Author: FairyPoweredProductions

Park Theatre – until 29 November 2025

Reviewed by Claire Roderick

4****

Business is slow at Cafarelli & Sons, but boss Paula still takes on a summer temp in the cutting room – people will always want meat on the 4th of July, right?

Hannah Dorvan’s debut, winner of the 2024 Papatango New Writing Prize, is a scintillatingly tense play revealing the desperate measures needed to survive the brutality of chasing the American Dream. Doran isn’t American, but the characters and their motivations feel authentic and, while sometimes reprehensible, understandable.

Paula (Jackie Clune), whose grandfather founded the family butcher business 100 years ago after coming to New York from Sicily, is a straight-talking and apparently hardnosed boss who traditionally employs ex-cons in the cutting room. Senior cutter David (Eugene McCoy) is a former Wall Street hotshot whose drug habit was his downfall. Apprentices Billy (Ash Hunter) and JD (Marcello Cruz) are studying for their cutting test to become junior cutters. T (Mithra Malek) is Billy’s cousin and is the new summer temp.

The play takes place in the cutting room of the store – Mona Camille’s steel tables and hanging cuts of meat are lit starkly by Bethany Gupwell. There is a lot to set up in the first act, but Doran’s writing is so engaging, the cast are so charismatic, and George Turvey’s direction is so dynamic, that the pace and action never flag.

What starts as the usual backroom bickering takes a darker turn when Paula reveals that she can’t afford to keep all three men on – passing the test becomes vital for JD and Billy. Both men are desperate for the pay rise: Billy is caring for his mother and the payments for her cancer treatment are unmanageable on his apprentice salary, so he has quietly been taking advantage of Paula’s trust in him to make extra money, while JD needs the raise to pay for the renewal of his immigration papers. What will these two men do, and who are they willing to sacrifice, to survive?

T helps Billy in his sabotage campaign against JD at first, but her loyalties are soon tested as she gets to know JD and she must make her choice between the two men. Doran’s characters are fully rounded and recognisable. The bad choices made are completely understandable given the terrible financial and social pressures and burdens of the US system. Ash Hunter’s Billy could have been portrayed as a brash bully in lesser hands, but Hubnter’s performance is tinged with vulnerability, fear and regret. Marcello Cruz as JD is full of puppyish energy with haunted undertones and Mithra Malek’s T is wonderfully complex – loyal and fiercely protective. Jackie Clune’s character could have been something of a caricature, but Doran’s writing and Clune’s nuanced performance create a multilayered, tough but tender woman trying to keep her head above water. Eugene McCoy’s David is an enigmatic frustration – watching, joking and bitching, but never quite showing his true self. He always seems to be playing his own personal game with the others’ lives – it’s never clear whether this is out of loneliness, loyalty or spite, which feels perfect considering the character’s past.

The chilling climax is a visceral reminder of the reality and fragility of life on the fringes of American society, leaving the audience stunned and realising how wonderfully written these characters are, that their fate hits so hard.

A stunning debut from Hannah Doran – definitely a name to look out for in the future.

Hackney Empire, London – 5 November 2025

Reviewed by Phil Brown

5*****

One of the most beautiful theatres in London, if not the UK, the exotically decorated Hackney Empire makes a perfect match for one of ballet’s most exotic and thrilling creations – Nutcracker in Havana, brilliantly conceived and wonderfully choreographed by the global superstar of ballet’s modern era, Carlos Acosta.  

The traditional Nutcracker ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s music, is a retelling of the Alexandre Dumas 1844 short story about a young girl Clara, who receives a nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. That night, the doll comes to life, there is a battle with a Mouse King, and the doll morphs into a human Prince who leads Clara on a magical journey to the fantastical Land of Sweets where they meet the Sugar Plum Fairy.  

The Nutcracker has long been a popular Christmas entertainment but now has to recognise a serious rival for its position as the seasonal ballet of choice, in Nutcracker in Havana.

With the formation of his Cuban dance company, Acosta Danza, it seems entirely logical to look at transforming classic ballets into works that resonate more with Cuban history, customs and culture, and Nutcracker in Havana is the joyous, stunning result.   The traditional Nutcracker seems staid in contrast to the vibrancy of Nutcracker in Havana.  Kudos to Valid Productions and Stephen Crocker of Norwich Theatre for co-producing a future classic.

Acosta’s programme notes are fascinating.  With Castro taking power in 1959, the idea of Christmas was effectively banned in Cuba until the 90s and you wonder if this was an additional factor in inspiring Acosta to create this wonderful full length ballet in two sumptuous acts – a form of celebratory release from state constraints.  

Cuban influences and references abound – many (most?) drawn from Acosta’s own experiences growing up in Havana.  They are skilfully woven into every aspect of the performance, particularly the innovative instrumentation and beautiful arrangement of the original music (Pepe Gavilondo Peon and Yasel Munoz – composers and arrangers), and the breathtaking variety and athleticism of the dance.  The eye for detail and degree of creativity embodied in this production is exquisite.  Frankly, it’s hard to imagine anyone with sufficient sensory bandwidth to process it all in one viewing.  Several are surely required to absorb the richness of such a monumental work.   

Aside from the remarkable music and dance, the other creatives have brought their ‘A’ game to this production.  Costumery (Angelo Alberto) is a brilliantly lavish spectacle in its own right.  Stage sets and video projection (Nina Dunn) really work a treat and skilful lighting (Andrew Exeter) creates a genuinely magical atmosphere.  I’m usually not a fan of ballet without live music, but the recording and sound (Declan Matwij) is excellent. 

The traditional story line remains intact except the nutcracker doll is now a Mambi soldier (Cuban Liberation Army), and the mice become (pointedly?) rats who do battle with the heroic soldiers of independence (the Mambises). 

