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JAMES GRAHAM’S PUNCH TRANSFERS TO LONDON’S YOUNG VIC THEATRE IN MARCH 2025

• Olivier Award-winning playwright James Graham’s (Best of Enemies, Dear England, Sherwood) latest five-star show arrives at the Young Vic Theatre following a critically acclaimed, sell-out run at Nottingham Playhouse.

• Julie Hesmondhalgh (Coronation Street, Mr Bates vs The Post Office), Tony Hirst (Coronation Street, Hollyoaks) and David Shields (Masters of the Air, Black Mirror) reprise their roles in the powerhouse production, running in the Young Vic Main House from 1 March to 12 April with press night on 6 March 2025.

• Priority booking opens for members today, with general onsale on 22 July at www.youngvic.org

The Young Vic Theatre today announces the London transfer of Punch, the latest five-star sell-out show from Olivier Award-winning playwright James Graham (Best of Enemies, Dear England, This House, Sherwood) and Nottingham Playhouse, which brings Jacob Dunne’s powerful and moving memoir to the stage. Based on the book Right From Wrong, Punch tells an extraordinary true story of tragedy, forgiveness, redemption and reform, and has ignited discussions across the country from theatres to courthouses to the House of Commons. Punch is directed by Nottingham Playhouse Artistic Director Adam Penford with production design by Anna Fleischle, andwill run in the Young Vic Main House from 1 March to 12 April 

Post-show talks will be held to discuss the themes of the show with Jacob Dunne and guests following the performance on 11 March, 7.30pm, and on 19 March, 2.30pm with a panel of guests, with further details to be announced.

Jacob Dunne, a teenager from Nottingham, spends his Saturday nights seeking thrills with his friends. One fateful evening, an impulsive punch leads to fatal consequences. After serving prison time, Jacob finds himself lost and directionless. Searching for answers, Joan and David – the parents of his victim James – ask to meet, sparking a profound transformation in Jacob’s life.

Original cast members Julie Hesmondhalgh (Coronation Street, Mr Bates vs The Post Office), Tony Hirst (Coronation Street, Hollyoaks) and David Shields (Masters of the Air, Black Mirror) reprise their roles as Joan, David and Jacob, respectively. The cast is completed by Alec Boaden (Masters of the Air, Random Acts) as Raf, DS Villiers and Sam; Shalisha James-Davis (Mary Queen of Scots, Romeo and Juliet) as Clare and Nicola; and Emma Pallant (Cowbois, Queenie)as Wendy, Sandra and Jacob’s Mum.

James Graham, Playwright, said: “This play and the incredible story it tells could not mean more to me. It feels like one of the most moving and urgent real-life dramas I’ve had the honour of translating to the stage. But despite its important themes of justice, forgiveness, and the human cost of a decade of neglect in these communities, I’m so proud of the surprisingly funny and oddly hopeful show that Adam Penford and the cast have built. I’ve never not watched without ugly crying and can’t wait to share it with a wider audience.”

Adam Penford, Nottingham Playhouse Artistic Director and Director of Punch, said: “I’m thrilled to be bringing Punch to the Young Vic, a venue that has its community at its heart, and to give more people the opportunity to experience this unforgettable story. Punch had a profound impact on our audiences in Nottingham because the story is so moving, and asks important questions about what it means to be human and what kind of society we want to live in. It’s particularly pertinent as we enter a new political chapter in the UK. James Graham’s expert writing, with its trademark wit, humanity and storytelling skill, is a joy to stage. And working with the real-life people who feature in the play has been an unforgettably humbling experience for all of us.”

Kwame Kwei-Armah, Young Vic Artistic Director, said: “Punch is an incredibly moving, heartwarming, gut-wrenching play by one our finest writers. It’s an extraordinary story both on and off the page and like the very best theatre, it reflects humanity and transcends the stage. It has captured hearts and minds across the country, resonating not only with local communities but in national politics with recommendations by MPs in the House of Commons. We are proud to be staging this production from the brilliant Nottingham Playhouse. This is vital viewing, I urge you to see it.”

Lighting Design is by Robbie Butler, Sound Design and Composition by Alexandra Faye Braithwaite, Movement Direction by Leanne Pinder, Movement Consultation by Lynne Page, Casting by Christopher Worrall CDG, Voice and Dialect Coaching by Sally Hague, Fight Direction by Kev McCurdy, Production Consultation by Jacob Dunne.

The Young Vic presents the Nottingham Playhouse production of Punch in association with KPPL Productions and Mark Gordon Pictures.

This production is dedicated to James Hodgkinson and all victims of one-punch.

