Ginger Johnson Blows Off! review

Soho Theatre, London – until 12 October 2024

Reviewed by Claire Roderick

4****

Ginger Johnson has achieved her dream of winning Drag Race UK, so what could be next for this self-proclaimed big shot? Her entrance on a mini motorbike and her spectacular Evel Knievel style outfit are huge hints in this gloriously daft show.

Ginger regales the audience with the story of her childhood inspiration – a circus performer who was shot from a cannon every night – and her new mission to be a daredevil. As a consummate professional, Ginger doesn’t attempt anything without the supervision of her Health and Safety consultant, Jen. Jen’s black overalls and hilariously resolute bored blank expression make her a wonderful silent foil for the bright and brash Ginger. Between crowd-pleasing 80s inspired bangers by Bourgeois and Maurice, Ginger ramps up the danger level in each stunt as she builds up to her huge finale.

The show has just the right amount of cheesy inspirational talk about facing your fears amongst the hilarious antics and Ginger works the audience brilliantly, clambering among them to find the bravest person in the room to assist her on stage, effortlessly carrying everyone along on a wave of manic charisma and camp silliness as we ooh and ahh on cue as she attempts her death defying farts and stunts.

A brilliantly bonkers show from one of the best in the business, Ginger Johnson Blows Off! is unmissable.

Tour Dates:

Thu 17 Oct – Komedia, Bath

Sat 19 Oct – Northern Stage, Newcastle

Thu 24 Oct – Crescent Theatre, Birmingham

Fri 25 Oct – Sat 26 Oct – Norwich Playhouse

Sun 27 Oct – The Y Theatre, Leicester

Fri 1 Nov – Sherman Theatre, Cardiff

Sat 2 Nov – City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds

Sun 10 Nov – Old Fruitmarket, Glasgow

Wed 13 Nov – Liverpool Playhouse

Fri 15 Nov – Brighton Dome, Corn Exchange

Fri 22 Nov – HOME Manchester

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Meet and Greet Event

Leeds Playhouse – 26th September 2024

Reviewed by Dawn Smallwood

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Exclusive Meet and Greet Event was organised by the Leeds Playhouse and Chris Harper Productions. It was an opportunity for one to be fully immersed and be acquainted for when The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe comes to Leeds Playhouse in November for the festive season ahead of a national tour in the new year. The UK tour is part of 75th anniversary of when C S Lewis’ novel was published.

All the invitees were invited to descend, step through the “wardrobe” and into the Kingdom of Narnia. Firstly, admiring close up the incredible characters’ costumes for the forthcoming production including the standout one belonging to the Cruellest White Witch.

Then the director, Michael Fentiman, and designer, Tom Paris, shared words about the planning and processing of the production and how this will manifest into narrating the story amidst a magical and spectacular setting. A performance was given from the original West End’s Mr Tumnus who was accompanied by a pianist and violinist. Puppetry will play a key role in the production with the welcome of Aslan, the legendary lion, making its grand presence at the latter stages of the event.

The Meet and Greet Event is a taste of what is to come at the end of the year. This production no doubt will be an immersive and spectacular theatrical treat and celebrating artistically and creatively in performance and production. A sweet ending to the event was that everyone being given a hot chocolate and a Turkish delight.

The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe will run at the Playhouse from 18th November 2024 to 25th January 2025 before embarking on a national tour.

Dame Maggie Smith – Dimming of the Lights

Dame Maggie Smith – Dimming of the Lights 

Following the sad news of the passing of legendary actress Dame Maggie Smith, West End theatres will dim their lights for 2 minutes at 7pm on Tuesday 1 October, in her memory. 

Smith was a six-time Olivier Award nominee and was the recipient of the 2010 Special Award.  

Hannah Essex, Co-CEO of the Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre, said: 

“Today the theatre world, and the nation, have lost an icon. Throughout her seventy-one years on stage and screen, Dame Maggie Smith was a magnificent talent and will be remembered as one of the most significant performers British theatre has ever seen. Our deepest condolences are with her family and loved ones, and we are proud to be able to honour her remarkable career in some small way.”

