Death on the Throne makes London debut with a royal flush of fun Upstairs at the Gatehouse, 1 North Road, Highgate Village, London N6 4BD Wednesday 26th March – Sunday 13th April 2025
A hilarious new musical, Death on the Throne, will make its London debut this March at Upstairs at the Gatehouse. Featuring a captivating live score from German pop-rock star Tobias Künzel (of Die Prinzen) and British Screenwriter Mark Underwood (Forget Me Not, Quicksilver Pictures) this eccentric comedy musical will cleverly blend wit and surrealism.
A mischievous child, Louise—determined to stay awake—convinces her father to tell her a bedtime story. This simple tale swirls into an unforgettable adventure where four puppets die on the ‘throne’ and find themselves in a purgatory like you’ve never seen before—a celestial lavatory.
With four new arrivals but only three spots in the afterlife, St. Peter is barely keeping his head above water. As each soul pleads their case for a second chance on Earth, ‘help’ arrives in the form of the King of Rock and (toilet) Roll, Elvis Presley and, yes, you guessed it, former leader of the German Democratic Republic, Erich Honecker. With further assistance from Queen Elizabeth II, Maggie Thatcher and Mahatma Gandhi.
With a live four-piece rock band and hints of Avenue Q, this toe-tapping romp through the absurdity of bureaucracy, the search for meaning in utter chaos, and the hope that even the most flawed among us can find redemption promises to be anything but bog-standard. With incredible direction and choreography from Blair Anderson (Trompe L’Oeil and Chase, The Other Palace), the production will touch upon highly relevant themes today, and search for new meanings whilst highlighting the power of visceral storytelling and human connection.
Musical Director and Lyricist Tobias Künzel comments, I hope the audience has as much fun as we had when we wrote this. The moment, when actors for the first time bring the characters to life and get a personal relationship to the music is worth all discussions and sleepless nights before. The interaction between actors and puppets is very thrilling. Especially when the puppets start to sing. Mark and I wrote a lot of tunes and Leitmotivs which was good fun. If I play one of the songs to somebody, these guys start to sing along after one minute and laughing when they listen to the words. I think that’s a good sign. It’s not easy to place a new plot into a world of so many existing successful musicals, so I’m very grateful for the trust of our wonderful international production team. It’s great to be back at Upstairs at the Gatehouse – it feels a little like coming home.
Lyricist Mark Underwood comments, I’m thrilled to see Death on the Throne come to life at the Gatehouse, a wonderful venue that gave me my first opportunity as a writer over 25 years ago.
Director and Choreographer Blair Anderson comments, I am super excited to bring this collaboration with the wonderful talent of The Puppet Theatre of Halle to London. Everybody loves puppets, right? Especially when they sing and dance.
SHEFFIELD THEATRES’ ARTISTIC DIRECTOR ELIZABETH NEWMAN ANNOUNCES FIRST SEASON OF PRODUCTIONS SPANNING AUTUMN 2025 – SUMMER 2026
Sheffield Theatres today announce Elizabeth Newman’s inaugural season of shows as Artistic Director, with new productions running from autumn 2025 to summer 2026 in the Crucible Theatre and Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse.
· In the Crucible, Artistic Director, Elizabeth Newman will direct Brian Friel’s multi-award winning drama, DANCING AT LUGHNASA, a powerful and moving exploration of reflection and memory, in a co-production with the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester.
· In the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse, winner of the Women’s Prize for Playwriting Karis Kelly’s CONSUMED is presented by Sheffield Theatres, Paines Plough, Women’s Prize for Playwriting and Belgrade Theatre. The play will be directed by Katie Posner.
· A brand new adaptation of A CHRISTMAS CAROL by Aisha Khan and directed by Elin Schofield will play in the Crucible.
· In 2026, Sheffield Theatres, Theatre Centre and National Youth Theatre collaborate to present MY BROTHER’S A GENIUS by Debris Stevenson in the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse.
· Sheffield Theatres and Utopia Theatre present CROWN OF BLOOD – A YORUBA ADAPTATION OF MACBETH in the Crucible, directed by Mojisola Kareem and adapted by Oladipo Agboluaje.
· Brand-new production, THE LADIES FOOTBALL CLUB will be directed by Elizabeth Newman, by Stefano Massini, adapted by Tim Firth in the Crucible.
Award-winning Sheffield playwright, Leo Butler’s drama LIVING about the years of our lives will be directed by Abigail Graham in the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse.
· Especially adapted for Sheffield, SUMMER HOLIDAY, directed by Elizabeth Newman and Ben Occhipinti will be the 2026 summer musical in the Crucible.
· Looking ahead to 2027, Stephanie Street will adapt Sunjeev Sahota’s award-winning novel THE YEAR OF THE RUNAWAYS for the Crucible stage.
Elizabeth Newman, ArtisticDirectorof Sheffield Theatres, said: “It has been a great privilege to conceive my first season as Sheffield Theatres’ Artistic Director. It’s been an exciting journey to create this year-long programme packed with a mix of new and familiar work, and I really hope there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
We kick off with a beautiful classic drama in the Crucible, arguably one of the greatest plays ever written—Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa, in collaboration with the Royal Exchange Theatre. Consumed by Karis Kelly, in partnership with Paines Plough and Belgrade Theatre, follows and marks both our becoming the home of the Women’s Prize for Playwriting and the beginning of a season of entirely new work in the Playhouse. The rest of the year sees us producing My Brother’s a Genius by Debris Stevenson, our fifth co-production with Theatre Centre, and now with National Youth Theatre of Great Britain. Into 2026, Living by Sheffield’s own Leo Butler is a moving family drama that spans five decades of life in the City.
Alongside the new work in the Playhouse— in the Crucible, we will debut a brand-new adaptation of A Christmas Carol by Yorkshire’s Aisha Khan. Our version of A Christmas Carol will highlight Sheffield’s long history of singing the city’s unique Christmas carols.
After the festive period, we have two more new works. Crown of Blood, a new version of Macbeth by Oladipo Agboluaje, will be our latest collaboration with Sheffield’s Utopia Theatre, followed by The Ladies Football Club by the brilliant Tim Firth. Based on Stefano Massini’s drama, this new play celebrates the founding of women’s football in Sheffield in a munitions factory in 1917, and tracks the history of the sport, through the period of being banned, to the jubilant heights of the present-day Lionesses.
To wrap up our 2025/2026 programme, we’ll be putting on a fresh version of the 1960s classic musical Summer Holiday. We’re excited to bring this to life, spilling out from the auditorium and into our Square, where audiences can enjoy the Sheffield Theatres Beach! In fact, across the entire season we’ll be hosting a variety of free special events inspired by our programme, including the Lughnasa Dance Festival, the Montgomery Theatre Summer Party, the Sheffield Theatres Candlelit Carol Concert, and even a theatre football tournament. These outdoor celebrations will bring people of all ages together and reflect our commitment to opening up every door and window, inviting everyone into our theatres—and taking theatre to the streets too!