Punch goes on sale to Soul Mates today, and Friends on 19 July

Public booking opens 22 July

Post-show talks: Tue 11 March, 7.30pm, Wed 19 March, 2.30pm

Audio Described Performances: Fri 14 March, 7.30pm & Sat 22 March, 2.30pm

Captioned Performances: Mon 17 March, 7.30pm & Wed 26 March, 2.30pm 

Relaxed Performances: Mon 17 March, 7.30pm & Sat 29 March, 2.30pm 

BSL Performance:  Tue 18 March, 7.30pm 

Sensory Adapted Performance: Fri 28 March, 7.30pm

SANDI TOKSVIG & THE QI ELVES PRESENT

“ONE NIGHT ONLY”*

(*Multiple Dates Available)

AT THE THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE, LONDON

13 AND 14 NOVEMBER 2024

TICKETS ON SALE FROM 10.00AM, WEDNESDAY 17 JULY

Sandi Toksvig, the internationally renowned and much-loved comedian, broadcaster, writer and campaigner, announces One Night Only, a new live theatrical comedy extravaganza, for two nights only on Wednesday 13 and and Thursday 14 November 2024 at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London’s West End.  The QI Elves, the researchers from the hit BBC2 show, will be delving into the theatrical archives to help Sandi unearth some fun facts and anecdotes to entertain the live audiences.

Tickets go on sale at 10am on Wednesday 17 July via www.lwtheatres.co.uk.

Inspired by her hosting of the successful television franchise QI, One Night Only is a theatre-themed evening of comedy and curiosity in which Sandi shares little-known facts about the world of theatre from actors to performances, stories and songs – giving the audience a sneak peak at what really goes on behind the scenes!

Sandi Toksvig said, “I’ve been hosting QI for nearly 10 years and the best thing about doing it is performing for the audience in the room – people still queue for hours to be in the studio because it’s so much fun.  So I’m thrilled to be bringing the facts and the Elves to the West End for a proper live extravaganza.  We’re calling it One Night Only because each night is going to be different and unique – and, unlike television, it can only be watched once!”

In 2015 Sandi Toksvig took over from Stephen Fry as host of BBC2’s hugely popular comedy panel show QI and, in 2014, she replaced William G. Stewart as the host of Fifteen to One, which made its comeback after 11 years.  In 2017, she and Noel Fielding became the new co-hosts of The Great British Bake Off in its move to Channel 4, which she continued to co-present until 2020.  Sandi also presents Channel 4’s travel series Extraordinary Escapes with Sandi Toksvig, which premiered in 2021.  For a decade Sandi was a familiar voice to BBC Radio 4 listeners as the chair of The News Quiz, which led to her induction into the Radio Hall of Fame. 

Sandi is passionate about live performance. She performed at the very first night of The Comedy Store in London and for many years was a member of The Comedy Store Players, an improvisational comedy team.

Much of Sandi’s time is devoted to writing and, in 2019, she became president of the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain. Sandi has written more than twenty fiction and nonfiction books for children and adults.  Her new novel, Friends of Dorothy, is being published by Virago in September. For the theatre, Sandi co-authored the musical Big Night Out at the Little Sands Picture Palace Theatre (with Dillie Keane),

The Pocket Dream (with Elly Brewer), Charity Begins for Playhouse Live, Bully Boy, Silver Lining, an adaptation of Treasure Island, her adaptation of Mamma Mia! The Party at London’s The 02 and  a family show, Christmas at the (Snow) Globe (with Jenifer Toksvig).

Sandi is an activist for gender equality.  In 2014, she co-founded the Women’s Equality Party.

One Night Only is produced at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane by Idili Live Entertainment Ltd.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Catherine Street

London WC2

Ticket Prices: from £35

Performances: Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 November 7.30pm

For more information or to book tickets visit: lwtheatres.co.uk

ABOUT IDILI LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Since its inception, Idili Live Entertainment has produced a variety of theatrical and immersive musicals in the UK and internationally, promoted major operatic talents in classical music concerts and tours worldwide, and presented various exhibitions in London. Examples of Idili Live Entertainment’s work to date include the immersive theatrical and dining experience Mamma Mia! The Party in London and Stockholm; the 20th anniversary tour of Rent The Musical in London and on tour across the UK; mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli in the Salzburg Production of the opera Norma in the UK and across Europe; presenting Cecilia Bartoli’s St Petersburg baroque programme with orchestra in its namesake city; the soprano Anna Netrebko’s and tenor Yusif Eyvazov’s first ever Asia and Australia/New Zealand concert tour, as well as the official ABBA exhibition in London.

For more information visit: idili.com

ABOUT QI

QI (the letters stand for Quite Interesting) is the BAFTA-winning panel show, which has run for more than two decades and over 300 episodes on the BBC. Each encyclopaedic series tackles a different letter of the alphabet, with Series V due to air later in 2024. 

“There are few pleasures on TV to equal QI.” GUARDIAN

”It is easily the best show on television.” THE SUN

“It is a testament to the enduring format that 20 series and two decades later a show fuelled by a celebration of the obscure and quite interesting facts continues to feel fresh and able to experiment and adapt.” SUNDAY TIMES

The show’s writers, known as the QI Elves, have also authored 20 books, created the award-winning spin-off podcast No Such Thing As A Fish and, since 2019, have joined The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show each week on Radio 2 for Wednesday’s Why Workshop. 

