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Yvonne Arnaud – until 28th March 2026

Reviewed by Heather Chalkley

4****

Writer and actor Katherine Senior perfectly captures the mood of the 2nd world war, with a good ol’ British stiff upper lip, the excitement of serving for your country and the absolute fear of what you are willingly walking into. Love and falling in love is heightened, living in the moment, not knowing how many of them you will have. Senior spotlights the crucial role played by the Air Transport Auxiliary and the Spitfire Girls in keeping war planes in the sky.

Of course, behind all that bravado is the human heart. Senior (Bett) delivers a skilled performance, as the older sister who is more like a mother, carrying the responsibility for her sister’s safety. Fast forward to New Year 1960, haunted by the past, she finds herself living alone in a crowd, reliving the joy and the pain.

Hannah Morrison (Dotty) is a believable younger sister daughter, determined to break free, to have an adventure, to do her bit for the war effort. Ignorant of the pain and worry she is causing, the excitement of Blue Skies and falling in love is all encompassing.

Jack Hulland gives a true performance of a dad trying to keep a grip, with no wife, 2 daughters and a farm to run. In keeping with the time, his emotions are expressed through anger and an attempt to maintain control. No doubt he reminds many audience members of their own fathers. Hulland (dad) delivers an impactful soliloquy that reveals what is really in his heart.

The ensemble brings the era to life with a bitter sweet love story, strong commanding officer and comrades that are more than friends from all around the UK.

The stage is cleverly set round a hexagonal platform, allowing entrance and exit from different directions. The lighting creates the tone and spotlights the poignant moments, if a little dark at times. The sound of 40’s music played from a reel to reel tape machine takes you right back to that time.

Spitfire Girls celebrates one of the important parts women played in the war effort and highlights how undervalued they were at the time. Today we can pay them tribute.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre – until Saturday 28th March 2026

Reviewed by Rachel Clark

5*****

Oh Wow!, The West End has come to Aylesbury! The set was brilliant it was like you were in a theatre in the 1800’s, it was like it was a permanent feature, It was exceptional. The start of the show was initiated by the Ringmaster Eamonn Cox a great clear booming voice, it captivated you, you were transported back in time. Then the curtains opened to acrobatics and hoop work so much going on. The two performers that caught my eye were Emily Odunsi – a gymnastic that has represented Great Britain and Niki Tsonopoulou an aerialist.

There was humour, amazing talent and over 150 musical instruments played. Not only did the cast perform acts of gymnastics, aerial work, tight rope walking but they played an array of instruments and they sang, extremely multi-talented. Lee Mead was brilliant it wasn’t like you were watching a performance as much it was like you were there watching the event live, he was word, song perfect, incredible and along with this Barnum’s wife Charity played superbly by Monique Young. Then there was the singing nightingale – Jenny Lind played by Penny Ashmore that sang beautifully but also danced on her toe blocks and played the harp!, and Dominique Planter played Joice Heth and had a superb voice.

All of the cast should be mentioned, they were amazing and looked as they were enjoying the show as much as the audience, the costumes were very good, striking what was there not to like? The show got a standing ovation at the end and very well deserved to all on stage and the ones we don’t see that worked in the background. We mustn’t forgot Jumbo that was brilliant elephant performed by puppetry.

This story is about P T Barnum and American showman and politician who was good at hoaxes – a load of humbug! He purchased a museum where people could visit and see curiosities and some of his hoaxes but it burnt down, he then got an opportunity to promote a singer Jenny Lind, the story told by P T Barnum is performed to perfection and if you get a chance to see it – do, its not to be missed.

Birmingham Rep – until Saturday 28th March 2026

Reviewed by Nadia Dodd

5*****

Last night’s performance of Noughts and Crosses at Birmingham Rep offered a striking and emotionally charged adaptation of Malorie Blackman’s novel, brought vividly to life by Sabrina Mahfouz’s dynamic script. From the moment the lights dimmed, it was clear this production was not only a retelling of a beloved story, but a reimagining that speaks directly to a contemporary audience—particularly the impressive number of teenagers and young adults in the theatre, whose engagement throughout was both encouraging and energising.

At its core, Noughts and Crosses remains a deeply affecting exploration of systemic inequality, prejudice, and forbidden love. The central relationship between Sephy and Callum was portrayed with nuance and sincerity by Brianna Douglas and Lewis Tidy. Douglas captured Sephy’s internal conflict—her privilege clashing with her compassion—with a compelling blend of vulnerability and determination. Opposite her, Tidy’s Callum was equally powerful, embodying both quiet resilience and simmering frustration. Their chemistry grounded the production, ensuring the emotional stakes remained high throughout.

What set this production apart was its ensemble-driven approach. Rather than relegating supporting characters to the background, the rest of the cast seamlessly transitioned between individual roles and collective storytelling. This fluidity added depth and texture to the narrative, reinforcing the sense that this is not just a story about two individuals, but an entire society grappling with division and unrest.

The staging and design were particularly noteworthy. The set was ingeniously multi-functional, transforming swiftly between locations with minimal disruption. Platforms, levels, and movable pieces created a sense of constant motion, mirroring the instability of the world being depicted. This adaptability allowed scenes to flow into one another with cinematic precision, maintaining momentum and keeping the audience fully immersed.