It also felt important that, as a big national organisation and now a family of four theatres, we also share a little bit of news for 2027. We are proud to announce in 2027, we will produce a big new adaptation by Stephanie Street of Sunjeev Sahota’s The Year of the Runaways. This will be with an international partner and will find a home in our Crucible.
We’re incredibly proud to be powered by our amazing city, and can’t wait to welcome everyone into one of our four theatres this year.”
Elizabeth joined Chief Executive Tom Bird and Deputy Chief Executive Bookey Oshin to form Sheffield Theatres’ Executive Team in December 2024, and succeeded Artistic Director Robert Hastie who left the organisation last summer. Elizabeth – a multi-award-winning theatre director – joined from Pitlochry Festival Theatre, where she had been Artistic Director since 2018, and previously Octagon Theatre Bolton, Shared Property Theatre Company and Southwark Playhouse London.
Dancing at Lughnasa begins Elizabeth’s season in the Crucible. Directed by Elizabeth herself, Brian Friel’s multi-award-winning drama is a powerful and moving exploration of reflection, memory and how the future will arrive no matter how much we resist. This co-production between Sheffield Theatres and Royal Exchange Theatre plays from Saturday 13 September – Saturday 4 October 2025. The production then moves to the Exchange’s unique, in-the-round space, with performance dates to be announced very soon.
This festive season, Sheffield Theatres produce A Christmas Carol adapted by Aisha Khan and directed by Elin Schofield. Featuring the Sheffield Carols, redemption, heart, and holiday spirit shine in Charles Dickens’ timeless classic. The play runs from Saturday 29 November 2025 – Saturday 10 January 2026
Into the new year, Sheffield Theatres and Utopia Theatre present Crown of Blood – A Yoruba Adaptation of Macbeth, written by Oladipo Agboluaje and directed by Mojisola Kareem. A powerful retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth set during the civil wars of the 19th century Yorubaland. From Monday 2 – Saturday 7 February 2026
In spring 2026, brand-new production The Ladies Football Club is by Stefano Massini, adapted by Tim Firth and directed by Elizabeth Newman. This play explores the remarkable origins of war-time women workers making football their own. The play will have its debut Saturday 28 February playing to Saturday28 Mar 2026
Next summer, the iconic 1960s film adapted for Sheffield, Summer Holiday is directed by Elizabeth Newman and Ben Occhipinti. The musical runs from Saturday 20 June to Saturday 18 July 2026.
Coming in 2027, Sunjeev Sahota’s award-winning novel The Year of the Runaways will be adapted by Stephanie Street. Tickets and further details will be announced soon.
In the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse, Sheffield Theatres, Paines Plough, Women’s Prize for Playwriting and Belgrade Theatre present the winner of the Women’s Prize for Playwriting, Karis Kelly’s Consumed. A pitch-black and twisted tale of dysfunctional family dynamics, generational trauma and national boundaries will be directed by Katie Posner. The play runs from Weds 24 Sep – Sat 11 Oct 2025
Into the new year, Sheffield Theatres, Theatre Centre and National Youth Theatre collaborate presenting My Brother’s A Genius by Debris Stevenson. Playing from Wednesday 28 January to Saturday 14 February 2026.
Award-winning Sheffield playwright Leo Butler’s drama about the funny business of life throughout sixty years of change, Living marks his homecoming to Sheffield Theatres. The play will be directed by Abigail Graham and runs from Saturday14 March – Saturday 4 April 2026.
Alongside the new season of productions, participatory work will overflow from the Crucible onto Tudor Square, where various creative projects and community engagement schemes will find a home during the run of productions. Alongside Summer Holiday, families can enjoy a day at the seaside with the Sheffield Theatres Beach, or during Dancing at Lughnasa, take part in movement themselves in the Lughnasa Dance Festival. Tudor Square will also host the Montgomery Theatre Summer Party, Sheffield Theatres’ Candlelit Carol Concert at Christmas, plus a Theatre Football Tournament to coincide with The Ladies Football Club.
Beyond Sheffield, the stomp-and-holler Western KENREX which brought a true crime podcast to the Playhouse stage, transferred to London’s Southwark Playhouse Borough where it is currently playing. The production was also nominated for Best Studio Production at this year’s WhatsOnStage Awards, alongside Sheffield Theatres’staging of The Crucible, which also received nominations for Best Play Revival and Best Direction from their former Associate Artistic Director, Anthony Lau.
As part of her inaugural season, Elizabeth Newman fronts a new partnership with The Women’s Prize for Playwriting. Produced by Ellie Keel and Paines Plough, Sheffield Theatres joins the scheme as the first ‘Theatre Partner’ for the 2025 Prize, making Sheffield the home for the world premiere of the prize’s winning play, Consumed.
In January 2025, the Montgomery Theatre and Arts Centre joined the Sheffield Theatres family of venues. A leading arts centre for children, families and community groups in Yorkshire, the Montgomery is also home to many of Sheffield Theatres’ participatory strands for children and young people, and will continue to deliver a space for budding creative groups as the theatre joins the Sheffield Theatres complex.
Sheffield Theatres also hosts the best plays, musicals, dance and comedy touring the UK in 2025, and into 2026.
In the Lyceum:
Following a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Damian Williams returns to the Lyceum – this time not as Sheffield’s well-loved pantomime dame, but in The Last Laugh, where he stars as Tommy Cooper, alongside Bob Golding as Eric Morecambe and Simon Cartwright as Bob Monkhousefrom Tuesday 1 – Saturday 5 July. Written and directed by Paul Hendy (Snow White and Beauty and the Beast at the Lyceum) The Last Laugh is a new play which re-imagines the lives of three of Britain’s all-time greatest comedy heroes. Filled with great gags, poignant stories and guaranteed to be an unforgettable night out.
Step inside Matthew Bourne’sThe Midnight Bell, set in 1930s London it’s a tavern where one particular lonely-hearts club gather to play out their lovelorn affairs of the heart; bitter comedies of longing, frustration, betrayal and redemption. From Tuesday 23 – Saturday 27 September.
In a fast-paced new production, Buffy Revamped, comedian Brendan Murphy brings the entire 144 episodes of the hit TV show Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as told through the eyes of the one person who knows it inside out… Spike. Funny, satirical and bursting with 90s pop culture references, it is theperfect parody for Buffy aficionados and those who never enrolled at Sunnydale High alike. Playing on Friday 3 October.
The 250th anniversary of the birth of Jane Austen is celebrated in fitting style with a new stage adaptation of Emma, her dazzling comedy of manners, adapted by Ryan Craig. The high-spirited Emma Woodhouse is determined that she will never marry but loves to meddle in her friends’ and neighbours’ relationships. But as the romantic web she weaves becomes ever more entangled, will Emma herself get swept up in true love’s wake? From Tuesday 7 – Saturday 11 October.