Trafalgar Theatre Productions, Eilene Davidson Productions and Alan Howard, in association with
the Royal Shakespeare Company, present the Watford Palace Theatre & HOME Manchester
production

TRACY-ANN OBERMAN
REPRISES HER ROLE AS SHYLOCK
IN THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED
THE MERCHANT OF VENICE 1936
“The most important Shakespeare production of the year”
Daily Telegraph

DIRECTED BY BRIGID LARMOUR
LONDON’S TRAFALGAR THEATRE
28 DECEMBER – 25 JANUARY
UK TOUR 4 FEBRUARY – 5 APRIL

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM MERCHANTOFVENICE1936.CO.UK

★★★★★
“An astonishing, full-blooded performance.
For anyone who wonders how to produce Shakespeare in the 21st Century, this really is it”
METRO

Following a triumphant season at the Criterion Theatre and a sold-out UK tour, Tracy-Ann Oberman (EastEnders, Doctor Who, Friday Night Dinner), is back in the West End to reprise her starring role from asthe first British actressto play Shylock in the critically acclaimed production of The Merchant of Venice 1936 from December this year.

Opening at the Trafalgar Theatre on 28 December, the limited season runs until 25 January. This important, groundbreaking production will then embark on a second UK tour for eight weeks visiting: Liverpool, Bath, Southend, Salford, Fareham, Leeds and Cardiff, culminating in Birmingham on 5 April 2025 – allowing audiences all over the UK the opportunity to experience this “deeply relevant” (Daily Telegraph) play

Tracy-Ann Oberman said: “I am so delighted that, by popular demand, MOV1936 is coming back into the West End so soon after we finished. Demand has been so high that I feel bringing it back, and this time to the beautiful Trafalgar Theatre and then on a national tour, is essential. The message of my female Shylock – based on my Great Grandma, a widow in the East End standing up to Oswald Mosley and the British Union of Fascists, with all her neighbours and others horrified by the message of BUF – feels more pertinent than ever. The play is about unity, standing together against hatred and the play’s impact has been beyond my wildest hopes and ambitions for it.”

Ambition, power and political unrest explode onto the stage in this “striking and impactful” (The Guardian) production that “makes theatre history” (Daily Telegraph). This “fascinating and timely” (Daily Mail) reimagining sees Shakespeare’s classic transported to 1930s East London against the backdrop of the Battle of Cable Street. It is adapted by Brigid Larmour and Tracy-Ann Oberman.

With the city on the brink of political unrest, fascism sweeping across Europe and Oswald Mosley’s British Union of Fascists threatening a paramilitary march through the Jewish East End, strong-willed single mother Shylock runs a pawnbroking business from her house in Cable Street where Mosley will march. When charismatic, antisemitic aristocrat Antonio comes to her for a loan, a high-stakes deal is struck. Will Shylock take her revenge, and who will pay the ultimate price?

THE MERCHANT OF VENICE 1936
London: Trafalgar Theatre 28 December – 25 January ON SALE NOW
Liverpool: Playhouse Theatre 4 – 8 February ON SALE NOW
Bath: Theatre Royal 11 – 15 February ON SALE 1 AUGUST
Southend: Palace Theatre 18 – 22 February ON SALE SOON
Salford: Lowry 25 February – 1 March ON SALE 18 JULY
Fareham Live 4 – 8 March ON SALE 18 JULY
Leeds: Playhouse Theatre 11 – 15 March ON SALE SOON
Cardiff: New Theatre 18 – 22 March ON SALE NOW
Birmingham: Repertory Theatre 1 – 5 April ON SALE NOW

Creative Team:
Associate Producer – Tracy-Ann Oberman
Costume and Set Design – Liz Cooke
Lighting Design – Rory Beaton
Sound Design – Sarah Weltman
Composer – Erran Baron Cohen

LISTINGS INFORMATION
West End
28 December 2024 – 25 January 2025
Trafalgar Theatre, 14 Whitehall, London SW1A 2DY
2024
28 December at 4pm
29 December at 4pm
30 December at 7:30pm
1 January at 7:30pm
2025
Evening performances: 7:30pm Tuesday – Saturday
Matinee performances: 2:30pm Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday

UK Tour
4 February – 5 April 2025
Evening performances: 7:30pm Tuesday – Saturday
Matinee performances: 2:30pm Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday

Website: Merchantofvenice1936.co.uk
X / Twitter: @MOV1936
Facebook and Instagram: @merchantofvenice1936

KING’S HEAD THEATRE HOSTS ITS FIRST EVER FAMILY-FRIENDLY PANTOMIME IN ITS NEW THEATRE

30 NOVEMBER 2024 – 5 JANUARY 2025

King’s Head Theatre will present its first ever family pantomime in its new and flexible 250-seat auditorium this Christmas. Presented in this fantastic intimate setting, Cinderella will be fully immersive, with puppets from Little Angel Theatre, featuring sensational songs, hilarious slapstick comedy, romance and plenty of audience participation; firmly rooted in Islington, the panto will celebrate the borough’s rich history. Tickets are on sale now here. 

