Category: Uncategorized

Nottingham Theatre Royal – until Saturday 3 May 2025

Reviewed by Louise Ford

3***

Nothing is quite what it seems.

Before I start my review I think I should come clean on my dislike of all ”things scary”. I love the idea of thrills and suspense, but the reality is just too much. At last year’s Goose Fair I was “keen” to have a go on the waltzers, it had been a while since I’d last visited. However once in my seat, and well and truly strapped in, I couldn’t wait for the ride to end. I had my eyes firmly shut throughout and sang hymns in my head. So watching Ghost Stories was going to be a bit of a trial! Spoiler alert I did keep my eyes shut for a lot of the story Although I could feel my theatre buddy jumping at the scary scenes.

So back to the theatre. In the advertising, publicity and before the performance we are asked not to reveal any of the stories or twists. The first rule of Ghost Stories is not to talk about Ghost Stories!

After a successful West End run Ghost Stories is now on a nationwide tour. The play is written by Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman.

From the get go the theatre is set for an evening of tension and paranormal experiences.
The set  design is particularly impressive (Jon Bausor). The scenes move seamlessly between a factory, a hospital ward and a nursery. And a couple of other scenes that I won’t spoil the surprise. The use of light (Abbi Clarke) and shadow plays tricks on your eyes to create a distorted sense of space and atmosphere.

Having said that the use of light to create a distorted perspective is impressive, there are times when the lights are overly blinding.

Coupled with the clever lighting is the use of sound (Nick Manning). From the little noises from the back of the auditorium to the full blown “crash bang wallop “ sounds and the echoing silence makes for a full auditory experience. For me at times the sound was overpowering with the volume a bit too high.

The first scene is a lecture on Paranormal Events and Activities. The lecture on parapsychology is delivered by Professor Goodman (Dan Tetsell), who engages the audience from the get go with a show of hands. You are part of the story from the beginning all experiences are valued! The rest of the cast (there are only five cast members, all men) take it in turns to recount their own experiences to the Professor. On balance each character is on the whole unlikeable. There’s Tony Matthew’s (David Cardy), Simon Riffkind (Eddie Loodmer-Elliott) and Mike Priddle (Clive Mantle), all with an unusual tale to tell.  After each re-enactment the Professor reviews the “facts”and looks to evaluate if the events are evidence of paranormal activity or rather something more “rational ”. The impact of guilt and toxic masculinity are touched on, but not examined in huge detail, to explain the events. There are also some moments of humour which help to break up the tension. But hey who doesn’t love an upturned torch illuminating a face!

Yvonne Arnaud – until 3^rd May 2025

Reviewed by Heather Chalkley

5*****

Alan Bleasdale’s award winning TV series had a huge impact when it was screened in the 80’s, at the height of yuppiedom and a time when people either lived in feast or famine. How is it possible to transport that success to the stage? By bringing together a writer who lived through those times, James Graham and an inspirational director, Kate Wasserberg. The essence of the original series is laid out before you and if it’s possible, has a greater impact, hitting you solidly in the gut. 

The story of each character displays the many different facets of high unemployment and the demonisation of those out of work happening during Thatcher’s era. The Department of Employment set up to support people into work is presented as a weapon of the state, stepping over the line with tragic consequences.  

People of a certain generation remember the phrase ‘Giz a job’ with a wry smile. Jay Johnson gives a full frontal, passionate performance to Yosser, bringing tears to the eyes of many in the audience. Yosser’s struggle with mental health and break down in family relationships is laid bare by Johnson, in a bleakly humorous fashion, mostly ending with a headbutt!

Snowy (Reiss Barber) represents hope for the future, defiance and rebellion against the state. Barber brings an almost reckless, positive vibe to his character, encouraging his fellow tarmacs to see the bigger picture. His loss dashes the hopes of them all. 

Chrissie (George Caple) is a peacemaker, trying to keep it all together, almost breaking his marriage by sticking to his principles. Caple gives a natural performance, simply showing this is who Chrissie is at the core and he cannot deny it. 

The old boy George (Ged McKenna) gives context to the story and a reflection of past times, providing a gateway for each character to express their hopes and fears. McKenna gives a believable performance that we can all relate to. 

The cast represent the strong relationships that grow out of doing a physically tough job and how their whole community is tested when unemployment hits them all hard. The culture of society was inexorably changed by the decisions made by government in the 80’s, for good or for bad. This play is a lesson in social history, a powerful watch and a warning to any government making radical changes to the system.

The National Youth Music Theatre brings three extraordinary musicals to Birmingham Hippodrome this summer

The National Youth Music Theatre (NYMT) is bringing three exciting productions to Birmingham Hippodrome this August to showcase young talent and push the boundaries of music theatre.

From the vibrant energy of Fame: The Musical (Thu 7 Aug – Sat 9 Aug) to the fantastical world of Lightning Boy (Thu 21 Aug – Sat 23 Aug), a brand-new musical, and the highly anticipated UK premiere of Tuck Everlasting (Thu 14 Aug – Sat 16 Aug), this season shines a spotlight on the NYMT company.

