Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL to have Regional Premiere at Hope Mill Theatre

MEL BROOKS’

YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL

TO HAVE REGIONAL PREMIERE

AT HOPE MILL THEATRE

FROM 10 OCTOBER 2025

Hope Mill Theatre are delighted to announce Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL will have its regional premiere from 10 October to 30 November 2025, with a press night on 15 October. YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN will be directed and choreographed by Nick Winston.

Adapted by Mel Brooks from his legendary 1974 film starring Gene Wilder, YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN tells the story of the grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) who inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors. “It’s alive!” he exclaims as he brings to life a creature to rival his grandfather’s. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds.

Casting to be announced.

Director and choreographer Nick Winston returns to Hope Mill Theatre after the success of Mame in 2019 and most recently the Manchester premiere of Burlesque the Musical at the Opera House.

About joining the show Nick said: “I am beyond excited to direct YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN the uproarious musical comedy based on the classic film by Mel Brooks and to be doing so at the brilliant Hope Mill Theatre. The immediacy of this space mixed with Mel Brooks’ iconic humour and the musical’s brilliant score will create a cocktail of laughter, love and a bit of mad science!

YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN marks the 10th Anniversary year of Hope Mill Theatre, which opened its doors in October 2015. Founded by Joseph Houston and William Whelton the Award-Winning venue has gained a reputation Nationally and Internationally for its in house Musical productions.

William Whelton co-founder and CEO said: “Young Frankenstein the musical marks Hope Mill Theatre’s 10th anniversary celebrations and in true Hope Mill style we are bringing a Regional Premiere of the classic Mel Brooks musical. Since opening we have always strived to bring the very best in Musical theatre titles and talent to the City and we are thrilled to have Nick Winston at the helm, who last worked at the venue back in 2019, when he directed and choreographed MAME the musical. Myself and Joe could not have imagined that we would be reaching such a milestone in our journey, and we have so much to be grateful for as we reflect on what has been an incredible decade. The future is full of hope for us, and we have so many exciting plans afoot, as we continue to secure the legacy of Hope Mill Theatre, and this production is just one of many exciting announcements to come.”

Every bit as relevant to audience members who will remember the original as it will be to newcomers, YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN has all the of panache of the screen sensation with a little extra theatrical flair added. It will surely be the perfect opportunity for a production company to showcase an array of talents. With such memorable tunes as The Transylvania Mania, He Vas My Boyfriend and Puttin’ on the Ritz by Irving Berlin, YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN is scientifically proven, monstrously good entertainment.

Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN has a book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, with music and lyrics by Mel Brooks, orchestrations by Doug Besterman & Mark Cumberland and original direction and choreography by Susan Stroman.

Website: hopemilltheatre.co.uk/event/young-frankenstein

Facebook: @HopeMillTheatre

X: @hopemilltheatre

Instagram: @hopemilltheatre

LISTINGS INFORMATION

10 October 2025 – 30 November 2025

Hope Mill Theatre

113 Pollard St

Manchester

M4 7JA

Preview Performances: 10 – 14 October 2025.

Performances: Tuesday to Saturday/ 7.30pm & 2.30pm/ Sundays 2pm, 3pm or 6pm

Tickets from: £27

Box Office: 0161 275 9141

An Inspector Calls Review

Hull New Theatre – until 15th February 2025

Reviewed by Anne Walker

5*****

Stephen Daldry’s production of J.B. Priestley’s classic thriller “An Inspector Calls” has long been celebrated for its innovative staging and powerful social commentary. The production continues to showcase the brilliance of Daldry’s vision, bringing fresh energy to this timeless piece while remaining faithful to its core themes.

Set in the early 20th century, the play revolves around the Birling family, whose lives are turned upside down by the unexpected arrival of Inspector Goole. As the inspector interrogates each family member about their connections to a young woman’s tragic fate, the narrative unfolds with a gripping intensity that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

Daldry’s direction is masterful, blending a sense of urgency with moments of quiet reflection. The set design, featuring a strikingly elevated, unstable Birling house that opens up to reveal more than the interior, serves as a metaphor for the scrutiny the characters face. This design choice not only enhances the visual impact but also reinforces the play’s themes of social responsibility and moral accountability.

The cast delivered exceptional performances, with each actor bringing depth and nuance to their roles. The character of Inspector Goole, portrayed with a commanding presence by Tim Treloar, gave us just the right balance of calm, passion and authority as he unraveled the family’s secrets. The Birlings, ranging from the self-assured, arrogant Arthur to the naive, giddy Sheila, are portrayed with a mix of vulnerability and arrogance, making their eventual confrontations with the inspector all the more poignant.