Once a week, there will be a naughtier, adults-only show , with some very special West End and Broadway guest stars (to be announced, alongside full casting, in September).

Produced by Elphin Productions, Daniel Schumann, King’s Head Theatre and Little Angel Theatre, Cinderella will play from 30 November to 5 January, with press performances on Friday 6 December at 7pm (all / family friendly) and Thursday 12 December at 7pm (adults only).  

Cinderella will be written and directed by Andrew Pollard (writer of CBeebies’ Robin Hood). During Andrew’s 15-year run as writer, director and Dame at Greenwich Theatre, he won two OFFIE awards, and was the winner of Best Ugly Sister at the 2023 British Panto Awards.  

The producers are also launching a Fairy Godmother / Godfather scheme, where individuals can donate money to help provide free tickets for local children from disadvantaged backgrounds. More information available here. 

The King’s Head brings you its first ever family pantomime!

Full of comedy, romance, slapstick and sing-a-longs!

In London, it’s hard to find romance these days. Everyone is so busy!

Will love and friendship find our two lost souls?

Cinderella needs help to leave her life of drudgery and explore a world full of adventures.

A shy Prince needs someone to help bring him out of his shell and find his mojo.

Could they help each other to find the courage to change their lives?

The Fairy Godmother thinks so! So, join her on this roller-coaster ride of romance and rock’n’roll!

Boo the selfish step-sisters, Peckham and Dalston.

Cheer on Cinderella and the Prince!

Boogie on down with Buttons and his daffy duck, Quackers!

You’re all invited to the big Disco Ball this Christmas! So wave your hands in the air, like you just don’t care – and have the time of your lives at the King’s Head’s intimate, immersive panto spectacular!

Producer Robert Rees said, “Pantomime is often a child’s first introduction to live theatre. I remember my first panto over 30 years ago, with Lulu in the title role of Peter Pan, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m delighted to be working with panto royalty, Andrew Pollard, developing this new show with the King’s Head Theatre, in their fantastic new venue, featuring superb puppets from Little Angel Theatre.”

Producer Daniel Schumann said, “I am thrilled to be part of this wonderful team bringing Pantomime to Islington. I have always felt passionately about Panto and that every theatre and every community should have one. King’s Head Theatre is such an exciting new venue, and the thought of filling it with the magic of pantomime and reaching so many families throughout Islington and North London and giving so many young people their first theatre experience was just irresistible! Let’s hope, just like Cinderella, we all have a ball!”

Executive Producer (and acting CEO) of King’s Head Theatre Sofi Berenger said, “King’s Head Theatre’s pantomimes at the pub were always such a highlight of the year and for the community, offering something unique from other pantomimes in London. We knew with the opening of our new venue we wanted to continue this, offering something unique and special but still fundamentally a pantomime we all know and love. Andy Pollard has so much incredible experience in pantomime and family work that he’s the absolute perfect fit to lead what we hope will mean King’s Head Theatre’s pantomimes again become a staple in North London. The collaboration between Daniel Schumann, Elphin Productions and bringing the incredible expertise in puppetry and family work from our neighbours at Little Angel Theatre is sure to make this something truly special.”

Samantha Lane and Peta Swindall of Little Angel Theatre said, “We are absolutely delighted to be co-producing and creating the puppets for Cinderella this Christmas. Panto is such a fantastic experience for the whole family – and we can’t wait to see the show come to life.

LEGENDARY DRAG ARTIST DIVINA DE CAMPO RETURNS AS MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES 

FOR THE STAGE DEBUT AWARDS 2024

The Stage Debut Awards today announces that legendary drag artist, songstress and performer Divina de Campo will be returning to host this year’s prestigious awards ceremony.

As the only awards dedicated to recognising breakthrough theatre talent, The Stage Debut Awards, in association with ATG Entertainment, occupy a unique and significant position in the theatre landscape. Following on from her unforgettable, show-stopping debut hosting last year’s ceremony, Divina’s return highlights her iconic status and unwavering support for championing newcomers and the theatre stars of tomorrow.

Divina, widely known for her appearance in the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, has since established an impressive career in Musical Theatre and carved out a reputation as a versatile and dynamic performer.

Divina says: “What’s better than hosting The Stage Debut Awards? Hosting it again! I’m so excited to be back at the most important awards of the theatre world, where we welcome the newest and best talent to the industry! I never won one myself (not bitter) but I’m overjoyed to be helping to celebrate and give out these wonderful awards to the freshest talent. All the best to all the nominees!”

