Author: FairyPoweredProductions

Cast Theatre, Doncaster – until Saturday 15th November 2025

Reviewed by Adam Craddock

5*****

Tonight I had the absolute delight of being invited down to the wonderful Cast Theatre in Doncaster to review the latest leg of the never ending tour of Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers. This show holds a very dear place in my heart, having seen the show countless times and actually been lucky enough to have played The Narrator whilst I was training in London. The story is well known to many for its themes of class, trust and superstition, and these are just as relevant today as when Russell first penned the script.

The production stars Vivienne Carlyle as Mrs Johnstone, the fiery and proud mother of the titular blood brothers. Carlyle brings a brilliant realness to the role and her connection to the material is evident throughout. Kristoffer Harding co stars as The Narrator. Harding has a brilliant control to his performance, it is so easy to let the poetic patterns of the narrators speech become formulaic and predictable but Harding actually showed me several new takes on verses that I haven’t seen The Narrator get taken down before. He also had a beautiful tone to his vocal and the blend between Harding and Carlyle in the harmonised sections was beautiful. Sean Jones returns to the role of Mickey and having first seen him in this role over 10 years ago (he’s been playing it on and off for 20+ years), I have to say I was very pleasantly surprised that it didn’t feel stale at all. Jones still had that childish glee and playfulness that really makes him shine in particular as the younger Mickey. Joe Sleight plays Eddie, and I have to say I think this may be my new favourite portrayal of Eddie. The charm and wit he brings to the character is extremely endearing and I was mightily impressed by his smooth tenor vocal. Gemma Brodrick was brilliant as Linda, in particular in the later scenes in the show when she can really let loose and show off her fabulous acting ability. The scene where she relents and gives Mickey the tablets was touching and her agony was palpable. Bravo! Francesca Benton-Stace was on tonight as understudy for Mrs Lyons. I felt that she really grew into the role as act 1 went on and her relationship with Edward was very interesting to watch.

My only real criticism of the show would be the slightly iffy spotlight that would occasionally completely miss the actors, leaving parts of heads in the dark, or would start wandering on its own when no one was moving on stage. Whilst this did not ruin the show for me at all it did draw my eye at several time and somewhat break the immersion for a brief second.

All in all, I would recommend seeing Blood Brothers in the highest regard. This is a timeless classic, British theatre at its very best and I think this performance shows that despite its age as a production, Blood Brothers has got many years left in it yet! Tell me that’s not true!

Actor David Sturzaker sat down with fairypowered to answer 20 questions. David is currently playing Gareth Southgate in James Graham’s Olivier Award winning Dear England.  Currently on tour around the UK, book tickets here

Let’s start with a few favourites

Favourite show (whether you have been in it or not)? 

Anne Boleyn, written by Howard Brenton. I played Henry VIII, and it was on that tour that I met my wife, Jo, who was playing the title role.

Favourite book? 

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

Favourite theatre? Shakespeare’s 

Globe in London

Favourite song? 

Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher, Jackie Wilson

Favourite music? 

Soul, folk

Favourite food? 

Risotto

Favourite drink? 

Most wines!

What is your favourite role? 

Charles II in Nell Gwynn by Jessica Swale, which opened at Shakespeare’s Globe and transferred to the West End

What was your first role? 

Claudio in Much Ado About Nothing

And what role would you really like to play? 

Stanley in A Streetcar Named Desire (Though probably a bit too old for that now!)

If you weren’t a performer , what would you be? 

In reality, don’t know! Maybe something in the health/fitness sector. But my fantasy other job is a restaurant reviewer

What made you decide to be a performer? 

I enjoyed acting in youth theatre, and then I had the epiphany of learning that it could actually be a profession

Do you enjoy touring? 

I do. I love seeing different parts of the country, getting to know different theatres and, for a while, the simplicity of the lifestyle. But at the same time, I also miss my family and home.

What advice would you give the 16-year-old you?