Act 1 has four main scenes – the family party, post party transformation, the battle and the snow.   It carries most of the story line up to the departure for the Kingdom of Sweets.   The opening scene, full of visual humour and boisterous warmth is set in a humble wooden shack with a palm thatched roof in the place of a grand Victorian house. The tiny Christmas tree is decorated with empty drinks cans.  We see a large playful family gathered to celebrate Christmas and to receive the visit of the enigmatic uncle (Tio) Elias Drosselmeyer (marvellously played by Alexander Varona) returning to Cuba after many years away in Miami honing his craft as a magician.  He arrives in what appears to be a motorcycle and sidecar but the programme mentions a 1957 Chevrolet Corvette. I guess the constraints of the Hackney Empire played a part in this, but it seems that motorbike sidecar combos are indeed popular in Cuba.  

He brings gifts.  Along with three life size dolls, two of which represent Yoruba gods and the third a Tin Soldier, Tio brings a small Nutcracker doll for his favourite niece Clara (superbly danced by Adria Diaz with buckets of charm and innocent wonder).  He also brings wooden chancleta clogs traditionally used for dance in Carnival events and they are put to good effect in both acts with some energetic ensemble routines echoing the Latin beat of the music.  Tio magically transforms the family party into a much more opulent affair in a splendid hall, with enormous tree and fine costumes. He remains a looming string pulling presence throughout the ballet.

Dancing around a maypole is a Caribbean tradition that stretches back to the time of European plantations and there is a maypole scene in each act embodying the high spirits, verve and glorious explosion of colour that come with Carnival.  Once the guests have left the family gathering, Clara checks on her doll which transforms into the Mambi captain.  In a well choreographed battle scene, Clarahelps to vanquish the rats, the captain transforms into a handsome Prince (played regally by Alejandro Silva) and then whisks her via the Waltz of Snowflakes away to the Kingdom of Sweets.

Where the focus of Act 1 is more on the story-telling, the focus of Act 2 is on the dazzling sequence of set piece dances – Divertissement, Waltz of the Flowers, and the famous Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy plus more chancleta dancing.  These are bookended by the arrival of Clara and the Prince in the Kingdom of Sweets and their subsequent farewell, and are performed to fabulous musical arrangements.  It is an exhilarating piece of theatre from first to last.  And the audience response went up a notch or two if such a thing is possible for this show.  It’s also where the Cuban influences on the music seemed most noticeable (in a good way). 

Of the set-pieces, Divertissement is probably the most striking segment – a series of gorgeous pas de deux routines representing different treats and nationalities – the flamenco flavoured Spanish Dance, the haunting Arabian Dance, the Dance of the Mirlitons (Reed Flutes), the martial arts inspired Chinese Dance, and the Cossack themed Russian Dance. 

Even with Cuba more evident in the content, Act 2 is structured in a more conventional way than Act 1 and seems more coherent for it.  Overall though, a spellbinding and highly accomplished must-see production that I hope will become a Christmas institution.

To sum up Nutcracker in Havana in a nutshell – pure magic and an artistic triumph.

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre – until Saturday 8th October 2025

Reviewed by Michelle Richardson

5*****

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre is a cosy intimate community theatre in York and comes with free adjacent parking. Its current show is York Stage’s production of The Great British Bake Off Musical. Inspired by the well-loved television show, with book and lyrics by Jake Brunger and music and lyrics by Pippa Cleary.

The story is what you would expect, but a condensed version. It follows eight bakers, complete with back stories, two presenters and two judges for an entire season of Bake Off in just two hours. It’s packed with music, puns, show-stoppers, soggy bottoms and not forgetting the all-important handshake or two.

The opening scene is imaginative and surprising, offering a playful take on the origins of baking and cake making. It sets a strong tone for the show.

Presenting the Bake Off are Jim (Sam Roberts) and Kim (Mary Clare, who is an actual professional baker in York). They deliver delightful interactions, with frequent nods to “Mel and Sue”. Their comedic chemistry is evident as they playfully engage with one another, the contestants, judges and the audience.

Nik Briggs, producer/director at York Stage, is also front of stage in the role of Ben. He’s a widowed detective following his late wife’s recipes for his daughter, Lily (played by Abigail Hodgson in a shared role with Ella Laister, Eady Mensah and Megan Pickard), while coping with his loss. As the weeks fly by we see him undergo a personal journey, learning to live and love again. It was lovely to see him perform on stage again.

The other contestants are Izzy (Amy Barrett), a spoilt rich kid who will do anything to win; Francesca (Alana Blacker), a passionate Italian baker who now lives in Bognor; Hassan (Fredo), a student from Syria who just goes with the flow, as long as he wears his lucky t-shirt. The delicious Russell (Stu Hutchinson), a crowd favourite and I can just see him as a pantomime dame; Dezza (Grant McIntyre) a vegan hipster baker; Babs (Joanne Theaker, a York Stage stalwart), thrice married and just maybe on the lookout for number four; and Gemma (Harriet Yorke), a back-up contestant, a shy carer who looked after her recently deceased mother, who gains confidence and friends through the contest. Completing the cast are judges Pam Lee (Tracey Rea) and Chris Wilson (Phil Hollinghurst), who lovingly parody real-life judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood.

The set features work stations with baby pink food mixers, mixing bowls, wooden spoons, and baked treats, recreating the Bake Off tent atmosphere perfectly. There are aprons aplenty, colourful clothing and accessories, mostly curtesy of Pam Lee.

The vocals were impressive from start to finish, with Barrett, McIntyre, and Yorke leaving a particularly strong impression on me. They were accompanied by a magnificent live band, which is not revealed until the end, comprising Stephen Hackshaw, Sam Johnson, Hannah Garnett, Peter Care, Ryan Griffiths and Sam Boyes. The cast delivered amazing performances, each member showing enthusiasm and commitment. Their infectious energy lit up the stage, drawing the audience into the world of the Great British Bake Off.

Great British Bake Off Musical is witty, full of warmth and captures the heart. It is extremely funny, full of innuendos, friendship and includes a developing love story. York Stage have once again hit the mark and have put on a show that is professional in every respect, offering a vibrant, playful homage to the cherished television series. Try and get to see this show, it will leave you with a smile as sweet as a show-stopper bake.