Equally impressive was the integration of media and interactive elements. Projections and digital visuals were used not as mere embellishments, but as integral storytelling tools—enhancing the emotional tone and providing context without overwhelming the live performance. These elements felt especially effective in connecting with the younger audience members, bridging the gap between traditional theatre and the digital landscapes they are so familiar with.

Perhaps the most heartening aspect of the evening was the audience itself. Seeing so many young people and visibly engaged with the performance was a reminder of theatre’s enduring relevance. Their reactions—laughter, gasps, and attentive silence—underscored the power of stories like Noughts and Crosses to resonate across generations.

Overall, this production was a bold and thoughtful interpretation that honoured the spirit of the original novel while embracing innovative theatrical techniques. With strong performances, inventive staging, and a palpable connection to its audience, it stands as a testament to the vitality of modern theatre and its ability to provoke, inspire, and unite.

FULL CAST ANNOUNCEMENT

KATHY KIERA CLARKE STARS

WITH ADEN GILLETT, VIKASH BHAI AND MEGAN MARSZAL IN

HEARTSINK

A NEW MEDICAL COMEDy written by a former gp,

WITH DIRECTION by sean turner

Premiering at RIVERSIDE STUDIOS

TUESDAY 21 APRIL – SUNDAY 10 may

Tickets available HERE.

What happens when a doctor becomes the patient…?

Producers today announce the full casting of the brand-new play Heartsink at Riverside Studios from Tuesday 21 April until Sunday 10 May, with a national press night on Friday 24 April.

Written by former GP Farine Clarke (London Zoo) Heartsink is a new bittersweet medical comedy directed by Sean Turner (Why I Stuck A Flare Up My Arse For England, The Play That Goes Wrong).

Aden Gillet (The House of Elliott, BBC; The Doctor’s Dilemma, National Theatre, A Christmas Carol, RSC) will play ‘Dr Jeffrey Longford’. He is joined by Vikash Bhai (Limbo, by Ben Sharrock – BAFTA Scotland nomination; Girl Taken, Paramount+) as ‘Dr Roofi’, and Megan Marszal (Helloween, Amazon Prime; I Love You Michael, From Nadine, Riverside Studios) as ‘Suzie’.

They join the previously announced Kathy Kiera Clarke (Derry Girls, Hat Trick Productions; Portia Coughlan, Almeida Theatre) as ‘Cara’.

“After years in practice seeing through a doctors’ eyes, I find myself on a crash-course as the patient, The view isn’t quite so attractive from this side, you’d be surprised to know.”

For GP Jeffrey Longford, serious illness turns his faith in the medical fraternity inside out. Crossing the divide from confident clinician to frightened patient, challenges his professional certainties at every turn — from the way individuals are labelled by their conditions, to the ethical faultlines surrounding assisted dying.

Farine Clarke said, “We’re so fortunate to have this hugely talented cast with their ability to portray ostensibly unfunny, serious issues with that rare combination of humour and sensitivity. With direction by the brilliant Sean Turner, I know they’ll delight and surprise when they bring Heartsink’s multifaceted characters and their stories to life.”

Sean Turner said, “It’s a cracking team for a cracking play and I can’t wait to get started. Farine has written something genuinely rare with a truly authentic voice. I’m certain this cast will bring it to life brilliantly.”

Heartsink is written by Farine Clarke with direction by Sean Turner. The creative team includes designer Matteo Mastrandrea, lighting designer Chuma Emembolu for Chuma Lighting Design, sound designer Hattie North, casting director Ellie Collyer-Bristow CDG, production manager Thomas Quine, stage manager Em Cox, graphic designer Tom Mann for Ghostlight Studios, videographer Ben Hewis, and photographer Lidia Crisafulli. Marketing is by Paul Hicks, and social media by Tez Frost for Workmonks.

FB: Facebook.com/UnequalProductionsLtd. 

Twitter (X): @unequalproduct9 

Insta: @unequalproductions 

#Heartsinkplay

Website: unequalproductions.com

Linktr.ee/unequalproductions

SIX THE MUSICAL 

(UK STUDIO CAST RECORDING)

GOES PLATINUM

PLATINUM DISC PRESENTED TO WRITERS TOBY MARLOW AND LUCY MOSS AT THE VAUDEVILLE THEATRE

The producers of SIX are pleased to announce that the SIX the Musical (Studio Cast Recording) has been certified Platinum, with a limited-edition platinum vinyl pressing scheduled for release in Autumn 2026. Pre-order is available here:  www.sixthemusical.com/london/music.

The certification was marked on Tuesday 24 March 2026 at a gala performance at the Vaudeville Theatre, celebrating the arrival of the new West End Queens.

Following the performance, the show’s writers, Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, were presented with Platinum discs on stage by Matt Hemley, Editor of The Stage, joined by members of the current company. The presentation also recognised the contribution of the album’s creative team, including producer Sam Featherstone, orchestrator Tom Curran and musical supervisor Joe Beighton.

First recorded in 2018, the SIX Studio Cast Album features Renée Lamb (Catherine of Aragon), Christina Modestou (Anne Boleyn), Natalie Paris (Jane Seymour), Genesis Lynea (Anna of Cleves), Aimie Atkinson (Catherine Howard), and Izuka Hoyle (Catherine Parr).