Ha! I think giving advice is complicated– it’s more important for people to find their own path. But for my 16-year-old self?….. Try not to be so self-conscious!

Do you fancy branching out in Producing or Directing? 

I have done some producing before and have enjoyed it so I would consider doing more in the future. Directing though – that feels like a skill set that many others possess in far greater abundance – the ability to have an overall vision whilst keeping an eye on the detail and fulfilling leadership and pastoral roles at the same time.

What was the last stage show you saw and really enjoyed? 

Every Brilliant Thing at @Soho PlaceDavid Sturzaker plays Gareth Southgate in James Graham’s play ‘Dear England’ and then on tour until March 2026 – dearenglandonstage.com

Sid Sagar is 2025 Jerwood Writer in

Residence at Pentabus

Pentabus today announces that writer and performer Sid Sagar is the new 2025
Jerwood Writer in Residence at Pentabus. Recruitment for the 2026 Writer in Residence
continues.

Pentabus Artistic Director and 2025 BAFTA winner Elle While commented, “The
appointment of Sid is the next exciting step for Pentabus and its legacy of relationships
with extraordinary writers, as we welcome his particular talent for writing about
community and culture in the UK and his expansive warmth and ability to connect with
people and places.”

Sagar’s debut play Biting Point was produced by Middle Child this year and toured car
parks in the North East in a site-specific staging, his audio drama John from Hemel was
broadcast on Radio 4 in May, and he has recently appeared in Mrs Warren’s Profession
in the West End alongside Imelda Staunton.

Sid Sagar commented, “Pentabus is genuinely committed to making work that speaks
to communities. The company’s legacy and vision is extraordinary and increasingly
important in a disconnected time. I can’t wait to get started.”

Liv Hennessy, previously announced as the 2025 Jerwood Writer in Residence, instead
continues her relationship with Pentabus as an Associate Artist.

Recruitment for the 2026 Jerwood Writer in Residence is currently at the longlist stage.
The successful writer will work alongside Sid Sagar for the first few months of their
residency.

Previous writers in residence at Pentabus include award-winning writer and performer
Florence Espeut-Nickless (DESTINY), and George Devine-winning writer Simon
Longman (Gundog), both of whom have written new ghost stories for Even More…
Ghost Stories by Candlelight, which has just finished a national tour, in a co-production
with HighTide.

KEALA SETTLE AND HAL FOWLER

STAR IN A NEW RE-IMAGINING OF

MRS. PRESIDENT

CHARING CROSS THEATRE

23 JANUARY –  8 MARCH 2026

●      KEALA SETTLE STARS AS MARY LINCOLN IN A RARE DRAMATIC ROLE IN A NON-MUSICAL THEATRE PRODUCTION

●      THIS BRAND-NEW RE-IMAGINING, FOLLOWING ITS JANUARY 2025 STAGING, EXPLORES THE MOTIVATIONS BEHIND ONE OF THE MOST VILIFIED WOMEN IN U.S HISTORY

●      WRITTEN BY MULTIDISCIPLINARY ARTIST JOHN RANSOM PHILLIPS WITH NEW DRAMATURGY BY BRONAGH LAGAN, THE DIRECTOR BEHIND OLIVIER-NOMINATED CRUISE AND WHAT’S ON STAGE WINNER FLOWERS FOR MRS HARRIS

●      OPENS 23 JANUARY FOR SIX WEEKS UNTIL 8 MARCH AT CHARING CROSS THEATRE

Musical theatre icon and Broadway star Keala Settle (THE GREATEST SHOWMAN, WAITRESS, SISTER ACT) and Hal Fowler (LES MISÉRABLES, ASPECTS OF LOVE, FLOWERS FOR MRS HARRIS) are cast in a brand-new re-imagining of Mrs. President, a gripping psychological drama that uncovers the turbulent inner world and the passions and ambitions of Mary Lincoln, America’s First Lady.