Talent from across the nation, ranging from ages 10 to 23, will come together to showcase their skills in these groundbreaking performances. Additionally, NYMT is proud to share that it has recently welcomed a record-breaking 1,200 auditionees to its audition workshops, further highlighting the growing passion and talent among young people eager to be part of the world of music theatre.

Chris Cuming, Artistic Director at NYMT, says: “This year, as we look ahead to our 50th celebrations, we’ve chosen a theme that’s very close to our hearts at NYMT: family. Our young company members and alumni often say that being part of NYMT feels like being part of a family — and we couldn’t agree more. Through this wonderful programme of work, we’re exploring the full spectrum of family life: the good, the complicated, the challenging, and the joyful stories that shape our experiences.

“I’m incredibly proud to be bringing this programme to the brilliant city of Birmingham, and delighted to be working so closely with the Hippodrome to share our passion for new musicals — including a UK premiere and a brand-new British musical.”

This upcoming season at Birmingham Hippodrome further reinforces NYMT’s commitment to nurturing exceptional young talent, while celebrating both the rich heritage and the vibrant future of musical theatre. The strengthened partnership with the Hippodrome marks a significant milestone in NYMT’s vision: to champion fresh voices from all backgrounds and showcase the powerful role of young talent in shaping the industry of tomorrow.

Birmingham, with its thriving creative scene and strong network of cultural partners, offers an ideal base for this work. As the home of the UK’s first in-house New Musical Theatre department, the Hippodrome provides a unique platform to develop talent, while commissioning, producing, and presenting new musicals both on its stages and beyond. The first steps of this collaboration – and the possibilities for the future – underscore Birmingham’s position at the heart of the UK’s musical theatre landscape, fostering innovation and creativity in an industry that continues to evolve.

Chris Sudworth, Creative Director at Birmingham Hippodrome, says: “It’s wonderful to welcome NYMT for their first full season in the Patrick Studio at Birmingham Hippodrome. With an even clearer focus on new musicals and supporting a wider range of creative voices to progress their craft on and offstage, we’re excited for this summer’s programme and the possibilities for the future in this great city.”

Fame: The Musical follows the journey of the final class at New York City’s renowned High School for the Performing Arts, spanning their time from admission in 1980 to their graduation in 1984. With a book by Jose Fernandez, music by Steve Margoshes, and lyrics by Jacques Levy – the show brings to life the struggles, hopes, and dreams of the young artists as they tackle the challenges of prejudice, substance abuse, and the demanding world of music, dance, and drama. The on-stage version was conceived by David De Silva , with its iconic songs and unforgettable characters, enabling the NYMT company to deliver a powerful message about resilience and the pursuit of artistic passion. Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, with musical direction by Alex Bellamy and choreography by Lauren Stroud, this production is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Making its UK premiere, Tuck Everlasting brings to the stage an enchanting tale of adventure, immortality, and choice. Written by Claudia L. Dey (book and lyrics) and with a score by Chris Miller and Nathan Tysen, Tuck Everlasting follows eleven-year-old Winnie Foster, who encounters the mysterious Tuck family, who defy mortality; living for centuries due to their secret of eternal life. As she embarks on a life-changing journey with them, Winnie faces an extraordinary dilemma—whether to return to her familiar world or join the Tucks on their never-ending adventure. Directed by Richard Fitch, with musical direction by Josh Cottell and choreography by Simon Hardwick, Tuck Everlasting promises to be a beautiful exploration of life, love, and the passage of time, making its long-awaited UK debut.

Lightning Boy, written by Charlie Turner (music and lyrics) and Liv Warden (book), is an exciting new musical that blends Greek mythology with contemporary drama, following a group of teenagers who just so happen to be Greek gods. Development of new writing is at the heart of NYMT’s artistic vision – not just something they support, but something they champion. NYMT is passionate about giving space to fresh voices and ambitious ideas, and Lightning Boy is exactly that: theatrical, joyful, and unafraid to ask big questions. Directed by Kate Golledge, with musical direction and orchestrations by Lee Freeman and choreography by Aimee Leigh, this premiere production is a celebration of youth, identity, and the stories that shape us.

The following NYMT productions are at Birmingham Hippodrome on the following dates: Fame: The Musical from Thursday 7 August – Saturday 9 August, Tuck Everlasting from Thursday 14 August – Saturday 16 August and Lightning Boy from Thursday 21 August – Saturday 23 August. Tickets can be booked at www.birminghamhippodrome.com or by calling 0121 689 3000.

CORONATION STREET STAR SUE CLEAVER MAKES PANTO DEBUT IN BEAUTY AND THE BEAST AT HULL NEW THEATRE ALONGSIDE COMEDY LEGEND PAUL CHUCKLE

Coronation Street’s Sue Cleaver swaps Weatherfield for Hull this Christmas as she joins the cast of the region’s largest panto in the role of Mrs Potts in Beauty and the Beast at Hull New Theatre, her first pantomime.