Ghost the Musical 

Darlington Hippodrome – until 28th July 2024

Review by Stee Leahy

5*****

If you’re a fan of the 90’s movie, Ghost the Musical will be a huge hit for you! A perfect night out.

Being back in the stunning Darlington Hippodrome theatre for ‘Ghost the Musical’ was yet again another great treat. After a slightly late start to the show we were introduced to the leading pair, Sam and a Molly – played to perfection by the incredibly talented Josh St. Clair and the mesmerising Rebekah Lowings. “Here Right Now” was the opening number and it really did set the tone for the shows lyrics and score. 

Both Lowings and St. Clair’s chemistry was magical from the get go, each bouncing off one another in a charming and adorably playful way, perfectly captivating the genuine love between the two characters. 

We didn’t have to wait long for our first instalment of the movie’s most iconic song – ‘Unchained Melody’ – performed here with a comical twist by Sam. 

When you think of ‘Ghost’, most likely you think of the classic pottery making scene – this was of-course included in this stage adaptation. You could practically feel the goosebumps throughout the theatre when Molly got to work on the clay. It was perfect. 

James Mateo-Salt brought the character of Carl to life, respectively. His crisp vocals during his number “More” were excellent. His character arc throughout the show is one to watch… in particular his scenes with Lowings are fantastic. 

Les Dennis made two cameo appearances, one in each act. His portrayal of the ‘Hospital Ghost’ in act one was a particularly sweet moment. It was a very pleasant surprise. 

Now, I need to take a moment to appreciate Jacqui Dubois. What a powerhouse of a comical performer. Dubois played Oda Mae Brown and brought the house down. Her comical timing was unmatched and her presence on stage was welcomed with open arms. Providing some much needed comic relief, Dubois stole the show. Bravo!

I would say the shows stand out moment was provided by Rebekah Lowings. Her rendition of “With You” was nothing short of theatrical perfection. I can confidently speak on behalf of the shows entire audience when I say it was pure magic. Her execution, precision and emotional thermometer were all so perfectly in tune with one another. It was without fault.

The 2nd rendition of ‘Unchained Melody’ came at the perfect moment. Not a dry eye was left in the house. Lowings and St. Clair pulled each and every member of the audience into their connection. It was perfect. 

The shows ensemble were brilliant, each playing their part to bring this 90’s classic to the stage. The vocals, choreography and direction were great! 

I can not recommend ‘Ghost the Musical’ enough, but take your tissues. Trust me – you’ll need them. 

Never Let Me Go Review

Rose Theatre – until 12th October 2024

Reviewed by Carly Burlinge

5*****

The Rose Theatre brings you the production of never let me go based on the well-known novel by Kazuo Ishiguro adapted by Suzanne Heathcote and directed by Christopher Haydon. It tells the story of a group of students that have been cloned and reside at Hailsham boarding school, where their futures have already been decided! They are trained to take care of other doners before having to donate their own organs only leading to their death!

Kathy (Nell Barlow) who is one of the clones takes you through her story of being at Hailsham, her childhood there alongside the friends she’s made Ruth (Matilda Bailes)  Tommy (Angus Imrie) and others. Whilst going through her childhood antics it also hits on Kathy’s love for Tommy that gets pushed aside by her best friend, Ruth stepping in despite knowing the true feeling between the pair from the very start. This only causing a void that threatens their friendship making them split. But then coming back together years later, where the circumstances are very different, they are now faced with the reality that they always knew and was told would be coming! “You were brought into this world for a purpose. And your futures – all of them – have been decided.”

All the acting throughout this performance I felt was strong and powerful the connection that was delivered on stage was exceptional. I felt the emotion and even shed a tear at the end. The production was thought provoking making me think about what it really means to be a human!

The set was very simple but very skilfully managed with great lighting to dramatise certain scenes. Simple props were used to go back and forth to different times within the story very cleverly done, as well as some other backdrops and sounds that really gave the story some added feeling and emotion.