The National Theatre’s Olivier Award-winning smash hit Dear England comes to Sheffield, in a highly anticipated national tour. From multi award-winning writer James Graham and director Rupert Goold, this five-star ‘new stage epic’ (Telegraph) tells the uplifting, at times heartbreaking, and ultimately inspiring story of Gareth Southgate’s revolutionary tenure as England manager in a gripping examination of nation and game. A co-production with JAS Theatricals. From Tuesday 21 – Saturday 25 October.
A chilling mystery unfolds in Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts. ITV’s long-running Inspector Morse, has been hailed by Radio Times as ‘the greatest British crime series of all time’. House of Ghosts marks the first-ever stage adaptation of the iconic detective. Starring Tom Chambers (Father Brown, Strictly Come Dancing), this original story written for the stage is a must-see for fans of compelling detective stories and thrilling mysteries. From Tuesday 28 October – Saturday 1 November.
Discover how the world’s most famous sorcerer mastered his powers in an epic adventure with Northern Ballet’s Merlin. Don’t miss spectacular sets and costumes, mind-boggling special effects and Northern Ballet’s signature blend of world-class dance and storytelling. From Tuesday 4 – Saturday 8 November.
STOS Theatre Company present The Band from Tuesday 11 – Saturday 15 November. In 1992, for five 16 year-old girls, ‘The Band’ is everything. 25 years later, the girls, once inseparable, reunite to see their heartthrobs one last time. Featuring the music of Take That, including Never Forget, Back For Good, Relight My Fire, Shine and Rule The World. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International.
Happiness is only a heartbeat away with hilarious and heart-warming new musical Here & Now: The Steps Musical, based on the songs of pop phenomenon Steps. Welcome to seaside superstore Better Best Bargains, where it’s Friday night, the vibe is right and everyone’s dancing in the aisles. With Caz and her friends around, who knows what love has in store… Here & Now is produced by Steps themselves, ROYO, and music legend Pete Waterman, and features many of Steps’ iconic hits, including Stomp, 5,6,7,8, and Last Thing On My Mind. From Tuesday 18 – Saturday 22 November.
DCI Barnaby and Sergeant Troy uncover a world of hidden passions, long-buried secrets and deadly rivalries in Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift. With eccentric villagers, shocking twists and an unforgettable reveal, this classic whodunnit brings to life the wit, charm and chilling suspense of the beloved TV series and original series of books. Spend an evening in England’s deadliest county… From Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 November.
Into 2026:
Aaron Sorkin’s riveting, award-winning stage adaptation of the seminal American novel To Kill A Mockingbird became a Broadway and West End sensation. Now, this thrilling courtroom drama comes to the Lyceum from Tuesday 27 January – Saturday 7 February. Successful lawyer, Atticus Finch, encourages kindness and empathy in his children, but is pushed to the limits of these qualities himself when he resolves to uncover the truth in a town that seems determined to hide it.
The award-winning, smash-hit musical The Bodyguard is back, from Tuesday 10 – Saturday 14 February. Former Secret Service agent-turned-bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A ‘brilliant’ (The Times), breathtakingly romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features a whole host of irresistible classics including I Wanna Dance With Somebody and, of course, the legendary I Will Always Love You.
Chris McCausland presents Yonks! You might have seen him on Strictly Come Dancing, Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You and more. Chris McCausland is hitting the road again with another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has, literally, been yonks in the making. He’s been called an “overnight success”, even though he’s been doing this for bloody yonks! For one night only on Tuesday 17 February.
Uncanny: Fear of the Dark follows from the sell-out Uncanny: I Know What I Saw. Danny Robins and his team of experts are back on Wednesday 18 February with even more terrifying real-life stories and witness. Using a unique mix of sound, projection, stagecraft and recollections of events that seem to defy logical explanation, this is story-telling and paranormal investigation at its peak. Whether you are team sceptic, team believer or somewhere in between, everyone is welcome. The only question to ask before you come is; do you have a fear of the dark?
The Tiger Who Came To Tea returns for another cup from Thursday 19 – Saturday 21 February. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem, based on the book by Judith Kerr OBE and directed by David Wood OBE, produced by Nicoll Entertainment.
Visiting the Crucible this year:
The World Seniors Snooker Championship returns for 2025 where Jimmy White and Ken Doherty will head a stellar field with Igor Figueiredo from Brazil as the defending Champion. From Wednesday 7 – Sunday 11 May.
… Earnest? is a twist on a classic, from Tuesday 20 – Wednesday 21 May. When a production of Oscar Wilde’s playgets underway, everything seems to be going to plan, that is, until the lead actor fails to arrive on cue and an actual audience member is chosen to star in the show. This one-of-a-kind comedy sensation is completely different, completely chaotic, and completely Wilde every single night.
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical makes a return to Sheffield from Friday 6 – Saturday 7 June. The Olivier Award-winning musical comedy that’s made up on the spot from audience suggestions, with hilarious results. The Showstopper cast and band weave a brand new musical in front of the eyes of the audience, complete with comical characters, fabulous dance routines, beautiful songs, epic story lines, all sprinkled with the pzazz of a Broadway show.
Bluebelle runs from Wednesday 11 – Thursday 12 June. Opening in an empty theatre with just a ‘ghost light’ on stage, the ghosts of former actors emerge. They are ready to play. Weaving together plots and characters from ancient folktales, Bluebelle reminds us that life is shaped by the stories we tell and leave behind.
Then, across a number of Sheffield’s most iconic venues, Crossed Wires Festival returns to the city from Friday 4 – Sunday 6 July. See crossedwires.live for more information
Tuesday 15 July sees An Evening Without Kate Bush. She’s not there – but you are. Whether you’ve been a fan for decades or recently joined the shoal via the ‘Stranger Things’ phenomenon, there has never been a better time to release your inner Bush and celebrate at this joyful, unique and mind-blowing show. Sarah-Louise Young and co-creator Russell Lucas pay glorious homage to the music, fans, and mythology of one of the most influential voices in British music.
Deafinitely Theatre presents The Vagina Monologues;V’s (formerly Eve Ensler) collection of funny, lively and emotional monologues of the untold experiences of women in a powerful theatrical experience, for the first time in a BSL and spoken English. An unmissable celebration of womanhood and sexuality, on Thursday 17 July.
Black Is The Color Of My Voice is Apphia Campbell’s acclaimed play inspired by the life of Nina Simone. Apphia reflects on Simone’s journey that took her from a young piano prodigy destined for a life in the service of the church, to a renowned jazz vocalist at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement. Featuring many of Simone’s most iconic songs, performed live on Friday 17 October.
Jen Brister is reactive – or so she’s been told. Apparently you don’t have to respond to every little thing around you. Finding herself in a constant state of exacerbation at the state of the world and people in general, Brister has been told she needs to chill the hell out. Can Jen find her zen? It seems unlikely to be honest… Jen Brister performs Reactive on Thursday 23 October.