Sue will be joined by Chuckle Brother and comedy legend Paul Chuckle as Mr Chuckle, Jack Land Noble as Dame Betty Bouffant and award-winning Hull comedian Jack Gleadow as Silly Billy

Sue Cleaver is perhaps best-known for playing Eileen Grimshaw in the long-running ITV soap Coronation Street, having spent 25 years on the cobbled streets of Weatherfield. Alongside her stellar TV career, Sue has toured the country as Mother Superior in Sister Act: The Musical and is a regular guest panellist on Loose Women and spent 16 days in the Jungle in the 2022 series of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here.

Paul Chuckle became a household name as part of the legendary double-act The Chuckle Brothers with his beloved brother Barry. Generations have grown up with the catchphrase “to me, to you” made famous by the brothers on the BAFTA award-winning TV show ChuckleVision, which commanded prime time viewing slots for nearly three decades. Alongside his TV work, Paul is a familiar face in theatres around the country and has appeared in numerous pantos, including Hull, over the years. When not on-stage entertaining, Paul can often be found in some of the UK’s biggest nightclubs as a popular DJ.

Returning for a fourth year is renowned actor, playwright, producer, director, musician, and singer-songwriter Jack Land Noble, Jack made his Hull pantomime debut in Jack and the Beanstalk in 2022, returning as one of the Wicked Sisters in Cinderella the following year and last year, delighting audiences once again, as Betty Barnum in Goldilocks and the Three Bears.

Hull’s very own Jack Gleadow is a rising star in the world of comedy, known for his high-energy performances packed with physical comedy, razor-sharp storytelling, music, and audience interaction. His unique blend of old-school variety and modern stand-up has made him one of the most exciting acts on the comedy circuit today.

Beauty and the Beast is produced by the world’s biggest panto producer, Crossroads Pantomimes, whose Chief Executive Michael Harrison said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Sue Cleaver to Pantoland this Christmas in our Hull Production, joined by the comedy legend Paul Chuckle along with Jack Land Noble and local talent Jack Gleadow. Beauty and the Beast is a truly magical story which we can’t wait to bring to life on the Hull New Theatre stage.”

Dreaming of a happier life, Belle finds herself transported to a cursed castle and held captive by a terrifying beast. To her surprise, the castle is full of magical characters placed under a spell by an evil enchantress. Can Belle see beyond the monster and fall in love with her captor before the last petal falls from the enchanted rose? Or will the Beast’s selfishness cost him the world he once knew and the hand of the girl who has melted his heart?

Tickets for Beauty and the Beast, which runs from Wed 10 – Wed 31 Dec 2025 are on sale now. Book at the Hull City Hall box office, call 01482 300 306 or visit www.hulltheatres.co.uk to book online.

NEW CASTING ANNOUNCED

BRIDGERTON STAR

HANNAH DODD AS SALLY BOWLES

OLIVIER NOMINEE

ROB MADGE AS THE EMCEE

IN

THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING, CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED

WEST END PRODUCTION OF

CABARET

AT THE KIT KAT CLUB

FROM 29 MAY 2025

SPECIAL GALA NIGHT ON MONDAY 7 JULY 2025

TO MARK 1,500^TH PERFORMANCE

The producers of the multi award-winning, critically acclaimed West End production of CABARET at the KIT KAT CLUB are delighted to announce new casting.

From 29 May 2025, Bridgerton star Hannah Dodd will play Sally Bowles and Olivier nominee Rob Madge will play The Emcee. 

They join Daniel Bowerbank as Clifford Bradshaw, Vivien Parry as Fraulein Schneider, Fenton Gray as Herr Schultz, Fred Haig as Ernst Ludwig and Jessica Kirton as Fraulein Kost/Fritzie. The cast is completed by Xenoa Campbell-Ledgister, Sam Darius, Damon Gould, Adrian Grove, El Haq Latief, Justin-Lee Jones, Ela Lisondra, Hícaro Nicolai, Andy Rees Alexandra Regan, Marina Tavolieri, Ben Simon Wilson, Anne-Marie Wojna, Patrick Wilden and Lucy Young.

Rob Madge and Hannah Dodd’s final performance will be Saturday 20 September 2025.

From 26 – 28 May 2025, Anne-Marie Wojna will play Sally Bowles and Damon Gould will play The Emcee.