The production’s pacing is expertly handled, maintaining a tension that builds throughout the evening. Daldry’s use of lighting and sound design further amplifies the emotional weight of the story, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and thought-provoking.

One of the standout elements of this production is its relevance to contemporary issues. The themes of class disparity, social responsibility, age and gender resonate still as strongly in today’s world, making Priestley’s work feel as urgent as ever. Daldry’s interpretation invites audiences to reflect on their own responsibilities and the impact of their actions on others.

The theatre saw a full house this evening but unfortunately it was the noisiest audience we had ever experienced with lots of rustling packets and talking which was rather disappointing. Thankfully, Stephen Daldry’s An Inspector Calls has such gripping storytelling in this captivating production which made it an enjoyable experience nonetheless.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of the play or experiencing it for the first time, this production is not to be missed.

Ghost Stories Review

Sheffield Lyceum – until Saturday 15 February 2025

Reviewed by Adam Craddock

5*****

After my last few visits to the theatre at Sheffield Lyceum being all sunshine and roses with some happy go lucky musicals, myself and my partner decided to switch it up and pick up a review for Ghost Stories, the hit horror play by Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman.

This is the point where normally I would divulge a bit of a plot summary or some background info but one of the absolute delights about Ghost Stories is that it is a modern day enigma, a story that has largely remained spoiler free. We as reviewers were kindly requested to keep it that way and that I shall do! What I can tell you however is that Ghost Stories may be the best horror play I have seen in terms of holding the suspense right the way through from the first word to the last. The small cast of 4 remarkable actors had the audience in the palm of their hand throughout, playing with us like some prey that they could devour at any moment, yet also lightening the mood when necessary.

Dan Tetsell guides us through the show as the eloquent and charming Professor Goodman. Again it is hard to give a full and flowing review with the constraints on what can and can’t be said but just know that Tetsell is the glue that holds the show together and he performs this role admirably, as well as being given his true chance to shine in the final innings. David Carry is brilliant as Tony Mathews, with brilliant comedic timing and command of his stage. Eddie Loodmer Elliott is solid as Simon Rifkind, with an endearing awkwardness that makes you almost feel sorry for him. Last but not least, Clive Mantle is great as Mike Priddle, with a smarminess and disregard for the others so perfect that you almost want to get up and give him a slap at times!

The set for Ghost Stories is incredible, with scenery and special effects feeling like they were ripped straight out of a West End theatre and have no place being on tour. The scale and innovation of the illusions are awesome, leaving myself and my partner scratching our heads as to how they did most of it. The sound design was perfect for a show such as this, with the claustrophobic quality almost making you feel as if you are in a pressure cooker and could explode at any minute. The lighting was also perfect, lending itself to realism yet tension at the same time.

In conclusion, while I can’t say much about the actual show itself I can say this… go get a ticket YESTERDAY! Ghost Stories is not a play to be missed and I already wish I could re play it all over again for the first time and relive the feeling I got.

Park Theatre’ Summer season

Park Theatre announces Summer and Autumn shows

  • The Summer season spans Ireland, Japan and Italy with Irish Times Award-winner Conversations After Sex, Michinari Ozawa’s Our Cosmic Dust, and 20th century scandal That Bastard, Puccini!
  • Edinburgh Festival Fringe hits Outpatient and Jimmy by Adam Riches transfer to the North London venue
  • The Park Laughs programme includes Fringe previews from comedians including Sophie Duker and Matt Forde
  • Autumn season will feature former RSC Artistic Director Adrian Noble, Bruntwood Prize-shortlisted (the) Woman, and Olivier Award-nominated actor Issy van Randwyck
  • For one night only, Sir Jonathan Pryce will appear at the venue for a special fundraising event

30 April – 25 October

X (Twitter): @ParkTheatre | www.parktheatre.co.uk

Park Theatre has unveiled an eclectic line up of theatre and comedy in its Summer and Autumn seasons, including shows set in Ireland, Japan and Italy, Edinburgh Festival Fringe hits, shows exploring the lives of artists and opera composers, and comedians performing their final previews in July before hitting the Fringe in August.

Ahead of the season, Park Theatre has announced, for one night only, An Audience with Jonathan Pryce(30 Mar)Exploring moments that have shaped the illustrious career of the knighted, award-winning actor of stage and screen, the evening will raise funds towards Park Theatre’s invaluable work in their local community, which includes three different programmes for those living with dementia and their carers, and sessions with young people aged 12 – 16 and 18 – 28.