SAM RYDER
TO HEADLINE MAJOR PRODUCTION OF
TIM RICE AND ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM NEXT SUMMER 

Directed by Tim Sheader, Choreographed by Drew McOnie

and Designed by Tom Scutt
 

Strictly limited season to play from

Saturday 20 June – Saturday 5 September 2026

Tickets go on exclusive presale 25 November and general sale 26 November

Sign up for presale atlondon.jesuschristsuperstar.com

Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals is today thrilled to announce that the creative team of the 2016 production of Jesus Christ Superstar will reunite 10 years on to create a unique staging of their Olivier award-winning, worldwide smash-hit production. 

Now featuring a cast of 30, including Sam Ryder as Jesus in his West End debut, the production which was originally created and produced at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, will play for a limited 11-week season at The London Palladium.

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic global phenomenon is directed by Tim Sheader with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Drew McOnie and design by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Tom Scutt.

The show will play from Saturday 20 June to Saturday 5 September 2026, with a press night scheduled for Tuesday 7 July 2026. Tickets go on exclusive presale on Tuesday 25 November 2025 at 10am and general sale on Wednesday 26 November at 10am. Sign up for presale at london.jesuschristsuperstar.com.

Jesus Christ Superstar follows the events of the last days of the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, ‘Gethsemane’ and the iconic title number ‘Superstar’.

Sam Ryder is a BRIT and Emmy nominated, critically acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician. He achieved dizzying success on TikTok andat Eurovision where his hit single ‘Space Man’ skyrocketed him to the forefront of the airwaves. He has since scored a #1 album, #2 single, accumulated billions of streams, over 20 million followers, and much more. Embarking on a new era of his career, Sam recently released new album Heartland, which went straight to #1 on the Independent Albums Chart in the UK. Jesus Christ Superstar marks his theatre debut.

Sam Ryder said:

“I’m so excited to be part of one of the biggest institutions in musical theatre the world’s ever known, at The London Palladium in the West End! I’m honoured to take on this responsibility as I follow in the footsteps of rock vocal titans like Ian Gillan and John Farnham. I can’t wait to immerse myself in the word of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2026.”

Michael Harrison said:

“It is thrilling to be bringing this astounding creative team from the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production back together, and I am excited to see them create Jesus Christ Superstar specially for The London Palladium. In Sam we have a true superstar to play the iconic title role, and I look forward to sharing further announcements about the production in the coming months.”

Originally released as a concept album, Jesus Christ Superstar opened on Broadway in 1971, at the Mark Hellinger Theatre, where it was nominated for 5 Tony Awards including Best Original Score. The original London production ran for over eight years. By the time it closed, after 3,358 performances, it had become the longest-running musical in West End history at that time. 

The creative team is joined by musical supervisor Tom Deering (Standing at the Sky’s Edge – Olivier Award for Outstanding Musical Contribution), lighting designer Lee Curran (A Streetcar Named Desire – Olivier Award Nomination for Best Lighting Design), sound designer Adam Fisher (Sunset Boulevard – Olivier Award for Best Sound Design), fight director Kate Waters (Othello) and BAFTA Award Winning casting director David Grindrod CDG.

Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals’ recent productions include the smash hit Evita at The London Palladium this Summer, the seven-time Olivier-Award and three-time Tony-Award winning revival of SUNSET BLVD., and Starlight Express, which has just extended for the sixth time at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. In 2026 they are set to bring CATS: The Jellicle Ball to Broadway, opening at the Broadhurst Theatre and a brand-new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s global sensation CATS to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre ahead of a major UK Tour.

Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals presents the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production by arrangement with LW Entertainment. 

TONY & OLIVIER AWARD-WINNING

SMASH-HIT MUSICAL

JERSEY BOYS

20^th ANNIVERSARY TOUR

TO HEAD OUT ACROSS

THE UK AND IRELAND

FROM 17 JUNE 2026

The boys are back! The original Tony®-winning musical sensation JERSEY BOYS returns for its celebratory 20^th Anniversary tour across the UK and Ireland, opening at New Wimbledon Theatre on 17 June 2026 and booking through 2027, with further dates to be announced.

Tickets on general sale Tuesday 11 November 2025.

JERSEY BOYS is written by Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, with music by Bob Gaudio and lyrics by Bob Crewe.

Casting is to be announced.      

Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the true-life phenomenon, JERSEY BOYS. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s too good to be true.

They were just four guys from Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story — a story that has made them an international sensation all over again. The show features all their hits, including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Beggin’, Oh What a Night and more.

Producer Michael David of The Dodgers said “We are thrilled for JERSEY BOYS to return to the road across the United Kingdom and Ireland. When the show first opened on Broadway 20 years ago, little did we know the story of these four blue collar kids from the wrong side of the tracks would resonate across the UK. We are so grateful to work our way back to you and celebrate 20 years of, as Frankie says, chasing the music, trying to get home.”

Recipient of Broadway’s Tony, London’s Olivier and Australia’s Helpmann Awards for Best New Musical, JERSEY BOYS is the winner of 65 major awards and has been seen by over 30 million people worldwide. 

JERSEY BOYS originally opened in New York on 6 November 2005 and, by the time it closed on 15 January 2017, it was the 12^th longest running show in Broadway history.  It returned to New York with a new production from November 2017 to May 2022. JERSEY BOYS has also had multiple record-breaking US National Tours.

JERSEY BOYS first ran in London’s West End from 18 March 2008 to 26 March 2017 – nine amazing years – and, at the time, was the 6^th longest musical running in the West End. The musical returned to the West End as the first show to play the reinstated Trafalgar Theatre from 14 April 2021 to 4 January 2024. JERSEY BOYS previously played three record-breaking UK and Ireland tours from 2014 to 2016, 2017 to 2019 and 2021 to 2022.

The JERSEY BOYS 20^th Anniversary UK and Ireland tour will be staged by the entire original Broadway creative team, led by the Tony Award-winning team of director Des McAnuff and choreographer Sergio Trujillo, with scenic design by Klara Zieglerova, costume design by Jess Goldstein, lighting by Howell Binkley, sound by Steve Canyon Kennedy and projections design by Michael Clark.  The orchestrations are by Steve Orich and the music supervision and vocal arrangements by Ron Melrose.