As seen and heard on Taskmaster, Live at the Apollo, The Great British Sewing Bee and more, Sara Pascoe presents I Am A Strange Gloop on Wednesday 29 October. Have you ever been awake in the middle of the night and thought something so smart and astute that you couldn’t wait for the world to wake up so you could tell them? This show is that thought – in that it doesn’t make much sense and is a bit weird on reflection.
In the Playhouse, touring productions include:
Theatre by the Lake presents STEEL from Tuesday 13 – Wednesday 14 May. Two lads. Twelve hours. One million pounds. On the wet West Cumbrian coast, James and Kamran have been mates for more than a decade. At seventeen, the world should be theirs, but Workington’s a ghost town. When James discovers he is heir to a single mile of the British railway system, the lads are forced on a town-wide treasure hunt, painting the town technicolour. A play about first loves, forging identities and the wild, wild hearts of teenage boys.
A Tale Of Us on Thursday 29 May a funny, frank and magical journey through their first year of life with a little one. Ivy’s just had a baby. She’s never felt so full of love – or so alone. But she’s working it out. Blending drama and multi-sensory playtime, this is a celebration of the wonder, joys and challenges of becoming a new parent. After the performance is a guided Stay and Play session, made for parents with children ages 0-18 months.
The Mountain Witch, an adventurous tale from Speedwell Dance plays on Saturday 31 May. An enchanting production inspired by timeless themes of folklore and the human experience. Through dance, music and song, this adventurous tale tells the story of an ancient and powerful witch, seasons gone awry, and the determination of children to put things right.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Justin Moorhouse performs The Greatest Performance Of My Life on Tuesday 10 June. Covering pantomimes to dreams, how to behave in hospitals, small talk, realising your Mum is a northern version of Columbo, and how being a smart-mouthed kid saves you from a life of continually being beaten up. Funny and interesting, and perhaps a little bit to warm the soul too.
Meet Danny, plastering since he was a kid, he’s not scared of anything, he’s RUM. Danny’s been up all night and now he’s rushing to finish a job before he has to give the speech of his life. RUM is a darkly humorous and powerful new play by Joe Mallalieu that wrestles with masculinity, mental health and addiction. On Thursday 12 June.
A story about the son of the god of the sun, from Wright&Grainge.HELIOS transplants an ancient Greek tale into a modern-day myth, wound round the winding roads of rural England and into the everyday living of a towering city. On Saturday 14 June.
Fidget Theatre presents Robyn Hood from Friday 25 – Saturday 26 July. Robyn is a little girl who lives in a big city. She likes to play outside in her magical den, until one day, developers arrive and Robyn’s den is under threat. An original take on the classic folktale, Robyn Hood is a playful and musical new show for children and their grown-ups, featuring playful storytelling, original live music, friendly audience participation and integrated audio description.
Gwenda’s Garage, in association with Sheffield Theatres,makes a triumphant return from Wednesday 15 – Saturday 25 October. 1980s Sheffield, Thatcher’s Britain: politics, passion, protest, where anything might happen … and usually does. Three women mechanics set up their own garage in a run-down area of the city, naming it after Gwenda Stewart, a pioneering racing driver. Gwenda’s Garage is a fabulous new musical – an exuberant call to arms, fired by fun, feminism, friendship, and above all an affirming belief in the power of collective action. Dismantling the patriarchy one spark plug at a time.
Alongside home-grown productions and dazzling tours, opportunities to get involved and develop creativity are available with a dynamic range of activities and events at Sheffield Theatres:
Together Festival returns to Sheffield Theatres for 2025; a lively and welcoming free festival celebrating theatre and arts created with community groups across Sheffield. Embrace the wonder of live performance, music, dance and creativity at the heart of the Crucible. Drop by for free events and fun for all ages from Thursday 31 July – Saturday 2 August.
Launchpad is a group for adults aged 18 plus with learning disabilities and/or Autism. This year, they present their first Launchpad Festival fromThursday 10 – Saturday 12 July. A warm and welcoming free event that celebrates theatre and arts created by and with Learning Disabled people in Sheffield and beyond. Drop by for free music, puppetry and performances for everyone in a relaxed and accessible atmosphere.
New productions will go on sale to Centre Stage Members at 10am Saturday 1 March and on general sale at 10am Saturday 8 March. Accessible performances are available on the majority of productions. Tickets can be booked through the Box Office in person, over the phone on 0114 249 6000 or at sheffieldtheatres.co.uk.
“The heart wrenching true story of Morpurgo’s uncle.”
CEO and Artistic Director Iwan Lewis, Executive Director and Producer Liam McMullan and the whole Barn Theatre team are delighted to announce the full cast and creative team for the Built By Barn world premiere of In the Mouth of the Wolf by Michael Morpurgo, adapted for stage by Simon Reade.In the Mouth of the Wolf will open onFriday 28 March and run until Saturday 10 May.
World War II brought about an avalanche of tragedy, heartbreak and division, but what happens when that division is within your own family? Brothers, Francis and Pieter are in disagreement. Living in turbulent times as one bloody war has ended and another stirs in the near future, tensions are high, and they can both feel it. Francis is a dedicated pacifist, committed to peace and determined not to go backwards to a violent world. Pieter believes that peace can only be achieved by signing up to fight. The event that occurs after this is one that will change Francis’ life forever.
In the Mouth of the Wolf is based on the heart wrenching true story of Sir Michael Morpurgo’s uncles and stunningly adapted by Simon Reade (adaptation of Private Peaceful) with sensitivity and theatrical flair.
A story that will remain on your mind and heart long after you have left the theatre.
John Hastings (To Kill A Mockingbird with Sonia Friedman Productions, Corpse! at Park Theatre, Season’s Greetings at Manor Pavilion Theatre) will play ‘Francis’; Shaun McCourt (UK Tour of The Mousetrap, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe with Elliott & Harper Productions/Jonathan Church Theatre Productions, The Windsors: Endgame at Prince of Wales Theatre with Runaway Productions as ‘Pieter’; Helena Antoniou (Hound of the Baskervilles with Theatre By The Lake, Love Them To Death as part of SFTW for The Edinburgh Fringe, The Snow Queen at The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre) in the role of ‘Nan’.
Originally written by Sir Michael Morpurgo and adapted for stage by Simon Reade, the Built By Barn production of In the Mouth of the Wolf will be directed by Philip Wilson with designer Yoav Segal, lighting design from Ryan Day, composition and sound design by Ella Wahlström, casting by Anthony Houghton and accent and dialect coaching by Jan Haydn Rowles and Zoe Littleton.
Writer Simon Reade said, “I am thrilled to be continuing my collaboration with Michael at the Barn. Iwan’s enlightened artistic direction, commissioning new productions of the innovative war stories (including Private Peaceful, An Elephant in the Garden, and Waiting for Anya), now has us interpreting a true World War Two drama told from an adult’s perspective. Do you stand up to tyranny, even it means compromising your ideals? Or do you stay stubbornly true to yourself while the world around you explodes? ‘In the Mouth of the Wolf’ is the Italian expression for ‘Good Luck’ on the opening night at the theatre, like ‘Break a Leg’: ‘In bocca al lupo’ – ‘You’re heading into the mouth of the wolf, good luck to you!’ ‘Crepi il Lupo!’ is the response: ‘Death to the Wolf!’ Overcome your fears; confront your voracious enemy. Compelling storytelling for our own dangerous times.”
