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World premiere tour of a new play – The Lion and the Unicorn heads across the UK with a star-studded cast

UK Tour: Wednesday 2nd October – Saturday 19th October 2024

Fascinating new drama The Lion and the Unicorn is set on an evening in 1939, just six weeks after war has been declared, at a private dinner between Winston Churchill, Neville Chamberlain and their wives, Clementine and Anne.

Prime Minister Chamberlain has seen all his efforts to negotiate peace with Hitler shattered, while Winston Churchill has been recalled to the cabinet after ten years, his dire warnings of the Nazi threat finally vindicated. History tells us this was the only time the four ever met alone – there is no official record as to what transpired during that unique evening…

This exciting world premiere – based on the book Dinner With Churchill by Robin Hawdon – is presented as a radio-play-live-on-stage. The setting is a radio studio, the actors ready as if for a radio broadcast, and the sound effects created live on stage, all combining to transport the audience to wartime London.

The play is brought to life by a star-studded cast of actors, including Brian Capron (Coronation Street, Where The Heart Is) as Neville Chamberlain and Tim Hudson (De Gaulle, Father Brown) as Winston Churchill. Corrinne Wicks (Doctors, Emmerdale) will play Clementine Churchill, Sarah Gain (Twelfth Night, Much Ado About Nothing) plays Anne Chamberlain and Frazer Hines (Emmerdale, Doctor Who) is Inches, the Churchill’s butler.

From the pen of Robin Hawdon (Don’t Dress For Dinner, Revenge), this compelling new play is epic and intimate, dramatic and moving. It also has a striking relevance to the modern day and asks the question, how far should one go to pacify a threatening dictator?

Martin Parsons, the director, comments, Combining terrific performances, huge historic characters and issues that are as relevant today as they were in 1939, The Lion And The Unicorn is a striking, enthralling and original play. Offering a behind the scenes glimpse at the most personal conversations in the corridors of power, the drama sees the characters sharing their courage, convictions and doubts about decisions that affect the future of millions – and asks what would YOU do in the same situation? An impressive new play that I’m sure will be hugely popular with audiences, and feel privileged to bring to theatres across the country for the very first time – plus to have such fine and popular actors in these iconic roles.

Previous praise for Crime and Comedy Theatre Company’s work:

5-stars! A phenomenal evening at the theatre, I can’t recommend this play enough! (The Entertainment Views)

4 stars! An immensely entertaining evening (West End Best Friend)

A master class in razor-sharp interplay (Henley Standard)

BIGGER CAST / FINAL CASTING and THE BATTLE OF CABLE STREET ANNIVERSERY REMEMBERED AT CABLE STREET

The Battle of Cable Street’s Anniversary will be remembered at

CABLE STREET

Performance on FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER 2024

New musical marches onwards to Southwark Playhouse Elephant

The performance of CABLE STREET on Friday 4 October at the Southwark Playhouse Elephant will be particularly poignant for all the cast and company, alongside any audience member lucky enough to grab a ticket for this special night, the 88th anniversary of The Battle of Cable Street that was fought and won on the 4 October 1936. A timeless story, as powerful today as it was in 1936.

The evening on Friday 4 October will start at 7.20pm with the audience seated in the auditorium to hear a lively discussion between CABLE STREET’s key creatives and Professor Nadia Valman, who specialises in the history and culture of east London (Queen Mary University of London, co-editor of Remembering Cable Street: Fascism and Anti-fascism in British Society).

The emotionally charged performance of CABLE STREET will then start at its usual time of 7.45pm, immediately after this fascinating talk. All ticket holders will, of course, be given admittance for this memorable talk, or arrive to be seated for show time. The hugely powerful and topical CABLE STREET celebrates a community who came together with a call for action. Post show please do stay to meet the cast and raise a glass to The Battle of Cable Street. No Pasarán – They Shall Not Pass.