Opening the Summer season, Conversations After Sex(30 April – 17 May)is a sharp and unflinchingly honest, Irish Times Award winning play by Mark O’Halloran about unexpected encounters with anonymous strangers in hotel rooms. When a woman in possession of her own sexuality meets a carousel of different men, she finds herself uncovering more than she expected. Grief. Loneliness. Promiscuity. Connection.

Next in Park90, Outpatient (21 May – 7 June) is an explosive autobiographical comedy exploring the world of Olive, a self-obsessed entertainment journalist who sets out to make her name interviewing people who are receiving palliative care, only to discover that she is living with an incurable and mysterious disease of her own. Determined to live what little time she has left to the fullest, she plans to sever all ties with her partner, throw herself into her work, and audition for a reality singing competition.Coming to Park Theatre following its Edinburgh Festival Fringe run, Outpatient explores the fantasies of human minds and the fragility of human bodies. 

In Park200, Our Cosmic Dust (2 Jun – 5 July) is an English-language debut of a three-time award-winning production created by Tokyo writer and director Michinari Ozawa. Meet Shotaro, a curious schoolboy who sets out on an adventure to find his late father among the stars. Behind him follows his mother, sick with worry and determined to bring him home. Along their journeys, they encounter a kaleidoscope of characters each with their own stories of love, loss, and the absurdities of life. Blending intricate puppetry, hand-drawn illustrations, and inventive video design, Our Cosmic Dust is a heartfelt and imaginative tale that explores how we find guidance in others and solace in the cosmos – all seen through the wide-eyed perspective of a child.

Another Edinburgh Fringe Festival hit, Jimmy (23 June – 12 July) is a theatre show from Edinburgh Comedy Award Winner Adam Riches. In 1974, Jimmy Connors was the greatest tennis player on Earth. In 1991, he’s getting annihilated at the US Open by his arch-nemesis’ little brother.  What happened next was one of the greatest comebacks in sporting history, when Jimmy, fuelled by ghosts of his turbulent past, winds back the clock to remind the world what happens when you rattle the cage of a geriatric tiger, one last time.

Taking the main stage in July, That Bastard, Puccini! (10 July – 9 Aug) stages the 20th century race between composers Giacomo Puccini and Ruggero Leoncavallo to claim the enchanting love story of La Boheme. Giacomo Puccini needs to write an opera that will cement his reputation as the next great composer, but fellow composer Ruggero Leoncavallo has thought of La Boheme too. And worse still, he’s claiming Puccini stole his idea. A funny, chaotic and captivating new play by James Inverne, That Bastard, Puccini! brings to life an explosive professional rivalry, a plagiarism scandal that rocked Europe, and a friendship tested to the limit. Witness the story behind one of the world’s most famous masterpieces… and as a result, one of the least famous.

Also in July, Park Laughs will be presenting comedians, starting with Chris Grace: Sardines (20 July) in Park200, then a series of Avalon Edinburgh Previews (21 – 26 Jul) with double bills of comedians in the intimate Park90 just ahead of their Scottish runs: Matt Forde and Joe Kent-Walters, Glenn Moore and Johnny White Really-Really, Chloe Petts and Pierre Novellie, Sophie Duker and Bella Hull, Rob Auton, Andrew Doherty, and two more to be announced.

Moving into the Autumn, The Gathered Leaves (13 Aug – 20 Sept) returns to Park200 a decade after its sold-out run, directed by former RSC Artistic Director Adrian Noble, who makes his UK play-directing comeback after nearly 10 years of working on international opera productions. The Pennington family have not been in the same room for 17 years, yet on the eve of William’s 75th birthday all three generations gather to put the past well and truly behind them. But William knows he is running out of time to accept his family on their own terms – even if they cannot overlook his own shortcomings in return. The Gathered Leaves is a moving, poignant and funny family drama that sees the weight of history, of reputation, and of expectation, all descend on one family over Easter weekend in 1997.

Bruntwood Prize shortlisted play (the) Woman (24 Sept – 25 Oct) follows M: a writer, a mother, a woman. The triumph of M’s hit play is hijacked by motherhood – M is burnt out, angry, lonely, craving intimacy but disengaged, and terrified of the future. She wants to tell her story, her way. But, everyone around her shares their opinions on who she is, who she should be and how she’s f*cking everything up. Fiercely funny and brutally honest, Jane Upton’s play shatters the glossy veneer of motherhood, exposing its raw, messy truth, and dares to question the definition of (her) Self.