Most recently, Divina has lent her impressive vocal range to the eponymous Dragfox in a new animated LGBTQ+ musical short film alongside the legendary Sir Ian McKellen. Previous roles include the evil Queen Morgiana in the Wyvern Theatre’s Snow White; The SpongeBob Musical’s Plankton and as Mary Sunshine in Chicago. She also enjoyed an award-winning performance in the revival of cult musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch.

The Stage Debut Awards will take place on September 29, 2024. This illustrious event brings together the previous year’s most exciting and emerging performers and creatives of the past 12 months in a special celebration that shines a special light on their outstanding professional debuts.

The much-anticipated annual event will be held for the third year running in association with headline sponsor ATG Entertainment, and at 8 Northumberland Avenue, London.

The eight awards champion performers, directors, designers, writers, composers and lyricists. 

The award categories are: Best Performer in a Play sponsored by Theatrical Rights Worldwide; Best Performer in a Musical sponsored by Michael Harrison Entertainment; Best Creative West End Debut sponsored by Trafalgar Entertainment; Best Director sponsored by Arts Council England; Best Designer sponsored by Preevue; Best Writer sponsored by Sonia Friedman Productions and Best Composer/Lyricist or Book Writer sponsored by Crossroads Live.  The winner of the Best West End Debut Performer sponsored by Noël Coward Foundation is the only category to be determined by a public vote.

Supporters of this year’s awards include: Theatre Royal Haymarket, Cameron Macintosh, encore and Sky Arts.

The shortlist of Nominees will be unveiled on August 22.

A star-studded line-up of performers and presenters will also be revealed at a later date.

The inaugural The Stage Debut Awards took place in 2017 and recipients of these awards have gone on to star in West End shows, television series and films. Last year’s winners included Rob Madge for My Son’s a Queer, (But What Can You Do?) at Garrick Theatre and Ambassadors Theatre, Isobel Thom for their leading role in I, Joan at Shakespeare’s Globe, Michael R Jackson for composing A Strange Loop at the Barbican Theatre and Tingying Dong for her sound design on The Crucible, Gielgud and National Theatre. A further roll call of notable award winners from previous years include Best West End Debut for Jodie Comer (Prima Facie), Shan Ako (Les Misérables), SpitLip (Operation Mincemeat), Tyrell Williams (Red Pitch), Sam Tutty (Dear Evan Hansen), Miriam-Teak Lee (& Juliet), Bush Theatre artistic director Lynette Linton (Sweat) and composers Femi Temowo (Death of a Salesman) and Dan Gillespie Sells (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie).

Festival Theatre, Malvern – until Saturday 20 July 2024.

Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau

5*****

A Dolly Parton musical you say? Well hot diggity dog, what on earth could be more fun? It turns out, not much.

The story concerns a young man finding himself living back at his parent’s house during lockdown, wondering what on earth he’s going to do as his life falls apart. He needs a guardian angel. He gets one, direct from the mountains of Tennessee!

Kevin, our hero, was played by Steven Webb in a simply stunning performance. He is personable, hilarious (the scarf-ography during Jolene is to die for) has exceptional dancing skills that nearly put my back out just watching it, a beautiful singing voice, bags of charisma and acting skills that herald a mega star in the making! A killer performance.

Tricia Paoluccio is an equally incredible Dolly. She looks and sounds just like her, having her mannerisms down to a tee – not easy with such an iconic character. But her singing…she really blows one away with a sensitive yet powerhouse delivery that’s guaranteed to knock the rhinestones off your stetson from the other side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Total perfection!

The show is rammed to the rafters with laughs – Dolly’s original one liners are deployed to great effect and Kevin’s are just as entertaining. It’s a truly witty script from the writers; Bruce Vilanch, Gabriel Barre and Tricia Pauluccio – yes, our lead actress is one of the writers! Multi talented lady.

Backing singers Aidan Cutler and Charlotte Elisabeth Yorke played multiple roles in the show (like Kevin’s parents). They, alongside the live musicians on stage, really enhanced the atmosphere, providing stellar support with moments to shine out front too. I enjoyed the illusions (by Richard Pinner) which propelled the story forward nicely; turning Dolly into a cross between a Fairy Godmother and The Fonz.

A heartwarming story that most of us will (sadly) recognise including breakups, feeling lonely, lost and all at sea… Country music is the natural home for such universal themes and storytelling of this magnitude, so it’s a perfect fit. The writers have cleverly presented the girl next door side of Dolly whilst making Kevin’s everyman quality just as vital and interesting as the marquee name! We find ourselves genuinely caring about these characters.

With a catalogue including the classics 9 to 5 and Islands In The Stream they take some beating – and I Will Always Love You manages to take the roof off the place. But, really, every song is an absolute classic.