Following its original London staging in January 2025, this fully transformed production opens at London’s Charing Cross Theatre for six-weeks from 23 January to 8 March 2026 with press night on 27 January 2026. This is not a remount, but a reinvention — richer in scope, sharper in focus, and more hauntingly human.

Cast as Mary Lincoln, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln, this play marks a rare non-singing dramatic role for Keala Settle, showcasing her extraordinary depth and power. Hal Fowler, who was cast in The Who’s original rock musical Tommy and has starred in numerous West End shows plays Mathew Brady, the forefather of photojournalism and also one of the earliest celebrity/portraiture photographers in American history.

Set in the aftermath of 1865 and following the assassination of her husband, Mary is a woman under siege, suffering from immense grief, struggling with her mental health, vilified by society and in the media. She seeks out Brady to help her redefine her public image, a mission which ultimately results in a journey of self-discovery.

Keala says: “I was so struck by Mary’s story and by the profound human cost she endured. She was a woman whose identity for centuries was put in a box and whose legacy continues to be defined by other people’s ideologies. I’m excited by this opportunity to tell her story and connect with London audiences. I hope they will see both myself and Mary in a brand-new light.”

Bronagh Lagan (Olivier-nominated play Cruise and What’s On Stage’s 2024 Best West End Production Flowers for Mrs Harris) who has re-envisioned and directed this play adds: “In today’s polarised political climate, Mary Lincoln’s journey — navigating intense public scrutiny while balancing her roles as wife, mother, and political figure — feels profoundly resonant. Through her strength and vulnerability, Mrs President invites us to reconsider how society and media portray women, revealing the human cost of leadership and the resilience required to endure it.” 

Multidisciplinary artist and playwright John Ransom Philips comments: “History rarely grants women the right to define themselves — Mary Lincoln least of all. Her story deserves to be told not as rumour, spectacle, or judgment, but as the truth of a brilliant, wounded, and resilient woman who bore the human cost of a nation’s spotlight. Our collaboration with Bronagh, Keala, Hal, and the Aria Entertainment team finally gives Mary the truth and artistry she was denied.”

The new creative team includes designer Anna Kelsey, lighting designer Derek Anderson and sound designer Eamonn O’Dwyer.

Mrs. President is produced by Art Pond Foundation with General Management by Aria Entertainment.

From live performance to visual art

To coincide with the opening of his re-invented play, multidisciplinary artist John Ransom Phillips will debut his first UK exhibition of watercolours and oil paintings. Mary Lincoln and Frida Kahlo UNFRAMED will be presented at the historic Royal Watercolour Society’s gallery on Whitcomb street, just minutes from Charing Cross Theatre, from 30 January to 21 February, 2026.

More than a companion to the play, this exhibition creates a dialogue between the two women — reaching across time, geography, and circumstance to bring them into shared presence. Phillips’ artistic vision resists inherited narratives and invites new forms of seeing and subjectivity, freeing them from identities long imposed upon them. UNFRAMED offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience this vision across both live performance and visual art, ultimately inviting us not only to see Mary and Frida anew, but to consider how we, too, might step beyond the frames that have defined us.

Nottingham Theatre Royal- until Saturday 8 November 2025

Reviewed by Amy V Gathercole

3***

“Here and Now Brings the Beat, but not every step lands”

Cheeky, camp and cute, bursting with sparkle, Here and Now is the latest jukebox musical to hit the stage, celebrating the hits of pop supergroup Steps’ brought to us from director Rachel Kavanaugh.

As a bit of a Steps fan myself, (I even saw them at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena as a teen), I wasn’t alone in the infectious nostalgia. The audience was peppered with superfans, proudly donning vintage tour T-shirts and out-sparkling the show’s own backing dancers at times.