Chief Executive and Artistic Director Iwan Lewis and Executive Director and Producer Liam McMullan said, “The Barn Theatre has a long-standing relationship with Sir Michael Morpurgo, we consider him part of the Barn family. In the Mouth of the Wolf is Michael’s most personal story, recounting the extraordinary bravery of his uncle, Francis Cammaerts who, amazingly, was also a relative of Jim Broadbent. We hold the privilege of bringing this story to the stage with great responsibility, and there is no one better to adapt it than our long-time collaborator, Simon Reade. We are also thrilled to welcome director Philip Wilson to the project.
‘In bocca al lupo’ an Italian idiom meaning ‘into the wolf’s mouth’ is a traditional good luck wish in opera and theatre. It feels particularly fitting as we embark on this powerful and deeply personal production.”
In the Mouth of the Wolf is a Built by Barn production.
Since launching in 2018, the Barn Theatre has gained national recognition having produced over 20 Built by Barn shows and being awarded The Stage Awards’ Best Fringe Theatre of the Year Award 2019. In 2023, the theatre celebrated its fifth anniversary with a season that included world premieres of Simon Reade’s adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s Waiting For Anya, Jonathan Lynn’s final instalment of his classic series I’m Sorry Prime Minister, I Can’t Quite Remember, as well as a reimagined revival production of the musical Once and the world premiere of a musical adaptation of Treasure Island. 2024 saw Sherlock Holmes and the Whitechapel Fiend, Constellations, Midsummer, Stones in His Pockets, Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, Room 13 and The Three Musketeers: Trois. 2025 started with A Role To Die For and are looking forward to In the Mouth of the Wolf, Educating Rita, Friends! The Musical Parody, Haywire, The Last Five Years before finishing the year with A Christmas Carol.
Cloudburst Productions Ltd, in association with Southwark Playhouse, today announces the world premiere of Nancy Netherwood’s Radiant Boy which debuts at Southwark Playhouse Borough – following its inclusion in the RSC’s 37 Plays competition in 2023. Júlia Levai directs Stuart Thompson and Renée Lamb in this brand-new play with music about faith, shame and queerness.
Radiant Boy opens at Southwark Playhouse Borough on 21 May and runs until 14 June.
Full cast to be announced shortly.
Nancy Netherwood said today, “I’m beyond thrilled to be bringing Radiant Boy to life at Southwark Playhouse with such an incredible team both onstage and off. The intimate space of ‘The Little’ auditorium is perfect for an intense, claustrophobic exorcism story – we can really crank up the tension and eeriness, but hopefully you’ll also feel part of Russell’s journey of queer self-acceptance. I can’t wait to fill the space with North East folk music and 80s New Wave!”.
With support from Arts Council England, the production will also recruit two trainee producers, offer shadowing opportunities for ten industry newcomers and host a series of wrap-around events, including captioned performances. More information on this will be released shortly.
Cloudburst Productions Ltd,in association with Southwark Playhouse, present
RADIANT BOY
By Nancy Netherwood
Cast includes Stuart Thompson, Renée Lamb
Director: Júlia Levai; Set and Costume Design: Tomás Palmer; Lighting Design: Lucia Sanchez Roldan; Sound Design: Patch Middleton
21 May – 14 June 2025
North-East England, 1983. As a snowstorm rages outside, trainee singer Russell and his mother Maud await the arrival of a young priest who believes Russell is a victim of possession.
Winner of the RSC’s 37 plays competition, Radiant Boy is a new play about faith, shame and queerness and finding connection through art.
Stuart Thompson plays Russell. His theatre credits include Three Sisters (Shakespeare’s Globe), Ghosts (Sam Wanamaker Playhouse), The Narcissist (Chichester Festival Theatre), Spring Awakening (Almeida Theatre), Living Newspaper (Royal Court Theatre), Did I Wake You? (Young Vic) and A Taste of Honey (National Theatre). His television credits include SAS Rogue Heroes, Starstruck, The Witcher and Unprecedented: Viral. In 2022, Stuart won The Jack Tinker Award for Most Promising Newcomer at the Critics’ Circle Theatre Awards.
Renée Lamb plays Steph/The Voice. Her theatre credits at Southwark Playhouse include Ain’t Misbehavin’. Other theatre credits include Passing Strange (Young Vic), Cake (Lyric Theatre, The Other Palace), Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World, Malory Towers (UK tours) Be More Chill (The Other Place, Shaftesbury Theatre), Little Shop of Horrors (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre) and SIX (Arts Theatre). Her television credits include This Town and Still so Awkward; and for film, This is the Night Mail.
Nancy Netherwood is a playwright and screenwriter. Her playwriting credits at Southwark Playhouse include Warm Lonely Planet. Other playwriting credits include Goodnight, Mr Spindrift (Old Red Lion Theatre) and Just Like the Films (Royal Court Theatre); and for screenwriting, Kill Joy Jukebox. Netherwood was a writer in residence at the North Wall for their Catalyst Festival in 2019 and is currently part of the London Library Emerging Writers Programme.
Júlia Levai directs. Her directing credits at Southwark Playhouse include Smoke. Other directing credits include We’ll Be Who We Are (VAULT Festival), Northern Girls (Pilot Theatre),Did I Wake You? (Young Vic as part of ‘Five Plays’), The Prince of Homburg (The Space) and There Has Possibly Been an Incident (Blue Elephant Theatre). Her assistant and associate directing credits includeCoriolanus, Dear Octopus (National Theatre), Hope Has a Happy Meal (Royal Court Theatre), All’s Well That Ends Well (RSC), L’Illusion Comique (National Theatre in Belgrade, Serbia) and Nora: A Doll’s House (Young Vic). Levai is an MGCFutures bursary recipient and was previously Director in Residence at the National Theatre in Belgrade, Serbia. She is a script reader for NT Studio, Papatango Prize, The Bruntwood Prize and The Women’s Prize for Playwriting.
RADIANT BOY
LISTINGS
Southwark Playhouse Borough 77-85 Newington Causeway London SE1 6BD
A major new production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s musical
INTO THE WOODS
in a strictly limited 20-week run
opens at The Bridge in December
and
A summer return for one of The Bridge’s biggest hits,
the immersive A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
London Theatre Company today announces two further productions opening at the Bridge Theatre during 2025.
I N T OT H EW O O D S
A brand-new staging for The Bridge of Sondheim and Lapine’s dazzling and moving musical Into The Woods will start previews from 2 December in a production helmed by director Jordan Fein and designer Tom Scutt.
Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s collaboration — their second, after Sunday in the Park with George — brilliantly weaves together four Grimms’ fairy-tales in a story of a baker and his wife on their quest to reverse a curse of childlessness cast upon them by the wicked witch.