Finally, in Park90 Lee (24 Sept – 18 Oct) stars Olivier Award nominated actress Issy van Randwyck as real-life artist and wife of Jackson Pollock, Lee Krasner. A late summer afternoon, 1969, she is painting in her studio when local delivery boy and art student brings her a work of art to be authenticated. When Hank explains that Pollock gave the painting to his father many years ago to settle a debt, Lee accuses him of stealing the work from her home. What unfolds is a history of this particular painting that reveals a painful secret that could call into question the origin of her late husband’s ‘genius’.

Artistic Director Jez Bond said, “This season promises a broad array of shows for our audiences to enjoy – from the dark to the comic and the modern to the historic, with familiar names sitting alongside exciting new talent. All the while we’re thrilled to continue to present accessible stories in an intimate setting and to welcome new audiences.”

Park Theatre presents exceptional theatre in the heart of Finsbury Park, boasting two world-class performance spaces: Park200 for predominantly larger scale productions by established talent, and Park90, a flexible studio space, for emerging artists. In eleven years, it has enjoyed 10 West End transfers (including Rose starring Maureen Lipman, The Boys in the Band starring Mark Gatiss, Pressure starring David Haig and The Life I Lead starring Miles Jupp), two National Theatre transfers, 14 national tours, seven Olivier Award nominations, has won multiple OffWestEnd Offie Awards, and a Theatre of the Year award from The Stage as well as their inaugural Campaign of the Year award in 2025 for their work reaching underserved audiences with Canadian/ Korean comedy drama Kim’s Convenience.

Listings information

Park Theatre, Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, London N4 3JP

www.parktheatre.co.uk | 020 7870 6876*

* Telephone booking fee of £3 per transaction applies. All ticket prices are inclusive of a £1.50 building levy.

Social media

X (Twitter):        @ParkTheatre

Instagram         @ParkTheatreLondon

Facebook          www.facebook.com/ParkTheatreLondon

TikTok               @ParkTheatreLondon

SABRAGE DEBUTS AT LAFAYETTE LONDON

SABRAGE DEBUTS AT LAFAYETTE LONDON

Menier Chocolate Factory and Strut & Fret today announce the world premiere of Sabrage, a brand-new theatrical experience combining the worlds of circus and cabaret in a unique spectacle, opening at one of London’s leading live music venues LafayetteScott Maidment, award-winning artistic innovator, will direct. This production opens on 24 March, with previews from 15 March, and is booking until 6 July 2025.

Sabrage – taking after the ceremonial practice of opening a champagne bottle with a saber – will be an extravagant evening inviting audiences to delve into the world of allure and seduction within this intimate venue. Hosted at Lafayette, a venue that has made its name for catching the fastest rising musical acts – ranging from the diverse likes of Charli XCX, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Maggie Rogers, Dave, Olivia Dean, Beck, Becky Hill, Anne-Marie, and The Pretenders, this production will give audiences a new live entertainment experience like no other.

“With over 250,000 music fans who’ve walked through our doors, we’ve had the privilege of hosting countless unforgettable moments—nights where artists have made our venue their home, even if just for one show. This year, we’re excited to evolve and expand our definition of what an arts venue can be. Partnering with Sabrage, we’ll introduce a one-of-a-kind experience to Lafayette, blending creativity and innovation in new ways” said Lafayette founder, Ben Lovett, Mumford & Sons.

“We are delighted to partner with the Menier Chocolate Factory to bring Sabrage to life at Lafayette. Our production infuses risqué cabaret acts and voyeurism with an intoxicating spectacle of burlesque and circus performance. With Menier Chocolate Factory’s commitment to championing groundbreaking productions and Lafayette’s reputation for delivering unforgettable experiences, Sabrage couldn’t be a better fit!” added Scott Maidment, Creative Director of Strut & Fret.

Public booking opens Friday 14 February at 9am.

Menier Chocolate Factory and Strut & Fret presents

SABRAGE

15 March – 6 July 2025

Sabrage

/səˈbrɑːʒ/

The ceremonial practice of opening a champagne bottle with a saber

Dive into the hedonistic world of Sabrage

The world première of Sabrage is set to create a frisson of seduction in London’s King’s Cross. A place where eyes glimmer and the sensual and salacious combine on a wild ride of big moves, great tunes and more than a few surprises.  Sabrage offers heady top notes followed by rich textures, a smooth body, and an utterly unexpected finish.  The acrobatic talent and finest cabaret from around the world are serving an intoxicating blend of vintage French glamour, high-end spectacle and titillating acts to infatuate, illuminate and inspire.

After touring 32 countries for the past 25 years, Strut & Fret, with its unique and world-renowned brand of opulent, cheeky, edge-of-your-seat theatre, is excited to join forces with the Olivier and Tony Award-winning Menier Chocolate Factory presenting a cast of international circus elites and theatrical misfits.