At heart this is an inspirational story about overcoming obstacles and grasping the opportunities to live the life you wish. Two Doors Down being a prime example – including a wonderful special guest appearance (I won’t spoil the surprise, but it provides some lovely social commentary too, not just laughs). Faith plays a major role too with God’s Coloring Book being particularly affecting.

I cannot recommend this show full of love, joy, friendship and hope highly enough. It’s impossible to leave without aching sides, a massive grin on one’s face and a lighter heart. Well done all concerned – you did Dolly’s music proud and gave us a humdinger of a night. I absolutely loved it!

BILL KENWRIGHT LTD’S

MULTI AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTION OF

WILLY RUSSELL’S

BLOOD BROTHERS

IS BACK THIS AUTUMN

Bill Kenwright Ltd’s legendary, award-winning production of the international smash hit musical, Blood Brothers continues to tour across the UK with latest dates and venues announced for Autumn 2024, opening on 20 August at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff.

This autumn will see Vivienne Carlyle returning to the iconic role of Mrs. Johnstone, having received nightly standing ovations for her powerful and poignant performance in the West End production.

Sean Jones and Joe Sleight return to the production as twins Mickey and Eddie, with Gemma Brodrick reprising the role of Linda.

Also returning to the cast for 2024 are Sarah Jane Buckley (Mrs Lyons), Scott Anson (Narrator), Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons),Chloe Pole (Donna Marie), Alex Harland (Policeman/Teacher), Graeme Kinniburgh (Postman/Bus Conductor) and Jess Smith (Brenda), with James Ledsham (Sammy), Ben Mabberley (Perkins) and Dominic Gore (Neighbour) joining the production.

Vivienne Carlyle is an actor and singer with an international career as a musical theatre leading lady and recording artist. As well as her acclaimed previous appearances as Mrs Johnstone in the West End and touring productions of Blood Brothers, her theatre roles have included The Narrator in Bill Kenwright’s long-running production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Grizabella in Cats, Mrs Walker in The Whos’ Tommy and Songbird in Cirque du Soleil’s long-running Saltimbanco.

Award-winning playwright Willy Russell’s epic tale of Liverpool life started as a play, performed at a Liverpool comprehensive school in 1981, before opening as a musical at the Liverpool Playhouse in 1983. It has since triumphed across the globe, completing sell out seasons in the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Japan. Few musicals have been received with such acclaim as the multi-award-winning Blood Brothers, scooping up four awards for Best Musical in London and seven Tony Award nominations on Broadway. It is considered ‘one of the best musicals ever written’ (Sunday Times). Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. 

The superb score includes A Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True. 

Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins separated at birth, who grow up on the opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences.  

When Mrs Johnstone, a young mother, is deserted by her husband and left to her own devices to provide for seven hungry children she takes a job as a housekeeper in order to make ends meet. It is not long before her brittle world crashes around her when she discovers herself to be pregnant yet again – this time with twins! In a moment of weakness and desperation, she enters a secret pact with her employer which leads inexorably to the show’s shattering climax. 

Willy Russell is one of this country’s leading contemporary dramatists. His countless credits include Educating Rita and Shirley Valentine. Educating Rita, originally commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company, enjoyed a two-year run in the West End and was made into a movie starring Michael Caine and Julie Walters. Shirley Valentine also made the move from stage to screen in an enormously popular film starring Pauline Collins and Tom Conti, it was also revived last year, completing a sell out West End run starring Sheridan Smith.

LISTINGS 

Bill Kenwright Limited presents 

BLOOD BROTHERS 

2024 Autumn UK Tour 

Written by Willy Russell 

Directed by Bob Tomson & Bill Kenwright Ltd

Resident Director Tim Churchill

Musical Supervisor Matt Malone 

Sound Design Dan Samson  

Set & Costume Design Andy Walmsley  

Lighting Design Nick Richings 

Running Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including interval)  

Website: kenwright.com 

Social Media: @BKL_Productions 

TOUR DATES – FURTHER DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED

Wales Millennium Centre                                          wmc.org.uk

Mon 20 Aug – Sat 24 Aug 2024                                  029 2063 6464

Pavilion Theatre Rhyl                                                 rhylpavilion.co.uk

Mon 28 Aug – Sat 31 Aug 2024                                  01745 332414

Blackpool Opera House                                             wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

Mon 03 Sep – Sat 07 Sep 2024                                       0844 770 0593

Embassy Theatre Skegness                                        embassytheatre.co.uk    

Mon 10 Sep – Sat 14 Sep 2024                                   01754 474 100

The Playhouse Weston-Super-Mare                         parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

Mon 17 Sep – Sat 21 Sep 2024                                   01934 65544

Edinburgh Playhouse                                                 atgtickets.com

Mon 24 Sep – Sat 28 Sep 2024                                      

His Majesty’s Theatre Aberdeen                               aberdeenperformingarts.com

Mon 01 Oct – Sat 05 Oct 2024                                   01224 641122

Eden Court Inverness                                                 eden-court.co.uk