Website: JerseyBoysMusical.co.uk

Instagram: @JerseyBoysUK

TikTok: @JerseyBoysUK

Facebook: @JerseyBoysLondon

2026/27 TOUR LISTINGS INFORMATION

17 – 27 June 2026                                 New Wimbledon Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/Wimbledon                     On Sale 11 November

30 June – 4 July2026                            Nottingham Royal Concert Hall             0115 989 5555

                                                            trch.co.uk                                             On Sale 14 November

6 – 11 July 2026                                    Bristol Hippodrome

                                                            atgtickets.com/bristol                            On Sale 11 November

20 July – 1 August 2026                         AlhambraTheatre Bradford

                                                            bradford-theatres.co.uk                         On Sale 17 November

3 – 8 August 2026                                 Llandudno Venue Cymru

                                                            venuecymru.co.uk                                 On Sale 11 November

11 – 22 August 2026                              Cardiff Wales Millenium Centre

                                                            wmc.org.uk                                           On Sale 5 December

24 – 29 August 2026                              High Wycombe Swan Theatre

                                                            wycombeswan.co.uk                             On Sale 11 November

7 – 19 September 2026                          Manchester Palace Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/Manchester                    On Sale 11 November

28 September – 3 October 2026             Hull New Theatre                                   01482 300 306

                                                            hulltheatres.co.uk                                  On Sale 11 November

6 – 10 October 2026                              Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre

                                                            aberdeenperformingarts.com                 On Sale 25 November

12 – 17 October 2026                            Edinburgh Playhouse

                                                            atgtickets.com/Edinburgh                      On Sale 11 November

26 – 31 October 2026                            Stoke Regent Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/stoke                             On Sale 11 November

2 – 7 November 2026                            Dartford Orchard Theatre

                                                            orchardtheatre.co.uk                              On Sale 11 November

9 – 21 November 2026                           Birmingham The Alexandra

                                                            atgtickets.com/Birmingham                    On Sale 11 November

23 – 28 November 2026                         Southampton Mayflower Theatre                      

                                                            mayflower.org.uk                                  On Sale 14 November

30 November – 5 December 2026          Eastbourne Congress Theatre

                                                            eastbournetheatres.co.uk                       On Sale 11 November

26 – 30 January 2027                            Oxford New Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/Oxford                           On Sale 11 November

2 – 13 February 2027                             Belfast Grand Opera House

                                                            goh.co.uk                                             On Sale Soon

16 – 27 February 2027                           Glasgow King’s Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/Glasgow                        On Sale 11 November

15 – 27 March   2027                             Wolverhampton Grand                         01902 42 92 12

                                                            grandtheatre.co.uk                                On Sale 11 November

30 March – 3 April 2027                         Norwich Theatre Royal                         01603 630 000

                                                            norwichtheatre.org                                 On Sale 28 November

13 – 24 April 2027                                 Leicester Curve                                    0116 242 3595

                                                            curveonline.co.uk                                  On Sale Soon

26 April – 1 May 2027                            Woking New Victoria Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/new-victoria-theatre         On Sale 11 November

4 – 8 May 2027                                      Hall for Cornwall Truro                          01872 262 466

hallforcornwall.co.uk

11 – 15 May 2027                                  Southend Cliffs Pavilion                       0343 310 0030

                                                            thecliffspavilion.co.uk                            On Sale 11 November

17 – 22 May 2027                                  Blackpool Opera House

                                                            wintergardensblackpool.co.uk                On Sale 11 November

25 May – 5 June 2027                            Sunderland Empire

                                                            atgtickets.com/sunderland-empire          On Sale 11 November

7 – 19 June 2027                                   Leeds Grand Theatre                             0113 243 0808

leedsheritagetheatres.com                     On Sale 14 November

21 June – 3 July 2027                            Sheffield Lyceum                                  0114 249 6000

sheffieldtheatres.co.uk                          On Sale Soon

5 – 17 July 2027                                    Milton Keynes Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes                  On Sale 11 November

19 – 24 July 2027                                  Liverpool Empire Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/liverpool                         On Sale 11 November

Further dates to be announced

DELFONT MACKINTOSH THEATRES ANNOUNCE

LIVE IN THE DELFONT ROOM CABARET WITH

THE CAST OF HADESTOWN

Delfont Mackintosh Theatres today announce a one-off cabaret performance as part of the Live in the Delfont Room series, featuring the cast of Hadestown. The event will take place at the Prince of Wales Theatre on Thursday 27 November at 11pm, with a collection to raise vital funds for Acting for Others.

The Live in the Delfont Room series brings West End performers to the Prince of Wales Theatre for exclusive, one-night only late-night cabarets. Doors open at 10:30pm before the cast of the hit West End production Hadestown swap the underworld for the intimate surroundings of cabaret. Expect show-stopping vocals, exclusive performances, and a few surprises along the way – presented in association with Acting for Others, a charity providing essential financial, emotional, and welfare support to theatre workers in times of need.

Tickets go on sale for DMT+ members at 11am this morning, Friday 7 November 2025, with general bookings opening at on-sale at 12pm via this link: www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/whats-on/hadestown-cast.

www.actingforothers.co.uk

Facebook: /Acting4Others

Instagram: @actingforothers

Twitter: @ActingForOthers

Prince of Wales Theatre (A Delfont Mackintosh Theatre)

Coventry Street, London, W1D 6AS

Box Office 0344 482 5151

Trafalgar Theatre Productions, the Dodgers, Tommy Mottola and TEG Dainty present

The electrifying new musical celebrating

Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash

Their music. Their love. Their story

THE BALLAD OF JOHNNY & JUNE

MAJOR UK AND IRELAND TOUR:

MARCH – SEPTEMBER 2026

TICKETS ON SALE 7 NOVEMBER AT 10.00AM

FROM JohnnyAndJuneMusical.com

Hot on the heels of sold-out seasons at New York’s La Jolla Playhouse and Canada’s Citadel Theatre, the acclaimed hit new musical The Ballad of Johnny & June will make its dazzling debut this side of the Atlantic in 2026 with a major tour of the UK and Ireland.