The recording has formed a central part of the show’s international success, with songs from the SIX Studio Cast Recording and the Grammy Award®-nominated Broadway album SIX: LIVE ON OPENING NIGHT, which topped the Billboard Cast Album Chart at Number 1, having collectively been streamed in excess of 5 billion times worldwide.

SIX continues to play at the Vaudeville Theatre in London’s West End, where it is currently booking until January 2027. The musical can also be seen on stages worldwide, including on Broadway at the Lena Horne Theatre, on tour across the UK, the United States and internationally, with recent and upcoming productions in Europe, Asia and Australia.

Winner of over 35 international awards, including two Tony Awards®, SIX has established a significant global following, with audiences across multiple territories and over 1.5 million followers across its international social media platforms.

The album is available across all major streaming platforms, as well as on CD and vinyl.

The new West End Queens are Adrianne Langley (Titanique – Criterion Theatre; Twist and Shout – UK Tour) as ‘Catherine of Aragon’, Marisha Morgan (Tina – West End; Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – UK Tour; Anyone Can Whistle – Southwark Playhouse) as ‘Anne Boleyn’, Jessica Aubrey (Wicked – West End; Titanique – Lido Paris; But I’m A Cheerleader – Turbine Theatre) as ‘Jane Seymour’, with Freya Karlettis (Play On! – UK Tour; Hairspray; The Lion King) as ‘Anna of Cleves’, Leesa Tulley (Why Am I So Single – Garrick Theatre; SIX – UK Tour) as ‘Katherine Howard’, and Nia Stephen (&Juliet – UK Tour; The Enormous Crocodile – Regent’s Park) will make her West End debut as ‘Catherine Parr’.

They are joined by Tegan Bannister (Oliver! – Gielgud Theatre & Chichester; I Should Be So Lucky – UK Tour; Les Misérables – West End & UK Tour) as Alternate ‘Aragon/Cleves’, Mary Elliott as Alternate ‘Boleyn/Howard’, and Ashlyn Weekes (Dear Evan Hansen – Asia Tour; Starlight Express – Wembley Park; The Royal Variety Performance 2024) as Alternate ‘Seymour/Parr’. The company is completed by Super Swings Laura Baxter, who is continuing from the 2025 cast in which she made her professional and West End debut, Gabriella Boumford (SIX – Australasian Tour; Grease – Dubai Opera) and Imogen Rose Hart (Hamilton – UK Tour; A Chorus Line – Leicester Curve & Sadler’s Wells; Your Lie in April – Theatre Royal Drury Lane).

The band features Ladies in Waiting Beth Jerem as Musical Director/Keys, Alice Angliss on Drums, Emma Jemima on Guitar, Kelly Morris on Bass, and Annabelle Lee Revak as Assistant Musical Director.

Think you know the six Wives of Henry VIII? Think again…

Prepare to lose your head and experience the Tudor Wives’ lives as they turn back the clock and take to the stage to reclaim their crowns and retell their stories of love, loss and the infamous ex they all have in common.

Join Aragon, Boleyn, Seymour, Cleves, Howard and Parr, backed by their fierce on-stage band, the Ladies in Waiting, and Get Down to a royal retelling of the sassiest story in British Her-story.

SIX is written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, with direction by Lucy Moss and Jamie Armitage. Choreography is by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, with set design by Emma Bailey, costume design by Gabriella Slade, lighting design by Tim Deiling, sound design by Paul Gatehouse, musical orchestration by Tom Curran, and musical supervision by Joe Beighton, and casting by Pearson Casting.

SIX is produced by Kenny Wax, Wendy & Andy Barnes and George Stiles.

Tickets to all international productions of SIX are available via sixthemusical.com

FANE PRODUCTIONS ANNOUNCES THE UK TOUR OF

KEITH BRYMER JONES AND MARJ HOGARTH:
US, POTS, AND A WELSH CHAPEL

Beloved The Great Pottery Throw Down judge and ceramic designer Keith Brymer Jones returns to the stage with a brand-new show. Join Keith alongside his partner in life and crime, actor and designer Marj Hogarth, as they share stories of clay, craft, and their most ambitious project yet… bringing a building back to life.

The 18-date UK wide tour visits starts on 13 May at Aberystwyth Arts Centre before travelling on to Assembly Rooms, Edinburgh; Grand Opera House, York; Buxton Opera House; Nottingham Playhouse; Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle; Lowry, Lyric, Salford; The Forum, Bath; Lighthouse Theatre, Poole; The Great Hall, Exeter; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry; Regent Theatre, Stoke-On-Trent; Storyhouse, Chester; Theatre Severn, Shropshire; New Theatre, Cardiff; Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells; The  Marlowe, Canterbury and finishes on 25 June at Charter Hall, Colchester.
 

Fresh from filming the third series of Channel 4’s Our Welsh Chapel Dream, Keith and Marj invite you behind the scenes of their creative partnership based on the restoration of Capel Salem, a Grade II listed 19th-century chapel in North Wales.