Nearly 70% of all the tickets for this thrilling new musical’s limited run of just 42 performances have already sold! So, grab your tickets while you can as it prepares to open at the Southwark Playhouse Elephant from Friday 6 September to Thursday 10 October 2024. The excitement and rush on tickets, once again shows that CABLE STREET catches the zeitgeist to tell this urgent story for today’s audiences. The world premiere of CABLE STREET (Southwark Playhouse Borough – February/March 2024) – sold out before the show even opened!

In this further developed new run of the critically acclaimed 5* British musical CABLE STREET, there is now a larger cast, with the final line up also including born and bred East Ender Gemma Salter (Made in Dagenham, Only Fools & Horses), Jimmy Chambers (Sherlock Holmes and the Poison Wood – Watermill Theatre) and Brady Isaacs Pearce (The Sandman – Southwark Playhouse, Les Misérables – International Tour). They will appear alongside the already announced new cast members Davina Moon, known for her West End roles including Life Of Pi, Bombay Dreams, Miss Saigon and many on screen credits including the film Matilda and popular TV series Ted Lasso. Making her London debut is Mia Overfield (Demon Dentist – UK tour, Jack & The Beanstalk – York).

The original cast returning to their much loved roles include Danny Colligan (Dirty Dancing, Book of Mormon, Les Misérables), Sha Dessi (Les Misérables – nominated by Sir Cameron Mackintosh for the Stage 25 Awards 2022) and Joshua Ginsberg (Wesker’s Chicken Soup with Barley – BBC Radio 4, 2024) – as the three young friends (Ron, Mairead and Sammy) who passionately live their lives in the multi-cultural melting pot that is Cable Street in 1936.

Marching again further original cast members Max Alexander-Taylor (The Lion – Southwark Playhouse); Aiofe Mac Namara (Cable Street), Ethan Pascal Peters (Showstopper! The Improvised Musical), Sarah Leatherbarrow (Miss Saigon) and Jez Unwin (Groundhog Day, Once, Ghost, Sweet Charity, Evita), making up the fantastic full line up of on-stage talent.

The extraordinarily talented ensemble company tell their stories as they all desperately try to carve out their own lives on Cable Street, when Oswald Mosley’s British Union of Fascists (Blackshirts) start to march on the East End. Over a hundred thousand Jews, Irish workers, trade unionists, the labour and communist parties, women and children all unite to blockade Cable Street – the road they all call home. As the people raise their voices with cries of, They Shall Not Pass, they take a united stand against hatred. The lives of the streets’ residents will change forever.

CABLE STREET is an electrifying reimagining of one of London’s most momentous days – when The Battle of Cable Street was fought and won in the heart of London’s East End on the 4October 1936 as racial tensions were running high and people took to the streets.

The Battle of Cable Street still resonates today, and the award-winning composer/lyricist Tim Gilvin and playwright Alex Kanefsky decided that CABLE STREET must feature a contemporary score: bringing to life a vital part of London’s rich diversity and history.CABLE STREET is Directed by Adam Lenson, Lead Producer Dylan Schlosberg’s 10 to 4 Productions (a production company dedicated to developing and investing in new musicals) and Producer Neil Marcus. The production team also includes Choreography Jevan Howard-Jones, Musical Supervisor Tamara Saringer, Musical Director Ellen Campbell, Associate Director Jamie Buller, Orchestrations and arrangements by Tim Gilvin, Vocal arrangements by Tim Gilvin & Tamara Saringer, Set Design Yoav Segal, Lighting Design Sam Waddington, Sound Charlie Smith, Costume Design Lu Herbert, Dramaturg Olivia Mace, Production Management The Production Office, Casting Sarah Leung.

CABLE STREET is the dazzling new British musical with an urgent story for today’s audiences.  Make sure you buy your tickets for CABLE STREET before it opens on 6 September!

★★★★★ “An Absolute Belter Of A Show” -WhatsOnStage
★★★★ “Dazzling Musical Portrait Of A Community Against Fascism” – The Guardian
★★★★ “Genuine Theatrical Swagger” – The Stage
★★★★★ “A Thrilling New Musical” – Broadway World
★★★★ “A Welcome Message Of Hope” – The Sun

FULL LISTINGS INFORMATION

LIMITED RUN – only 42 performances!

FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER to THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

CABLE STREET

Southwark Playhouse ELEPHANT, 1 Dante Pl, London SE11 4RX

southwarkplayhouse.co.uk

BOX OFFICE: 020 7407 0234 Box Office opens Monday – Saturday 10:00am-6pm Suggested age 13+

Evening shows: 7.45pm

Matinees: Thursdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm

Extra matinees: Monday 7 October and Tuesday 8 October 2024 

Ticket Prices

FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER & 2 x shows SATURDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2024 – all seat £18 Previews.

MONDAY 8 SEPTEMBER to THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 – £45/£35/£25 plus concessions

Twitter, Instagram and Facebook: @cablestmusical

H A R R Y   P O T T E R   A N D   T H E   C U R S E D   C H I L D

CELEBRATES 8 YEARS AT THE PALACE THEATRE

WWW.HARRYPOTTERTHEPLAY.COM

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child celebrates its 8^th anniversary at London’s Palace Theatre today, 30 July 2024, where it is currently booking until 6 April 2025.

Produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, Colin Callender and Harry Potter Theatrical Productions, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has now been seen by over 1.7 million people in the West End and over 11 million worldwide.

There have been 2740 performances of Part One and Part Two combined, totaling 6432 hours of performance from the 46 strong London cast.

Over the last eight years 256 cast members have performed in the original London two-part multi award-winning production at the Palace Theatre along with 215 people who have worked backstage to continue to bring Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to life each performance.

Writer Jack Thorne said “Making Harry Potter and the Cursed Child was a beautiful experience, working with John and our talented creative team and cast has been a wonderful journey. It really has been a team effort from every person involved in the show, and we are all proud to still be here 8 years on”

Director John Tiffany added “We have been on an incredible journey over the last 8 years, from opening the original production at the Palace Theatre in 2016 to taking the show to audiences worldwide. We have collaborated with many wonderful artists over the years, both on and off stage, all of whom have worked tirelessly to bring Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to our fantastic audiences each and every performance”

19 years after Harry, Ron, and Hermione saved the wizarding world, they’re back on a most extraordinary new adventure – this time, joined by a brave new generation that has only just arrived at the legendary Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Prepare for spectacular spells, a mind-blowing race through time, and an epic battle to stop mysterious forces, all while the future hangs in the balance.

The cast comprises David Ricardo-Pearce asHarry Potter, Polly Frame playing Ginny Potter and Ellis Rae as their son Albus Potter. Thomas Aldridge plays Ron Weasley with Jade Ogugua playing Hermione Granger along with Taneetrah Porter as their daughter Rose Granger-Weasley. Steve John Shepherd plays Draco Malfoy, with Harry Acklowe as his son Scorpius Malfoy. 

They are joined by Ishmail Aaron, David Annen, Nairn Archer, Darrell Brockis, Robert Curtis, Toby De Salis, Odelia Dizel-Cubuca, Rory Fraser, Jemma Geanaus, Harry Goodson-Bevan, Jemma Gould, Kelton Hoyland, David Ijiti, Chris Jarman, Sally Jayne Hind, Emma Louise Jones, Kathryn Meisle, Ian Redford, Abigail Rosser, Clancy Ryan, Tonny Shim, Adam Slynn, Sara Stewart, Benjamin Stratton, Maia Tamrakar, Alex Tomkins, Jake Tuesley, Sam Varley, Jess Vickers, Wreh-asha Walton, Katie Wimpenny. Abigail Austin, Oliver Dawson, Layla Duke, Honor Hastings, Aubrey Hayes, Aljosa Radosavljevic and Ethan Webster alternate two children’s roles.

Tickets for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child remain priced from £15 per part. The regular performance schedule is Monday, Tuesday and Thursday – no performance; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 2pm Part One & 7pm Part Two; Sunday – 1pm Part One & 6pm Part Two.

