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WHAT’S ON THIS FESTIVE SEASON

FROM THE NATIONAL THEATRE

This festive season, the National Theatre is offering audiences a variety of experiences to enjoy – from world class theatre and festive dining at our South Bank home, to acclaimed productions in the West End and on tour across the country, alongside exceptional theatre broadcast live in cinemas or streamed directly into the comfort of your own home.

On the South Bank, the first major stage adaptation of Noel Streatfeild’s best-selling book Ballet Shoes, adapted by Kendall Feaver, plays at the Olivier theatre. Set in a crumbling house full of dinosaur bones and fossils, three adopted sisters are learning who they are and what they want to be. A family-friendly story for those aged 7+, Ballet Shoes is directed by Katy Rudd, who returns to the National Theatre following her acclaimed production of The Ocean at the End of the Lane. Tickets are available from £20 at nationaltheatre.org.uk.

Further charming audiences on the South Bank is a reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy The Importance of Being Earnest, directed by Max Webster, which follows two gentlemen who find themselves caught in a web of lies whilst assuming false identities, with hilarious consequences. Starring a cast including three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke, Ncuti Gatwa, Hugh Skinner, Eliza Scanlen, and Ronkẹ Adékoluẹjo. Tickets are available at nationaltheatre.org.uk. 

The Importance of Being Earnest will be filmed from its run on the Lyttelton stage for National Theatre Live, screening across the globe from 20 February 2025. The perfect festive gift for family and friends, tickets are available at theimportanceofbeingearnest.ntlive.com.

In the West End, the critically acclaimed, five-time Tony Award® winning production of The Lehman Trilogy is playing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Written by Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power and directed by Academy Award®, Tony Award®, and Golden Globe winner Sam Mendes, this landmark production has now been seen by over half a million people worldwide. Following recent, highly acclaimed international performances, John Heffernan, Aaron Krohn and Howard W. Overshown reprise their roles, playing the Lehman brothers, their sons and grandsons.  Cat Beveridge and Anyssa Neumann reprise their respective performances as principal pianist and alternate pianist. The Lehman Trilogy is a sweeping story of a family spanning generations and a company that changed the world. Tickets are available from £20 at thelehmantrilogy.com.

Also running in the West End is the multi award-winning musical Hadestown. Winner of 8 Tony® Awards and a Grammy® Award for ‘Best Musical Theatre Album’, Hadestown continues its critically acclaimed run at the Lyric Theatre, five years after its sold-out engagement at the National Theatre. Blending modern American folk music with New Orleans-inspired jazz, Hadestown takes you on an unforgettable journey to the underworld and back, intertwining two mythic love stories – that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone.  Featuring music, lyrics, and book by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, direction by Rachel Chavkin and a cast that includes Madeline Charlemagne, Melanie La Barrie, Trevor Dion Nicholas , Rachel Tucker and Dylan Wood. Tickets are available from £20 at uk.hadestown.com.

For audiences further afield, War Horse, which is currently touring the UK and Ireland, will be playing at the New Theatre Oxford during the Christmas period. Based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo, War Horse has become the most successful play in the history of the National Theatre and has been seen by over 8.3 million people worldwide. Adapted by Nick Stafford and originally directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, creative development for this new tour has been led by Tom Morris with revival director Katie Henry and features reimagined designs by Rae Smith with additional music by Adrian Sutton.  War Horse is an unforgettable theatrical experience which takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France.  This powerfully moving and imaginative drama is a show of phenomenal inventiveness, featuring astonishing life-sized horses by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company. Tickets are available at www.warhorseonstage.com.

Audiences worldwide can enjoy over 90 productions available to stream on National Theatre at Home (NTathome.com). Recent releases include Vanya with Andrew Scott, Macbeth with Ralph Fiennes and Indira Varma, and London Tide with Bella Maclean. Upcoming releases this festive season include the joyous Present Laughter with Andrew Scott and Indira Varma, and The Hot Wing King with Kadiff Kirwan. NT at Home subscriptions are available for £9.99 a month, or £99 a year, with gifting options for 1, 3- and 6-month subscriptions. All titles are available with captions and 85% offer Audio Description.

The National Theatre is not only home to the very best in British theatre, but also some incredible dining experiences at Lasdun Restaurant, Forza Wine and the Understudy bar at our home on London’s South Bank. Offerings include delicious pre-theatre menus, or visitors can simply pop in for a feed and a cocktail even if they aren’t seeing a show. Explore the festive dining offerings here: https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/your-visit/eat-and-drink/.

MUSE FLASH!

LUKE BRADY TO PLAY THE TITLE ROLE IN

DISNEY’S HERCULES

OPENS AT THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE IN JUNE 2025

PRIORITY ON SALE STARTS TODAY WITH PUBLIC BOOKING FROM 7 NOVEMBER

Disney Theatrical Group today announces that Luke Brady will play the title role in Hercules which begins next year in London’s West End. The production opens at Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 24 June 2025, with previews commencing on 6 June, and is currently booking until 10 January 2026.