On Monday 7 July, CABARET will celebrate the milestone of 1,500 performances at the KIT KAT CLUB with a special gala night. CABARET is currently booking until Saturday 28 March 2026. kitkat.club

Rising UK star Hannah Dodd can be seen in the third season of ‘Bridgerton’ for Netflix, playing the coveted role of Francesca Bridgerton. Hannah trained in Musical Theatre & Dance at London Studio Centre where she graduated straight into her first acting role, playing one of the series leads in ‘Find Me In Paris’ for Disney, Nickelodeon & Hulu, continuing the role for a further two seasons. Hannah also featured in a recurring role in two seasons of the highly popular Hulu series ‘Harlots’. 2022 saw the release of Netflix series ‘Anatomy of a Scandal’ with Hannah playing the younger version of series lead Sienna Miller. She also played the infamous ‘Corinne Foxworth’ in the mini series ‘Flowers In The Attic: The Origins’ for Lifetime – an adaptation of the highly popular and controversial books. At the end of 2022, Hannah was back on Netflix, playing a major role in ‘Enola Holmes 2’ alongside Millie Bobby Brown which was the platforms number one film in 71 countries. Her other film credits include Marvel’s ‘Eternals’ and ‘Fighting With My Family’ & ‘Family Secrets’. Most recently she can be seen in ‘The Road Trip’ for Paramount+ and is currently filming Season 4 of ‘Bridgerton’. Cabaret marks Hannah’s West End and stage debut.

Rob Madge is a theatre-maker, writer and actor. They began working professionally in theatre aged nine, having spent most of their childhood forcing their family to help them put on shows in the living room. Training: Sylvia Young Theatre School, University of Warwick and Royal Academy of Music (ARAM). Rob’s one-person show My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do?) had sell-out runs at the Turbine Theatre, Edinburgh Festival, across the UK, Garrick Theatre and the Ambassadors in the West End. For their work on My Son’s a Queer, Rob won WhatsOnStage, Attitude and Stage Debut Awards and received an Olivier nomination for Best Entertainment or Comedy Play. The show recently premiered in New York at New York City Center. Their second solo show Rob Madge’s Regards to Broadway played to full houses at the Garrick Theatre. Other theatre includes: Adapter of Charley’s Aunt (Watermill Theatre), Spirit of Sherwood in Robin Hood (London Palladium), Alex in Buyer and Cellar (King’s Head and Theatre Royal, Plymouth), Tink in Peter Pan (London Palladium), Pat the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk (The London Palladium), Millennials (The Other Palace), world premiere of Bedknobs and Broomsticks (UK tour), Les Misérables (UK tour), Matilda the Musical (RSC), Gavroche in Les Misérables (25th Anniversary tour and Concert), Artful Dodger in Oliver! (Theatre Royal Drury Lane), Macbeth (Gielgud), Michael Banks in Mary Poppins (Prince Edward). TV includes: The Armstrong and Miller Show (BBC), Poirot: Appointment with Death (ITV), Kröd Mändoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire (Comedy Central), That Mitchell and Webb Look (BBC), and The Sarah Jane Adventures (BBC). Hosting includes: The Stage Awards 2025 (Royal Opera House), Playbill Pride (Times Square, New York City), Stiles & Drewe Prize, writing and hosting With All Our Hearts, a gala celebrating 75 years of the NHS (Adelphi Theatre). Rob was named one of The Stage’s Rising Stars for 2024.

Hannah Dodd is not scheduled to appear on Wednesday 4 June at 2.00pm, Thursday 12 June at 7.30pm, Wednesday 18 June at 2.00pm, Thursday 26 June at 7.30pm, Wednesday 2 July at 2.00pm, Thursday 10 July at 7.30pm, Wednesday 16 July at 2.00pm, Thursday 24 July at 7.30pm, Wednesday 30 July at 2.00pm, Thursday 7 August at 7.30pm, Wednesday 13 August at 2.00pm, Thursday 21 August at 7.30pm, Wednesday 27 at August 2.00pm, Thursday 4 September at 7.30pm, Wednesday 10 September at 2.00pm and Thursday 18 September at 7.30pm.

At these performances, the role will be played by our alternate Sally Bowles, Anne-Marie Wojna.

Rob Madge is not scheduled to appear from Monday 9 June – Monday 16 June (inclusive), and on Tuesday 16 September.

At these performances the role of Emcee will be played by Damon Gould.

The prologue company are Rachel Benson, Ami Benton, Onyemachi Ejimofor, Joseph Hardy, Liz Kamille, Andrew Linnie, Aine McLoughlin, Jack William Parry, Jazmyn Raikes, Oliver Stockley and Ena Yamaguchi.

This unique production of CABARET opened in December 2021 to critical and audience acclaim, widely praised as the ultimate theatrical experience. In April 2022 it won a record-breaking seven Olivier Awards. The production has also won three prestigious Critics Circle Awards as well as the Evening Standard Theatre Award for Best Design for designer Tom Scutt.

The Tony award winning Broadway production of CABARET opened in April last year at the KIT KAT CLUB at the August Wilson Theatre where it continues to play and currently stars Orville Peck and Eva Noblezada.

