Presented bythe Dodgers and Trafalgar Theatre Productions
CLUELESS, THE MUSICAL
BEGINS PERFORMANCES IN LONDON’S WEST END
15 FEBRUARYAT THE TRAFALGAR THEATRE
Book and original film written by AMY HECKERLING
Music by KT TUNSTALL
Lyrics by GLENN SLATER
Choreography by KELLY DEVINE
Directed by RACHEL KAVANAUGH
Based on the Paramount Pictures film, inspired by Jane Austen’s Emma
TICKETS GO ON SALE 9 SEPTEMBER AT 10:00AM
FROM CLUELESSONSTAGE.COM
CLUELESS, The Musicalis a new musicalcomedy based on the Paramount Pictures classic film.The modern spin on Jane Austen’s Emma gets another timeless makeover from the original film’s writer-director alongside a majorly acclaimed creative team. The eagerly anticipated reimagining for the stage will begin performances at London’s Trafalgar Theatre on 15February 2025. Tickets go on general sale on 9 September at 10:00am from CluelessOnStage.com.
Cher Horowitz is the most popular student at Beverly Hills High, renowned for her unique talent at finding love for others. She’s about to embark on her biggest project yet – making over her awkward new friend, Tai, and setting her up with the most handsome boy in school. But what happens to Cher when, for the first time, everything is not perfect? This fresh musical comedy is fun, fashionable, and, like, so way cool.
CLUELESS is an exciting musical collaboration from an acclaimed creative team, featuring a book by the iconic voice of a generation, Amy Heckerling (writer-director of Clueless, director of Fast Times at Ridgemont High). Amy was pivotal in shaping the coming-of-age film genre, capturing the essence of teenage life with humor and authenticity.
The original score is by the multi-platinum singer-songwriter KT Tunstall (writer and performer of such celebrated hits as “Suddenly I See”and “Black Horse and The Cherry Tree”) and the lyrics are by GRAMMY Award® winner and three-time Tony Award® nominee Glenn Slater(The Little Mermaid, Sister Act). Together they bring a modern, musical vibe to the score blending the spirit of the 90s with a fresh contemporary sound.
CLUELESS makes its West End premiere under the direction of Rachel Kavanaugh (Chichester Festival Theatre and Regent’s Park Open Air), with choreography by Olivier Award® winner, Kelly Devine (Come From Away).
Original writer-director of Clueless Amy Heckerling said “I am so delighted to announce that Clueless is now a musical with all-new songs. So if you loved the movie but didn’t understand why no one was singing, this is just for you. And if you’re meeting the characters for the first time, that’s cool, they totally rock. Hope to see you there!”
All-Star Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story comes to Clapham Grand for Medical Aid For Palestinians Monday 4th November
Awkward Productions, who are currently on a UK and Ireland tour of Gwyneth Goes Skiing, are proud to announce that “the most unhinged piece of theatre in existence” (Broadway Baby, ★★★★★) makes its triumphant return to London’s Clapham Grand for a one-night spectacular performance with an allstar cast, with all proceeds going to Medical Aid For Palestinians.
The special guest performers include Drag Race UK’s Kate Butch, The Guilty Feminist herself Deborah Frances-White, comedian and horse lover Sooz Kempner, Bake Off contestant and The Boy Who Bakes Edd Kimber, West End star Alex Young, recording artist and Collabro star Jamie Lambert, Pose actor Jeremy McClain, popstar SuRie, Drag Kings Don One and Pip Dream, TikTok star Fizz Sinclair and MAP’s own Zahra Yassine. What a bunch of dicons! They will all be unaware as to what role they are playing and what lines they have until the moment comes to perform.
They are joining the original cast of Linus Karp’s Diana, Joseph Martin’s Charles and Camilla, Geri Allen as The Queen and Zina Badran as God.
Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story combines drag, multimedia, and queer joy for an unforgettable, untrue experience – a one-of-a-kind celebration of the People’s Princess.
A cult-hit with audiences for its unique audience participation and staggeringly camp portrayal of the royals, 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 foregrounds this iconic royal as the powerful, independent woman she became.