Together, they’ll reveal the highs, lows, and surprises they’ve uncovered whilst breathing new life into historic stone—from navigating Welsh planning regulations to discovering what resilience really means when the roof leaks and the budget doesn’t stretch. But this isn’t just about saving a building. It’s about restoring a community hub, creating a space where local potters can train as apprentices, and weaving Capel Salem back into the fabric of village life.

Watch Keith work his magic at the pottery wheel with live demonstrations. Hear Marj share her passion for making something beautiful from nothing, and why she’s spent decades quietly championing sustainable craft long before it became fashionable.

This is an evening about more than restoration. It’s about what we make, why we make it, and who we become in the making. Expect laughter, pottery, partnership, and the kind of warmth that only comes from two people who’ve learned to create a life together, one handmade piece at a time.

Listings Information

Keith Brymer Jones And Marj Hogarth: Us, Pots, And A Welsh Chapel

UK Tour

Tickets: https://www.fane.co.uk/keith-marj
Performances start at 7.30pm unless specified below

Wed 13 May – Aberystwyth Arts Centre
Fri 15 May – Assembly Rooms, Edinburgh
Sat 16 May – Grand Opera House, York
Mon 18 May – Buxton Opera House
Thu 21 May Nottingham Playhouse
Wed 27 May – Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle
Thu 28 May – Lowry, Lyric, Salford
Thu 4 June – The Forum, Bath
Fri 5 June, 7.45pm  – Lighthouse Theatre, Poole
Sat 6 June – The Great Hall, Exeter
Fri 12 June, 8pm – Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
Sat 13 June – Regent Theatre, Stoke-On-Trent
Sun 14 June – Storyhouse, Chester
Mon 15 June – Theatre Severn, Shropshire
Thu 18 June – New Theatre, Cardiff
Tue 23 June – Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells
Wed 24 June – The Marlowe, Canterbury
Thu 25 June – Charter Hall, Colchester

GLOBAL NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE STAGE SHOW ARRIVES IN THE UK

FOLLOWING SOLD-OUT RUNS IN SYDNEY AND SINGAPORE

PREMIERING AT LONDON COLISEUM

FOR 5 WEEKS ONLY FROM 31 JULY

Lionsgate, in collaboration with Tim Lawson & Simon Painter (The Illusionists) and Runaway Entertainment (The Hunger Games: On Stage, Newsies), today announced that the international stage illusion spectacular NOW YOU SEE ME LIVEwill open at the London Coliseum for 5 weeks only from Friday 31 July to Sunday 6 September 2026. The cutting-edge production, which has already wowed audiences in Australia and Singapore,is inspired by Lionsgate’s worldwide blockbuster franchise, Now You See Me.

Tickets go on general sale on 1 April 2026. To receive priority booking sign up here.

NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE will bring the magic to life with a mix of high-tech illusions, solo stunts, and jaw-dropping spectacles.

A world-class magic ensemble inspired by the film’s characters, the “Four Horsemen” – to be announced soon – will stun audiences in a showcase of unmatched synergy. Assembling from around the globe, they will bring an unbelievable arsenal of solo skills, shocking twists and grand feats of illusion to London this summer.

NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE has been dazzling audiences across Australia and Singapore, playing to packed houses – including a completely sold-out run at the Sydney Opera House. Critics at The Sydney Morning Herald called it “a mind-blowing spectacle of illusion and storytelling,” while Broadway World said, “your jaw will hit the floor…a high-energy blend of wonder, humour and jaw-dropping illusions,” cementing its status as a must-see event.

Simon Painter, Creative Producer said: “Now You See Me Live pushes the boundaries of stage magic to the absolute edge, making the impossible possible in front of your very eyes. Together we’ve created a show with truly mind-blowing artistry at epic scale, and we can’t wait for London audiences to experience the magic – live!”

Tim Lawson, Executive Producer said: “It is thrilling to be presenting the UK premiere of Now You See Me Live at the magnificent London Coliseum, originally built as one of London’s largest and most luxurious family variety theatres. We’re looking forward to continuing this tradition and dazzling audiences of all ages over summer.”

Jenefer Brown, Lionsgate’s President of Global Products & Experiences said: “Now You See Me Live is captivating audiences with its sleek, contemporary illusions and sharp wit, all inspired by the film franchise’s Horsemen. This exhilarating production offers mind-bending magic on a cinematic scale, and I am thrilled for its London debut this summer.”

NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE is brought to the stage by Simon Painter (Co-Creator, Executive Producer), Adam Trent (Co-Creator), Tim Lawson (Executive Producer), Ash Jacks McCready (Creative Director, Staging Director), Kirsty White (Creative Director), and Enzo Wenye (Illusion Director), and is co-produced by Runaway Entertainment, BOS Productions and Timothy Laczynski.

The Now You See Me film franchise was produced by Lionsgate and earned $929 million at the global box office. The franchise is based on characters created by Boaz Yakin & Edward Ricourt and includes two hit films and a third instalment, Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, which premiered in theatres last November. The film was directed by Ruben Fleischer, with a screenplay by Seth Grahame-Smith, Michael Lesslie, Paul Wernick, and Rhett Reese, and based on a story by Eric Warren Singer.