Transforming one of London’s most famous theatres with an in-the-round auditorium and reimagined spaces, before the show guests are invited to enjoy and explore the Kit Kat Club with pre-show entertainment, drinks and dining all on offer. When booking, guests receive a ‘club entry time’ to allow enough time to take in the world of the Kit Kat Club before the show starts. But of course, the show really starts when you first join us in the club…

One of the most successful musicals of all time CABARET features the songs Wilkommen, Don’t Tell Mama, Mein Herr, Maybe This Time, Money and the title number. It has music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, book by Joe Masteroff. Based on the play by John Van Druten and stories by Christopher Isherwood.

CABARET is directed by Rebecca Frecknall, set and costume design is by Tom Scutt with choreography by Julia Cheng. Musical supervision is by Jennifer Whyte and musical direction is by Ben van Tienen with lighting design by Isabella Byrd, sound design by Nick Lidster, Wigs and Hair design by Sam Cox and Make-Up design by Guy Common. The casting director is Stuart Burt and the original associate director and prologue director is Jordan Fein. The prologue composer and musical director is Angus MacRae.

CABARET at the KIT KAT CLUB is produced by ATG Productions and Underbelly.

Sheffield Lyceum – until 3 May 2025

Reviewed by Adam Craddock

5*****

This Monday night as crowds queued for entry to Sheffield Crucible for the snooker I was treated to a different showcase of immortals at Sheffield Lyceum that was much more a bit of me, Jim Steinman’s “Bat out of Hell: The Musical”.

Starring Glenn Adamson as Strat and Katie Tomkinson as Raven, “Bat out of Hell” delivers a rip roaring ride through the immortal music of the legendary Jim Steinman, most notably his collaborations with legendary performer Meatloaf, in what is a loose reinvention of the tale of Peter Pan, but set in a post apocalyptic Manhattan, now going by the name “Obsidian”.

Glenn Adamson is brilliant as Strat. He has that quintessential rock star “it” factor, with a fluidity and mystique that lends itself perfect to the role. He very much puts his own stamp on the historic songs in this show, not trying to be a copy of Meatloaf but tread his own ground and make it his own. Katie Tomkinson was great as Raven, with a vocal you would not believe and a brilliant rebellious energy that meshes perfectly with Adamson’s Strat.

Beth Woodcock was brilliant as Zahara, on as understudy which I always enjoy! Her vocal performance in “Two out of three ain’t bad” was powerful and I thought she did exceptionally well. Ryan Carter was strong as Jagwire, with a delicious soul to his voice and excellent dance ability. Carla Bertran was great as Tink, with an emotional complexity to the role pulled off to perfection. Luke Street and Carly Burns were both solid as Ledoux and Valkyrie respectively.

However, the absolute highlight for me was Rob Fowler as the villainous Falco and his incredible wife Sharon Sexton as Sloane. The chemistry between the pair was predictably palpable and the blend in their vocals is absolutely to die for. There is a reason that “What part of my body hurts the most” is one of my all time favourite songs!

It was interesting for me, having seen the show a couple of times when it was in the West End, to predict what the set was going to be like, with it having previously been on at the frankly enormous Dominion Theatre, and I have to say I was quite pleasantly surprised that it has maintained a lot of the same characteristics, with obviously a couple of alterations to enable the show to tour. In particular I am glad they have kept the use of the video screens recording the drama throughout, providing that B movie sci-fi horror flair that lends itself brilliantly to this wacky plot. The use of hand mics throughout gave the show an overall air of a rock concert which added brilliantly. The sound design was great, with just the right amount of distortion to fit the music and the lighting was perfect, dingy and rugged.

Overall, I would definitely recommend catching “Bat out of Hell” while it is in town, this show is a joy ride not to be missed!

Melting Pot and Birmingham Rep present

Written by

John Niven

Directed by

Matthew Dunster

the battle that rocked the nation

UK tour opens at Birmingham Rep, Feb ‘26

World Premiere – Prior to the West End

www.thebattleplay.com

Melting Pot and Birmingham Rep co-present The Battle, a new comedy play based (mostly) on real events. Reliving the heady summer of 1995 when heavyweights of Britpop, Blur and Oasis, went head-to-head in the greatest chart battle of all time, The Battle is the first stage play by screenwriter and Sunday Times best-selling novelist John Niven (O’Brother, Kill Your Friends, How To Build A Girl). Directed by Matthew Dunster (2:22 A Ghost Story, The Pillowman), The Battle opens at Birmingham Rep on Wednesday 11^th February 2026 ahead of a major UK tour, prior to the West End.

London, 1995. Two of the country’s biggest bands release singles on the same day, commencing the battle of Britpop. On one side, clean-cut, art-school intellectuals from the South. On the other: raw and unapologetic lads from the North. Rivalries flare, friendships fracture and at the centre of it all a mania that would define an era – were you Blur or Oasis?

From the chaos of the Brit Awards to the infamous chart war, The Battle is a wickedly funny dive into one of the greatest rivalries in rock history. Featuring legendary personalities and unforgettable clashes, it was never just about the music, but power, pride, and uncontrollable competitiveness. Expect filthy language and razor-sharp dialogue in this cut-throat new comedy that puts you right at the heart of the feuding, the fame, and the fallout. Get ready to roll with it.