The access performances currently on sale are as follows – British Sign Language on Saturday 21 September 2024, Audio Described on Saturday 9 November 2024 and a Captioned Performance on Saturday 16 November 2024.

We are excited to announce that this year’s Back To Hogwarts celebrations will include the opportunity to win a place at a Harry Potter and the Cursed Child workshop where people will learn the iconic Wand Dance from the show. The workshop will be run by the production’s Resident Movement Director, Tash Holway, on the morning of 1 September at a Central London venue. To be in with a chance to win a place, enter at harrypottertheplay.com/backtohogwarts/

Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a new play by Jack Thorne, directed by John Tiffany with movement by Steven Hoggett, set by Christine Jones, costumes by Katrina Lindsay, music & arrangements by Imogen Heap, lighting by Neil Austin, sound by Gareth Fry, illusions & magic by Jamie Harrison,music supervision & arrangements by Martin Lowe, and casting by Julia Horan CDG and Lotte Hines CDG. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, Colin Callender and Harry Potter Theatrical Productions.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the first Harry Potter story to be presented on stage and the eighth story in the Harry Potter series, holds a record 60 major honors, with nine Laurence Olivier Awards including Best New Play and six Tony Awards including Best New Play. There are four productions running worldwide in London, New York, Hamburg, and Tokyo, with a North American tour starting in September 2024 at Chicago’s James M. Nederlander Theatre.

Box Office – 0330 333 4813

WWW.HARRYPOTTERTHEPLAY.COM

X / CursedChildLDN

Instagram / CursedChildLDN

TikTok / CursedChildOfficial

Facebook / CursedChildLDN

WizardingWorld.com

Access performances:

British Sign Language – Saturday 21 September 2024

Audio Described – Saturday 9 November 2024

Captioned Performance – Saturday 16 November 2024

Full casting unveiled for Shakespeare’s Coriolanus at the National Theatre as rehearsals begin

The National Theatre has today announced the full cast for its upcoming production of Shakespeare’s Coriolanus, directed by National Theatre Associate Lyndsey Turner (Under Milk Wood, The Crucible) and featuring David Oyelowo (Selma, Lawmen: Bass Reeves) in the titular role, as rehearsals begin on the South Bank.

Joining the cast, who will perform on the Olivier stage from 11 September to 9 November, are Chereen Buckley, Ashley Gerlach, Sam Hazeldine, Kemi-Bo Jacobs, Marcia Lecky, Pamela Nomvete, Oliver Senton and Jo Stone-Fewings.Four young performers will also share the role of Young Marcius across the season: Kyron Allen, Deniro-Carter Bhola, Kaelum Nelson and Cale Cole.   

They join previously announced cast members Luke Aquilina, Anushka Chakravarti, Anton Cross, Patrick Elue, Peter Forbes, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Conor McLeod, Jordan Metcalfe, David Oyelowo, Richard Pryal, Jordan Rhys, Stephanie Street and John Vernon.

Unrivalled in the art of war, undefeated on the field of battle, Coriolanus is Rome’s greatest soldier. When a legendary victory brings the opportunity of high office, he is persuaded to stand for election. But while populist politicians tell the people what they want to hear, Coriolanus refuses to play the game. As Rome’s most celebrated warrior becomes its most dangerous enemy, the future of the city and its hero hangs in the balance.

The creative team includes director Lyndsey Turner, set designer Es Devlin, costume designer Annemarie Woods, lighting designer Tim Lutkin, sound designer Tom Gibbons, video designer Ash J Woodward,fight director Sam Lyon-Behan, composer Angus MacRae, casting director Bryony Jarvis-Taylor, voice coaches Cathleen McCarron and Shereen Ibrahim, associate set designer Claudia Fragoso, associate costume designer Philip Engleheart,and staff director Júlia Levai.

The season will run in the Olivier theatre from 11 September – 9 November 2024.