Creator and performer Linus Karp comments: “What is so striking about the way Diana lived her life was her bold activism and what she did to help others. Performing a show about her in partnership with Medical Aid for Palestinians, raising money to help those who need it the most, feels like a great way to honour her spirit. I am so moved by the amazing talent giving up their time for this important cause, and I can’t wait for what will be a very unique and special night.”
Besides the show, the evening will also see special performances and a raffle – with all proceeds going to Medical Aid for Palestinians.
Praise for Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story:
“The show itself almost defies description” – Jack The Lad, ★★★★★★
“Overflowing with irony, hilarity and queerness, and is a joyful watch from beginning to end” – The Skinny, ★★★★★
“Perfectly imagined and brought to life on stage with vision and heaps of silliness” – The National, ★★★★★
“Absurd, camp, chaotic, and hilarious. This is one show well worth watching!” – Attitude, ★★★★★
David Ian for Crossroads Live in association with Barry and Fran Weissler are delighted to announce star casting for the 2024/2025 UK and Ireland tour of the multi-awarding winning CHICAGO, opening at Milton Keynes Theatre from 12 October 2024.
Stage and soap star Faye Brookes and much-loved performer and TV personality Brenda Edwards return to the stage as Roxie Hart and Mama Morton respectively. They are joined by Strictly Come Dancing favourite Kevin Clifton as Billy Flynn. Leading West End talent Djalenga Scott also returns to the role of Velma Kelly, starring alongside Joshua Lloyd as Amos Hart and Jordan Lee Davies as Mary Sunshine.
The cast is completed by Bethany Adamson, Victoria Anderson, Josh Crowther, Joe Dale, Jessica Keable, Robin Kent, Annabelle Laing, Jacob McLay Reid, Jonathan Milton, George Olney, Oliver Ramsdale, Elly Shaw, Lucy Anne Stacey, Matthew Sweet and Ria Tanaka.
Faye Brookes returns to the role of Roxie Hart, having previously played her to acclaim in the 2021 UK and Ireland tour. She is best known for her role as Kate Connor in ITV’s Coronation Street, for which she won a National Television Award. Her theatre credits include Fran in Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom The Musical, Princess Fiona in Shrek and Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, all on national tour, Ann/Edna in That Day We Sang directed by Victoria Wood at Manchester’s Royal Exchange, Liesl in The Sound of Music at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and Frenchy in Grease at the West End’s Piccadilly Theatre. Faye’s was runner up on ITV’s Dancing On Ice in 2021, her other TV credits include Agnes Franklin in Our Zoo and Helena in Atlantis, both for the BBC.
Brenda Edwards gained public acclaim as a semi-finalist on The X Factor before turning her attention to the stage, making her West End debut as Mama Morton in CHICAGO, a role she recently reprised for the 2021/2022 UK and Ireland tour. Her additional theatre credits include Motormouth Maybelle in the UK tour of Hairspray, Nettie Fowler in Carousel at the London Coliseum, Killer Queen in We Will Rock You both the West End and original UK Tour and Pearl Pastor in Carmen Jones at the Royal Festival Hall. Brenda is also a regular panellist on ITV’s Loose Women as well as presenting BBC1’s Songs of Praise.
Kevin Clifton is best known as a professional dancer and winner of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, competing in seven series and five finals. He was most recently seen as Hugo/Loco Chanelle the UK tour of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie. His other theatre credits include Scott Hastings in Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom, Cosmo Brown in Singin’ in the Rain at Sadler’s Wells and on tour, Stacee Jaxx in Rock Of Ageson tour, Robbie Hart in The Wedding Singer at Troubadour Wembley Park, The Artilleryman in Jeff Wayne’s The War Of The Worlds UK arena tour, Dirty Dancing at the Aldwych Theatre and Burn the Floor on Broadway, making his Broadway debut as a principal dancer.
Djalenga Scott returns to the role of Velma Kelly, having previously starred in the UK and international tours. Her West End credits include Lily St Regis in Annie at the Piccadilly Theatre, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the New London and Chicago at the Adelphi, Cambridge and Garrick Theatres. Her other credits include Anita in the national tour of West Side Story, Rizzo in Grease at Curve Leicester, Magenta in The Rocky Horror Show and Carmen in Fame, both on European tours, the US tour of Batman Live and Bombalurina in Cats at Kilworth House. Djalenga’s screen credits include Scarlett/Esme in Trapped for the BBC and Alexandra in the film I Give It A Year.