Writer, John Niven, says of his first stage play: “1995: a time long before music splintered into a billion different Tik Tok feeds. When music was so central to the culture that two pop groups could dominate the entire summer, the evening news and the front page of every newspaper in the country. We’re going to take you back there. I’ve never written for the stage before, and it has been an absolute blast to do so for the first time with a producer as supportive as Simon and a director as talented as Matthew.”

Director, Matthew Dunster, adds:

“I remember the Battle of the Bands. I remember the charts that week. Music mattered. I remember being in my twenties in 1995. What a wild time. Full of energy, naughtiness and hilarity. Just like John Niven’s play.  I’m so delighted to be working with John on such a punchy, hilarious and revealing comedy about two of the best bands of all time, Blur and Oasis.”

Producer, Simon Friend, continues:

“Throughout my sister’s teenage years, she had an enormous poster of Damon Albarn on her wall, and I remember her falling out with friends over which band they loved more. Ever since, this story has been in the back of my mind, and I was delighted that John Niven agreed to write it because there is no more qualified or hilarious chronicler of this world, and combined with Matthew Dunster directing, we have a fearless team recreating the sweaty mid-‘90s carnage of The Battle of Britpop.”

Co-Producer and Artistic Director of the Birmingham Rep Joe Murphy, concludes:

“Bringing the World Premiere of The Battle to The Rep is genuinely so exciting.  This chart battle rocked the nation and quite literally defined a generation and I already know that our audiences are going to have the time of their lives being taken back to the rivalries, the chaos and the big personalities that made it all so unforgettable.”

The creative team also includes Fly Davis as Set and Costume Designer, Jessica Hung Han Yun as Lighting Designer, Ian Dickinson as Sound Designer, Tal Rosner as Video Designer and Casting Director, Claire Bleasdale.

After its World Premiere in Birmingham the tour then visits: Leicester, Curve Theatre, Tuesday 10 – Saturday 14 March; Manchester, Opera House, 17 – Saturday 21 March; Bromley, Churchill Theatre, Tuesday 24 – Saturday 28 March; Woking, New Victoria Theatre,Tuesday 31 March – Saturday 4 April; Cheltenham, Everyman Theatre,Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 April; Edinburgh, Festival Theatre, Tuesday 21 April – Saturday 25 April; Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre,Tuesday 28 April – Saturday 2 May; Sheffield, Lyceum Theatre,Tuesday 5 – Saturday 9 May; Ipswich, Regent Theatre,Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 May; London, Richmond Theatre, Tuesday 19 – Saturday 23 May; Glasgow, Theatre Royal, Tuesday 26 May – Saturday 30 May; York, Grand Opera House, Tuesday 9 – Saturday 13 June; Norwich, Theatre Royal, Tuesday 16 – Saturday 20 June; Nottingham, Theatre Royal, Tuesday 23 – Saturday 27 June; Milton Keynes Theatre, Tuesday 30 June – Saturday 4 July; Newcastle, Theatre Royal, Tuesday 7 – Saturday 11 July; Brighton, Theatre Royal, Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 July; Chester, Storyhouse Theatre, Tuesday 28 July – Saturday 1 August.

John Niven worked in the music industry for ten years before becoming a novelist and screenwriter. His last book, O Brother, was a Sunday Times bestseller. It was shortlisted for The Gordon Burn prize and Scotland’s National Book Award. His screen credits include Kill Your Friends, The Trip and How To Build A Girl. He grew up in Ayrshire and now lives in Buckinghamshire. The Battle is his first stage play.

Matthew Dunster is a theatre and film director and writer. He was born and raised in Oldham and now lives in South East London. Previously an actor, he has directed or written over sixty theatre shows, often with major national companies (including RSC, NT, Royal Court, Young Vic, Royal Exchange, Shakespeare’s Globe, The Bridge), as well as directing on the West End, Broadway and internationally. He has been the Associate Director of The Young Vic and Shakespeare’s Globe.

His most recent productions include: 2:22 A Ghost Story, which ran in the West End for 694 performances; Shirley Valentine and The Pillowman, both at The Duke Of Yorks; The Homecoming at the Young Vic and Dealer’s Choice at The Donmar. Matthew has been nominated for four Olivier Awards and his Broadway production of Hangmen was nominated for five Tony’s. In Autumn 2025, he will direct Conor McPherson’s stage adaptation of The Hunger Games.

The Battle is produced by Melting Pot, Birmingham Rep and Gavin Kalin.