Lafayette, in the heart of King’s Cross, opens its doors to this theatrical event for the first time, with the space providing unparalleled intimacy, food and drink packages with the venue providing a unique backdrop to the show.

Guests will have the opportunity to purchase VIP access to our backstage hideaway – Nola’s Bar—an opulent speakeasy that channels the heady glamour of the Roaring Twenties. Tucked away like a well-kept secret, this hideaway fuses vintage elegance with a house-party spirit, where plush surroundings, handcrafted cocktails, and a rhythm of live music create an atmosphere of unbridled revelry.Nola’s promises a night of pure escapism, where the magic lingers long after the final bow.

Scott Maidment directs. His collaborations include an artistic partnership with Madonna, following his artistic direction of the Rebel Heart World Tour in 2015. Maidment’s work combines unconventional entertainment, high-flying spectacle, nu-circus, extreme theatre, and dynamic music experiences.  As Creative Director of Strut & Fret, his directorial credits include LIMBOCantinaBlanc de BlancBlanc de Blanc EncoreLove Lust LostWhen Night ComesThe PartyShowtime at the Pink FlamingoBoom Boom in the House of Casa Blah BlahFun House, The Secret Death of Salvador Dali, Tom Tom Crew, Dream Menagerie, Feasting on Flesh, Cantina and The Happy Sideshow.  He is one of the creative forces behind The Garden of Unearthly Delights, an annual spectacle at the Adelaide Fringe that this year celebrates its 20th anniversary.  In 2024 Creative Director Scott Maidment was invited to direct the annual Ohlala circus show Milk & Chocolate in Zurich resulting in an extended sold-out season.


Listings Information 

SABRAGE
Lafayette
11 Goods Way, London, N1C 4DP

www.sabrageshow.co.uk
Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, Bluesky:
@sabrageshowldn

TICKETS
Previews from £20

Age rating 16+

Sherlock Holmes & the 12 Days of Christmas – New Comedy Play by Humphrey Ker & David Reed, and original music by Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber to Open at Birmingham Rep

Birmingham Rep

Presents

The World Premiere of

SHERLOCK HOLMES
And
THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

A New Comedy Play by Humphrey Ker & David Reed

With original songs by Tim Rice &Andrew Lloyd Webber

In Association with Heartaches Ltd

Birmingham Rep

Friday 14 November 2025 – Sunday 11 January 2026

“I think you’re a couple of ice creams short of an interval, Mr. Holmes. We don’t do murders in the theatre. It’s bad for audience numbers!”

Birmingham Rep is thrilled to present the World Premiere of Sherlock Holmes and The Twelve Days of Christmas at The Rep from 14 November 2025 to 11 January 2026.

The new comedy whodunnit is written by Humphrey Ker and David Reed, stars and creators of the award-winning comic  troupe The Penny Dreadfuls.  Sherlock Holmes and The Twelve Days of Christmas also features original songs by the legendery musical theatre duo Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Their previous work together includes Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor DreamcoatJesus Christ Superstar and Evita.

Sherlock Holmes and the Twelve Days of Christmas will be directed by Phillip Breen with Becky Hope-Palmer. 

It’s Christmas in Victorian London but in the West End – where dreams come true and nothing bad ever happens – a flurry of performers are suddenly dying mid-scene. Scotland Yard rules out foul play…  until the world’s greatest consulting detective, Sherlock Holmes, discovers an intriguing link to The Twelve Days of Christmas. The game is afoot! 

Racing against the clock to save French Hens, find Gold Rings and rescue Mother Goose, Sherlock plunges himself into mortal danger.  Will this really be the last stand for our hero or will his trusty sidekick Dr Watson and rival hotshot detective Athena Faversham ensure he lives to consume another Christmas Pudding…? 

David Reed and Humphrey Ker said“There are few things that put us more in the mood for Christmas than all piling into the theatre for some much needed festive cheer. And what could be cheerier than a series of brutal murders underscored by a few new bangers from the mighty duo of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber? Huge thanks to Birmingham Rep for letting us show everybody what we’ve been cooking up with Sherlock Holmes and The Twelve Days of Christmas – without a doubt our biggest, daftest and most riotous show yet.”

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber added: “Sherlock Holmes and The Twelve Days of Christmas is pure mischief. It has the exuberance of a Christmas tree, the joy of a panto and a plot worthy of Conan Doyle. It’s wonderful to be working together again on something so unashamedly fun.”