All in all, Never Let Me Go was a remarkable production with much feeling superb acting from a strong cast with a great story line well worth a watch. Definitely not one to be missed!!!

Wonderboy Review

LIVERPOOL PLAYHOUSE – UNTIL 28th SEPTEMBER 2024

REVIEWED BY JEN HUGHES DALEY

5*****

An absolute eye opening and mind-blowing performance. Wonderboy, written by Ross Wilson and Directed by Sally Cookson takes you on a journey through the life experiences of Sonny, a 12 year old boy , navigating his life in foster care and through High School with a debilitating stammer.

Making his theatrical debut, Hilson Agbangbe, (Sonny) utterly blew me away with his insightful and accurate portrayal of a young person with a Special Educational Need and childhood trauma. Working with such children in my day job, the accuracy was profound. I felt every ounce of the frustration, shame and pain etched on his face and oozing from his stimming body.

Music, lights and dance at times gave the performance a thriller edge creating an unmissable atmosphere of tension and angst, catapulting me into what felt like empathetic Sonny emotional rollercoaster.

Captivating, emotional, heart wrenching and hilarious, the very small cast and the very minimal set props only added to the audience emphasis being on every powerful, painful and poignant word spoken and read. The wonderful relationship between Sonny and his teacher, Wainwright (Eva Scott) hit hard. Beautifully portrayed is a teacher who cared and who made a difference even when faces with the wrath of Sonny’s rage and frustration. The silences, the sounds, the facial expressions were sometimes more powerful than the spoken word.

In a juxtaposed, literary world of Comic Strips and Shakespeare, Roshi’s (Hilson Agbangbe) soliloquy synopsis of Hamlet, with a splattering of hilarious obscenities, had the audience in hysterics as did the regular appearance of the much misunderstood Ryvita. I would 100% recommend you go to see this phenomenal performance. Not only entertaining but educational in terms of life through the lens of a Young Person with significant challenges – which this play shone a much needed light on.

Little Women

York Theatre Royal – until Saturday 12th October 2024

Reviewed by Michelle Richardson

5*****

Published in 1868, Louisa May Alcott’s timeless classic, Little Women, has been adapted for the stage by Anne-Marie Casey. Under the direction of Juliet Forster, it is currently playing at York Theatre Royal.

The book was inspired by Alcott’s own experiences growing up with her three sisters. It is a classic coming-of-age story following the lives of the four March sisters, Meg (Ainy Medina), Jo (Freya Parks), Beth (Laura Soper) and Amy (Helen Chong), growing up during the American Civil War. The bond between the sisters and their Marmee (Kate Hampson), are strong, enduring life through a time of uncertainty, whilst their father is away serving in the Civil War.

Meg is the eldest, the most traditional, wishing for marriage and children. Spirted Jo, is ahead of her time, an aspiring writer, fiercely independent and full of female empowerment. Beth is the quiet one, a confident pianist, shy and selfless, who will do anything for anyone. Amy is the youngest, thoroughly spoiled, who matures into a graceful lady. All four actors were superb in their portrayals of the sisters, as we follow them through their struggles and triumphs, as they grow up in front of our eyes.

The rest of the characters are, Laurie (Nikhil Singh Rai), Jo’s close friend who declares his undying love, before eventually marrying Amy, Aunt March (Caroline Gruber), their hard to please, but understanding wealthy relation, John (Jack Ashton), Meg’s husband and Professor Bhaer (also played by Ashton), who Jo meets in New York, where they bond over literature.

There is truly no weak link amongst the cast. You could feel the connection between each character, moments of laughter balanced with poignant, touching scenes. They successfully breathe life into Alcott’s novel.

If you have ever read the book, or seen any of the films, you will know that it is not only heartbreaking, but also full of joy, promise and fulfilment. This show covers all the main parts of the book, though a condensed version, but the heart of the story is still there, a homage to a classic tale. The themes of Little Women echo strongly in today’s world. The importance of family, individuality, the pursuit of your dreams, it certainly leaves you with a sense of optimism.