Joshua Lloyd’s theatre credits include the UK and Ireland tour of The Lion King and Choir of Man on UK and international tours.
Jordan Lee Davies most recently appeared in La Cage aux Folles at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Additional theatre credits include the original cast of Bat Out of Hell at the Manchester Opera House, London Coliseum and international tour, The Book of Mormon on UK and international tour, Chess at the London Coliseum and Les Misérables at the Queens Theatre.
Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, CHICAGO is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids.
Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, CHICAGO’s sexy, sassy score includes the show-stopping songs “Razzle Dazzle”, “Cell Block Tango”, and “All That Jazz”. Winner of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy, CHICAGO is the longest running American musical in Broadway and West End history.
Since it opened in New York in 1996, CHICAGO has played in 38 countries worldwide, and been performed in English, Dutch, German, Swedish, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, French, Danish, Japanese and Korean. Worldwide it has been seen by an estimated 34 million people, grossed over $1.7 billion has played over 35,000 performances.
CHICAGO, which is based on the play by Maurine Dallas Watkins, has a book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb. The current 1996 Broadway revival of CHICAGO is choreographed by Ann Reinking in the style of Bob Fosse, directed by Walter Bobbie, and produced by Barry and Fran Weissler.
The UK Pantomime Association announces inaugural Pantomime Panel Event on ‘Relaxed and Accessible Pantomime Performance’
The UK Pantomime Association (UKPA) is thrilled to announce its inaugural Pantomime Panel Event addressing Relaxed and Accessible Pantomime Performance, which will take place at The North Wall Theatre, Oxford on Thursday 26 September 2024 from 11:00am to 1:00pm.
This special event will feature an engaging and informative discussion on how to make relaxed and accessible pantomime performances as inclusive as possible, in line with the UKPA’s mission to explore, share and celebrate pantomime by investigating the genre’s rich past, engaging with contemporary practice and inspiring the future.
Expert speakers include:
Chris Jarvis:CBeebies presenter, Pantomime Director, Performer and Writer.
Annie Bannister: Freelance Access Consultant.
Dr. Chris Abbott: Emeritus Reader in Assistive Technologies at King’s College London, with experience in accessibility of theatrical performance for children and young people with learning difficulties, particularly through the use of graphic symbols for communication and literacy.
Jess Thom: Writer, Artist and Activist. Co-founder of Tourette’s Hero, renowned for her work in advocating for inclusivity in the arts.
The panel discussion will cover key strategies, challenges and innovations in making pantomime performances more accessible for a diverse audience with a particular focus on relaxed performances for audience members with disabilities and other access needs. Following the discussion, there will be an opportunity to speak further with participants in a networking session accompanied by light refreshments providing an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues and peers across the Industry.
This event is open to pantomime producers, directors, performers, theatre venue staff, educators, and anyone with an interest in making the arts more inclusive. We encourage you to share this invitation with colleagues, teams, venues, and your wider network.
Tickets are free, but spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. To reserve your place, please follow the booking link below. If you have any specific access requirements, please do not hesitate to contact us or reach out directly to The North Wall Theatre.
In the lead up to the limited run at The Other Palace later this month, audiences can NOW listen to the complete album from the brand-new musical, come gig, come ballet across all streaming platforms. Following electrifying try-out performances at The Lyric Theatre last year, Bill Kenwright Ltd and Paul-Taylor Mills present Cake: The Marie Antoinette Playlist now back for a full reign.
Listen to the studio cast recording on SPOTIFY and ITUNES now!
Rehearsal photography has also been released of the cast, with Zizi Strallen (Mary Poppins; Strictly Ballroom) as Marie Antoinette and Renée Lamb(Be More Chill; SIX) as Jeanne, and Travis Ross (Cabaret; 42 Balloons) as the Cardinal all reprising their roles, and Millie O’Connell (SIX; The Cher Show) joining the cast as Nicole.