With music by Alan Menken and lyrics by David Zippel, and a brand-new book by Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah, Casey Nicholaw’s production of Hercules, co-choreographed with Tanisha Scott, is inspired by the 1997 animated film of the same name from Walt Disney Studios. The feature film, directed by The Little Mermaid filmmakers John Musker and Ron Clements, and written by Clements, Musker, Donald McEnery, Bob Shaw and Irene Mecchi, won Best Animation Feature at the Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards and was nominated for the Academy Award® or Best Original Song for Go the Distance.

Anne Quart, Executive Producer, Disney Theatrical Group said, “After a wide and exhaustive search, we are thrilled to announce Luke as Hercules. His remarkable depth as an actor delivers all the weight and power the character demands, but it’s his magnetism and presence that elevate this mythic character into a relatable young man, finding his way in the world and learning what it means to be human. The Hercules team has fallen in love with him and know that audiences will feel the same.” Thomas Schumacher, Chief Creative Officer, Disney Theatrical Group added, “Hercules holds a treasured place among Disney Renaissance films. With its irresistible Alan Menken score, iconic characters, and the unforgettable Muses, fans’ affection for the film has only deepened since its release. Now, this production redefines Hercules for a whole new generation.”

Alan Menken said, “Hercules was thrilling when I was first working on it in the mid-90s and has only grown more exciting and amazing with each passing adaptation. The new songs David Zippel and I have added for our upcoming production in London, have deepened the emotional impact and further developed the stylistic panache. The humor and overall message of the script by Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah have brought our story to wonderful new heights and supercharged the underlying message of this story. And, when it comes to bringing all of this to life on stage, there’s no one even close to Casey Nicholaw in creating theatrical magic. I can’t wait for audiences to experience our new Hercules!!”

David Zippel added, “It’s an absolute joy to revisit Hercules which was a glorious collaboration with Alan back in the late 90s. Adapting the film for the stage is the chance to build on the wit and action of the animation, then expand and deepen the characters via new songs, creating something new and exciting for the West End.”

Robert Horn commented, “What an honour it is to work with this amazing team on this new stage incarnation of the beloved and highly anticipated title Hercules. Kwame and I could not be more excited to bring our very different and unified styles of comedy and storytelling to this magical, mythical tale. And with this iconic score!  We hope you’ll laugh and feel all the feels watching it as much as we did working together on it.  We laughed so hard, we both got abs.  We’re thrilled to present to you this gloriously heartwarming and hysterical story of heroism, community, cool togas and fabulous divas!”

Kwame Kwei-Armah said, “Robert and I have had such a joyous time learning about each other and laughing together as we have shaped the story for the musical and that gets right into the DNA of what this show is: laughter, love and a quest for self-discovery that offers so much for audiences of all ages.”

Casey Nicholaw added, “In a search that took us across the globe, we have found our perfect hero in Luke, and I look forward to working with him over the coming months to develop the much-loved character of Hercules. We can’t wait for him to lift the roof at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.”

Priority booking for patrons who signed up to the Hercules and LW Theatres pre-sale sign-up lists, and for Priority from O2, opens today, with public booking opening on 7 November.  Preview tickets are from £25, with tickets post press night from £29.50. In addition, the production will host selected Lightning Performances which have just three ticket prices across the entire theatre – the faster you book, the better the seat. There will also be Family Tickets available on selected performances for groups of two adults and at least two children aged 4 – 16 years.

In the first booking period, Hercules has scheduled the following access performances – Captioned Performance (15 September), Signed Performance (23 September), Relaxed Performance (15 November), Audio Described Performance (29 November).

Disney’s Hercules is a musical adventure in a class of its own, with music by 8-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Tony Award® winner David Zippel and a book by Tony Award® winner Robert Horn (Tootsie) and Kwame Kwei-Armah (former Artistic Director of the Young Vic). Directed and choreographed by Tony® Award-winner Casey Nicholaw (Aladdin) with co-choreographer Tanisha Scott, this exciting new production features set and additional video design from Dane Laffrey; costume design by Gregg Barnes and Sky Switser; lighting design by Jeff Croiter and sound design by Adam Fisher. The production team also includes video designer George Reeve, hair by Mia M. Neal, make-up by Kirk Cambridge-Del Pesche and special effects from Jeremy Chernick. The music team is headed by music supervisor and arranger Michael Kosarin, with orchestrations from Danny Troob and Joseph Joubert, and dance arrangements by David Chase. Casting is by Natalie Gallacher CDG for Pippa Ailion and Natalie Gallacher Casting.

Disney’s Hercules, the 1997 classic animated film, written by Ron Clements, John Musker, Donald McEnery, Bob Shaw and Irene Mecchi, and directed by The Little Mermaid and Aladdin filmmakers John Musker and Ron Clements, was the eighth animated film from the Disney film renaissance, which began in 1989. Among them were the greatest modern classics from the studios, including Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King, that have once again made Disney the leading producer of animated films in Hollywood.