I can remember growing up that my mother was a huge fan of the book, and I know she would love to see this adaptation. What other recommendation do you need?

This fresh reworking of Little Women is heartwarming and a must see for all fans and newcomers alike, suitable for all.

2024’s Hottest Christmas Ticket *A Very Naughty Christmas* lands in London this December

“Both hilarious and heartwarming, this raunchy Christmas cabaret

had me laughing non-stop for the full eighty-minute run time.

It’s sparkly, sexy, spectacular, side-splitting, and, of course, very naughty.”

A VERY NAUGHTY CHRISTMAS

28TH NOVEMBER – 11TH JANUARY

SOUTHWARK PLAYHOUSE ELEPHANT 

TICKETS £35 | SOUTHWARKPLAYHOUSE.CO.UK

Christmas cabaret, stand-up comedy, burlesque and naughty musical theatre all rolled into one, A Very Naughty Christmas is Australia’s most successful Christmas musical show and is coming to London for the very first time for Winter 2024.

For fans of SIX: The Musical, The Play That Goes Wrong, and The Book of Mormon, A Very Naughty Christmas is a spectacular, sexy, silly, naughty and hilarious take on Christmas which is strictly for over 18s only.

With a playlist of Christmas classics as you’ve never heard them before(!) A Very Naughty Christmas is a comedy concert packed with stand-up, skits, parodied songs, dancing, singing, burlesque and a whole bunch of silliness. Having achieved cult status with sell out shows in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, this hit show is ready to storm the London stage.

Opening at London’s Southwark Playhouse Elephant on 28th November, A Very Naughty Christmas will run until mid-January with tickets on sale in July starting at £35. The show features a live band and a cast of 8 actors, with Australia’s original “Bad Santa” – the actor Stephen Hirst – coming over to London for the full run of the show.

Produced by Australian outfit Woodward Productions (The Woman In Black, Jersey Boys) and exec produced by London’s Glass Half Full Productions (9 to 5: The Musical, Back to the Future: The Musical), A Very Naughty Christmas is the creation of Australian theatre maestros Alex Woodward and Daniel Venz, having sold over 40,000 tickets in Australia. 

A clever, funny, adults-only burlesque-meets-musical-theatre, A Very Naughty Christmas is the perfect show to get you in the holiday mood this Christmas.

But don’t just take our word for it! Here is what audiences across Australia

have been saying about A Very Naughty Christmas for the past seven years!

“A very funny show. Fast paced and very clever. Every performer was excellent and extremely entertaining. Was very NAUGHTY without going over the top. Definitely worth attending.”

“Brilliant high energy performance from extremely gifted artists. Our faces were aching from laughing so much.”

“Hilarious, fun, brilliant music. I would go again!”

“A polished and joyful show, but if you are easily offended, don’t go because they swear like troopers and are not backward in coming forward!”

Ticket Information

Venue: Southwark PlayhouseElephant, 1 Dante Place, London, SE11 4RX

Getting There: The nearest stations are Borough and Elephant & Castle

Performance Dates & Times: 28th November – 11th January. Daily at 7.30pm. 

Ticket Prices: £35. £10 Pioneers’ Preview.

Box Office Link: https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/

Age Guidance: Strictly 18+. No under 18s will be admitted to the show.

‘Kiss Me, Kate’, starring Adrian Dunbar – cinema date announced

“COLE PORTER’S GREATEST MUSICAL COMEDY” 

Playbill 

LONDON’S FIVE STAR SUMMER MUSICAL SENSATION

KISS ME, KATE

TO BE RELEASED BY TRAFALGAR RELEASING IN CINEMAS

ACROSS THE UK, IRELAND, USA, AUSTRALIA

& SELECTED INTERNATIONAL TERRITORIES FROM 17 NOVEMBER

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT KISSMEKATECINEMA.COM

“The ultimate Broadway musical from the golden age” 