Website: nowyouseemelive.com

Instagram: @NowYouSeeMeLive

Facebook: @NowYouSeeMeLive

LISTINGS

NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE

Strictly Limited Season from 31 July 2026

London Coliseum

St Martin’s Lane

London

WC2N 4ES

Box Office: 020 7845 9300      

Phil McIntyre Live proudly presents

THE WORLD PREMIERE OF

IRVINE WELSH’S

TRAINSPOTTING THE MUSICAL

THEATRE ROYAL HAYMARKET

OPENS WEDNESDAY 15 JULY 2026

TICKETS ON SALE AT 8.00AM ON TUESDAY 24 MARCH FROM

TRAINSPOTTINGTHEMUSICAL.CO.UK

Thirty years on from the film that changed everything, the World Premiere of Trainspotting The Musical storms into the West End this summer, written by Irvine Welsh (adapted from his best-selling debut novel) and directed and developed by Caroline Jay Ranger. This is the story of the outsiders, the rebels – a brand-new expectation-defying and seismic British musical, pumping in live and loud defiance across the Theatre Royal Haymarket stage from Wednesday 15 July. Tickets are available from 8.00am on Tuesday 24 March from TrainspottingTheMusical.co.uk.

In 1996 the “breakthrough British film” (The Guardian) Trainspotting was released and became the biggest grossing UK film of the year taking over $76 million worldwide and won a slew of awards including a BAFTA for Best Screenplay. In 1999 it was ranked 10th in the British Film Institute’s ‘Top 100 Greatest British Films of the 20th Century’. Now, three decades later, cult heroes of British youth culture Renton, Sick Boy, Begbie, Spud, Tommy and Kelly, are back alongside an ensemble cast and a live band. Renton (played in the film by Ewan McGregor) will be played on stage by 26-year-old Scottish actor Robbie Scott, making his West End debut. Further casting will be announced soon.

Irvine Welsh said: “This musical has a bigger, loudly beating human heart than either the book or the film. The various stage adaptations of Trainspotting have become acclaimed and moving theatrical experiences and the soundtrack to the movie is obviously iconic. So it made sense to put the music and words together to create an explosive, provocative and entertaining show. People need to think about the world we’re living in, and we offer that inspection, but they also really need to sing their hearts out and laugh their heads off – it’s what being human is all about – and they’ll be well served with this too.”

Featuring some of the electrifying tracks from the film that defined a generation. Together with original confrontational and celebratory songs – music and lyrics by Stephen McGuinness and Irvine Welsh – it’s a genre defining new musical that speaks to our contemporary malaise of defiance in the face of an uncertain future.

Radical, invigorating and life-affirming, this provocative, unforgettable experience will have even the most sceptical leave on a consciousness-altering high.

Trainspotting is not just a show. It’s a moment. It’s a manifesto. It’s who we are.

CHOOSE LIFE.

Creative Team

Written by: Irvine Welsh

Director & Development: Caroline Jay Ranger

Music & Lyrics: Stephen McGuinness & Irvine Welsh

Set & Costume Designer: Colin Richmond

Musical Supervisor, Orchestrator & Music Director: Stuart Morley

Video Designer: Douglas O’Connell

Choreographer: Christina Andrea

Lighting Designer: Ian Scott

Sound Designer: Rory Madden for Sonalyst

Associate Director: Denise Ranger

Casting Director: Anne Vosser

Listings Information

Theatre Royal Haymarket

First Performance: Wednesday 15 July

Performances: Monday to Saturday at 7.30pm, matinees on Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm

Running Time: Two hours, including 20 minute interval

Age Guidance: 15+

Website: TrainspottingTheMusical.co.uk

Instagram: @Trainspottingthemusical

Facebook: /Trainspottingthemusical

Irvine Welsh

Irvine Welsh was born and raised in Edinburgh. His first novel, Trainspotting, has sold over one million copies in the UK and was adapted into an era-defining film. He has written 14 further novels, including the number one Sunday Times bestseller Dead Men’s Trousers, four books of shorter fiction and numerous plays and screenplays. Irvine Welsh currently lives between London, Edinburgh and Miami.

Stephen McGuinness

Stephen McGuinness, also known as Steve Mac, is one of the pioneering figures in UK dance music, whose productions have shaped club culture for more than three decades. After a long career creating influential house records and remixes played around the world, he is now expanding his work into theatre, television and film composition.

He first made a major impact in the mid-1990s when, at just 23, he remixed Todd Terry’s ‘Jumpin’’, which unexpectedly crossed into the UK pop charts at No.7 in 1996 – a rare achievement for a club-driven instrumental record.

As one half of the influential house duo Rhythm Masters, McGuinness produced and remixed hundreds of records that became staples of club culture worldwide. Across his career he has remixed over 400 tracks, working with artists including Michael Jackson, Barry White, Amy Winehouse, INXS, Art of Noise and Yello, to name just a few. His own productions, including ‘Paddy’s Revenge’ and ‘Lovin’ You More’, became defining club records of their era, with ‘Paddy’s Revenge’ also reaching the UK pop charts.

Alongside his recording career he founded the influential house label Jack Said What, which he runs with Irvine Welsh, Carl Loben and Rob Miller. Writing the music for Trainspotting The Musical, created with Irvine Welsh, marks the opening of a new chapter in his creative career.