Full casting will be announced shortly.

DISNEY’S

HERCULES

Music by Alan Menken

Lyrics by David Zippel

Book by Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah

The musical, inspired by the animated film, based on the ancient myth.

It’s what classical civilisation would have wanted.

Ancient Greece. A time of gods, mortals… and Hercules, who isn’t quite either. But if he’s not a god, how can he possibly save the world from Hades? It’s one thing flexing those pecs, but going from zero to hero requires a different kind of strength. 

Get ready for a wise-cracking, column-shaking, underworld-rocking ride of adventure, self-discovery, and love. In tunics. 

Facebook /HerculesOnStage

Instagram @herculesonstage

www.herculesthemusical.co.uk

LISTINGS

HERCULES

Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Catherine Street, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5JF

www.herculesthemusical.co.uk

Tickets from £25.00 for previews; and from £29.50 post press night

Group rates and education rates are available – please see the website

PERFORMANCES:

PREVIEWS:

6 June	7:30pm
7 June	7:30pm
10 June	7:30pm
11 June	7:30pm
13 June	7:30pm
14 June	2:30pm
17 June	7:30pm
18 June	7:30pm
19 June	7:30pm
20 June	7:30pm
21 June	2:30pm and 7:30pm
23 June	7:30pm

ACCESS PERFORMANCES: 020 3925 2998 or [email protected]

Captioned performance                 7.30pm on 15 September

Signed performance                       7.30pm on 23 September

Relaxed performance                     1.30pm on 15 November

Audio Described performance     2.30pm on 29 November

WEST END’S ELEVENTH EXTENSION TICKETS ON SALE TODAY

“The Brits have made the year’s funniest musical…Against the odds, the “Operation Mincemeat” gang has found its way to the big time.”

Peter Marks, The Washington Post

#1 2023 Theatre Show

“Despite all that Hollywood firepower, my top pick was a homegrown musical about the UK’s role in World War II”

Sarah Rappaport, Bloomberg

“a little show with a very big future”

David Benedict, Variety

“My far-and-away favorite production—and a complete surprise to me—was the musical “Operation Mincemeat… a comedy that has been cheerfully dismantling jingoism builds a stirring vision of real fellowship in its place.”

Helen Shaw, The New Yorker

“the feel-good West End musical of the summer… The reviews for the show have been ecstatic… the overwhelming impression is of hopefulness, expansiveness, possibility and joy.”

Alexis Soloski, The New York Times

74 ★★★★★ reviews and counting

It was announced today that the original cast of the 2024 Olivier Award®-winning Operation Mincemeat, featuring David Cumming, Claire-Marie Hall, Natasha Hodgson, Olivier Award-winner Jak Malone, and Zoë Roberts, will reprise their acclaimed roles for the musical opening on Broadway at the Golden Theatre on 20^th March 2025.

The news coincides with tickets for the eleventh extension through 19^th April 2025 at the West End’s Fortune Theatre going on general sale today. Operation Mincemeat entered its second sold-out year in London with its hit new cast, Emily Barber, Seán Carey, Chlöe Hart, Christian Andrews and Claire-Marie Hall, in May 2024  – “the West End hit is still the perfect mix of ingenious, silly and moving…With a new cast, the Olivier Award-winning musical about the wartime operation is as terrific as ever” ★★★★★ Marianka Swain, The Telegraph .

Until 15^th February, when Broadway previews begin, tickets will be available exclusively in London. After that, Operation Mincemeat will run simultaneously in both New York and London.

Broadway tickets go on General sale on 20^th November. Sign up here for priority access to a fan pre-sale on 18^th November. Tickets for the West End’s Fortune Theatre are available only from the Official Box Office here.

Operation Mincemeat began as a tiny (and tiny-budgeted) production at the London Fringe New Diorama Theatre in 2019. The show quickly gained a devoted following, spurring sold-out runs at venues including Southwark Playhouse and Riverside Studios. It finally premiered in the West End on 9^th May 2023 at the Fortune Theatre, where it won the Olivier and WhatsOnstage Awards® for ‘Best New Musical’, alongside garnering 74 five-star reviews and counting, and has become the ‘Best reviewed show in West End history.’

This extraordinary debut musical is written and composed by the comedy troupe, SpitLip, comprised ofDavid Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts. The decision to write it was the last roll of the dice from the quartet of young British creatives after years of performing sketch shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and echoes the journey of Beyond the Fringe from the world-famous quartet Alan Bennett, Peter Cook, Jonathan Miller, and Dudley Moore, which premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1960, before moving to the Fortune Theatre and later to the Golden in 1962.

The year is 1943 and we’re losing the war. Luckily, we’re about to gamble all our futures on a stolen corpse. 

Singin’ in the Rain meets Strangers on a Train, Noel Coward meets Noel Fielding, Operation Mincemeat is the fast-paced, hilarious and unbelievable true story of the twisted secret mission that won us World War II. The question is, how did a well-dressed corpse wrong-foot Hitler? 