Humphrey Ker is an Emmy and Edinburgh Comedy Award-winning writer, actor and football club director. He is known for his roles on NBC’s American Auto, FX’s It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia, HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm and BBC1’s Daddy Issues, alongside appearances on Have I got News For You, 8 Out Of 10 Cats and Welcome To Wrexham. As a writer he has worked for three seasons on Apple TV Hit Mythic Quest,written the upcoming Amazon Prime Feature Film If I Were You and the stage and feature film versions of Dymock Watson: Nazi Smasher.

David Reed is a playwright, actor and comedian. His radio plays include Guy Fawkes, Revolution, Macbeth RebotheredThe OdysseyCurse of The BeagleLe Carré On SpyingDon QuixoteHadrian’s BeardRichard III Rebothered and Severus (Co-written with Paterson Joseph). He is the writer/creator of Audible Original series Zeroes and his television credits include Daddy IssuesIt’s Kevin & The Real History of Sex. His debut theatrical production, Guy Fawkes, was staged by York Theatre Royal in 2022.

A laugh-out-loud festive murder mystery for all the family, join us at 221b Baker Street this Christmas for mischief, mayhem and a Partridge in a Pear Tree! 

For ages 10 to 110! 

Full cast and creative team announced for A KNIGHT’S TALE THE MUSICAL

FULL CAST & CREATIVE TEAM ANNOUNCED FOR 

WORLD PREMIERE PRODUCTION OF

A KNIGHT’S TALE THE MUSICAL

OPENING AT

MANCHESTER OPERA HOUSE

FROM 11 APRIL 2025

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Producer Runaway Entertainment (Disney’s Newsies, Girl From The North Country, 2:22 – A Ghost Story and 101 Dalmatians the Musical) is delighted to announce the full cast for the world premiere production of A KNIGHT’S TALE THE MUSICAL, based on the Columbia Pictures film written and directed by Brian Helgeland which starred Heath Ledger and Paul Bettany.

The musical will open at Manchester Opera House on 11 April 2025 for a strictly limited run until 10 May 2025. It is adapted for the stage by Irish comedy writer and actor Brona C Titley, directed by the award-winning Rachel Kavanaugh and choreographed by Olivier Award-winning Matt Cole.

The principal cast includes Emily Benjamin (Alternate Sally Bowles in Cabaret, West End) as Kate, Max Bennett (Macbeth in Macbeth, Shakespeare’s Globe) as Chaucer, Andrew Coshan (A Face In The Crowd, Young Vic) as William, Emile Ruddock (Hercules Mulligan/James Madison in Hamilton, West End) as Roland, Jay Saighal (The Great British Bake Off The Musical, West End)as Prince Edward, Eva Scott (Betty!: A Sort of Musical, Royal Exchange Theatre) as What, Giles Taylor (The Mirror and The Light, West End) as Father, Oliver Tompsett (& Juliet, West End) as Count Adhemar, Meesha Turner (Stranger Things: The First Shadow, West End) as Jocelyn. Also in the cast are Robbie Alexander (Love Never Dies Asia tour), Lauren Arney (Stranger Things: The First Shadow, West End), Arcangelo Ciulla (Newsies, Troubadour Theatre), Georgia Clements, Zac Frieze (Disney’s Aladdin, UK Tour), Elliot Gooch (Sister Act, UK Tour), Gabriela Gregorian (Shrek The Musical, London & UK Tour), Benedict Hastings (101 Dalmatians, UK Tour), Danielle Huntley (To The Streets!, Birmingham Hippodrome), Thomas Inge (Grease, UK & Ireland Tour), Lisa Kerr (Women in Power, Nuffield Southampton Theatres), Zera Malvina-Aitken (Grease, UK & Ireland Tour), Mehran James McCullough (Doctor Zhivago in Concert, West End), Ryan North (commercial dancer for ITV), Ryan Pidgen (Guys and Dolls, Bridge Theatre) and Chioma Uma (Brief Encounter, UK Tour).

Cristian Buttaci, Cristiano Cuino, Nicholas Teixeira and Theo Wake will share the role of  Young William.

A Knight’s Tale has it all. Expect a truly rockin’ soundtrack, packed with chart-topping hits! Join William and his band of merry misfits for a Knight like no other.