Packed with all the legendary hits of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash including I Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Hey Porter, Jackson, I’ve Been Everywhere The Ballad of Johnny & June is directed by two-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff (Jersey Boys, The Who’s Tommy, and Summer: The Donna Summer Musical), this major new musical opens at Bromley’s Churchill Theatre on 2 March 2026, before visiting a further 20 theatres across the country.

Love is a burning thing, and no one burned brighter than Johnny Cash and June Carter. He was a small-town musician and storyteller with a voice that stirred the soul. She was a multi-talented performer and a music pioneer. Johnny Cash sold more than 90 million records worldwide, won 13 Grammy Awards and a lifetime achievement award in 1999. June Carter Cash won five Grammy Awards across her illustrious career. The pair married in 1968 and remained together until June’s death in 2003.

The Ballad of Johnny & June transports you through the soaring highs and shattering lows of a love story that defined an era. Told through the eyes of their son John Carter Cash, this new musical shows why Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash remain one of the most infamous couples of the 20th Century.

Producer Howard Panter said: “We are delighted to be bringing this acclaimed production of The Ballad of Johnny and June to theatres in the UK and Ireland for a major tour in 2026. A journey through love, struggle and redemption told through some of the greatest music ever written and brought to life by an exceptional creative team. We can’t wait for audiences to experience this extraordinary story that captures the passion and power of two true musical icons.”

THE BALLAD OF JOHNNY & JUNE – UK & IRELAND TOUR DATES 2026

2 – 7 March Bromley, Churchill Theatre

9 – 14 March Cardiff, New Theatre

30 March – 11 April Dublin, Bord Gais Energy Theatre

13 – 18 April Brighton, Theatre Royal

20 – 25 April Birmingham, Alexandra Theatre

27 April – 2 May Edinburgh Festival

11 – 16 May Wycombe Swan

25 – 30 May Southend, Cliffs Pavilion

1 – 6 June Newcastle, Theatre Royal

8 – 13 June Salford, The Lowry

15 – 20 June Plymouth, Theatre Royal

29 June – 4 July Bradford, Alhambra Theatre

6 – 11 July Richmond Theatre

13 – 18 July Hull, New Theatre

20 – 25 July Blackpool, Winter Gardens

27 July – 1 August York, Grand Opera House

3 – 8 August Belfast, Grand Opera House

10 – 22 August Glasgow, Pavilion Theatre

24 – 29 August Eastbourne, Congress Theatre

31 August – 5 September Canterbury, Marlowe Theatre

7 – 12 September Southampton, Mayflower Theatre

14 – 19 September Leeds, Grand Theatre

The production arm of Trafalgar Entertainment, Trafalgar Theatre Productions, produces new shows and classic musicals in London and internationally including the sold out London’s Barbican Theatre and UK Tour of Regent Park Open Air Theatre’s Fiddler on the Roof, Sean Hayes reviving his Tony Award Winning performance in Good Night, Oscar at London’s Barbican Theatre, one of the all-time classic musical comedy farces, Kiss Me Kate, starring the multi-award-winning Adrian Dunbar and Broadway musical superstar and Tony Award winner Stephanie J. Block at London’s Barbican Theatre in summer 2024, the Lincoln Center’s award-winning production of The King and I in London and worldwide, The Merchant of Venice 1936 in partnership with Watford Palace Theatre and the RSC (London and UK Tour), The Duchess (Of Malfi) starring Jodie Whittaker at London’s Trafalgar Theatre, new musical comedy Clueless based on the Paramount Pictures classic film, the Tony and Olivier award-winning smash hit musical Jersey Boys, which opened the renovated Trafalgar Theatre in London alongside a UK Tour, a National Theatre co-production of Michael R. Jackson’s critically acclaimed, Pulitzer Prize and multi award-winning A Strange Loop at London’s Barbican Theatre in the summer of 2023, Broadway’s favourite multi award-winning musical, Alanis Morrisette’s Jagged Little Pill which opened at Trafalgar’s Theatre Royal Sydney in December 2021 and became the first major international production of it to open in Australia straight from Broadway without a West End season, a major revival of the award winning classic musical Anything Goes at London’s Barbican Theatre in the summers of 2021 and 2022, starring Sutton Foster, Robert Lindsay, Felicity Kendal and Gary Wilmot, the tenth anniversary UK & Ireland tour of the acclaimed National Theatre production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, hilarious comedy Death Drop (London and UK Tour), the current 50th Anniversary World Tours of The Rocky Horror Show with numerous engagements in Australia and the UK, and a co-production of War Horse with The National Theatre in Australia and Asia-Pacific.

THE DODGERS

THE DODGERS (Producer) is a theatrical producing partnership hatched at BAM in New York in 1978 by six friends.

Over 200 productions in North America, London, Europe and Australasia; blessed by Broadway’s Tonys (56), London’s Oliviers, Australia’s Helpmanns.

On Broadway: Jersey Boys, Matilda (with RSC), Groundhog Day (with Whistle Pig), 42nd Street, Urinetown, Into the Woods (original ’87 and ’02), High Society, Titanic, ….Forum, The King and I, The Who’s Tommy, Ralph Fiennes’ Hamlet (with Almeida), Guys and Dolls, Jelly’s Last Jam, The Secret Garden, Gospel at Colonus, Big River among others. The original producers of Jersey Boys, their Offices in Times Square and Covent Garden.

Their president Is Michael David, who Is also Exec Producer of MJ, coming to the Prince Edward In 2024.

PAUL DAINTY / TEG DAINTY

TEG DAINTY has been producing live entertainment across Australasia since the early 1970s and was recognised by the highly acclaimed Sport Business International Magazine as one of world’s 20 most influential promoters and ranked by Billboard Magazine as the 5th largest promoter in the world.