Financial Times 

Starring 

                       Multi-Award-Winning                Tony Award Winner 

               ADRIAN DUNBAR       STEPHANIE J. BLOCK 

                        As Fred Graham / Petruchio                      As Lilli Vanessi / Katharine  

Music and Lyrics by COLE PORTER 

Book by SAM AND BELLA SPEWACK 

Directed by Tony Award Winner BARTLETT SHER

Following huge critical acclaim this summer at the Barbican Theatre, the smash-hit production of KISS ME, KATE has been filmed especially for the big screen by Trafalgar Releasing and will be released in cinemas across the UK, Ireland, USA, Australia and selected international territories from 17 November, bringing the magic of this musical masterpiece to an even wider audience around the world. Tickets and participating venues are available now at KissMeKateCinema.com.

KISS ME, KATE was a five-star sensation during its three-month summer residency and audiences flocked to see this “showstopper of a musical” (City AM) thrill with its “exhilarating” (The Guardian) performances from multi-award-winning Adrian Dunbar, described by The i as “a revelation” in his musical theatre debut as Fred Graham / Petruchio and Broadway musical superstar and Tony Award winner Stephanie J. Block who “commands the stage and makes every note sing” (Time Out) in her West End debut as Lilli Vanessi / Katharine. 

Described by the Daily Mail as “sexy and sassy” with “great songs, hot dancing and smart gags” this dazzling production enchanted audiences and critics alike with its breathtaking choreography, show stopping numbers and star-studded cast delivering unforgettable performances. Now, thanks to the magic of cinema, theatre lovers everywhere will have the opportunity to experience the joy and spectacle of this “sizzling summer hit” (Daily Telegraph). The screenings promise to deliver the best of both worlds: the intimacy of live performance captured with the clarity and scale of film.

Adrian Dunbar said: “I’m delighted that KISS ME, KATE will continue its journey onto the big screen this November. We had a great three months at the Barbican and I thoroughly enjoyed treading the musical theatre boards for the first time. It’s exciting news that even more people will have the opportunity to see the show in cinemas across the UK, Ireland and beyond.”

Stephanie J. Block said: “I had such a wonderful time performing at the Barbican this summer in KISS ME, KATE. So, I’m delighted that the production was recorded for cinema release and will now be enjoyed by an even wider audience, including cinema goers in the USA.”

Producer Howard Panter says: “Following the tremendous success of our summer residency at the Barbican, which was nothing short of extraordinary, I am delighted that we can bring KISS ME, KATE to audiences around the world. The performances of our incredible critically acclaimed cast, led by the incomparable Adrian Dunbar and Stephanie J. Block, make this a must-see cinema event this November.”

Trafalgar Releasing’s CEO Marc Allenby says: “Following the cinema Box Office success of The King and I and Anything Goes, it’s great to be working with our partner Trafalgar Entertainment once again to bring this entertaining and uplifting musical comedy to cinemas across the UK and around the globe. With the filming produced and financed by Trafalgar Releasing, we are continuing to build our wide-ranging portfolio of theatre and cultural content captured especially for the big screen.”

The cast also features Charlie Stemp (Crazy For You, Mary Poppins) as Bill Calhoun and rising star Georgina Onuorah (The Wizard of Oz / Oklahoma!) as Lois Lane / Bianca. Hammed Animashaun (A Midsummer Night’s Dream / Black Ops) and Nigel Lindsay (Victoria / Shrek The Musical) are the singing hilarious gangsters and acting legend Peter Davison (Dr Who / All Creatures Great and Small) plays the role of the General. 

Director Bartlett Sher (The King and I, South Pacific and To Kill A Mockingbird) has brought together an all-star creative team who have collectively won a remarkable 20 Tony awards between them. The dynamic team includes renowned choreographer Anthony Van Laast, accomplished costume designer Catherine Zuber and leading set designer Michael Yeargan. With music and lyrics by Cole Porter and the book by Bella & Samuel Spewack, this new production promises a symphony of wit, charm and musical brilliance. Featuring a company of over 50, including a full-scale orchestra, they perform Cole Porter classics such as ‘Another Op’nin’, Another Show’, ‘Brush Up Your Shakespeare’, ‘Tom, Dick or Harry’ and ‘It’s Too Darn Hot’ – KISS ME, KATE is the perfect musical spectacle. 