The film A Knight’s Tale was released by Columbia Pictures in 2001 written, co-produced and directed by Oscar winner Brian Helgeland (L.A Confidential, Mystic River).The film is a stylish, music driven, action packed adventure starring Heath Ledger (The Dark Knight, The Patriot), with heroic performances from Paul Bettany (Iron Man, Wimbledon), Mark Addy (The Full Monty, Down to Earth), Rufus Sewell (Dangerous Beauty, Dark City). Ledger plays William Thatcher, a 14th century peasant squire who breaks all the rules when he passes himself off as a nobleman and takes the jousting world by storm. The only thing that stands between William and his dream of becoming the World Champion of the most extreme of sports is the bad boy of the sport Count Adhemar. And when the two rivals go lance to lance at the world finals, you’d better arm yourself and hang on tight for the ride of your life!

The hit film which mixed modern music with its medieval setting garnered a lot of positive attention and has been cited by some as paving the way for hits like Netflix’s “Bridgerton.”

A KNIGHT’S TALE THE MUSICAL is adapted by Brona C Titley, directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, with choreography by Matt Cole, Musical Supervision, Orchestrations, Arrangements & Additional Music by Simon Hale, set design by Tom Rogers, costume design by Gabriella Slade, lighting design by Howard Hudson, sound design by Matt Peploe, musical direction by Alan Berry, casting by Lucy Casson, children’s casting and children’s general management by Keston and Keston, performer flying by Suspended Illusions, intimacy direction by Lucy Hind and production management by Matthew Ledbury and Esme Driscoll.

A KNIGHT’S TALE THE MUSICAL is produced by Tristan Baker & Charlie Parsons for Runaway Entertainment, Isobel David, Adam Spiegel & Tulchin Bartner, Playing Field and Ramin Sabi, by arrangement with Sony Pictures and Brian Helgeland.

Website: AKnightsTaleMusical.com

Instagram:@aknightstalemusical

TikTok:@aknightstalemusical

Facebook: @aknightstalemusical

X: @ukknightstale

LISTINGS INFORMATION

A KNIGHT’S TALE THE MUSICAL

11 April – 10 May 2025

Manchester Opera House

3 Quay St,

Manchester

M3 3HP

Performances: Tuesdays – Saturdays at 7:30pm, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2.30pm

N.B there will be no performances on 20, 21 April or 5 May

Tickets from £15

ROB MADGE JOINS THE WORLD TOUR OF DIANA

ROB MADGE JOINS THE WORLD TOUR OF DIANA: THE
UNTOLD AND UNTRUE STORY AS MOTHER TERESA

As the award-winning Edinburgh Fringe sell-out hit Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story embarks on its global tour across Thailand, Australia, Canada and Europe – West End Star, TikTok Sensation and all-around theatre royalty Rob Madge joins the cast as the role they were born to play – the voice of Mother Teresa.

Rob Madge is a full-time actor/writer/non-binary who is best known for creating and performing the award-winning and autobiographical My Son’s a Queer, (But What Can You Do?) which transferred to the West End following a sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe. Rob has also starred in Robin Hood and Peter Pan at the London Palladium and, most importantly, in the life-changing one-off performance of The Glasgow Wonka Experience Quiz and Game Experience at London’s Clapham Grand.

Their voice joins the cast consisting of writer/creator Linus Karp as Diana, Joseph Martin (Gwyneth Goes Skiing) as Charles and Camilla, Geri Allen (Operation Mincemeat) as the Queen, Zina Badran (Doctor Who) as God and Broadway Star Jeanna de Waal (Diana: The Musical) in a special surprise role. The Thailand, Australia and Canada performances will also see pre-show support from Pixie Polite (RuPaul’s Drag Race UK).

Awkward Productions’ multiple award-winning, Edinburgh Fringe 2023 sell-out show Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story became an immediate cult hit with UK audiences for its unique audience participation and staggeringly camp portrayal of the royals. The show has won an OffFest Award for Best Play and the prestigious LAURA Award and has enjoyed two UK Tours, multi-week runs in London and a triumphant return to the Edinburgh Festival in August 2024.

Rob comments: “It was only a matter of time before I joined the cast of this masterpiece. Every time I see it (yes, I am a super fan) I am left with the most painful cheeks. But enough about what happens in the dressing room. It’s a joy of a show and I am thrilled to be a tiny little part of telling the People’s Princess’ very accurate story.”

Linus Karp comments: “When I first saw My Son’s a Queer, I was blown away by the absolute magic and queer power Rob Madge had created. I knew that an amazing future lay ahead of them – as Mother Teresa in Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story. Unfortunately Rob charges £1,000,000 per word, so we had to keep Mother Teresa’s appearance in the show brief (which is fitting as a brief is also the type of underwear Rob prefers).”