Mon 08 Oct – Sat 12 Oct 2024                                   01463 234 234

Kings Theatre Glasgow                                              atgtickets.com

Mon 15 Oct – Sat 19 Oct 2024                                      

Palace Theatre Newark                                              palacenewark.com

Mon 22 Oct – Sat 26 Oct 2024                                   01636 655755

Kings Theatre Portsmouth                                         kingsportsmouth.co.uk

Mon 05 Nov – Sat 09 Nov 2024                                  02392 828282

Darlington Hippodrome                                             darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk

Mon 12 Nov – Sat 16 Nov 2024                                  01325 405405

Palace Theatre Manchester                                       atgtickets.com

Mon 19 Nov – Sat 30 Nov 2024

The Grand Theatre Leeds                                           leedsheritagetheatres.com

Mon 03 Dec – Sat 07 Dec 2024                                   01132 430808

BLUEBIRD PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

AT THE PLAYGROUND THEATRE FROM
1 – 27 OCTOBER 2024

Written by the exciting playwright Tim Edge, One of The Boys offers a sharp commentary on corporate sexism and the compromises many women feel compelled to make to compete equally with men in the workplace. The play will run at The Playground Theatre starting on 1 October 2024.

Eve is on the brink of a ground-breaking career move; she is about to become the first woman in her company to land the role of CEO. Yes, she has had to compromise, make personal sacrifices, but it was all worth it… right?

Enter Heidi, a mysterious young executive with an agenda. As Heidi gains a foothold within the company, her presence begins to threaten the established culture in which the company thrives, as well as the position that Eve has worked so hard for. Will Eve’s ambition triumph over her conscience, or is it time to smash it all to the ground and start again?

By highlighting and calling out workplace misogyny, One of The Boys raises awareness about the issues women face in professional settings. This can be an eye-opening experience for audiences who may not be fully aware of the extent of the problem.

Tim Edge (writer) says, “The play looks to serve as a catalyst for conversations about gender inequality, discrimination, and harassment. Watching characters battle and overcome workplace misogyny can also be empowering for audience members, especially those who have experienced similar situations. It can inspire them to stand up against injustice and find their voices in challenging circumstances. It may also lead to those who are complicit in a toxic culture to evaluate their behaviour and to change.”

With the potential to engage, educate, and inspire audiences by addressing a critical social issue through the lens of storytelling and artistic expression, One of The Boys provides an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and advocacy for positive change.

Directed by Lydia McKinley, written by Tim Edge with design by Ellie Wintour, One of The Boysis at The Playground Theatre from 1 – 27 October 2024.

FURTHER VENUES ANNOUNCED

FOR THE

CAMERON MACKINTOSH

AND
DISNEY THEATRICAL GROUP
2024/2025 UK AND IRELAND TOUR

OF THE CLASSIC MULTI AWARD-WINNING MUSICAL

BASED ON THE STORIES OF P.L. TRAVERS AND

THE WALT DISNEY FILM

Following a record-breaking run in London’s West End, where the show received rave reviews and nightly standing ovations, Cameron Mackintosh and Disney Theatrical Group are delighted to announce further venues for the 2024/2025 UK and Ireland tour of the classic multi award-winning musical MARY POPPINS. www.marypoppins.co.uk 

Alongside the previously announced dates in Bristol, Dublin, Edinburgh, Plymouth and Manchester, the production will also visit Birmingham Hippodrome (16 July – 23 August 2025), Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (27 August – 20 September 2025), Sunderland Empire (1 – 25 October 2025) and Milton Keynes Theatre (29 October – 22 November 2025). Additional venues still to be announced.

Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the World’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is more magical than ever before featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. The timeless score includes the classic Sherman Brothers songs; Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Feed the Birds with new songs and additional music and lyrics by the Olivier award-winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe.

MARY POPPINS has original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman with new songs and additional music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. The book is by Julian Fellowes and this production is co-created by Cameron Mackintosh. It has orchestrations by William David Brohn and dance and vocal arrangements by George Stiles. It has sound design by Paul Gatehouse and lighting by Hugh Vanstone. Co-Choreography is by Stephen Mear. The set and costume designs are by Bob Crowley. Co-direction and choreography is by Matthew Bourne and direction is by Richard Eyre.    

MARY POPPINS UK TOUR – 2024/2025 TOUR LISTINGS

marypoppins.co.uk

MONDAY 4 NOVEMBER 2024 – SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2024

BRISTOL HIPPODROME

www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert.

WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2024 – SATURDAY 11 JANUARY 2025

BORD GÁIS ENERGY THEATRE, DUBLIN

www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert.

WEDNESDAY 22 JANUARY 2025 – SATURDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2025

FESTIVAL THEATRE, EDINBURGH

www.capitaltheatres.com

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert.

WEDNESDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2025 – SATURDAY 29 MARCH 2025

THEATRE ROYAL PLYMOUTH

www.theatreroyal.com

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert.