The production is directed by 2023 Olivier Award nominated  Robert Hastie (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, National Theatre – 2023 Best New Musical Olivier Award winner), following providing directorial support for the Riverside Studios run, while Olivier Award nominated Jenny Arnold (Jerry Springer: The Opera, National Theatre) continues as Choreographer. Also from Standing at the Sky’s Edge at theNational Theatre on the creative team are: 2023 Olivier Award nominated  Ben Stones (Sylvia, The Old Vic) as Set and Costume Designer, Tony Award, six-time Olivier Award and Bafta Award winning Mark Henderson (Girl From the North Country, Broadway & Noël Coward Theatre) as Lighting Designer and Olivier Award winning Mike Walker (Jerry Springer: The Opera, National Theatre) as Sound Designer.  Grammy Award winning and Tony, Emmy & 2024 ‘Outstanding Musical Contribution’ Olivier Award nominated Steve Sidwell (Beautiful: The Musical, Broadway & Aldwych Theatre) is Orchestrator and Vocal Arranger, while 2024 ‘Outstanding Musical Contribution’ Olivier Award nominated Joe Bunker is Musical Director. Georgie Staight is Associate Director and Paul Isaiah Isles is Associate Choreographer. Casting is by Pearson Casting.

Operation Mincemeat won the 2024 ‘Best New Musical’ and ‘Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical’ Olivier Awards, following receiving six nominations. These awards trail winning the 2024 ‘Best New Musical’ WhatsOnStage Award and the ‘Best West End Show’, ‘Rising Star’ and ‘Best Understudy’ West End Wilma Awards. Previously on the show’s journey, Operation Mincemeat has picked up the Off-West End award for ‘Best Musical Production’ and ‘Best Company Ensemble’ and The Stage Debut Award for ‘Best Composer/Lyricist’.

Operation Mincemeat is presented in the West End by Avalon (in association with SpitLip), who have supported since the Southwark Playhouse runs. The show was commissioned by New Diorama Theatre, co-commissioned by The Lowry, and also supported by the Rhinebeck Writers Retreat.

SHARON WATTIS

JOINS THE CAST OF

FOR THE

2024/2025 UK AND IRELAND TOUR

Cameron Mackintosh and Disney Theatrical Group announce today that Sharon Wattis will join the 2024/2025 UK and Ireland tour of the multi award-winning musical MARY POPPINS, as Mrs Corry and Miss Smythe. Due to personal reasons Sonia Swaby will no longer be appearing in the production.

MARY POPPINS will open at Bristol Hippodrome from 4 November 2024, returning to where the magic originally began and marking the 20^th anniversary since the musical’s world premiere. www.marypoppins.co.uk 

Sharon Wattis’ theatre credits include Mrs Brown/ Kimbay in the Original London cast of The Book of Mormon at the Prince of Wales Theatre, as well as the UK and European tour, Poopsie in The Pajama Game at the Shaftesbury Theatre, Heaven on Earth and Love Me Tender both on UK tours, and The Stepmother at Chichester Festival Theatre.

Sharon joins the previously announced Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert, who played the roles in Australia to critical and audience acclaim, Michael D. Xavier (Olivier nominee for Into the Woods and Love Story, Sunset Boulevard on Broadway) as George Banks, Lucie-Mae Sumner (West End production of Mary Poppins and Barnum at Menier Chocolate Factory) as Winifred Banks, Rosemary Ashe (original casts of the West End productions of The Phantom of the Opera, Mary Poppins and Olivier nominee for The Witches of Eastwick) as Mrs Brill, Patti Boulaye (West End and recording star, Carmen Jones at the Old Vic) as Bird Woman, Wendy Ferguson (West End productions of Mary Poppins, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera 25^th Anniversary at the Royal Albert Hall) as Miss Andrew, Ruairidh McDonald (Matilda, West End) as Roberston Ay and David Burrows (West End productions of Half a Sixpence, My Fair Lady and Oliver!) as Admiral Boom and Bank Chairman.

Olivia Ainsworth, Olaya Martinez Cambon, Matilda O’Sullivan, Katie Ryden and Florence Amelia Swann will alternate the role of Jane Banks with Charlie Donald, Jude Martin-Thomas, Oscar McCulloch, Joshua Miles and William Stafford alternating the role of Michael Banks.

The company is completed by Jay Luca Allan, Marianne Bardgett, Rhys Batten, Lydia Boulton, Ben Culleton, Jasmine Davis, Matthew Dawkins, Lily De-La-Haye, Nathan Elwick, Darcy Finden, Lyndsey Gardiner, Ryan Gover, Emma Harrold, Billy Mahoney, Sarah-Marie Maxwell, Yujin Park, Roan Pronk, Henry Rhodes, Jacob Ritzema, Scarlet Roche, Callum Rose, Charlie Waddell, Rachael Ward, Jemima-Jane Willcox, James Wolstenholme and Ellie Young.