On its Broadway debut in 1986, Into The Woods won Tony awards each for Sondheim (Best Musical) and Lapine (Best Book). In London it has had productions by Richard Jones (Phoenix Theatre, 1990), John Crowley (Donmar, 1998) and Timothy Sheader (Open Air, Regent’s Park, 2010). This will be its first London production since 2016.
Nicholas Hytner, co-founder of The Bridge, says: “Into The Woods is one of the great achievements of the American stage. Jordan Fein’s production of Fiddler on the Roof at the Open Air Theatre last year was a triumph, beautifully staged and overwhelmingly moving, and Tom Scutt has established himself across the world as a designer of rare talent and imagination.”
Jordan Fein’s credits include Fiddler on the Roof at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Tom Scutt’s extensive credits include Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club in the West End and on Broadway where he won the Tony award last year for Best Scenic Design of a Musical.
Casting will be announced in due course. The 20-week run will finish on 18 April 2026.
AM I D S U M M E RN I G H T ‘ SD R E A M
One of The Bridge’s biggest hits, the immersive A Midsummer Night’s Dream returns this summer with performances from 31 May to 23 August (opening night 5 June).
The cast will include JJ Feild (Little Disasters, Austenland, Captain America) as Oberon/Theseus, Susannah Fielding (The Merchant of Venice, This Time with Alan Partridge) as Titania/Hippolyta, Emmanuel Akwafo (For the Black Boys…, Sex Education) as Bottom and David Moorst (Killing Eve, Blitz) who returns to the role of Puck/Philostrate. Further casting is to be announced.
Nicholas Hytner directs with award winning production design by Bunny Christie (Evening Standard Theatre award), costumes by Christina Cunningham, lighting by Bruno Poet, sound design by Paul Arditti, music by Grant Olding and movement by Arlene Phillips. James Cousins is associate director and associate movement director.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream was first produced at The Bridge in 2019. Its immersive format — which allows 400 people to stand close to the action with 670 seats wrapped around — enabled over 100,000 people to see the production six years ago. It was filmed by NTLive.
Standing tickets are from £35.
Both Into The Woods and A Midsummer Night’s Dream go on sale to priority members of The Bridge today. Public booking opens on Friday 28 February, 10am via bridgetheatre.co.uk.
THE PARENT AGENCY – THE MUSICAL RECEIVES RAVE REVIEWS
David Baddiel’s fantastic new family friendly show is a five-star hit with both critics and audiences at Storyhouse
Stars came out on gala night to celebrate world premiere
The Parent Agency – The Musical is now running at Storyhouse with the joyous new stage version of David Baddiel’s bestseller winning five-star reviews from critics and audiences alike.
The musical, based on the writer, comedian and presenter’s award-winning children’s adventure, is receiving its world premiere at the Chester venue where it continues until this Sunday 2 March.
The new family friendly musical has a book and lyrics by David Baddiel with music and additional lyrics by The Feeling’s Dan Gillespie Sells. It is produced by Scenario TwoandStoryhouse and directed by Tim Jackson.
Critics have described the “triumphant adaptation” as “truly joyous”, “delightfully heartwarming”, “a mischievous delight” and “whip-smart with a winning score”.
And audiences of all ages are also being bowled over by the production, with young theatregoers praising its catchy songs and describing the musical as ‘energetic’, ‘upbeat’, ‘hilarious’, ‘magical’ and ‘cool’.
A special gala night was held at the Hunter Street theatre last week which was attended by a host of stars – including actors Hugh Dennis, Ralf Little, Ricky Tomlinson and Andrew Lancel – as well as the show’s creators.
The Parent Agency – The Musical will appeal to anyone who is, or has been, a child. And also, to anyone who is, or who has had, at least one parent. And definitely to anyone who wishes they weren’t called Barry.
Barry Bennett hates his name. In fact, it’s number one on the list of things the 11-year-old blames his parents (Susan and Geoff) for, along with “being boring, never buying him cool stuff, being tired all the time and being too strict.” So he makes a wish for a better mum and dad, and finds himself whisked away to Youngdon in the ‘United Kid-dom’, an alternative universe where kids get to pick out their perfect parents with the help of the staff of the eponymous Parent Agency.
For Barry this seems like a dream come true, although he soon learns that choosing a new mum and dad isn’t as simple as it sounds….
Talented young actors Max Bispham (Les Miserables, Mrs Doubtfire), Osian Salter (LesMiserables, The Osmonds a New Musical), Eli Sowden-Mehta (Wonka, Blitz, Wicked) and Louis Wilkins (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) share the lead role of Barry.
Rebecca McKinnis (Dear Evan Hansen, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie) plays Susan and Rakesh Boury (Matilda, The Creakers) appears as Geoff.
The cast also includes Kazmin Borrer (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie), Elliot Broadfoot (Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder), Natasha Cayabyab (Shrek the Musical), Dylan Collymore (Shrek the Musical), Sarah McFarlane (SIX), Joshian Angelo Omana (Why Am I So Single?), Alan Vicary (Girl from the North Country), Ralph Birthwell (Life of Pi), Althea Burey (The Gruffalo), Elliot Copeland (Becoming Nancy), Jessica Daugirda (Everybody’s Talking AboutJamie), Sophia Lewis (Around the World in 80 Days) and Robbie Scott (Sunshine on Leith).
David Baddiel’s books have achieved exceptional success and have been translated into 30 languages. His children’s books have received huge critical acclaim and have won some of children’s literature’s highest accolades including the Laugh Out Loud award for The Parent Agency.
Dan Gillespie Sells, best known as the lead singer and songwriter of The Feeling, has enjoyed widespread critical acclaim for his work in musical theatre. He composed the music for the West End hit Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, which received multiple Olivier Award nominations, toured nationally and internationally and was adapted into an Amazon Original film.
His work has earned him an Ivor Novello Award, Olivier, BAFTA and BRIT nominations, and he was named Stonewall’s Entertainer of the Decade in 2015 for his contributions to the LGBT community.
The creative team also includes directorTim Jackson (Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York), Merrily We Roll Along), designer John Bausor (Spirited Away, Bat Out of Hell), choreographer Carrie-Anne Ingrouille (SIX, Dear Evan Hansen), costume designer Sarah Mercadé (Jesus Christ Superstar, 101 Dalmatians, The Spongebob Musical), lighting designer Zoe Spurr (The Curious Incident of Benjamin Button, Fantastically Great Women who Changedthe World, Bonnie and Clyde), and assistant director Francesca Hsieh (VANYA), with Musical Supervisor Nick Finlow (Back to the Future, The Book of Mormon), Musical Director Ellen Campbell (Waitress, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory), Sound Designer Paul Gatehouse (Mary Poppins, The Little Big Things), Associate Sound Designer Richard Jones, Wig, Hair and Make-up Designer Craig Forrest-Thomas (Mrs Doubtfire, Buyer & Cellar), Casting Director Olivia Layden CDG for Jill Green Casting and Children’s Casting by Amy Beadle CDG for Grindrod Burton Castin.