THE BATTLE – 2026 TOUR DATES

Birmingham Rep

Wednesday 11 February – Saturday 7 March

www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

On Sale Now

Leicester, Curve Theatre

Tuesday 9 – Saturday 14 March

www.curveonline.co.uk

On General Sale Soon

Manchester, Opera House

Tuesday 17 – Saturday 21 March

www.atgtickets.com/venues/opera-house-manchester

On General Sale Soon

Bromley, Churchill Theatre

Tuesday 24 – Saturday 28 March

www.trafalgartickets.com/churchill-theatre-bromley

On General Sale Soon

Woking, New Victoria Theatre

Tuesday 31 March – Saturday 4 April

www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-victoria-theatre

On General Sale Soon

Cheltenham, Everyman Theatre

Tuesday 14 – Saturday 19 April

www.everymantheatre.org.uk

On General Sale Soon

Edinburgh, Festival Theatre

Tuesday 21 April – Saturday 25 April

www.capitaltheatres.com

On General Sale Soon

Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre

Tuesday 28 April – Saturday 2 May

www.wmc.org.uk

On General Sale Soon

Sheffield, Lyceum Theatre

Tuesday 5 – Saturday 9 May

www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

On General Sale Soon

Ipswich, Regent Theatre

Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 May

www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk

On General Sale Soon

London, Richmond Theatre 

Tuesday 19 – Saturday 23 May

www.atgtickets.com/venues/richmond-theatre/

On General Sale Soon

Glasgow, Theatre Royal

Tuesday 26 May – Saturday 30 May

www.atgtickets.com/venues/theatre-royal-glasgow

On General Sale Soon

York, Grand Opera House

Tuesday 9 – Saturday 13 June

www.atgtickets.com/venues/grand-opera-house-york/

On General Sale Soon

Norwich, Theatre Royal

Tuesday 16 – Saturday 20 June 

www.norwichtheatre.org

On General Sale Soon

Nottingham, Theatre Royal

Tuesday 23 – Saturday 27 June

www.trch.co.uk

On General Sale Soon

Milton Keynes Theatre

Tuesday 30 June – Saturday 4 July

www.atgtickets.com/venues/milton-keynes-theatre/

On General Sale Soon

Newcastle, Theatre Royal

Tuesday 7 – Saturday 11 July

www.theatreroyal.co.uk

On General Sale Soon

Brighton, Theatre Royal

Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 July

www.atgtickets.com/venues/theatre-royal-brighton/

On General Sale Soon

Chester, Storyhouse Theatre

Tuesday 28 July – Saturday 1 August

www.everymantheatre.org.uk

On General Sale Soon

Get Technical! Behind the Curtain of
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
on 15 July 2025 at 2pm.

Global Creatures, Producer of Moulin Rouge! The Musical announces the return of their hugely successful Get Technical! Behind the Curtain of Moulin Rouge! The Musical.

On Tuesday 15 July 2025 at 2pm, the multi award-winning production at the Piccadilly Theatre in London will once again open its doors to give anyone aspiring to a career in theatre a glimpse behind the curtain of the multi award-winning production.

Get Technical! offers the chance to hear from members of the production’s backstage and technical teams, watch live on-stage demonstrations and learn more about what goes into the making of the West End’s leading musical Spectacular!

From wigs to wardrobe to sound to stage management, the event aims to motivate and inspire young people to consider a career in backstage positions in the performing arts industry. Attendees will be shown how the different technical departments work together to create the production and be given a sneak peek of some of the stage secrets and magic behind the show. 

Backstage and technical team members will also share stories from their own career journeys and give tips for getting into the industry.

Get Technical! will be launched at certain venues on the Moulin Rouge! The Musical World Tour. Locations and dates will be announced soon.

Get Technical!ispresented by Global Creatures in partnership with ATG Entertainment Creative Learning.

Moulin Rouge! The Musical contact:

HELP IS ON THE WAY, DEAR!

HIT COMEDY MUSICAL

MRS. DOUBTFIRE

TO TOUR THE UK AND IRELAND FOR THE FIRST TIME

www.mrsdoubtfiremusical.co.uk 

Beloved Scottish nanny EuphegeniaDoubtfire will be packing up her suitcase and hitting the road next year as her West End and Broadway musical Mrs. Doubtfire tours the UK and Ireland for the first time.

The hit comedy musical will open at the Birmingham Hippodrome in August 2026 followed by dates in Newcastle, Plymouth, Leeds, Glasgow, and Southampton with many more cities to be announced. To be first in line for tickets go to mrsdoubtfiremusical.co.uk. 

A hilarious and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, Mrs. Doubtfire is the musical comedy we need right now.

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.

The UK and Ireland tour of Mrs. Doubtfire will star Gabriel Vick as Daniel Hillard following his acclaimed performances in the West End.