Caroline Jay Ranger

Caroline moved into directing after a long career in theatre and its related forms as a performer, working with Peter Darling, Arlene Philips, Antony Van Laast, Alan Harding and Clark Peters. Throughout the 1980s she worked with music artists on videos including Nomad, Adamski, Kiss, David Grant, Jackie Graham, Queen and Freddie Mercury. Choreography includes: many rock concerts and live shows for Steve Coogan and Tim Minchin amongst others. As a performer her West End Theatre includes: Starlight Express, West Side Story, Jesus Christ Superstar, Closer to Heaven and Chicago.

In 2008 she returned to study directing at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art under Sue Dunderdale and with mentor Michael Attenborough CBE. During this period she was assistant director to Matthew Warchus on God of Carnage on Broadway and Stephen Unwin at the Rose, Kingston.

Directing credits include: Steve Coogan Live UK & Australian tour, the Rod Stewart Musical Tonight’s the Night (2006 & 2014 tours), The Shape of Things by Neil LaBute (Edinburgh Festival), Love in the Time of Barriers by Hassan Abdul Razzak and Perve by Stacey Gregg (Vanburgh, RADA), Look Back in Anger by John Osborne (Rose, Southwark), The Cook and the Insurgent by Hassan Abdul Razzak (BBC3 Celebrating Sanctuary at the Southbank), Immaculate Conception by Cary Crankson (Vanburgh, RADA), Mr WH – A Forgery by Billie Brown (RADA), Marbles by Lydia Prior (Soho Theatre Project Wednesday), Staging for Tim Minchin Live Tour. Associate director to Eric Idle on Monty Python (Almost) Live (The O2, London 2014). Harry Enfield and Paul Whitehouse Legends Live Tour (2015).

She worked alongside John Cleese and directed the adaptation of Fawlty Towers Live which premiered in Sydney August 2016. Associate Director on the West End production of Roddy Doyle’s The Commitments Musical 2013 (The Palace Theatre) and directed The Commitments Musical for the UK tour (2016/17). Most recent directing credit include Early Doors Live 2018 by Craig Cash and Phil Mealey and consultant Director on Clive Tulloh and Joanna Lumley’s It’s All About Me UK Tour 2018/19.

After working on the early development of Only Fools and Horses The Musical she then directed its West End debut which ran at the Theatre Royal, Haymarket. The final West End performance of Only Fools and Horses The Musical was on April 29th 2023 after a four year run at Theatre Royal Haymarket – making it the longest running show in the prestigious theatre’s history.

After breaking box office records in theatres around the UK in 2024, Vinnie Jones played the gangster Danny Driscoll for a limited three week season at Hammersmith Apollo – playing to over 75,500 people.

Most recently she recreated her direction with Fawlty Towers – The Play at the Apollo Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue. Playing to sold out houses. Fawlty Towers brought laughter back to the Apollo Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue in 2025 and marked the 50 year anniversary of the first episode being aired on the BBC. Fawlty Towers – The Play continues to delight sold out houses on its first UK Tour running until the end of July 2026.

Caroline has been in development working closely with Irvine Welsh, Stuart Morley, Stephen McGuinness and full creative team on the world premiere of Trainspotting The Musical which opens July 2026 at London’s Theatre Royal Haymarket.

COMEDY LEGENDS

FRENCH AND SAUNDERS

REUNITE ON STAGE IN THE WEST END

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 17 YEARS

IN

THE LONDON PALLADIUM PANTO 2026

LONDON’S MOST SPECTACULAR PANTO

STARS PALLADIUM ROYALTY JULIAN CLARY

Saturday 5 December 2026 – Sunday 10 January 2027

Sign-up for priority booking at www.palladiumpantomime.com

London, Tuesday 24 March: Michael Harrison for Crossroads Pantomimes today announces the 11th season of The London Palladium Pantomime, revealing that comedy legends French & Saunders will reunite on stage in the West End for the first time in 17 years in the magical rags-to-riches fairytale Cinderella.

They will join London Palladium royalty, Julian Clary, wand in hand as The Fairy Godfather, alongside Palladium Panto favourites Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers and Rob Madge, as London’s most spectacular pantomime returns to its most iconic theatre.

Tickets go on general sale at 10am on Thursday 2 April 2026. Sign-up for Priority Booking from Tuesday 31 March at 10am at www.palladiumpantomime.com

Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders will reunite on the West End stage for the first time in 17 years as the wickedly hilarious Ugly Sisters. The beloved comedy duo has kept the nation laughing since the launch of their hit BBC sketch show, in which no celebrity or Hollywood blockbuster was safe from their razor-sharp satire, right through to their recent podcast success, French & Saunders: Titting About.

No strangers to the magic of pantomime at The London Palladium, Dawn French has appeared twice in Michael Harrison’s productions: first as Queen Dragonella in Snow White (2018/2019) and later as Dame Trot in Jack and the Beanstalk (2022/2023). Jennifer Saunders made her Palladium pantomime debut in the 2023/2024 season of Peter Pan, delighting audiences as the dastardly Captain Hook.

Dawn and Jennifer said:

“We have wished to play the Ugly Sisters for so many years, it feels this is the fulfilment of a dream – a dream our hearts made. Watch out. It won’t be pretty.”