In 2016, TEG DAINTY was formed when TEG acquired Dainty Group International which prior to the acquisition had been owned and operated as independent entity by Paul Dainty AO, AM. With Dainty’s history and unparalleled experience in bringing some of the world’s biggest acts and productions to Australia, combined with TEG’s superior capabilities in ticketing, promotion and data analytics, TEG DAINTY will offer fans and stakeholders access to the best and most compelling music, sporting and entertainment events in Australia.

Producing and promoting shows across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, South East Asia and South Africa, TEG DAINTY has become a global live entertainment company showcasing tours such as Hugh Jackman’s Broadway to Oz and the global tour of The Man. The Music. The Show, Katy Perry, Michael Buble, Bon Jovi, Guns n Roses, Iron Maiden, Ricky Martin, Miley Cyrus, Kings of Leon, Oprah and Jerry Seinfeld to name a few. TEG Dainty also specialises in theatrical productions as a Producer on TINA The Tina Turner Musical, Jersey Boys, Hairspray, Mamma Mia and A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical premiering at The Princess Theatre in Melbourne in August 2026.

WEST END SUPERSTAR BEN FORSTER RELEASES SINGLE ‘FOR GOOD’ FROM HIS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ALBUM MUSICALS GREATEST HITS ON NOVEMBER 21

2026 UK TOUR ANNOUNCED

Ben Forster, the TV star and internationally renowned vocalist best known for his powerhouse performances in Jesus Christ Superstar, The Phantom of the Opera, and Elf The Musical is releasing new single ‘For Good’. The track marks the first male solo rendition of the iconic Wicked duet and celebrates the London premiere of the Wicked: For Good this Monday (10th).

It is the second single from his brand new studio album Musicals Greatest Hits which comes out on November 21 through Westway Music. The album will also be available on CD and can be pre-ordered now via https://shop.westwaymusic.com/product/177556.

The track will feature on Ben’s upcoming album ‘Musicals Greatest Hits’ which was recorded with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and will see Ben reimagine some of the world’s biggest musical hits, breathing new life into beloved classics with his trademark vocal power and emotional depth. The album is a heartfelt tribute to the genre that has shaped his career, offering fans a rich, cinematic experience that celebrates the magic of musical theatre. Despite winning Superstar on TV and playing Phantom (The Phantom of the Opera) both on the West End and internationally, this is the first time his versions of these songs will be made available on record. The album will also feature a duet with fellow West End star Sydnie Christmas on the beloved classic ‘Tell Me It’s Not True’ from Blood Brothers – the British favourite that has been captivating audiences for 45 years.

As well as his album release, Ben is also set to tour the UK next year. 2026 Dates are:

09 SEP            CHANDLER’S FORD Thorden Hall

10 SEP            PETERBOROUGH New Theatre

12 SEP            YARM The PAA

13 SEP            WHITLEY BAY The Playhouse

16 SEP            ILKLEY Kings Hall

18 SEP            NORWICH Theatre 

19 SEP            SPALDING SOUTH Holland Centre

20 SEP            HERTFORD Beam

23 SEP            ESHER Theatre

26 SEP            RINGWOOD The Barn

03 OCT           TREORCHY Park and Dare

07 OCT           STAMFORD Corn Exchange 

08 OCT           BURNLEY Mechanics

09 OCT           SOUTHPORT The Atkinson

10 OCT           MUCH WENLOCK Edge Arts Centre

11 OCT           SHREWSBURY The Buttermarket

14 OCT           BARNSTABLE Queen’s Theatre

16 OCT           EVESHAM Henrican

17 OCT           FROME Memorial Theatre

18 OCT           BRIDGEWATER McMillan

21 OCT           DURHAM Gala Theatre

22 OCT           BLYTH Phoenix Theatre

23 OCT           LANCASTER Grand Theatre

24 OCT           ULVERSTON The Coro

30 OCT           KELSO Tait Hall

31 OCT           GLASGOW Eastwood Park

01 NOV           ABERDEEN Tivoli Theatre

05 NOV           RUNCORN The Brindley

06 NOV           PORT SUNLIGHT Gladstone Theatre

07 NOV           BAKEWELL Torn Hall

08 NOV           MILLAM Beggar’s Theatre

12 NOV           HUNSTANTON Princess Theatre

13 NOV           MARY ST EDMUNDS The Apex

14 NOV           HARPENDEN The EMC

Tickets are available to purchase now via https://www.awaywithmedia.com/tours/ben-forster.

About Ben Forster    

Known around the world for his spine-tingling vocals and commanding stage presence, Ben rose to international fame after winning the TV show Superstar, which was created by Andrew Lloyd Webber to find his next Jesus. As a result of his resounding victory, Ben went on to play Jesus in the smash hit global arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar alongside Melanie C and Tim Minchin. He has since become a staple of British theatre, with critically acclaimed turns in Evita, The Rocky Horror Show, and a celebrated run as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera

Musical’s Greatest Hits is not only a showcase of Forster’s extraordinary range and versatility, but also a love letter to the shows and songs that continue to inspire generations.

Tracklisting:

1. The Winner Takes It All (Mamma Mia!)
2. Gethsemane (Jesus Christ Superstar)
3. For Good (Wicked)
4. Bring Him Home (Les Miserables)
5. From Now On (The Greatest Showman)
6. Tell Me It’s Not True (Blood Brothers) feat. Sydnie Christmas
7. Losing My Mind (Follies)
8. You Will Be Found (Dear Evan Hansen)
9. If I Can’t Love Her (Beauty And The Beast)
10. Music Of The Night (The Phantom of the Opera)

ABOUT WESTWAY MUSIC

Westway Music is a music and film platform for artists who have performed on the West End and Broadway. Formed in November 2020 it has become the home of ‘The Music of Theatre’. Westway has worked with some of the biggest names in UK musical theatre including Kerry Ellis, Ramin Karimloo, Rachel Tucker, Jamie Muscato, Hadley Fraser and Samantha Barks, as well as Sydnie Christmas, Jason Manford and Joe Stilgoe, to put on concerts and release albums and films with great success.