Since its premiere at the Bristol Hippodrome in 2004, the stage adaptation of Mary Poppins has gone on to record-breaking productions around the world, gaining over 50 major international awards, including two Olivier Awards and one Tony Award. Over 15 millionpeople have witnessed the magic worldwide with the production having been translated into 13 languages.

Mary Poppins flies back into Bristol Hippodrome on 4 November 2024 where it will run until 30 November 2024 ahead of playing Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin (11 December 2024 – 11 January 2025), Festival Theatre, Edinburgh (22 January 2025 – 15 February 2025), Theatre Royal Plymouth (26 February 2025 – 29 March 2025), Palace Theatre Manchester (9 April 2025 – 17 May 2025), Alhambra Theatre, Bradford (21 May – 29 June 2025), Birmingham Hippodrome (16 July – 23 August 2025), Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (27 August – 20 September 2025), Sunderland Empire (1 – 25 October 2025) and Milton Keynes Theatre (29 October – 22 November 2025). Additional venues still to be announced, alongside further casting.

Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the World’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is more magical than ever before featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. The timeless score includes the classic Sherman Brothers songs; Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Feed the Birds with new songs and additional music and lyrics by the Olivier award-winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe.

MARY POPPINS has original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman with new songs and additional music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. The book is by Julian Fellowes and this production is co-created by Cameron Mackintosh. It has orchestrations by William David Brohn and dance and vocal arrangements by George Stiles. It has sound design by Paul Gatehouse, lighting design by Hugh Vanstone, projections by Luke Hall andillusions by Paul Kieve & Jim Steinmeyer. The set and costume designs are by Bob Crowley. Co-Choreography is by Stephen Mear. Co-direction and choreography is by Matthew Bourne and direction is by Richard Eyre. The UK & Ireland Tour is directed by James Powell with choreography recreated by Richard Jones and musical supervision by Stephen Brooker.

MARY POPPINS UK AND IRELAND TOUR – 2024/2025 TOUR LISTINGS

marypoppins.co.uk

MONDAY 4 NOVEMBER 2024 – SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2024

BRISTOL HIPPODROME

www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins, Jack Chambers as Bert and Patti Boulaye as Birdwoman

WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2024 – SATURDAY 11 JANUARY 2025

BORD GÁIS ENERGY THEATRE, DUBLIN

www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins, Jack Chambers as Bert and Patti Boulaye as Bird Woman

WEDNESDAY 22 JANUARY 2025 – SATURDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2025

FESTIVAL THEATRE, EDINBURGH

www.capitaltheatres.com

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins, Jack Chambers as Bert and Patti Boulaye as Bird Woman

WEDNESDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2025 – SATURDAY 29 MARCH 2025

THEATRE ROYAL PLYMOUTH

www.theatreroyal.com

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins, Jack Chambers as Bert and Patti Boulaye as Bird Woman

WEDNESDAY 9 APRIL 2025 – SATURDAY 17 MAY 2025

PALACE THEATRE MANCHESTER

www.atgtickets.com/venues/palace-theatre-manchester

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins, Jack Chambers as Bert and Patti Boulaye as Bird Woman

WEDNESDAY 21 MAY – SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2025

ALHAMBRA THEATRE, BRADFORD

www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

ON SALE NOW

Casting of Mary Poppins, Bert and Bird Woman to be announced.

WEDNESDAY 16 JULY – SATURDAY 23 AUGUST 2025

BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME

www.birminghamhippodrome.com

ON SALE 20 SEPTEMBER 2024

Casting of Mary Poppins, Bert and Bird Woman to be announced.

WEDNESDAY 27 AUGUST – SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 2025

MAYFLOWER THEATRE, SOUTHAMPTON

www.mayflower.org.uk

ON SALE 17 OCTOBER 2024

Casting of Mary Poppins, Bert and Bird Woman to be announced.

WEDNESDAY 1 – SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER 2025

SUNDERLAND EMPIRE

www.atgtickets.com/venues/sunderland-empire

ON SALE 14 OCTOBER 2024

Casting of Mary Poppins, Bert and Bird Woman to be announced.

WEDNESDAY 29 OCTOBER – SATURDAY 22 NOVEMBER 2025

MILTON KEYNES THEATRE

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

ON SALE 14 OCTOBER 2024

Casting of Mary Poppins, Bert and Bird Woman to be announced.

FURTHER VENUES TO BE ANNOUNCED

Announcing the premiere of

Jo – The Little Women Musical
Music by Dan Redfeld
Book and Lyrics by Christina Harding and John Gabriel Koladziej

A full score concept album featuring Broadway, West End and international stars and a 29-piece orchestra will be recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios
To be followed by a concert in the West End

Los Angeles-based 4 Times Entertainment, Inc. today announces that a new musical adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s iconic coming-of-age novel Little Women will gets its world premiere in the West End in 2025.