The story centres on four friends, Caz (Lara Denning), Vel (Jacqui Dubois), Robbie (Dean Rickards), and Neeta (Rosie Singha) who work at a UK seaside superstore called Better Best Bargains. When ringleader Caz rallies the gang to chase a “summer of love,” for her 50th birthday gift, their lives take a series of surprising turns. The mainly light-hearted plot explores friendship, dreams, and reinvention – all played out with dance routines in the store aisles around and on top of checkouts 5, 6, 7, 8 (see what they did there?).

There’s a lively mix of supporting characters, romantic entanglements and even a few well-placed villains to keep things interesting.

Lara Denning stands out as Caz, delivering vocals that blend beautifully with the signature harmonies of Steps, particularly as she sings ‘Heartbeat’. Her grounded performance gives the show its heart and lends real vocal credibility to the musical numbers. That said, the standout voice of the night belonged to Dean Rickards as Robbie. As the sole lead male vocalist, his rich, deeper tone added texture and drew the audience in with every solo. They both have voices that genuinely gel with the harmonies of Steps original sound.

The show embraces LGBTQIA+ representation with refreshing ease. Robbie’s relationship with local drag queen Jem (played with flair by River Medway) is tender, funny, and joyfully unapologetic. Rather than feeling like a box-ticking exercise, this and other storylines are woven naturally into the fabric of the plot, celebrating queer love and friendship in a way that feels both current and heartfelt. Watch out for a particularly memorable number from Gem in the second act.

The comedy drew plenty of laughs throughout. For Steps fans, the show delivers a generous helping of their biggest hits—‘Stomp’, ‘Tragedy’, and ‘Chain Reaction’ among them, alongside a few lesser-known tracks that keep the energy high and the audience tapping their feet.

Visually, the production sticks to a bold palette of hot pink and electric blue (from the set designer Tom Rogers) reflecting the vibrant, over-the-top world of the superstore setting. The choreography from Matt Cole is playful and well-paced, though occasionally repetitive and sometimes the ensemble just feel like they have no purpose in the scene.

As with many jukebox musicals, the challenge lies in marrying the songs with a coherent storyline. At multiple times, the plot feels too stretched to accommodate the lyrics and you can certainly sense the creative team scratching their heads, working hard to make the pieces fit. The second act, however, picks up the pace and delivers a more satisfying rhythm.

Ultimately, Here and Now is a feel-good night out that Steps devotees will adore. For those less familiar with the band’s back catalogue, it may lack depth, but it’s hard to resist the show’s glittery charm and infectious beat.

It’s a glitzy feel-good tribute that will delight Steps fans, even if it doesn’t quite hit every note for the uninitiated.

Hall for Cornwall, Truro – until 15 November 2025

Reviewed by Kerry Gilbert

4****

‘A Charming and Classic Murder Mystery!’

The play follows Agatha Christie’s most successful character, detective Hercule Poirot (Mark Hadfield. Poirot is invited to be part of an expedition along the Nile River to return an ancient artefact. Wealthy Linnet Ridgeway (Libby Alexandra-Cooper) asks Poirot for help, as her honeymoon with Simon Doyle (Nye Occomore) is being disrupted by his ex-fiancée Jacqueline De Bellefort (Esme Hough) who, bitter at being rejected, is stalking the couple. Poirot refuses at first, but this does not matter as, once the steamer has set sail, Linnet is found shot to death by a pistol apparently owned by Jacqueline. Tensions rise as it’s revealed that many passengers had motives – jealousy, betrayal and greed. Poirot exposes the crime in classic Christie fashion, bringing justice to a carefully staged deception.

Director, Lucy Bailey did a splendid job of keeping the audience engaged as the show builds suspense and intrigue. She adds perfect timing to the plot twists so the audience can take them in and feel the shock of it all. A standout moment for me was when Poirot delivered his big ‘reveal’ of who the murderer was, and the characters reenacted the scenes seamlessly that Poirot was referring to.