PAULA WAGNER AND TOM WERNER

ANNOUNCE FULL CASTING

FOR

THE WORLD PREMIERE OF
HIGH NOON

A NEW PLAY WRITTEN BY

ACADEMY AWARD-WINNER

ERIC ROTH

BASED ON THE SCREENPLAY BY CARL FOREMAN

JOINING

EMMY AND TONY AWARD-WINNER

BILLY CRUDUP

AND

OLIVIER AWARD-WINNER
DENISE GOUGH

DIRECTED BY

OLIVIER AWARD-WINNER
THEA SHARROCK

FOR A STRICTLY LIMITED SEASON

AT THE
HAROLD PINTER THEATRE

FROM

17 DECEMBER 2025 – 6 MARCH 2026

Paula Wagner and Tom Werner are delighted to announce the full cast for the World Premiere of the play HIGH NOON. Joining Emmy and Tony Award-winner Billy Crudup and Olivier Award-winner Denise Gough are Billy Howle, Rosa Salazar, Simon Chandler, James Doherty, Misha Handley, Joshua Hill, Jonah Russell, Rebecca Lee and Tim Steed.

Directed by Olivier Award-winner Thea Sharrock, HIGH NOON will play for a strictly limited season at the Harold Pinter Theatre from 17 December 2025 to 6 March 2026 with tickets on sale now. highnoontheplay.com

HIGH NOON is produced by Paula Wagner and Tom Werner, also Thomas Tull.

The play HIGH NOON is by Academy Award-winner and six-time nominee Eric Roth and marks Roth’s debut work for the stage. This gripping new adaptation is based on the iconic, four-time Academy Award-winning 1952 film with a screenplay by Carl Foreman, originally produced by Stanley Kramer and directed by Fred Zinnemann. Hailed as one of the greatest westerns ever made, this isn’t just a play, it’s a wake-up call. Told in real time, this edge-of-your-seat thriller explodes onto the stage. This unmissable new version speaks urgently to the world today.

Set in the American West of the 1800s, High Noon rides on themes as relevant now as they were then. Courage vs. Cowardice. Justice vs. Peace. Duty vs. Desire. And at its heart, is the bond between Will Kane and Amy Fowler – a love tested by impossible choices as the clock ticks down to the return of deadly outlaw Frank Miller on the high noon train. The clock is ticking. As time runs out, one truth remains: if you don’t stand up for what’s worth saving, you risk losing it all.

CAST AND CREATIVE BIOGRAPHIES

Equally memorable on the stage and screen, Billy Crudup has earned critical accolades for his performances. He currently stars as Corey Ellison in Apple TV+’s three-time Golden-Globe nominated The Morning Show alongside Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, which earned him two Emmy Awards (three nominations total), two Critics Choice Awards, three Screen Actors Guild Award nominations and two Golden Globe nominations. Upcoming, he will star in Netflix’s and Noah Baumbach’s film Jay Kelly, opposite George Clooney, Adam Sandler and Laura Dern.  On stage, Crudup most recently starred in Lincoln Center Theater’s production of Ibsen’s Ghosts. Additionally, he recently reprised his role in the one-man play Harry Clarke at the Ambassadors Theatre in the West End which earned him an Olivier Award nomination for Best Actor. The West End run followed a limited engagement at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre. He first performed this play at the Vineyard Theatre, for which he won an Outer Critics Circle Award, Off-Broadway Alliance Award, Lucille Lortel Award, Obie Award, Drama Desk Award and garnered a nomination for a Drama League Award. In 2007, Crudup won a “Best Performance by a Featured Actor” Tony for his role in the Broadway production of The Coast of Utopia.  He also received Tony nominations for his roles in The Elephant Man, The Pillowman and Arcadia. Crudup’s film credits include: Alien: Covenant, Jackie, Zack Snyder’s Justice League, 20^th Century Women, Spotlight, Cameron Crowe’s Academy Award®-winning Almost Famous, and many more. He made his television debut in Netflix’s psychological thriller Gypsy.

Denise Gough was most recently seen in the West End reprising her Olivier Award-winning role of Emma in People, Places & Things at the Trafalgar Theatre, having previously played the role at the National Theatre, the Wyndham’s Theatre and at St Ann’s Warehouse in New York. Denise’s other theatre credits include Angels in America Part One: Millennium Approaches and Angels in America Part Two: Perestroika at the National Theatre and at the Neil Simon Theatre on Broadway, for which she won the Olivier Award for Best Supporting Actress and was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play. Her other West End credits include Jesus Hopped the ‘A’ Train, As You Like It and By the Bog of Cats, and other theatre credits include Ahasverus for the RSC, Portia Coughlan at the Abbey, Dublin, The Duchess of Malfi at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Adler and Gibb at the Royal Court and Six Characters in Search of an Author at Chichester Festival Theatre. Denise’s television credits include Andor and Under the Banner of Heaven for Disney +, Paula, The Fall and Appe Tree Yard, all for the BBC, Guerilla and Stella for Sky, and Too Close for ITV, for which she was nominated for the BAFTA for Leading Actress. Denise’s film credits include Monday, The Other Lamb, Colette, The Kid Who Would Be King, Juliet Naked, Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood, Jimmy’s Hall, and ’71.

Billy Howle’s previous stage credits include the double bill, Roots/Look Back In Anger at the Almeida theatre, Dear Octopus at the National Theatre and playing the titular role in Hamlet at the Bristol Old Vic. Billy’s film credits include Palestine 36, which was recently screened at TIFF, All Before You, Kid Snow, Infinite Storm opposite Naomi Watts and On Chesil Beach opposite Saoirse Ronan. His television credits include The Perfect Couple (Netflix), Under the Banner of Heaven (FX) The Beast Must Die (Britbox), The Serpent (Netflix/BBC), MotherFatherSon (BBC Two) and Chloe (Amazon/BBC).

Rosa Salazar can most recently be seen starring opposite Mark Wahlberg and LaKeith Stanfield in the Amazon MGM feature Play Dirty. Her other film credits include Alita: Battle Angel, the Maze Runner franchise, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, and Bird Box. Her television credits include Parenthood, Undone, and Brand New Cherry Flavor, also serving as a producer on Undone and co-producer on Brand New Cherry Flavor.