The royal court is completed by Lila Eccles (Cinderella), Tarik Frimpong (The Drifters Girl), Sunny Lee (Hillsong Carols), Zara MacIntosh (& Juliet), Emma Robotham-Hunt (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie) and Manu Sarswat (London Stage Debut) in the ensemble.
In celebration of our central figure, all tickets for the first three performances (Friday 13 and Saturday 14 September) will be priced at £17.55, which was the year Marie Antoinette was born.
From some of the most exciting figures in modern British theatre, Cake: The Marie Antoinette Playlist continues its journey, following a successful UK tour at the start of 2023 and five performances in the West End last September. This time, one of the most prolific monarchs in history has found her (rightful) home at a palace…The Other Palace, to be exact from 13 September 2024 for a strictly limited season
The new musical has an award-winning creative team, including Morgan Lloyd Malcolm (Emilia – The Globe), Tasha Taylor Johnson (The Cat In The Hat), singer-song writer Jack McManus with Bronagh Lagan(Cruise) and Christopher Tendai(Closer To Heaven) joining as director and choreographer respectively, as they build on Olivier Award winner Drew McOnie (In the Heights; Jesus Christ Superstar)’s original show.
Combining a multi-genre pop score with 18th century France, Cake: The Marie Antoinette Playlist, retells a story that sparked a revolution.
Marie Antoinette’s reign was blighted by gossip and scandal. But when she is implicated in a crime to defraud the crown jewellers of a diamond necklace, it is not just her reputation at stake, but the monarchy and France itself.
Cake was originally commissioned by Paul Taylor-Mills (Heathers; In the Heights) and promises to re-define our expectations of what a musical can be.
Cake: The Marie Antoinette Playlist has book by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm and Tasha Taylor Johnson, music and lyrics by Jack McManus and Tasha Taylor-Johnson, directed by Bronagh Lagan based on the original staging by Drew McOnie with additional choreography by Christopher Tendai. Set and costume design by Sami Fendall, lighting design by Joshie Harriette and casting by Will Burton.
LISTINGS
BILL KENWRIGHT LTD & PAUL TAYLOR-MILLS PRESENT
CAKE: THE MARIE ANTIONETTE PLAYLIST
THE OTHER PALACE
13 SEPTEMBER – 10 NOVEMBER 2024
Book by Morgan Lloyd Malcom and Tasha Taylor Johnson Music and Lyrics by Tasha Taylor Johnson and Jack McManus
Directed by Bronagh Lagan based on the original staging by Drew McOnie
Additional choreography by Christopher Tendai Based on an idea by Paul Taylor Mills
Performance Schedule: Tuesday – Friday at 7.30pm Saturday at 2.30pm and 7.30pm
Theatre Royal Bath Productions and Len Blavatnik and Danny Cohen for Access Entertainment present two transfers from the Theatre Royal Bath at the Theatre Royal Haymarket next spring
Brian Cox and Nicole Ansari-Cox in
THE SCORE
A new play by Oliver Cotton
Directed by Trevor Nunn
Theatre Royal Haymarket from Thursday 20 February – Saturday 26 April 2025
Tamsin Greig and Finbar Lynch in
THE DEEP BLUE SEA
by Terence Rattigan
Directed by Lindsay Posner
Theatre Royal Haymarket from Wednesday 7 May – Saturday 21 June 2025
From Thursday 20 February to Saturday 26 April 2025, Theatre Royal Haymarket will play host to legendary stage and screen actor Brian Cox (HBO’s multi-award-winning Succession) who will star as Johann Sebastian Bach alongside Nicole Ansari-Cox as Bach’s wife Anna in Oliver Cotton’s new play THE SCORE, directed by Trevor Nunn, which was originally presented at Theatre Royal Bath in Autumn 2023.
Spring 1747, Potsdam, Prussia. Johann Sebastian Bach reluctantly visits the court of Frederick II, Europe’s most ambitious and dangerous leader. The two men could hardly be more different. As the Age of Enlightenment dawns, they stand in opposite camps. Bach is deeply religious, Frederick is an atheist. Bach loathes war, Frederick revels in it. Bach studies scripture, Frederick reads military history. Frederick remains in awe of Bach’s genius however and has mischievously prepared a musical conundrum that he hopes will baffle the composer and amuse his court. The explosive events of the following days could not have been predicted by either man.