“I am delighted to be bringing the beloved Mrs Doubtfire direct from London to audiences throughout the UK and Ireland. The musical is full of the moments you know and love from the film and also packed with brilliant new songs. It is heartwarming, hilarious and going to be so much fun for the whole family.  See you there, Poppets!” – Gabriel Vick

Gabriel Vick was in the original London casts of Avenue Q (Noel Coward Theatre); and Scrooge (London Palladium), as well as many other theatre credits including Promises Promises (Southwark Playhouse); Sunny Afternoon (Harold Pinter Theatre); Once (Phoenix Theatre); Chariots of Fire (Gielgud Theatre); The Tempest (Theatre Royal, Bath);  La Cage Aux Folles (Playhouse Theatre); A Little Night Music (The Menier Chocolate Factory/ Garrick Theatre); Dickens Unplugged (Edinburgh Festival/ Comedy Theatre); Cabaret (Lyric Theatre). TV and film credits include: Christmas on Mistletoe Farm (Netflix); Raging Grace (Last Conker); Nativity Rocks (Entertainment One); The Invisible Woman (Lionsgate); Les Miserables (Working Title); White Van Man (ITV); Hold Out (Short Film); Eliminate: Archie Cookson (Agent Pictures); Eastenders (BBC); MI High (Kudos) and My Family (BBC).

Further casting is to be announced.

“On behalf of Kevin McCollum and myself, producing Mrs. Doubtfire in the West End has been an incredible experience, and we’re delighted that audiences across the country will now get to embrace everybody’s favourite nanny for themselves. Gabriel Vick’s performance as Mrs Doubtfire is truly remarkable, bringing so much warmth and charm to the character. He is a true star on stage, and we are so proud to have him leading our talented cast.” – Producer, Jamie Wilson

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 (team behind the hit Tony Award-nominated musical Something Rotten!). Direction is by 4-time Tony winner Jerry Zaks (Hello, Dolly!), Choreography by Lorin Latarro (Waitress), and Music Supervision, Arrangements & Orchestrations by Ethan Popp (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical). Scenic design is by David Korins (Hamilton), Costume Design by Catherine Zuber (Moulin Rouge! The Musical), Lighting Design by Philip S. Rosenberg (Pretty Woman The Musical), Hair Design by David Brian Brown (Frozen), Casting by Stuart Burt (Cabaret) and Children’s Casting Director is Verity Naughton.

Mrs. Doubtfire is produced by Kevin McCollum and Jamie Wilson and is presented by special arrangement with Buena Vista Theatrical. 

MRS. DOUBTFIRE
THE NEW COMEDY MUSICAL
www.mrsdoubtfiremusical.co.uk
Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @DOUBTFIREUK

13 August 2026 – 19 September 2026
Birmingham Hippodrome
birminghamhippodrome.com

23 September 2026 – 11 October 2026
Newcastle Theatre Royal
theatreroyal.co.uk

20 October 2026 – 8 November 2026
Theatre Royal Plymouth
theatreroyal.com

10 November 2026 – 29 November 2026
Leeds Grand Theatre
leedsheritagetheatres.com

12 January 2027 – 31 January 2027
Kings Theatre, Glasgow
atgtickets.com/venues/kings-theatre-glasgow/

2 February 2027 – 28 February 2027
Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
mayflower.org.uk

…more venues to be announced, poppets! 

Birmingham Hippodrome – until Sunday 27th April 2025

Reviewed by Nadia Dodd

4****

The Orphan Train Movement was a supervised welfare program that transported orphaned and homeless children from crowded Eastern cities of the United States to foster homes located largely in rural areas of the Midwest. The orphan trains operated between 1850’s and 1920’s.

This show is based on the children who would travel the orphan train line, to be paraded in front of ‘well off’ families with the hope of finding the best family ever to live with and love. That was what they all dreamed of. Some children did get chosen, those boys who looked strong to be able to in fields, and those girls who were taken to the family home to become maids, all free labour and not to a loving family after all.

The children not chosen were to become the children in the naughty carriage and this story follows them. Learning about their playful, curious characters through song and vibrant choreography.

Written by Carl Miller and Luke Saydon, the British Youth Music Theatre performed such a high quality production, made up of cast between the ages of 11-21 years.

The voices of the whole cast together was so captivating, I forgot at times this is ‘youth’ theatre as they were completely professional and seemed so at ease with performing to an audience of almost 200 people.

The music, also written and composed by Carl and Luke covered a lot of emotions. The poor sad unfortunate orphans, happier times when the more fortunate got ‘chosen’ and onto some real tap tapping upbeat songs that the complete ensemble raise the roof with.

Staging is basic but so effective at the same time. Its mainly set on the train carriage of course, but you see the platforms, a couple of the houses that some of the children were taken to hopefully to have found their forever family and you can imagine the farms and fields where the free child labour was taking place. All this was created with the change of lighting, a few props and our imagination.

Touching, empowering and some funny stories throughout this play, directed by Emily Gray.

Tickets are still available, suitable for children 6years plus so a real great family show. The production is advertised as 90 minutes long and doesn’t mention an interval but last night there was a brief interlude for those wanting refreshments or to use the facilities.

As it says in the title the British Youth Music Theatre is not just about acting and singing, the musicians in the show, positioned either side of the stage area playing saxophone, drums, flute and clarinet were also members of the youth theatre, tremendous talent there as I only realised this when I read the programme.

Youth Theatre is all about upskilling, improving confidence and creating future stars of musical theatre. Plenty of potential seen on the stage tonight, a memorable show indeed.