2026 marks the 11^th year that Julian, Paul and Nigel have appeared in every single pantomime at the world-famous venue, since Harrison first revived the annual festive season tradition at the theatre with 2016’s Cinderella. Rob Madge (Cabaret, My Son’s A Queer) is also back by popular demand, having made a triumphant debut in 2022’s Jack and the Beanstalk.

The principal company this year also welcomes acclaimed TV and theatre star Dex Lee (known for his long-running role inBBC 1’sDoctors and theatre credits including Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Piccadilly Theatre)as Prince Charming, with musical theatre star Hope Dawe (Burlesque, Weird)stepping into the glass slippers as Cinderella. The fairytale couple are both set to make their debuts in The London Palladium Pantomime this Christmas.

Michael Harrison said:

“Last year’s production of Sleeping Beauty broke all records at the London Palladium. We always want to raise the bar for our incredible panto audiences each year, so I’m absolutely delighted that Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders will be starring in this year’s Cinderella. Having two of the nation’s most beloved comedy icons together on the Palladium stage is incredibly exciting. Their legendary chemistry and razor-sharp humour will make this a truly special experience for audiences.”

You shall go to the most magical ball in the land this Christmas as the world-famous London Palladium, invites you to the dazzling rags-to-riches fairytale Cinderella.

Expect the most spectacular costumes in Pantoland, sensational special effects, side-splitting comedy and all the magic that has made The London Palladium the true home of pantomime for the past decade.

Harrison’s production has set designs by Mark Walters and costume designs by Hugh Durrant, Teresa Nalton and Mike Coltman created especially for The London Palladium, choreography by Karen Bruce, visual special effects by The Twins FX, lighting designs by Ben Cracknell, sound designs by Matt Peploe and composition and orchestrations by George Dyer.

Last year’s 10^th anniversary production of Sleeping Beauty broke the Palladium Pantomime’s own record for the biggest ever audience across a 5-week season, with more than 137,000 patrons attending the show, breaking the previous record of 132,000 for Robin Hood in 2024, in turn making the show the highest grossing pantomime of all time and achieving the highest-grossing week for any show at the box office of the iconic venue.

Cinderella is produced and directed by Michael Harrison for Crossroads Pantomimes.As a producer in the West End, his credits include Titanique, Hello, Dolly! Sunset Boulevard, The Little Big Things, Crazy For You, The Wizard of Oz, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Drifters Girl, Gypsy, Starlight Express, the record-breaking 2025 summer season of Evita and this year’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar at theLondon Palladium.

Crossroads Pantomimes is the world’s biggest pantomime producer and part of Crossroads Live, a global leader in the production of musical theatre and immersive entertainment experiences.

LW Tickets is once again the official box office provider for the Palladium Pantomime.

CINDERELLA | LISTINGS INFORMATION 

The London Palladium

Argyll Street

London

W1F 7TF

Dates

Saturday 5 December 2026 – Sunday 10 January 2027

Cast

French & Saunders The Ugly Sisters
Julian Clary  The Fairy Godfather
Paul Zerdin  Zerdini
Nigel Havers  King Charmer
Rob Madge  Sequins
Dex Lee   Prince Charming
Hope Dawe  Cinderella

Website

www.palladiumpantomime.com

Social Media

Twitter:   @PalladiumPanto   

Facebook:  PalladiumPanto

Instagram:   palladiumpanto

Crossroads Pantomimes

With a glittering array of star names headlining spectacular, lavish productions, Crossroads Pantomimes is the world’s biggest pantomime producer. With renowned creative teams, talented casts and musicians, and passionate production teams, the company create pantomimes which are at the heart of family entertainment across the UK. As part of Crossroads Live, the company works under the leadership of Michael Harrison and is chaired by David Ian.

The London Palladium has been the capital’s majestic home of variety for over a century, and to this day it continues to delight and surprise audiences with its rich tapestry of acts. We’ve welcomed a staggering selection of greats from Bob Hope and Louis Armstrong to the Two Ronnies, Bruce Forsyth and Cliff Richard. This proud tradition has continued since the theatre joined the LW Theatres family in 2000, hosting recent headliners as diverse as Bob Dylan, Madonna, Coldplay, Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Ocean, and Dita Von Teese. An annual pantomime made a return to The London Palladium in 2016.

CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR

MATTHEW BOURNE’S LEGENDARY DANCE THRILLER

AS IT RETURNS FOR AN EXTENSIVE UK TOUR

OPENING AT CURVE, LEICESTER
FROM 15 JUNE 2026

BEFORE VISITING A FURTHER 17 VENUES

INCLUDING

A 5-WEEK SUMMER SEASON

AT

SADLER’S WELLS

New Adventures is delighted to announce casting for Matthew Bourne’s award-winning dance thriller THE CAR MAN which returns for a 2026 UK tour, opening at Curve, Leicester on 15 June 2026 before visiting a further 17 venues over 23 weeks, including a 5-week summer season at Sadler’s Wells. The production will then play a newly announced weeklong run at Royal Theater Carré, Amsterdam. Listings information below.