Brian Cox’s glittering career has spanned more than sixty years, garnering numerous awards, working with the most esteemed theatre companies and renowned Hollywood and TV directors. Twice Olivier Award winner for Best Actor, his portrayal of Logan Roy in the HBO hit series Succession has won him a Golden Globe award and Emmy nominations.
Nicole Ansari-Cox studied at the prestigious Actors’ Studio in New York and has starred regularly on stage and screen in the UK and the US. Her major credits include Deadwood, The Biographerand Blumenthal on screen, and starring in Tom Stoppard’s Rock’n’Roll at the Royal Court and on Broadway.
Former artistic director of the National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company, Trevor Nunn’s multi-award winning repertoire ranges from Les Misérables to The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby.
Robert Jones is the Set and Costume Designer, Johanna Town is the Lighting Designer, Sound Designer and Additional Composition is Sophie Cotton, Cordelia Monsey is the Associate Director and the Casting Director is Ginny Schiller CDG.
Immediately following THE SCORE, another critically acclaimed Theatre Royal Bath production will transfer to London’s Theatre Royal Haymarket when Tamsin Grieg and Finbar Lynch star in THE DEEP BLUE SEA from Wednesday 7 May to Saturday 21 June 2025. Terence Rattigan’s 1950’s study of obsession and the destructive power of love, directed by Lindsay Posner, was originally presented at the Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal Bath in Spring 2024.
When you’re stuck between the devil and the deep blue sea, the deep blue sea can sometimes look very inviting. In this powerful drama of passion versus loyalty, Hester Collyer, the daughter of a clergyman and wife of a judge is floundering in the closing stages of a hopeless affair. Freddie Page, her lover, a handsome but shallow ex-Battle of Britain pilot, is out of his depth in their relationship, overwhelmed by the strength of an emotion he is incapable of reciprocating…
Olivier Award winner Tamsin Greig has been one of the country’s best-loved stage and screen actresses in a career spanning four decades. She won the Olivier for Best Actress in 2007 for Much Ado About Nothing and has been nominated for The Little Dog Laughed and Women on the Verge of a Breakdown.
The cast includes Tony Award nominee Finbar Lynch (Not About Nightingales, National Theatre, Girl From The North Country, Noel Coward Theatre).
Director Lindsay Posner’s recent highly acclaimed productions include the West End transfer of Noises Off and A View From The Bridge starring Dominic West.
Joining Lindsay on the creative team are Peter McKintosh (Set & Costume Designer), Paul Pyant (Lighting Designer), Gregory Clarke (Sound Designer), Will Stuart (Composer), Carole Hancock (Hair, Wigs & Make-up Designer), Ginny Schiller (Casting Director) and George Jibson (Associate Director).
Full casting for both productions at Theatre Royal Haymarket will be announced in due course.
LISTINGS
Brian Cox and Nicole Ansari-Cox in
THE SCORE
A new play by Oliver Cotton
Directed by Trevor Nunn
Thursday 20 February – Saturday 26 April 2025
Tamsin Greig and Finbar Lynch in
THE DEEP BLUE SEA
by Terence Rattigan
Directed by Lindsay Posner
Wednesday 7 May – Saturday 21 June 2025
Tickets for both productions go on sale from 10am Monday 9 September via trh.co.uk
FULL CAST ANNOUNCED FOR SAM MENDES’ LANDMARK PRODUCTION OF THE LEHMAN TRILOGY
RETURNING TO LONDON FROM 24 SEPTEMBER FOR A STRICTLY LIMITED RUN AT THE GILLIAN LYNNE THEATRE
The National Theatre and Neal Street Productions announce today full casting for its critically acclaimed, five-time Tony Award® winning production of The Lehman Trilogy which returns to London’s West End following highly acclaimed international performances. This ‘genuinely epic production‘ (New York Times), which has now been seen by over half a million people worldwide, will play at the Gillian Lynne Theatre from 24 September 2024 until 5 January 2025 for a strictly limited run.
Written by Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power and directed by multi-award-winning director, Sam Mendes with set design by Es Devlin, The Lehman Trilogyis a sweeping story of a family spanning generations and a company that changed the world.