Storyhouse creative director Suzie Henderson said today:“I’m delighted we’re staging the world premiere of this wonderful new family musical here at Storyhouse; it’s been fantastic to see audiences of all ages loving the show and to receive such an amazing response from the critics.
“David Baddiel’s story is hilarious, and he and Dan Gillespie Sells have created a soundtrack which I know will have people singing its songs all the way home.
“I’m looking forward to sharing this special show with thousands more theatregoers over the next week. Catch it now before it’s snapped up by the West End!”
Senbla presents in association with Steven Howard for The TCB Group and David Shepherd
THE RETURN OF THE LEGENDS
Strictly Legends Return with Smash Hit Dance Show for 2025
Following their smash hit sell-out tour Legends of The Dance Floor in 2024, Strictly Come Dancing legends Brendan Cole, James Jordan, Pasha Kovalev, Vincent Simone and Ian Waite have announced an even bigger tour for 2025: The Return Of The Legends.
It was a wonder no one thought of it before. All household names, all Strictly favourites, all kings of the ballroom, yet before last year’s Legends Of The Dance Floor tour Brendan, James, Pasha, Vincent and Ian had never performed together as professionals on one stage – but from the moment the tour was announced it quickly became the hottest dance show ticket in town.
To meet phenomenal demand, all five stars will reunite for The Return Of The Legends tour. It is going to be twice as big for 2025, with the show’s 36 performances (with more to be announced) starting on 5th September in Cambridge and ending in Truro on 17th October, including a date The London Palladium on 25th September.
Tickets will go on sale from 10.00am on Monday 3rd March, available from all venues and via www.legendsofthedancefloor.com.
Acknowledged as one of the best and most entertaining Strictly-related dance shows ever produced, Strictly Come Dancing’s Head Judge Shirley Ballas gave Legends of The Dance Floor the ultimate endorsement, described it as, “By far one of the funniest shows that I’ve ever seen in my life – a great evening out.”
Amongst their countless Strictly highlights, Vincent mesmerised with his tango moves, Pasha appeared in three finals (winning one), Ian dazzled with his Pasa Doble, James’s ballroom skills and larger-than-life personality made him a Saturday night favourite and Brendan, of course, never shied away from telling the judges what he really thought whilst remaining one of the show’s most popular pros.
Now, performing world-class Latin, ballroom, tango, rumba and so much more, the Strictly legends are coming to a theatre near you, with Brendan, James, Pasha, Vincent and Ian promising to share more stories from their illustrious careers and paying tribute to their dance icons, while never failing to remind us exactly why they became our Legends of The Dance Floor!
James Jordan: “Last year’s Legends tour was a life-changing experience, reigniting a passion for dance I thought was lost. The energy, artistry, and camaraderie reminded me why I fell in love with dance. I’m deeply grateful to the exceptional team and talent behind it. I can’t wait to bring that same energy and legacy to new audiences on the upcoming tour.”
Brendan Cole: “I’m so happy that all five of us are returning for the new Return Of The Legends show this year. The success of last year’s tour was a wonderful experience to be a part of – and it’s hugely exciting to be able to bring the show to so many more towns and cities across the UK.”
Pasha Kovalev: “Working with my best friends on the Legends of The Dance show was such a joy. We gave it everything, so to see the audiences’ reaction in sold-out theatres night after night…it doesn’t get better than that. See you there.”
Vincent Simone: “This year’s Return Of The Legends tour promises to be the most magical evening, with brand new stories and more incredible choreography. And, don’t forget, out of all the Legends, I’m the best!”
Ian Waite: “I can’t begin to describe just how much fun we all had on tour last year, so to do it bigger and better for 2025 is just fantastic. And, of course, we get to perform again with our incredible female dance partners, who quite rightly received their own standing ovation every single night.”
The full list of dates for The Return Of The Legends tour is as follows (*indicates additional matinee performance):
5th Sept – Cambridge, Corn Exchange
6th Sept – Llandudno, Venue Cymru
7th Sept – Crewe, Lyceum Theatre
9th Sept – Glasgow, Royal Concert Hall
10th Sept – Derby, Becketwell Live
11th Sept – Liverpool, Empire Theatre
12th Sept – Bradford, St George’s Hall
13th Sept – Hull, Connexin Live
14th Sept – Manchester, The Bridgewater Hall
16th Sept – Nottingham, Concert Hall
17th Sept – Bournemouth, Pavilion Theatre
18th Sept – Eastbourne, Congress Theatre
19th Sept – Portsmouth, Guildhall
20th Sept – York, Barbican
23rd Sept – Richmond, Richmond Theatre
24th Sept – Southend, Cliffs Pavilion*
25th Sept – London, London Palladium
26th Sept – Sheffield, City Hall
30th Sept – Aberdeen, Music Hall (on sale 24th March)
1st Oct – Perth, Concert Hall
2nd Oct – Carlisle, Sands Centre
3rd Oct – Newcastle, O2 City Hall
4th Oct – Watford, Colosseum
5th Oct – Birmingham, Symphony Hall
6th Oct – Warwick, Arts Centre (on sale 24th March)
8th Oct – Buxton, Opera House
9th Oct – Bath, Forum Theatre
10th Oct – Cardiff, New Theatre
11th Oct – Northampton, Derngate Theatre
12th Oct – Stockton, Globe Theatre
13th Oct – Leicester, De Montfort Hall
14th Oct – Oxford, New Theatre
15th Oct – Guildford, G Live
17th Oct – Truro, Hall for Cornwall* (on sale 24th March)
ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE AND DIRECTED BY GUY UNSWORTH
BASED ON THE CAROLINE GRAHAM NOVEL AND THE ITV SERIES
UK TOUR OPENS IN OCTOBER 2025
For the first time ever, Inspector Barnaby and his trusty sidekick, Sergeant Troy, will take to the stage in Guy Unsworth’s adaptation of Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift, based on the book by Caroline Graham, The Killings at Badger’s Drift, and the television series Midsomer Murders produced by Bentley Productions [for ITV] in association with All3Media International. The tour will open at Richmond Theatre on 24 October and will tour through to April 2026. The tour is produced by Nicholson Green Productions and Colin Ingram Ltd.
When well-loved spinster Emily Simpson is found dead in the picturesque village of Badger’s Drift, her friend Lucy Bellringer refuses to accept it was an accident. DCI Tom Barnaby and Sergeant Gavin Troy are called in to investigate, uncovering a world of hidden passions, long-buried secrets and deadly rivalries.
With eccentric villagers, shocking twists and an unforgettable reveal, The Killings at Badger’s Drift is a classic whodunit that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Bringing to life the wit, charm and chilling suspense of the beloved television series and original series of books, this gripping and thrilling new show will entrance theatre audiences.
Casting is to be announced.