Jo – The Little Women Musical, with music by Dan Redfeld, book and lyrics by Christina Harding and John Gabriel Koladziej, follows the adventures of the March sisters’ odyssey into adulthood. At the centre of the new show is the pivotal character of Jo March, a young woman trying to become a renowned writer and “voice for her generation”. Faced with the overwhelming grief of losing her sister Beth, Jo’s sorrow becomes the catalyst for her writing the story of her sisters, transforming her pain into purpose.

Featuring a lush, cinematic score and character-driven lyrics, this new musical version digs deeper into the human condition of each character and invites the audience to explore these beloved young women again with fresh eyes.

A concept album featuring Broadway, West End and international stars including Christine Allado, Chris Mann, Sophie Pollono and a 29-piece orchestra, produced by five-time Grammy nominee and three-time Emmy winner Nigel Wright, will be recorded in January at London’s iconic Abbey Road Studios.

The recording session will be followed by the release of several tracks and videos, the album then the full show will be presented in semi-staged concert on the West End, directed by JoAnn M. Hunter (20 Broadway shows to her credit as a Choreographer including Bad Cinderella and School of Rock, Associate Choreographer and Performer. Most recently Director of SuperYou a new Rock Musical at Curve, Leicester and Choreographer of the upcoming Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat UK tour starring Donny Osmond).

Jo – The Little Women Musical studio album will be released under Grammy® winning record label Center Stage Records.

The date, theatre and ticket onsale for the West End concert will be announced in the coming weeks.

The first cast to be announced for the album recording are:

Christine Allado (as Jo March) is a Grammy Award nominated artist. She was Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds in the original London cast of Hamilton (Victoria Palace Theatre), Cinderella in Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends (Gielgud Theatre); Meat in We Will Rock You (London Coliseum); Tzipporah in The Prince of Egypt (Dominion Theatre).

Chris Mann (Professor Bhaer) is a critically-acclaimed singer, actor and viral comedian. He starred as The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera’s 25th Anniversary Tour  for over 700 performances. His self-shot musical parody videos during covid have been viewed 600 million times. He appeared in Emmy-winning miniseries, Pam and Tommy, playing Motley Crüe’s legendary guitarist, Mick Mars.

Sophie Pollono (Amy March) was Delia Abbott for five seasons on the long-running daytime soap opera Young and the Restless. She starred as the titular character in the Disney Channel limited series  Fastlayne. Her stage credits include the American premiere of Oppenheimer and the world premiere of My Girlfriend is an Alien.

The creative team includes:
Dan Redfeld – Composer, Conductor, Orchestrator, Studio Album Co-Music Producer
Christina Harding – Co-Lyricist & Book
John Gabriel Koladziej – Co-Lyricist & Book
JoAnn M. Hunter – Director
Nigel Wright – Studio Album Co-Music Producer
Brian Purcell – Lead Producer
CDM Productions – General Managers

Dan Redfeld (Composer) said: “It’s always been our hope for Jo – The Little Women Musical to be heard around the world the way we intended – with an international cast of stellar artists and 29-piece orchestra. For that to come to fruition in a full Studio Album is a dream come true.”

Christina Harding and John Gabriel Koladziej (Co-Lyricists and Book Writers) continued: “Assembling such a talented group of performers to bring our material to life is truly thrilling. We are excited to share our new interpretation of Louisa May Alcott’s timeless classic with a multi-generational audience.”

Lead Producer Brian Purcell (4 Times Entertainment, Inc.) added: “We are honoured to be recording at Abbey Road Studios where some of the world’s most influential artists and albums – from The Beatles to Star Wars to Lady Gaga – have been immortalised.

Social media: 

Website: www.jothemusical.com  

Instagram: @jothemusical  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jothemusical

JAMIE WILSON PRODUCTIONS

AND

EMILY WOOD FOR EVOLUTION PRODUCTIONS

ANNOUNCE

A WEST END RUN OF
THE LAST LAUGH

WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY PAUL HENDY

STARRING

BOB GOLDING AS ERIC MORECAMBE,

DAMIAN WILLIAMS AS TOMMY COOPER

AND SIMON CARTWRIGHT AS BOB MONKHOUSE

PLAYING AT THE NOËL COWARD THEATRE
FROM 25 FEBRUARY TO 22 MARCH 2025

AHEAD OF A SEASON IN NEW YORK AND A UK TOUR

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Following a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, producers Jamie Wilson Productions and Emily Wood for Evolution Productions are delighted to announce a West End run of THE LAST LAUGH. Written and directed by Paul Hendy, this new play will run at the Noël Coward Theatre in London’s West End from 25 February to 22 March 2025 ahead of season in New York and a UK tour. Prior to the London run the show will play the Theatre Royal, Brighton from 11 – 15 February 2025.

THE LAST LAUGH stars Bob Golding as Eric Morecambe, Damian Williams as Tommy Cooper and Simon Cartwright as Bob Monkhouse who all reprise their roles following the Edinburgh run. Tickets on sale now www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk

THE LAST LAUGH is a new play which re-imagines the lives of three of Britain’s all-time greatest comedy heroes – Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Bob Monkhouse. Filled with great gags and touching stories, The Last Laugh is nostalgic, poignant and guaranteed to be an unforgettable night out.