The musical farce which brilliantly showcases razor-sharp wit, won Best Musical at the Tony Awards. It’s a sophisticated, ferociously funny, show within a show – which whisks you into a world of backstage chaos and romantic entanglements as a theatre company attempt to put on a production of Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’. The battle of the sexes takes centre stage as former spouses feud, only to find the off-stage antics rival the drama on-stage. Throw in a number of cases of mistaken identity, confused love, gangsters and a spectacular tap routine and you get…KISS ME, KATE

★★★★★ 

“I have rarely been in a theatre where a joyous audience loved a musical so much”

Daily Mail

★★★★

“Exhilarating”

Daily Telegraph

★★★★

“Enormous fun”

The Times

★★★★

“A supremely lovely way to spend a summer evening”

The Independent

★★★★

“A lush, wittily spectacular production”

Time Out

CREATIVE TEAM 

Bartlett Sher – Director 

Anthony Van Laast – Choreographer 

Michael Yeargan – Set Designer 

Catherine Zuber – Costume Designer 

Donald Holder – Lighting Designer 

Adam Fisher – Sound Designer 

Stephen Ridley – Music Supervisor 

LISTINGS INFORMATION 

Screening Dates: From Sunday 17 November 2024

Website: KissMeKateCinema.com 

X: @KissMeKateUK 

Facebook: @KissMeKateUK 

Instagram: @KissMeKateUK 

UK Theatre Awards 2024 nominations announced

Nominations announced for the UK Theatre Awards 2024 sponsored by Encore 

·         Nottingham Playhouse leads the way with four nominations across On Stage and Off Stage Awards categories 

·         Bristol Old Vic and Leeds Playhouse closely follow with three nods apiece 

The nominees for this year’s UK Theatre Awards have been announced. The UK Theatre Awards celebrate the very best of theatre across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Awards are given for creative excellence and outstanding work both on and off stage, including the Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre Award and the coveted UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award. The winners will be announced at this year’s ceremony, taking place on Sunday 20 October at 8 Northumberland Avenue, hosted by Faye Tozer. 

With nominees from all four nations, this year’s shortlist showcases the creativity and originality of theatre across the UK. Nottingham Playhouse leads the nominations with acknowledgements across four categories; Best Performance in a Play, Excellence in Inclusivity, Excellence in Sustainability and the Workforce Award. 

Two theatres receive three nods across various categories – Bristol Old Vic and Leeds Playhouse. Bristol Old Vic was home to productions in both the Best Musical Production and Best New Play categories, whilst also being nominated for Excellence in Inclusivity. Leeds Playhouse has received a nod for Best Musical Production, alongside two nominations in the Best Performance in a Musical category for Jenny Fitzpatrick (Oliver!) and John Hopkins (My Fair Lady). Matt Doyle completes the nominees for Best Performance in a Musical for Sinatra The Musical at Birmingham Rep. 

Elsewhere in the performing categories, actors Heather Agyepong & Tosin Cole (Shifters), Ian McDiarmid (The Caretaker), David Shields (Punch) and Keith Singleton (The Pillowman) are all nominated for Best Performance in a Play. Chumisa Dornford-May (Evita), Tania Mathurin (Barnum) and Andrew Schofield (Boys From The Blackstuff) are nominated for Best Supporting Performance (in a Musical or Play). 

Belgrade Theatre, Birmingham Rep, Buxton Opera House, Chichester Festival Theatre, Dundee Rep, Lyric Theatre Belfast, Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh, Royal Shakespeare Company and Wise Children have all garnered two nominations apiece. 

Claire Walker & Hannah Essex, Co-CEOs of Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, said: 

“Across the four nations UK Theatre members are creating incredible work and making a huge difference to their local communities. This year’s UK Theatre Awards nominations are a real testament to the quality and diversity of talent, storytelling and community engagement seen on stage and in venues right across the country.  