As previously announced, following a critically acclaimed run in San Francisco, John Heffernan, Aaron Krohn and Howard W. Overshown will reprise their ‘virtuosic performances’ (The Mercury News), playing the Lehman brothers, their sons and grandsons in this thrilling ‘tour de force of acting talent’ (KQED Radio). Cat Beveridge and Anyssa Neumann will reprise their respective performances as principal pianist and alternate pianist.
Joining them in this ‘mesmerising chronicle of an American dynasty’ (The Times), is Valentine Hanson as Understudy Emanuel Lehman, Leighton Pugh as Understudy Henry Lehman and Simon Victor will perform the role of Janitor and Understudy Mayer Lehman. Ali Berry completes the company as Understudy Pianist.
Mendes is joined by set designer, Es Devlin; costume designer, Katrina Lindsay; video designer, Luke Halls;lighting designer Jon Clark; composer and sound designer, Nick Powell; co-sound designer, Dominic Bilkey; music director, Candida Caldicot;movement director, Polly Bennett and West End Director, Rory McGregor. Company voice work is by Charmian Hoare with UK casting by Naomi Downham and USA casting by Jim Carnahan.They are joined by associate set designer, Olukoye Akinkugbe, associate video designer Zakk Hein andassociate lighting designers, Charlotte Burton and Lucía Sánchez Roldán.
On a cold September morning in 1844, a young man from Bavaria stands on a New York dockside dreaming of a new life in the new world. He is joined by his two brothers, and an American epic begins. 163 years later, the firm they establish – Lehman Brothers – spectacularly collapses into bankruptcy, triggering the largest financial crisis in history.
John Heffernan will play the role of Henry Lehman. Recent theatre credits include Nachtland (Young Vic) and Much Ado About Nothing (National Theatre), co-starring with Katherine Parkinson. Previous theatre credits include the title roles in Edward II (National Theatre), for which he was nominated for an Evening Standard Theatre Award, Oppenheimer (Royal Shakespeare Company) and Macbeth (Young Vic). Recent screen credits include, This Town (BBC), The Crown (Netflix), The Pursuit of Love (BBC), The Duke (Warner Bros), Misbehaviour (20th Century Fox) and Agatha Christie’s Crooked House (Vertical Entertainment).
Aaron Krohn will play the role of Mayer Lehman. Previous theatre credits with Sam Mendes include As You Like It (2010) withThe Bridge Project, Mendes’ transatlantic collaboration with The Old Vic and the Brooklyn Academy of Music spanning three years and travelling to 15 international cities, Mendes’ Tony-winning production of Cabaret (2014), co-directed with choreographer Rob Marshall for Roundabout Theatre Company on Broadway and more recently The Lehman Trilogy (on Broadway) as the understudy role of Mayer Lehman. Other theatre credits include: Spamalot, Twelfth Night and Henry V at Stratford Shakespeare Festival. Screen credits include Fosse/Verdon (BBC), Boardwalk Empire (HBO) and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (NBC).
Howard W. Overshown will play the role of Emanuel Lehman. Previous theatre credits with Sam Mendes include Richard III for The Bridge Project (2012) and, prior to this current production of The Lehman Trilogy, he also played the role at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles (2022). Other theatre credits include A Soldier’s Play, Julius Caesar, Saint Joan, A View from the Bridge and Free Man of Color on Broadway. Screen credits include Blue Bloods (CBS), Fosse/Verdon (BBC), Tina Fey’s Girls5Eva (Netflix), and TheMarvelous Mrs Maisel (Amazon Prime).