Producer Jamie Wilson said today “The young team here at JWP were bowled over by the relevance of their timeless comedy and after seeing it myself in Edinburgh, I just knew it had to have a further life so many more people could experience it. What is so brilliant about this  play is the audiences who love and remember Eric, Tommy and Bob will be able to relive their comedy greatness and those that don’t, will be introduced to the genius of these national treasures. I’m so pleased these icons will be back on the London stage for audiences to enjoy”.

Bob Golding starred as Eric Morecambe in the West End hit Morecambe at the Duchess Theatre for which he was nominated for an Olivier Award, with the show winning the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment. He has also appeared in the West End production of the musicals Only The Lonely and Elvis The Musical.

Damian Williams played Tommy Cooper in the tour of Being Tommy Cooper. His many other theatre credits include Edna Turnblad in the national tour of the musical Hairspray as well as the national tour of The Ladykillers and the plays Bouncers and Educating Rita. For the past 17 years he has been the resident Dame in the pantomimes at the Sheffield Lyceum and was awarded Best Pantomime Dame at The Great British Pantomime Awards.  

Simon Cartwright has been an actor and impressionist since the 1980s, appearing at The Comedy Store many times. He has appeared in the award-winning Channel 4 hit Toast of London and the films Mother’s Day and Closure. He has recently toured the UK in the stage play Howerd’s End in which he portrays the legendary comedian Frankie Howerd.

THE LAST LAUGH is written and directed by Paul Hendy. Set design is by Lee Newby, Music and Soundscape design by Ethan Lewis Maltby, Sound design by Callum Wills, Costume design by Amy Chamberlain and Casting by Kate Roddy.

The Noël Coward Theatre is a Delfont Mackintosh Theatre.

53two, Watson Street, Manchester – until 8 November 2024

5*****

Every so often a nugget of pure gold is found, and it’s currently showing at 53two in Manchester.

In the intimate setting of 53two, Frank 4 Sophie 4 Eva emerges as a standout theatrical experience that masterfully blends humor and pathos. Written by the brilliant Ian Watson, this play is a testament to his talent for weaving complex narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

The performances by Simon Naylor (Frank) and Alexandra Maxwell (Sophie) are nothing short of spectacular. Their chemistry ignites the stage, effortlessly transitioning between laugh-out-loud moments and poignant scenes that tug at the heartstrings. Simon’s portrayal of Frank is layered and compelling, while Alexandra brings an infectious energy and depth to Sophie that captivates from the very first scene. Together, they navigate the intricacies of their characters’ relationships with remarkable nuance.

Watson’s genius script shines with wit and emotional depth. The dialogue is sharp, with moments that will have you laughing one moment and reflecting the next. The themes of love, loss, and the search for connection are explored with both sensitivity and humour, making it a relatable journey for anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of relationships.

What truly sets this production apart is its ability to maintain a delicate balance between comedy and tragedy. The audience finds themselves laughing uncontrollably one moment and then left in thoughtful silence the next, a testament to the skill of both the writer and performers.

The theatre is running a pay what you can scheme and is supporting Andy’s Man Club (https://andysmanclub.co.uk/), a men’s suicide prevention charity, where men can talk openly about their mental health

Frank 4 Sophie 4 Eva is not just a play; it’s an experience that lingers long after the curtain falls. It deserves a wider audience and should not end its run in Manchester. This production is a must-see for anyone who appreciates exceptional writing and brilliant performances. Don’t miss the chance to witness this gem!

Wilton’s Music Hall – until 23 November 2024

Reviewed by Claire Roderick

5*****

Sasha Regan’s All Male Pirates of Penzance is a blast of pure joy. Each time I see this show, there’s more silliness to enjoy amongst the gorgeous vocals.

Regan adds impish humour to Gilbert and Sullivan’s already ludicrous plot. Slave to duty Frederic (Cameron McAllister) leaves the Pirate King (Tom Newland) and the crew on his 21st birthday at the end of his indenture, taking his nursemaid Ruth (Robert Wilkes) and vowing to destroy the pirates, until a handy paradox reveals that he is technically indentured to the Pirate King until 1940. The ridiculous characters – unsuccessful pirates who never hurt orphans, cowardly police officers and, of course, the very model of a modern Major-General (David McKechnie) and his excitable daughters – Regan’s direction and Lizzi Gee’s inspired and irreverent choreography elevate the comedy to giddy heights. Musical director Giannis Giannopoulos provides brilliant accompaniment on the piano as the 2024 company strut their stuff breathing fresh life and energy into Gilbert and Sullivan’s wonderful work.