Designer, Mike Britton’s elegant split level set design captures the luxury of the steamer in the 1930’s and realistically provides a means where Poirot can eavesdrop while the passengers on the lower level make incriminating remarks. It is the perfect backdrop consisting of a series of sliding venetian screens and doors and cruise ship railings, especially when moving it creates an immersive experience with smooth scene transitions. Lighting designer (Oliver Fenwick) has created a reflective atmosphere assisted by subdued lighting which moodily bounces shafts of light that glitter off sequin dresses and a golden sarcophagus.

Costume supervisor, Sarah Holland has created outfits for the show which are classy and elegant. The artistic Salome Otterbourne (Camilla Anvar) an artist with aspirations for the stage is gloriously flamboyant with costumes to match.

Ken Ludwig’s adaption trims the original story and has slipped in some humour which prevents the show taking itself too seriously. It is a charming and classic murder mystery, which makes excellent viewing.

Credit goes to Manuel Harlan for the fantastic production images.

Scouts! The Musical & A Jaffa Cake Musical
Now Available to Stream Online!

Following their final performances this Summer, multi-award winning Gigglemug Theatre have made their two latest smash hit shows available to watch online: Scouts! The Musical, created in partnership with the Scouts, and A Jaffa Cake Musical, inspired by the 1991 court case which decided once and for all whether a Jaffa Cake is a cake or a biscuit! Both productions received multiple sell-out runs, with over 8,000 people seeing the shows this Summer alone.

Scouts! The Musical premiered at The Other Palace in 2023 before embarking on a tour earlier this year, and received a Standing Ovation Award as well as nominations for a WhatsOnStage Award, an Offie Award & four Fringe Theatre Awards. Meanwhile, A Jaffa Cake Musical first appeared in workshop form in 2024 as part of MTFest and went on to enjoy two sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, where it accumulated well over 50 four & five star reviews.

Artistic Director of Gigglemug Theatre, Sam Cochrane, said “I am thrilled that our two most successful productions will now find a new life online. We could only tour the shows to a handful of places, but now wherever you are in the world you’ll be able to watch Scouts! The Musical and A Jaffa Cake Musical from the comfort of your own home whenever you like! We were lucky enough to regularly sell out which meant that people often missed out on tickets, so it’s wonderful that those who missed the productions will now get to see them and those who enjoyed the shows before can watch them again!” £10 digital tickets for both shows are available exclusively on Lounges.TV from Wednesday 12th November: lounges.tv/profile/gigglemug

As ‘Gigglemug’ means someone who is always smiling, Gigglemug Theatre want to give their audiences a chance to do just that. Their debut show was the Edinburgh Fringe hit Timpson: The Musical (sponsored by everyone’s favourite high street shop, Timpson) which won The Stage Award. Their follow up show was the critically-acclaimed RuneSical, an interactive musical based on the BAFTA-winning online game RuneScape and supported by the game makers themselves.

Twitter, Facebook & Instagram: @TheGigglemug
Digital Tickets: lounges.tv/profile/gigglemug

Richmond Theatre – until Saturday 15th November 2025

Reviewed by Carly

4****

Richmond brings you the psychological thriller, The Talented Mr. Ripley, based on the book written by Patricia Highsmith, adapted for the stage by Mark Leipacher. Also made into a film in 1999 and more recently turned into a Netflix series.

Set in the 1950’s the play opens in New York City where we are introduced to Tom Ripley (Ed McVey) a small-time con artist living day by day. When he is approached by a stranger by the name of Herbet Greenleaf (Christopher Bianchi) a father who’s worried about his wayward son Dickie Greenleaf (Bruce Herbelin-Earle) who left for Italy and has no intention of returning home. His father, on the other hand, wants him to come back home as his mother is poorly and would desperately like to see her son. Herbet then offers Tom an all-expenses paid trip to Italy to track down his son and bring him home. Tom accepts Herbet’s offer, however after arriving and finding Dickie, Tom finds himself enthralled by Dickies lifestyle and freedom which leads to a deadly obsession, resulting in a web of lies and deceit.  