Congratulations to all the nominees, and thank you to our sponsors and partners for their fantastic support. We look forward to celebrating with you all on Sunday 20 October.” 

Nominations for the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award were announced last month, with 

Hall for Cornwall, Octagon Theatre Bolton and Polka Theatre making the shortlist. The winner will be revealed at the UK Theatre Awards. 

As announced last week, the recipient of this year’s Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre Award is Jenny Sealey OBE, Artistic Director of Graeae, who will be honoured at this year’s ceremony.  

The UK Theatre Awards 2024 are sponsored by Encore, with thanks to our partners AKT, Cunard, Harbottle & Lewis, John Good, MTI Europe, Theatre Tokens, Tysers in association with Ecclesiastical, Unusual Rigging and White Light. 

Full list of nominations for the UK Theatre Awards 2024 

On Stage Awards: 

Best Design 

Emma Bailey for Sunset Song  

Kenneth MacLeod for Dracula: Mina’s Reckoning  

Michael Taylor for Bhangra Nation 

Best Director 

Drew McOnie for The Artist  

Conrad Nelson for One Man, Two Guvnors  

Emma Rice for The Buddha Of Suburbia  

Roxana Silbert for The Girls Of Slender Means 

Best Musical Production sponsored by Tysers in association with Ecclesiastical 

The Big Life at Stratford East  

Oliver! at Leeds Playhouse  

Starter For Ten at Bristol Old Vic 

Best New Play sponsored by Cunard 

A Child Of Science at Bristol Old Vic 

Peanut Butter & Blueberries at Kiln Theatre 

Swim, Aunty, Swim! at Belgrade Theatre 

Best Play Revival 

The Deep Blue Sea at Ustinov Studio at Theatre Royal Bath   

Rhino at Lyric Theatre Belfast  

A Taste Of Honey at Royal Exchange Theatre   

Achievement in Dance sponsored by AKT 

London City Ballet for the company relaunch  

Mehek by Aakash Odedra Company & Aditi Mangaldas Dance Company  

Minotaur, Metamorphoses & Echo and Narcissus by Kim Brandstrup 

Achievement in Opera 

Thomas Allen for his career with Glyndebourne  

Buxton International Festival 2024 at Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre  

Death In Venice by Welsh National Opera in collaboration with NoFit State 

Best Supporting Performance (in a Musical or Play) 

Chumisa Dornford-May for Evita    

Tania Mathurin for Barnum  

Andrew Schofield for Boys From The Blackstuff 

Best Performance in a Musical 

Matt Doyle for Sinatra The Musical   

Jenny Fitzpatrick for Oliver!  

John Hopkins for My Fair Lady 

Best Performance in a Play 

Heather Agyepong & Tosin Cole for Shifters 

Ian McDiarmid for The Caretaker 

David Shields for Punch 

Keith Singleton for The Pillowman 

Best Show for Children & Young People 

Beauty And The Beast at Stephen Joseph Theatre  

Flip! at Soho Upstairs at Soho Theatre  

Starchitects Save Santa! At Midlands Arts Centre 

Off Stage Awards: 

Excellence in Arts Education 

Lyric Hammersmith  

Mayflower Theatre & MAST Mayflower Studios  

Royal Shakespeare Company 

Excellence in Touring sponsored by Theatre Tokens 

ETT 

Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru  

Wise Children 

Excellence in Inclusivity

Antony & Cleopatra at Shakespeare’s Globe  

Bristol Old Vic   

Punch at Nottingham Playhouse   

Excellence in Sustainability 

Chichester Festival Theatre  

Dundee Rep & Scottish Dance Theatre  

Nottingham Playhouse 

Workforce Award 

Buxton Opera House   

Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse  

Nottingham Playhouse 

UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre sponsored by Encore  

Hall for Cornwall  

Octagon Theatre Bolton  

Polka Theatre 

@UK_Theatre               #UKTAwards