The title role of the magnetic Luca, “The Car Man”, will be played by Will Bozier and Harrison Dowzell, both former lead Swans in Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, alongside New Adventures’ much-loved stars, Cordelia Braithwaite and Ashley Shaw as the alluring Lana. Rising stars, Leonardo McCorkindale and Harry Ondrak-Wright play the troubled misfit, Angelo, whilst Anna Maria de Freitas with Kurumi Kamayachi make their leading role debuts as Lana’s devoted sister, Rita. Danny Reubens and the original “Car Man” himself, Alan Vincent will portray Lana’s jealous husband, Dino.

Joining them as the other inhabitants of the USA town of “HARMONY” are Jack Frame, Serena McCall, Rae Miller, Jack Widdowson and Karishma Young,  who all make their New Adventures debuts in the production, alongside returning New Adventures performers, Tanisha Addicott, Jamie Duncan-Campbell, Cameron Flynn, Rory Macleod, Callum Mann, Eleanor McGrath, Jarrod McWilliams, Eve Ngbokota, Nikolas Shikkis, Xavier Andriambolanoro-Sotiya and Lyra Treglown.

Matthew Bourne said today:

“As we announce a thrilling new 2026 cast for our dance thriller, THE CAR MAN, it’s interesting to reflect on how iconic, unique and sought after the leading roles in this show have become since it was made in 2000. We are still the only company in the world to perform this production and yet the roles of Luca, Lana, Angelo, Rita and Dino have become as legendary as the show itself and a unique part of the UK dance landscape for several generations of young dancers. I’m proud that New Adventures never just “revives” a show; we re-invent, question and grow with each new cast which is why I’m so excited to revisit the small town of Harmony this summer and, much like Luca himself, shake things up a bit!”

THE CAR MAN was first seen in 2000, winning the Evening Standard Award for Musical Event of the Year and the Los Angeles Drama Critics Award for Best Choreography. It was last seen in a unique revival for The Royal Albert Hall’s 150^th Birthday in 2022. This expanded production received rave reviews and nightly standing ovations. However, this will be the first time THE CAR MAN has toured since 2015.

Loosely based on Bizet’s ever-popular opera, THE CAR MAN has one of the most thrilling and instantly recognisable scores in New Adventures’ repertoire. The familiar 19^th century Spanish cigarette factory becomes a greasy 1950s garage-diner in the American Mid-West where the dreams and passions of a small-town are shattered by the arrival of a handsome and enigmatic stranger. Fuelled by heat and desire, the inhabitants are driven into an unstoppable spiral of greed, lust, betrayal and revenge.

Directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne, THE CAR MAN has music by Terry Davies & Rodion Shchedrin’s Carmen Suite (after Bizet’s Carmen), with sound by Paul Groothuis, lighting by Chris Davey and design by Lez Brotherston.

For more information please visit: www.new-adventures.net

Facebook /MBNewAdventures  Instagram @MBNewAdventures   TikTok @MBNewAdventures

LISTINGS

MONDAY 15 – SATURDAY 20 JUNE 2026

CURVE, LEICESTER

www.curveonline.co.uk

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 23 – SATURDAY 27 JUNE 2026

LOWRY, SALFORD

thelowry.com

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 30 JUNE – SATURDAY 4 JULY 2026

HULL NEW THEATRE

www.hulltheatres.co.uk

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 7 – SATURDAY 11 JULY 2026

MILTON KEYNES THEATRE

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

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 14 – SATURDAY 18 JULY 2026

THEATRE ROYAL, PLYMOUTH

theatreroyal.com

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 21 – SATURDAY 25 JULY 2026

LYCEUM THEATRE, SHEFFIELD

www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 28 JULY – SATURDAY 29 AUGUST 2026

SADLER’S WELLS

www.sadlerswells.com

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 1 – SATURDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 2026

BRISTOL HIPPODROME

www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 8 – SATURDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2026

NEWCASTLE THEATRE ROYAL

www.theatreroyal.co.uk

ON SALE NOW

WEDNESDAY 16 – SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 2026

MAYFLOWER THEATRE, SOUTHAMPTON

www.mayflower.org.uk

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 22 – SATURDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2026

THEATRE ROYAL, NOTTINGHAM

trch.co.uk

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 29 SEPTEMBER – SATURDAY 3 OCTOBER 2026

NORWICH THEATRE ROYAL

norwichtheatre.org

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 13 – SATURDAY 17 OCTOBER 2026

BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME

www.birminghamhippodrome.com

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 20 – SATURDAY 24 OCTOBER 2026

ALHAMBRA THEATRE, BRADFORD

www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 27 – SATURDAY 31 OCTOBER 2026

KING’S THEATRE, GLASGOW

www.atgtickets.com/venues/kings-theatre-glasgow

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 3 – SATURDAY 7 NOVEMBER 2026

FESTIVAL THEATRE, EDINBURGH

www.capitaltheatres.com

ON SALE NOW

TUESDAY 10 – SATURDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2026

MARLOWE THEATRE, CANTERBURY

marlowetheatre.com

ON SALE NOW

WEDNESDAY 18 – SATURDAY 21 NOVEMBER 2026

CONGRESS THEATRE, EASTBOURNE

trafalgartickets.com/eastbourne-theatres-eastbourne

ON SALE NOW

WEDNESDAY 25 – SUNDAY 29 NOVEMBER 2026

ROYAL THEATER CARRÉ, AMSTERDAM

carre.nl/en

ON SALE SOON