The Lehman Trilogy was first commissioned by Neal Street Productions and developed and co-produced with the National Theatre at the Lyttelton theatre in 2018. An acclaimed sold-out run at the Park Avenue Armory in New York followed in the Spring of 2019. The Lehman Trilogythen returned to London for a 16-week sold-out run at the Piccadilly Theatre in the West End from May until August 2019. It was the first British play to return to Broadway following its 18-month shutdown (having previously played four performances in March 2020) for a much-lauded limited engagement at the Nederlander Theatre from September 2021 until January 2022. The Lehman Trilogy was the most awarded play on Broadway in 2022, winning Best Play, Best Director, Best Set Design, Best Lighting Design and Best Actor at the Tony Awards®. It also won the Drama League Award for Best Play and six Outer Critics Circle Awards, including Best Play. A Los Angeles transfer to Center Theatre Group’s Ahmanson Theatre followed Broadway from March until April 2022 before it returned to London’s West End in 2023 for a 17-week sold-out run at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. The Lehman Trilogy has recently played a limited run at Theatre Royal Sydney, Australia and American Conservatory Theater, San Francisco to great critical acclaim.
Prior to this production, the world premiere of Stefano Massini’s The Lehman Trilogy opened at the Piccolo Teatro in Milan in 2015. It turned out to be Artistic Director Luca Ronconi’s final production before his death. A long-term admirer of Ronconi’s, Sam Mendes was inspired to begin planning an English adaptation for Neal Street Productions. Ben Power was commissioned by Neal Street Productions to create a new version of this epic play, using a literal English translation by Mirella Cheeseman.
The Lehman Trilogy in the West End is supported by American Express, the National Theatre’s Preferred Card Partner.
Mayflower Theatre Southampton – until 29th September
Reviewed by Emma Barnes
5*****
Disney’s Aladdin has come to Mayflower Theatre in Southampton, and oh my! What a treat. From the moment the curtain rises the stage is alive with colour and energy. We are transported to a world of shimmering palaces, bustling bazaars. I had expected this show to be vibrant, but I hadn’t quite anticipated that it would maintain the sheer level of breathtaking engagement for the duration. I found myself quite literally on the edge of my seat for the whole evening,
Having watched the classic Disney cartoon many times, I was delighted that the stage show captured so many nostalgic cartoon details. The set design is magnificent, capturing the essence of Agrabah with familiar details, lighting and a host of vibrant colour. The many many costumes are equally stunning, showcasing the opulence and grandeur of the Arabian world. We were treated to sparkly glitter, amazing choreography, magic tricks, special effects and a sublime carpet ride scene, this show simply did everything, and did it really well. A feast for the senses.
Of course, no Disney production would be complete without the iconic songs. Alan Menken’s score is as memorable as ever, with classics like “Friend Like Me,” “A Whole New World,” and “Arabian Nights” still buzzing round my head as I write these words the following morning.
The entire cast delivers flawless performances, bringing the animated characters to life with conviction. Aladdin is played by Gavin Adam in his professional debut with charm, charisma and fitting chemistry alongside Princess Jasmine played by Desmonda Cathabel as a spirited and independent heroine. For me it was Genie (Yeukayi Ushe) who stole the show with his comedic timing, pizazz and relentless energy. If I could, I would have watched the cave scene at the end of Act 1 over and over just as my childhood self would have sat and rewound the VHS video.
The production’s pacing is well-balanced, with plenty of humour provided by the villain of the piece Jafar (Adam Strong) and sidekick Iago (Angelo Paragoso). I felt that this was particularly well timed to get us into the mood for pantomime season.
Aladdin the musical certainly re-cast a spell upon middle-aged me. All too soon the show reached the fairytale ending and as streamers fell on the thrilled audience during the closing scene I experienced child like joy in picking them up and waving in the air. I thoroughly recommend this magical journey, catch it in Southampton until the 29th September.
Tonight’s The National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company gift is the always marvellous and (deservedly) ever popular The Pirates Of Penzance (1879).
The Overture presents a river of wonderful, instantly recognizable melodies for us to drift along on in merry reverie. Indeed, many in the crowd found themselves humming (or singing) along. Conductor Murray Hipkin wielded his baton to masterful effect, judging by the musical results which tripped along gaily, amply proving the orchestra were in fine form.
The story is a complicated one principally involving a young lad, Frederic, mistakenly being apprenticed to pirates and his duty holding him in that role until his 21st birthday which, we discover, is today…
And so it’s straight on with the pirates! It’s astonishing how joyous a chorus line of dancing pirates are and how something that in the mind’s eye looks so unnatural can look so natural on the stage. It sure puts a grin on your face. As does The Pirate King himself; which Charles Rice tackles with gusto and a relish that is infectious, especially during the wonderful “Oh, better far to live and die”.