WEDNESDAY 9 APRIL 2025 – SATURDAY 17 MAY 2025

PALACE THEATRE MANCHESTER

www.atgtickets.com/venues/palace-theatre-manchester

ON SALE NOW

Starring Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert.

WEDNESDAY 16 JULY – SATURDAY 23 AUGUST 2025

BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME

www.birminghamhippodrome.com

ON SALE 20 SEPTEMBER 2024

Casting to be announced.

WEDNESDAY 27 AUGUST – SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 2025

MAYFLOWER THEATRE, SOUTHAMPTON

www.mayflower.org.uk

ON SALE 17 OCTOBER 2024

Casting to be announced.

WEDNESDAY 1 – SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER 2025

SUNDERLAND EMPIRE

www.atgtickets.com/venues/sunderland-empire

ON SALE 14 OCTOBER 2024

Casting to be announced.

WEDNESDAY 29 OCTOBER – SATURDAY 22 NOVEMBER 2025

MILTON KEYNES THEATRE

www.atgtickets.com/venues/milton-keynes-theatre

ON SALE 14 OCTOBER 2024

Casting to be announced.

FURTHER VENUES TO BE ANNOUNCED

Norwich Theatre panto cast announced

7 Dec 24 – 5 Jan 25

Norwich Theatre is excited to announce Lisa Maxwell as the Evil Aunt in the panto this Christmas, opening at Norwich Theatre Royal on 7 Dec 24 and running until 5 Jan 25.  

She will join Tarik Frimpong as Aladdin and Meesha Turner as Jazz in the panto this Christmas, and Joe Tracini playing Reg, Aladdin’s brother, and getting up to his usual mayhem trying to help his family’s pie shop get through times of trouble!

Following her role as Pamela Ketman in BBC1 crime drama ‘In Deep’ with Nick Berry and Stephen Tompkinson, Lisa was asked to join the cast of ITV’s ‘The Bill’ as D.I. Samantha Nixon, followed by appearances in EastEnders, Hollyoaks and Casualty. She has recently appeared in the hit Channel 5 series ‘The Madame Blanc Mysteries’. She is a flagship former regular panellist on ITV’s Loose Women and was a semi-finalist in the BBC1 series Celebrity MasterChef.

Her recent theatre appearances include playing Judy Garland in Peter Quilter’s award-winning play ‘End of The Rainbow,’ and Celia in Gary Barlow and Tim Firth’s ‘Calendar Girls.’

Lisa Maxwell said: “Returning to panto after 25 years I can’t wait to be booed and hissed at by the lovely people of Norwich!”

Tarik Frimpong recently toured the UK and Ireland with the amazing musical ‘The Drifters Girl’, which visited Norwich Theatre Royal in September. He has also starred in the Disney feature film ‘Mary Poppins Returns’, in West End productions such as ‘Aladdin’ and in Australian productions such as ‘Bring It On – the Musical’ and ‘The Lion King’. In 2022. Tarik was nominated for a Black British Theatre Award (Best Male Actor in a Musical) for his portrayal of The Scarecrow in the UK Revival of ‘The Wiz’.

At taking on the title role Tarik said:

“I’m thrilled to be making my panto debut, playing the role of Aladdin in Aladdin,at the beautiful Norwich Theatre Royal. I’m so looking forward to returning to Norwich where I toured last year with The Drifters Girl. I love the city and the amazing Norwich audiences! I cannot wait to bring my triple threat skills to the Norwich Theatre Royal stage and to help spread some Christmas joy!”

Meesha Turner will play Jazz. Meesha played Catherine Parr in the 2021-22 West End Production of ‘Six the Musical’. She most recently appeared in ‘Stranger Things’ the stage show and as Mrs. Cratchit in The Old Vic’s production of ‘A Christmas Carol’.

On starring in the panto, Meesha said: “I’m super excited to be playing Jazz in this year’s Theatre Royal Norwich panto, and to be bringing a new version of this much loved classic to life! Looking forward to a very festive Christmas in Norwich!”

Aladdin will be set in Norfolk, and is written by Richard Gauntlett. It will be a new interpretation of the old tale but retaining the sense of tradition that Richard brings to Norwich Theatre pantomimes.

Wendy Ellis, Norwich Theatre Creative Programs & Audiences Director, and lead producer of the pantomime said: “We are overjoyed to welcome Lisa, Tariq and Meesha to bring their fantastic musical talents to this year’s panto. Alongside Norfolk favourite, Joe Tracini this is shaping up to be a genie-us Norfolk adventure. Settle in on the magic carpet everyone, this is going to be a thrilling ride!”

With the line up taking shape, one question remains… Who is the Dame?

Aladdin opens at Norwich Theatre Royal on 7 Dec 24, and runs over Christmas and New Year until 5 Jan 25. Further casting to be announced.

Book online at norwichtheatre.org or call 01603 630000