The cast, many making their professional debuts, are a delight. The ensemble transforms effortlessly from roistering pirates to simpering maids to knee-tremblingly terrified police officers with hilarious effects, and the Major-General’s daughters give a masterclass in comedic reactions. The number of visual gags and shenanigans going on in the background is glorious – adding to rather than distracting from the daft story. Cameron McAllister and Luke Garner-Greene are heavenly as Frederic and Mabel, with McAllister a fine romantic hero and Garner-Greene displaying a beautiful countertenor voice as the strong and single-minded Mabel. Their tender moments are delightful. Tom Newland is a dashing Pirate King and Robert Wilkes is a hoot as Ruth. Lewis Kennedy’s excellent Sergeant of the Police is an understated comic joy next to the brilliantly overblown antics of the ensemble, and David McKechnie is perfection as Major-General Stanley, nailing the patter song and commanding the stage – even in his nightshirt. The company gives a wonderful vocal performance, highlighted by the beautiful unaccompanied rendition of Hail Poetry, and perform both the lighter comedy songs and slower airs masterfully.

The Pirates of Penzance is an absolute blast of a show, full of rib-tickling gags and familiar tunes to set your feet tapping and performed with infectious joy and energy by a wonderfully talented cast.

Hull City Hall – 1st November 2024

Reviewed by Dawn Bennett

5*****

Part of Hull City Hall Classics 2024/2025 in partnership with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hull Philharmonic Orchestra.

Conducted by Stephen Bell and Leader/Solo Violin Duncan Riddell.

Last night the Hull audience were treated to some of the most well-known film scores. Listening to them how they should be listened to, with a full orchestra who played beautifully.

Stephen Bell is a fabulous conductor, he’s talented, enthusiastic and very knowledgeable telling us bits of information about the different film scores. The composer John Williams and director Steven Spielberg collaborating in 28 films and counting and John Williams being the oldest person to be nominated for an Academy Award at 91 and having 54 nominations so far just being some of them.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra are an outstanding collection of musicians and they brought the music alive from the haunting melodies of Hans Zimmers Main Theme from Gladiator and John Williams’s Schindler’s List to the rousing sounds of Ron Goodwin’s Main Theme from 633 squadron, John William’s Shark theme from Jaws and three pieces of music from Star Wars, including the Imperial March, Darth Vader’s memorable theme.

My favourite piece of music of the night were the Main Theme from Schindler’s List, the haunting violin solo played by Duncan Riddell (Soloist and leader of the RPO) was simply stunning, this piece of music really sets the scene for the harrowing story so well and you could have heard a pin drop in the very full City Hall.

There was some very well-known music from Vangelis’s Chariots of Fire theme, to another of John Willimas masterpieces Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and I really could have sat and listened to it all again.

The conductor said at the beginning, after we listened to the theme tune to E.T the Extra-Terrestrial (another John Williams classic) that he would take this music as one of his things to a desert island. I think I would have to take the superbly talented orchestra as one of mine and I look forward to seeing them again in the rest of the 2024/2025 season.

Birmingham Hippodrome – 31 October 2024

Reviewed by Nadia Dodd

4****

I can honestly say I had no real knowledge of this trial or the outcome that followed and I still don’t know what the actually true trial outcome was, as in the hilariously funny performance by Awkward Productions the audience were able to vote on the guilty party at the end.

I can also state that I have never been to such a show that are so keen to involve their audience, it was genius and the audience members who were directly involved had some fantastic improvisational skills – well done you guys ! For audience members who don’t want to get up on stage don’t worry you can also join in by throwing snowballs – what fun!

Linus Karp and Joseph Martin who have both written the performance help us to recount the collision way back in 2016 between Hollywood Superstar Gwyneth Paltrow (Linus) and a retired optometrist from Utah, Terence Sanderson (Joseph).

Both are fantastic at recovering on stage if/when anything went slightly off course such as Gwyneth’s hair sticking to her microphone and sounding like a ticking clock or when she tried to have a quiet drink of water but must have forgotten that every little sound gets picked up by that same said microphone – adding to my thrill of live shows, anything can happen.

Apart from the humour and acting, the story unfolds also using song, dance and puppetry.

Plenty of references by Gwyneth of her privileged childhood, successful acting career, relationships and children. Apple her daughter plays quite a large part throughout the show, I wouldn’t want to give anything away of course.

The 80-minute performance starts with a run through of the background of both parties, followed by the collision itself of the ski slopes of Deer Valley, before the court case and verdict.

Paltrow and Sanderson are the stars of the play although we also meet many other characters along the way. My favourites appeared in puppet form, Joseph Martin proving yet again to be a hilarious yet skilled puppeteer. We also have an onscreen cameo from Drag icon Trixie Mattel as Paltrow’s mother, Blythe Danner, there were plenty of fans in the crowd you could tell.

Linus and Joseph have such a rare talent, they ad-lib and bounce off each other fantastically, no wonder the show is doing so well on the UK and Ireland tour.

With tongue-in-cheek humour, a great cast, sharp writing and lots of snowy fun, ‘Gwyneth Goes Skiing‘ is a great treat for anyone who can catch them at one of their next locations.