Although this production only had a small cast, they all had a great ability to take on different roles, delivering remarkable depth and greatness. Alongside a simple set, of a stage on a stage only offering dark surroundings with a few props and lighting that set different moods and a great atmosphere.  

This was a good production, that was enjoyable to watch; I personally felt the first half was done exceptionally well and left the audience on the edge of their seats in anticipation for the second act. In contrast I was unfortunately left feeling disappointed at the end of the second act; I had the sense that the production was slightly elongated and perhaps could have been finished in a more succinct way. Due to this I was almost inclined to mark this production at 3 stars, however, Ed McVey’s innate talent, which showcases his ability to fully embody the character that he is playing, making his performance believable and unforgettable, raised this production in my opinion.  

Mayflower Theatre, Southampton – until 15 November 2025

Reviewed by Gemma Gibson

5*****

If you enjoy thrillers filled with secrets, suspense and the supernatural, 2:22 A Ghost Story needs to be on your must-see list.

Written by comedian and broadcaster Danny Robins, the award winning production has returned to Southampton for one week only, and, being one of the most talked about plays in recent years, I could not wait to see what it was all about.

Jenny (currently played by Stacey Dooley) believes her new home is haunted, but is met with scepticism and disbelief from logical astronomer husband Sam (Kevin Clifton). When old friend Lauren (Shvorne Marks) and partner Ben (Grant Kilburn) come for dinner, views about the supernatural clash, but all agree to stay up to 2:22 to uncover what’s been terrifying Jenny every night.

Starting its Westend run in 2021 this modern play is known for its spooky themes, jump scares and iconic set. Arguably it is most known for its revolving cast of brilliant and talented household names, and the latest line up is no exception. 

When it comes to portraying Jenny, Dooley is effortless, reprising the role from her 2024 debut, transforming into her anxious but strong character with emotions that feel natural and genuine. Confusion, anger, fear and motherly instincts are executed with perfect timing and levels, helping push the spooky narrative forwards. This is complimented by Clifton’s enjoyably dislikable interpretation of Sam, who expertly brings rational thinking and sarcasm to the plot. 

Edging closer and closer to the time 2:22, the play would not be complete without Kilburn and Marks bringing important tales and themes about life after death to the table. Amidst the shock and intensity, they also bring hilarity and warmth. This is of course a ghost story, but Robins’ sinister storytelling with a sprinkle of humour keeps audiences fully gripped, leaving no emotional stone unturned.

Alongside a fantastic, spine chilling script and cast, it is the set, lighting and music that truly amplify the spook factor. Flashes of red lights, creepy music, razor jolts of sound, all while watching the clock tick closer and closer to 2:22, the atmosphere is nothing short of eerie but electric throughout. 

As the curtains draw following a climatic and clever ending, feelings of excitement and adrenaline are left in the air. Leaving Mayflower Theatre there was one question on everyone’s lips – what do you believe in?

Hall for Cornwall, Truro, Cornwall from Tue 18 – Wed 19 Nov 2025

Preview by Kerry Gilbert

Get ready for the ultimate festive experience with ‘That’ll Be Christmas’!

Get into the festive spirit with That’ll Be the Day’s Christmas Show! As part of their UK Tour, ‘That’ll Be Christmas’ is on the road and will be at the wonderful Hall for Cornwall from Tues 18 – 19 Nov 2025. This year is extra special, as the cast of ‘That’ll Be the Day’ celebrate their 40-year anniversary.

Showing at the Hall for Cornwall for only 2 nights, be sure not to miss out on the all-time favourite Christmas classics past and present and experience some festive fun. The show is packed full of world class performances, a highly talented ensemble cast, hilarious comedy sketches, and heart-warming festive cheer which will whisk you away on a musical journey like no other.

This show is the perfect family night out and a chance to experience the magic of the season where you’re guaranteed to have fun! Make sure you book your tickets; it’s the perfect way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!