking.
Hannah Whitehouse’s theatre credits include Tim Rice: My Life in Musicals (UK tour).
Relaxed and distanced performance: Tuesday 11 August at 7:30pm
Audio described performance: Wednesday 19 August at 7:30pm
Saturday Seminar: Saturday 11 August at 11:00am
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
Thomas’s College, TW10 6JW
1 August – 22 August 2026
Gala Fundraiser: Thursday 13 August at 7:30pm
OT Under 30 Afternoon: Saturday 15 August at 2:30pm
Relaxed and distanced performance: Wednesday 12 August at 7:30pm
Audio described performance: Tuesday 18 August at 7:30pm
Saturday Seminar: Saturday 11 August at 11:00am
a small and quiet light
21 September – 24 October 2026
OT Under 30 Night: Friday 2 October at 8pm
Audio Described Performance: Wednesday 14 October at 8pm
Captioned Performance: Tuesday 20 October at 8pm
Relaxed and Distanced Performance: Tuesday 13 October at 8pm
Saturday Seminar: Saturday 10 October at 11:00am
T.S. ELIOT’S MURDER IN THE CATHEDRAL
St John the Divine Church, TW9 2NA
12 October – 7 November 2026
OT Under 30 Night: Friday 30 October at 7:30pm
Relaxed and distanced performance: Wednesday 28 October at 7:30pm
Audio described performance: Wednesday 4 November at 7:30pm
Saturday Seminar: Saturday 31 October at 11:00am
ABOUT THE ORANGE TREE THEATRE We are a local theatre with a global reputation.
A show at the Orange Tree is close-up magic: live, entertaining, unmissable. We’re an intimate theatre with the audience wrapped around the stage. We believe in celebrating what it means to be human. We believe in putting people at the centre of the stories we tell. And we believe in the power of a writer’s words, an actor’s voice, and an audience’s imagination to transport us to other worlds and other lives.
We punch above our weight to create world-class productions of new and contemporary drama, revitalise classics and re-discoveries, and introduce children and young people to the magic of theatre.
We are deeply rooted in our local community in South West London. We work with thousands of people aged 0 to 100 in Richmond and beyond through participatory theatre, bringing generations together to build confidence, connection, and joy. Our groundbreaking Primary Shakespeare and Shakespeare Up Close projects pack the theatre with children and ignite a spark to last a lifetime.
We’re a registered charity (266128). With only 180 seats and no support from Arts Council England, we rely on the generosity of our audiences and donors to raise £650,000 a year. These funds support our outstanding work on stage and in the community and invest in the next generation of talent.
The Orange Tree was named Theatre of the Year at The Stage Awards in 2025.
Artistic Director Tom Littler Executive Director Julie Weston
Behind the scenes images are released today as rehearsals are well underway for the highly anticipated first UK & Ireland tour of Mrs. Doubtfire. The hit West End and Broadway comedy musical will open at the Birmingham Hippodrome with performances from 13 August before the beloved Scottish nanny packs her bag and tours throughout the UK and Ireland. Full tour schedule and tickets here: mrsdoubtfiremusical.co.uk.
Photo credit Danny Kaan
The UK and Ireland tour of Mrs. Doubtfire stars Gabriel Vick as Daniel Hillard following his acclaimed performances in the West End.
Photo credit Danny Kaan
Photo credit Danny Kaan
Gabriel is joined by Kara Lily Hayworth as Miranda Hillard, Aaliya Mai as Lydia Hillard, Ryan Pidgen as Frank Hillard, Jairus McClanahan as Andre Mayem, James Darch as Stuart Dunmire, Samuelle Durojaiye as Wanda Sellner, Carl Patrick as Mr Jolly/Judge, Kiera Haynes as Janet Lundy and Rhianne Alleyne as Flamenco Singer. Adam Colbeck-Dunn is the Alternate Daniel Hillard and will perform at certain performances.
Photo credit Danny Kaan
Mrs. Doubtfirealso introduces Charlie Banks, Alexander Beaumont, Joshua Miles and Dexter Pulling who alternate the role of Christopher Hillard and Santi Cohen, Harly Gill, Mila Isaacs and Hattie Leddington Wright who alternate the role of Natalie Hillard.
Photo credit Danny Kaan
Photo credit Danny Kaan
The cast is completed by Zac Adlam, Rhona Butler, Joshua Clayton, Abigail Eustis, Amy Louise Everett, Austin Garrett, Cruz-Troy Hunter, Nicholas Leon Jones, D’Mia Lindsay-Walker, Jordan Livesey, Michael Nelson, Lucy May Pollard, Paulo Teixeira, and Natalie Thorn.
Photo credit Danny Kaan
A hilarious and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, Mrs. Doubtfire is the musical comedy we need right now.
Photo credit Danny Kaan
Photo credit Danny Kaan
Out-of-work actor Daniel will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, Mrs. Doubtfire teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father.
Photo credit Danny Kaan
Mrs. Doubtfire has been created by a transatlantic team of award-winning artists, with Original Music and Lyrics by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick, and a Book by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell. Direction is by 4-time Tony winner Jerry Zaks, Choreography by Lorin Latarro, and Music Supervision, Arrangements & Orchestrations by Ethan Popp. Scenic Design is by David Korins, Costume Design by Catherine Zuber, Lighting Design by Philip S. Rosenberg, Sound Design by Gareth Owen, Original Hair Design by David Brian Brown, Hair and Wigs Designs by Sam Cox, Make-Up Designs by Craig Forrest-Thomas, Casting by Stuart Burt and Children’s Casting Director is Verity Naughton.
Photo credit Danny Kaan
Mrs. Doubtfire is produced by Kevin McCollum and Jamie Wilson and is presented by special arrangement with Buena Vista Theatrical.