Frederic (played by David Webb) singing was, naturally, top notch but his comedy timing was just as good with an ability to react to the moment that was impressive. Mabel (Rebecca Bottone) entered with the ever popular “Poor wandering one” and the duet (with chorus) “How beautifully blue the sky” gave further testament to our lead couple’s genuine chemistry. But the most affecting scene in the whole piece (which is, primarily, a comedy) was the second half’s “Stay, Frederic, stay!” which truly brought a tear to ones eye.
The hits just kept coming as Simon Butteriss at last enters as Major-General Stanley and it’s the big one “I am the very model of a modern Major-General”. Delivered with felicitous alacrity and precise verbal gymnastics, Mr Butteriss is a master of the patter song. I loved his direction throughout too (yes, he’s also Director of the show (and last night’s too)) with genuine belly laughs brought forth throughout but, especially, during the chorus of girls interactions with Frederic and the pirates and during “Softly softly to the river” with the policemen and pirates hiding behind implausibly small twigs. Absolutely hilarious.
Ruth (wonderfully played by Gaynor Keeble) is a pivotal role and source of joy throughout as are the chorus of constables and their Sergeant (Bruce Graham) with their crowd pleaser “When a felon’s not engaged in his employment”. Their lot may not have been a happy one (according to the song), but we in the crowd sure were happy at the lot of ‘em.
This is perhaps G&S’s most perfect work and so well regarded with good reason. There’s nothing not to love here. A wonderfully ingenious and convoluted plot, a bevy of the pair’s greatest hits, wonderful costumes, scenery and exotic(ish) locations and a story you can hang your hat on… A splendid time is guaranteed for all and it was delivered tonight in spades.
So, another triumph from this most excellent company. Two down and one to go and, as I said yesterday, you really should rush to see their final show before they leave town (tomorrow’s The Gondoliers).
After a 30-year pause, London City Ballet is back on the stage with a mesmerising programme of sublime ballet under the brilliant direction of Christopher Marney. The Resurgence tour has returned to some of its most beloved venues including York in the UK, Italy, Portugal, China, the Joyce Theatre in New York and will end at Sadler’s Wells in London in September.
The company comprises of 14 dancers who are principal dancers of other lead international dance companies so each performance was beyond magnificent. Christopher Marney has commented that what makes the Resurgence tour so unique and rare is that the audience gets the chance to see some of the world’s most compelling dancers in one production. Some pieces have rarely been seen so this tour is a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The opening of the show started with some nostalgic footage of press releases, interviews, and photographs of the London City Ballet from years gone by. The late Princess Diana was a champion of the arts and a patron of the company and would sometimes drop into rehearsals. It was most moving to see her beautiful smile just before the first dance, ‘Larina Waltz’ by Ashley Page. Perfect is the best word to describe this performance as the light and delicate physicality with technical expertise creates an intoxicating piece. The traditional costumes sparkle within the softly lit set and performed to the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s melodies, one can just feel the pure quality of the London City Ballet once again.
The captivating Ballade, unseen in Europe for 50 years, takes place on an austere set with a white backdrop, table, and chairs. As the performance unfolds, four dancers engage in a choreographic game of cards, where the complex dynamics of relationships are explored. MacMillan’s fluid choreography, mixed with many emotions creates a legendary dance.
Arielle Smith’s Five Dances were a myriad of many things: sensual, emotional, tribal in some ways and made me think of the elements and how their energies ebb and flow in cycles.
Finally, Christopher Marney’s Eve: a re-telling of the biblical tale of Adam and Eve told from Eve’s perspective. The set and costumes are magical and there is an atmosphere of ancient fairytale created through the medium of birds appearing through mist and fog. This backdrop creates a bleak landscape and Eve appears all alone until the seductive serpent arrives … without giving too much away we see Eve and Adam rise together in a most dramatic ending. I absolutely loved this performance and hope Mr Marney will create something similar for ‘Lilith’, the woman before Eve and tell her true story like this one which wasn’t tainted by patriarchal dogma.
Resurgence is exquisite! The rare opportunity to see the best of the best all together on one stage is a must see!