Through a comedic and unhinged lens, the show highlights Diana’s ground-breaking stances on social and queer issues and allows her to finally speak her (un)truth and break free from the monarchy. Told by Diana from heaven, ‘Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story’ is “so much more than just a show. It’s an experience. It’s a lifestyle. It is the moment” (The Reviews Hub – ★★★★★)

The show is created by Awkward Productions and presented in collaboration with Goudie Events. Awkward Productions was created by Linus Karp and Joseph Martin to bring ridiculous genremixing comedy, niche pop culture references, audience participation and queer joy to the stage.

Their holy trinity of shows include Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story, Gwyneth Goes Skiing, and How to live a Jellicle life: Life lessons from the 2019 Hit Movie Musical ‘Cats’. These shows have all achieved sold-out runs, toured the UK extensively, received international media coverage and won awards. An Awkward Prods shows isn’t performed for you, it’s performed with you – making each one unique. The world tour of Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story follows a recent sold-out US tour of Gwyneth Goes Skiing

WhatsOnStage award winner Melanie La Barrie and Jenna Lee-James join star-studded line-up in the premiere of Drew Gasparini’s WE AREN’T KIDS ANYMORE at the Savoy Theatre

Melanie La Barrie and Jenna Lee-James

Join star-studded line-up in the premiere of

Drew Gasparini’s

WE AREN’T KIDS ANYMORE

Monday 28th April, 4pm and 8pm

Savoy Theatre, Savoy Court, The Strand, London,WC2R 0ET

WhatsOnStage 2025 award-winner Melanie La Barrie (Hadestown; &Juliet) will join the cast of WE AREN’T KIDS ANYMORE in the role of Drew 5, alongside powerhouse Jenna Lee-James (Frozen; We Will Rock You) as Drew 6/ Featured Artist. This new contemporary musical offers a heartfelt exploration of life’s shared journey and how its pivotal moments shape us all.

Created by Drew Gasparini, whose credits include Smash and Broadway productions including The Karate Kid and It’s Kind of a Funny Story, this production reflects his passion for breaking the mould of traditional musical theatre and uncovering fresh talent.

Joining award-winning actress Dylan Mulvaney( Attitude’s Woman of the Year 2023, a Forbes 30 Under 30 Honouree, and star of one-woman show FAGHAG), Olivier award-winner Sam Tutty (Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York); Dear Evan Hansen) and West End icon Aimie Atkinson (SIX The Musical; Pretty Woman), the cast promises to deliver an unforgettable performance.

Told from five unique perspectives spanning age, generation and gender, this uplifting musical explores the complex, universal and often challenging journey of pursuing a dream. Unravelling the rich emotional tapestry of life, WE AREN’T KIDS ANYMORE reminds us that, no matter where we come from, growing up is a series of choices and uncertain steps, punctuated by moments ofdiscovery.

This performance follows a successful workshop in June 2024 which marked the first stage presentation of Gasparini’s viral concept album WE AREN’T KIDS ANYMORE. Recognised for his music in Smash, as well as the scores for Broadway musicals;The Karate Kid, Skittles Commercial: The Broadway Musical and It’s Kind of a Funny Story, Gasparini offers a radical approach to traditional musical theatre in a show which explores self-discovery and growth. Demonstrating a range of styles, including pop, rock and country, WE AREN’T KIDS ANYMORE celebrates the versatility of musical theatre when the conventional rules are broken.

Gasparini is also offering aspiring performers the opportunity to enter a unique competition where they could win the chance to make their West End debut in WE AREN’T KIDS ANYMORE, his new musical. Open to anyone aged 18 or over with no West End adult credits, the competition invites participants to submit a self-tape singing one of Gasparini’s songs. The winners will perform at the Savoy Theatre on Monday 28th April 2025 alongside this exceptional cast.

This competition celebrates fresh voices in musical theatre, drawing on the central themes of the musical itself by giving undiscovered performers the opportunity to realise their dreams on one of London’s most prestigious stages, joining a cast that showcases a mix of established and emerging talent. Submissions close at 11pm on Sunday 23rd February, and Gasparini will personally choose the winners. This is a rare opportunity for aspiring performers to step into the spotlight and make their West End dreams come true.

This highly anticipated premiere of WE AREN’T KIDS ANYMORE will be promptly followed by a second act showcasing Gasparini in concert. Andrew Kober (Beetlejuice; School of Rock) and Tony Bayliss (We Will Rock You; Tommy) are the first of the special guests to be announced. Joined by the cast and specially invited guests, Gasparini will present a selection of his most iconic work, spanning his vibrant musical career and paying homage to his own journey bringing this musical to the stage. What began as an autobiographical tale has evolved into a poignant exploration of the complex, universal experience of navigating our path through life and the connections we make along the way.