Eric Roth is an American screenwriter and producer. He became known for writing the screenplay for the award-winning Forrest Gump (1994), which brought him fame and his first Golden Globe nomination. During his career, he has written numerous hit films such as The Horse Whisperer (1998), Ali (2000), The Good Shepherd (2006), and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008) where he gained his second Golden Globe nomination. In recent years he has also written the screenplays of two big hits: A Star is Born (2018) and Dune (2021). For television, he is remembered for being one of the co-producers of the award-winning political drama House of Cards (2013 – 2016).He has been nominated six times for the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay: Forrest Gump (1994), The Insider (1999), Munich (2005), The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), A Star Is Born (2018), and Dune (2021) — winning for Forrest Gump; he also earned a Best Picture nomination for producing Mank (2020). Roth also worked on the screenplays for the Oscar-nominated films Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2011) and Killers of the Flower Moon (2023).

Thea Sharrock’s film credits as director include Ladies First, The Beautiful Game, Wicked Little Letters, The One and Only Ivan and Me Before You. TV credits as director include the Henry V/Hollow Crown and Call the Midwife. Theatre credits as director include The Bodyguard (Adelphi Theatre, West End/US Tour), The Sunshine Boys (Savoy Theatre, West End), 13 (National Theatre), Ruby Wax Losing It (Menier Chocolate Factory), Equus (Gielgud Theatre, West End/Broadhurst Theatre, Broadway), After the Dance (National Theatre – Olivier Award for Best Revival and nomination for Best Director) and The Misanthrope (Comedy Theatre). Thea was the Artistic Director of both the Southwark Playhouse and The Gate. 

Tim Hatley has designed extensively for the National Theatre, West End and Broadway, and is the winner of three Olivier Awards, including Best Set Design for Life of Pi in 2022, and two Tony Awards including Best Scenic Design for Life of Pi in 2023. His recent theatre credits include Life of Pi (West End & Broadway), Back to the Future (West End, UK Tour & Broadway), Dreamgirls (West End & UK Tour), A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum (Lido, Paris), Travesties (Menier/West End/Broadway), Ghosts (Almeida Theatre/West End/Brooklyn Academy of Music), Little Eyolf (Almeida Theatre), Temple (Donmar Warehouse), Enemy of the People, Pyjama Game (Chichester Festival Theatre), The Slaves of Solitude & Drawing The Line (Hampstead Theatre), Mr. Foote’s Other Leg (Hampstead Theatre/West End), The Bodyguard (West End/UK Tour/US Tour/Cologne/Korea), Shrek (West End/Broadway/UK Tour/US Tour), Spamalot (West End/Broadway/US Tour/Las Vegas), Singin’ in the Rain, My Fair Lady (Chatelet Paris) and Carmen & Don Quixote (The Royal Ballet). His film credits include Closer, Notes on a Scandal and Stage Beauty.

HIGH NOON has set and costume design by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Tim Hatley (Life of Pi, Back to the Future The Musical), lighting design by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Neil Austin (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Born with Teeth), music by Chris Egan and sound design by Nick Lidster. The choreographer and movement director is Lizzi Gee, the fight director is Kate Waters, the casting director is Jina Jay CDG and the general managers are Short Street Productions Ltd. The executive producer is Mark Rubinstein.

Royal & Derngate Theatre – until 8th November 2025

Review by Amanda Allen

5*****

Most of us are familiar with Agatha Christie and her most famous detective Hercule Poirot. This telling of one of her most acclaimed stories didn’t disappoint. From the initial introduction of himself Mark Hadfield as Poirot transported us to a world of opulence, class, style and ultimately murder on the beautifully crafted stage of the SS Karnak. Christie herself believed this was one of her best “Travel” books and even adapted it to the stage as “Murder on the Nile”.

The story is really one of love, Greed and betrayal all woven together with very believable and likeable characters. This adaptation by Ken Ludwig perfectly draws you into a world where Egyptology was extremely fashionable, attracting a lot of support and investment from well to do people of a particular class. This was demonstrated so well with the attitude and appearance of Libby Alexandra-Cooper who played Linnet Ridgeway, in this her debut stage role, she played the part perfectly. Not only did she look divine, but she also managed to portray the style, elegance and attitude of a young woman of the 1930’s who has everything whilst still maintaining a slight fragility and shyness. Her husband Simon Doyle (Nye Occomore) and her friend Jacqueline De Bellefort (Esme Hough) bought the story to life both giving an excellent portrayal of the Husband and scorned fiancé. For me the outstanding performance of the evening was the brilliant Colonel Race played by Bob Barrett, he personified the character of the slightly stiff Colonel perfectly, with excellent comic timing and a sense of humour he gave us a brilliant foil to Hercule Poirot. In Poirot, Mark Hadfield gave us a man we could all warm to, He managed to keep his accent throughout the majority of the performance really well and gave us a slightly quirky little man, who saw everything, was supposedly on holiday but was almost expecting something to happen and was liked by all aboard the ship. As he said when asked how he knew something “I am Hercule Poirot I do not need to be told”

Special mention must go to the creative team for this production. The whole thing was brilliantly presented with innovative two tier staging which perfectly personified a 1930’s Egyptian steam ship, the multi-functional set design by Mike Britton gave us a luxury paddle steamer with sliding panels easily depicting cabins, saloons and decking. The lighting (designed by Oliver Fenwick) brought each scene perfectly to life and with fabulous costumes perfecting the look we were totally transported to the 1930’s SS Karnak. Glynis Barber as Salome Otterbourne had the most fabulous wardrobe and obviously enjoyed wearing every outfit. The costume department went to town with the evening dress of all the characters with lots of sparkle and glamour perfectly depicting a bygone era of glamour and style. The sound depiction was perfect, Mike Pool the sound designer thought of everything, the crickets in the evening, the paddles of the ship hitting the water, the timing of the gun shots, the subtle way the sounds of early 20th century Egypt completed the picture was fantastic.

If you need a good night out, something to take your mind of the bad weather and the depressing news then this is for you, its playing until the 8th November and is well worth the ticket price.