Caroline Graham said of Guy Unsworth’s adaptation for the stage: “It’s fast paced and witty, and has everything an audience wants: bizarre murders and a beautiful setting. I am delighted to be a part of it and to see The Killings at Badger’s Drift on the stage. ”
A spokesperson for the television producers and All3Media International said of the announcement of the stage version: “We’re delighted that Midsomer Murders, the detective drama that continues to delight TV audiences around the world, can now also delight theatre fans with this new production from Nicholson Green Productions. We wish the producer a successful launch tour this autumn in the UK – and are sure that fans from the UK and visitors from abroad alike will embrace this wonderful opportunity to see Inspector Barnaby in action!”
John Nettles, the original Inspector Barnaby, said of the forthcoming tour: “Such anticipation! I’m thrilled to hear that the exploits of those in Midsomer’s Badger’s Drift are being brought to the stage. How exciting!”
Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift will be directed by Guy Unsworth, with design by David Woodhead, lighting design by Matt Haskins, sound design by Ella Wahlström and casting by Ginny Schiller CDG.
YORK THEATRE ROYAL ANNOUNCES THE WORLD PREMIERE OF DEBBIE ISITT’S MILITARY WIVES – The Musical
York Theatre Royal, in association with Everyman Theatre Cheltenham and Buxton Opera House,today announces the world premiere of Debbie Isitt’s Military Wives – The Musical. The brand-new musical will also be directed by Isitt and is inspired by the true story of the Military Wives choir and based on the film Military Wives.
The production opens at York Theatre Royal on 16 September, with previews from 10 September and runs until 27 September.
Writer and Director Debbie Isitt said, “This inspirational new musical about a group of women who triumph against all odds has been a joy to create. It is so exciting to be working with York Theatre Royal on such a funny and exhilarating new musical and I can’t wait to share it with audiences.”
Paul Crewes, CEO of York Theatre Royalsaid, “It is so great to be working with Debbie Isitt, to produce the world premiere of this brand-new musical here at York Theatre Royal. It is a very moving yet uplifting story inspired by the film and the true story of the Military Wives choirs. It is also packed full of songs that our audiences will know and love. Don’t miss this joyous production in York this autumn.”
Priority booking for York Theatre Royal Members opens today (Feb 24th) from 1pm, with general on sale on 1 March at 1pm.
A York Theatre Royal Production
MILITARY WIVES – The Musical
Inspired by a true story and based on the hit movie
Written and directed by Debbie Isitt
In association with Everyman Theatre Cheltenham and Buxton Opera House
10 September – 27 September
This Autumn, join us for the world premiere of a brand-new British musical, based on the 2019 hit movie Military Wives and inspired by a true story.
A joyous celebration of female friendship, courage and ‘unsung’ heroes. Get ready for the inspirational story of the Military Wives choir as they change the world one song at a time.
Written and directed by Bafta award winner Debbie Isitt (Nativity!), this new production is a funny, feel-good story of female empowerment and the perfect harmony of laughter, emotion and fun.
With their husbands and partners away at war, the women are isolated, bored and desperate to find a focus to take their minds off feelings of impending doom. Enter Olive who arrives on the ‘patch’ to help them form a choir and learn to sing. But Olive gets a lot more than she bargains for with this diverse group of women – who through the power of song find themselves facing their fears and making unexpected friendships along the way.
Featuring a fantastic mix of pop, rock and power ballads to make you laugh, cry and sing your hearts out!
Debbie Isitt is a BAFTA and EMMY award winning writer and director of film, television and theatre. Debbie originally trained as an actor and spent her youth touring the world with her internationally renowned theatre company, Snarling Beasties and after a successful run in London’s West End, her play The Woman Who Cooked Her Husband is still performed across the globe. In recent years Debbie has created a hugely successful UK film franchise by writing and directing (in her inimitable improvisational process) a series of blockbuster Christmas films; NATIVITY! Starring Martin Freeman, Nativity 2 starring David Tennant, Nativity 3 starring Martin Clunes and Catherine Tate, and Nativity Rocks! starring Celia Imrie and Craig Revel Horwood which have all been major box office hits. She also adapted and directed the hit stage show Nativity! The Musical which is heading into its 5th sensational season this Christmas. Last year Debbie wrote and directed a major new stage musical I Should Be So Lucky featuring Kylie Minogue, based on the songs of hit factory composers Stock, Aitken and Waterman which embarked on an extensive UK tour. Her other films include CONFETTI (Fox Searchlight) and CHRISTMAS ON MISTETOE FARM (Netflix)
Listings
YORK THEATRE ROYAL
St Leonard’s Place, York YO1 7HD
www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
Box Office: 01904 623568
NORTH BY NORTHWEST
York Theatre Royal
18 March – 5 April
THE STORM WHALE
14 – 19 April
KRAPP’S LAST TAPE
14 April – Sat 17 May 2025
Press performances: 7.30pm 23 April, 7.30pm 24 April, 7.30pm 25 April, 5pm & 7.30pm 26 April
Dave Moutrey reappointed as Theatres Trust’s Chair
Theatres Trust, the national public advisory and advocacy body for theatres, is pleased to announce that Rt Hon Lisa Nandy MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has reappointed Dave Moutrey as Chair for a further three-year term.
Two Trustees have also been reappointed; James Dacre, Director and Producer, founder of Living Productions and Stephanie Hall, a barrister specialising in town and country planning at Kings Chambers.
As an arms-length public body, appointments to the Theatres Trust’s Board are made by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. All appointments are for a three-year term, beginning on 21st February 2025.
Dave Moutrey is Director of Culture for Manchester City Council where he is responsible for advising the council on policy and strategy for culture. He was appointed as Theatres Trust’s Chair in February 2022, and during his first three-year tenure he oversaw a refresh of the organisation’s vision and mission and led the recruitment of Theatres Trust’s new CEO, Joshua McTaggart.
Dave says I am delighted that the Secretary of State has approved my re-appointment for another term as Chair of the Theatres Trust alongside the renewal of two other trustees who give their valuable time to our brilliant board. To have the Secretary of State’s confidence to do this work is a great honour. As a Department for Culture, Media and Sport Arm’s Length Body, Theatres Trust is the only organisation empowered to protect the UK’s theatre ecosystem, from small-scale community spaces through to large-scale commercial auditoriums. Given the numerous challenges currently facing the sector, our mission and purpose feel more vital than ever. I am especially looking forward to working with our new Director Joshua McTaggart as he and our team develop our next strategic plan to ensure theatres across the country continue to be fit for the future.
Joshua McTaggart, Theatres Trust’s CEO says, It is fantastic news that Dave [Moutrey] has been reappointed as Theatres Trust’s Chair, and James [Dacre] and Stepanie [Hall] reappointed as Trustees. Their collective knowledge and experience are invaluable to Theatres Trust, especially as we head towards our 50th anniversary in 2026. I am excited to work with them, and the rest of our Board, to expand Theatres Trust’s reach and impact, develop our impartial professional advice services, and grow the recently established Sector Skills Bank.