George Renshaw and Markus Sodergren
announced for the UK premiere
of the Broadway musical

THE STORY OF MY LIFE

The Stage Door Theatre
150-151 Drury Lane
London WC2B 5TD

4 September – October 19

George Renshaw and Markus Sodergren, who both attended Arts Ed Performing Arts School and performed in the recent hit production of Heathers the Musical, will play childhood friends in the UK premiere of the intimate two-person Broadway musical The Story of My Life.

The Story of My Life, with Music and Lyrics by Neil Bartram and Book by Brian Hill, Directed by Robert McWhir, will open at the Stage Door Theatre in Drury Lane, the first pub theatre in the West End, on Wednesday 4 September and run to Saturday October 19.

Best-selling author Thomas Weaver has come back to his hometown to deliver the eulogy for his childhood friend, Alvin Kelby, but finds himself desperately scrambling for something to say. His reality is shattered by the memory of Alvin who takes him deep into Thomas’s mind cluttered with a lifetime of stories.

George Renshaw (Alvin) played ‘JD’ in Heathers the Musical at The Other Palace. He is currently playing Harry Wotton in Dorian the Musical at Southwark Playhouse.

Markus Sodergren (Thomas) returns to The Stage Door Theatre after playing ‘Man’ in the two-hander Stephen Sondheim revue, Marry Me A Little (Offie nomination Best Lead Performance in a Musical). His previous credits include Heathers the Musical (UK tour).

Nominated for four 2009 Drama Desk Awards, including Outstanding Musical, The Story of My Life is a Broadway rarity: an intimate musical that candidly explores the simplicity of human need and the complexity of emotions under which it lies buried.  A series of songs – in turn playful, touching and dramatic –  The Story of My Life inspires us to reconnect with those who were part of the earliest chapters of our own life stories.

Director Robert McWhir
Musical Director Aaron Clingham
Designer David Shields
Producer LAMBCO Productions

Neil Bartram (Music and Lyrics)
Neil is the composer and lyricist of Broadway’s The Story of My Life with book writer Brian Hill (four Drama Desk Award nominations). Other projects with Brian includeThe Adventures of Pinocchio (Chicago Shakespeare Theater), The Theory of Relativity (Canadian Music Theatre Project, Goodspeed Musicals, London Off-West End), Something Wicked This Way Comes (Delaware Theatre Company – 11 Barrymore Award nominations), and You Are Here(Goodspeed Musicals). Neil also wrote the score for Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s and Asolo Repertory Theatre’s productions of Shakespeare in Love. Upcoming projects include Les Belles (the stage adaptation of Michel Tremblay’s Les Belles Soeurs) and the stage adaptation of Disney’s beloved film Bedknobs & Broomsticks. Neil’s awards include the ASCAP Foundation’s Yellen Award, a Jonathan Larson Foundation Award, and a Dramatists Guild Fellowship.

Brian Hill (Book)
With composer/lyricist Neil Bartram, Brian has writtenThe Adventures of Pinocchio, The Theory of Relativity and The Story of My Life, which premiered on Broadway in 2009, earning four Drama Desk Award nominations (Outstanding Musical, Music, Lyrics, and Book). Current Bartram and Hill projects include Senza Luce (CMTP), Les Belles, You Are Here,Bedknobs and Broomsticks and Something Wicked This Way Comes (Delaware Theatre Company – 11 Barrymore Award nominations). Brian wrote the new book for the Old Globe’s production of October Sky and the revised book for the Goodman Theatre’s acclaimed production of Brigadoon.

Robert McWhir (Director)
Robert McWhir is Artistic Director of the Stage Door Theatre. Robert was previously Artistic Director of the Landor Theatre in Clapham for 16 years, where his many productions included critically acclaimed versions of The Clockmaker’s Daughter, She Loves Me, The Man Inside, Meet Me In St Louis, A Class Act, Curtains, Ragtime, Tomorrow Morning, Into The Woods, I Love You Because and Follies.
LISTINGS INFO

Lambco presents
the UK premiere of
the Broadway musical

The Story of My Life
Music and Lyrics by Neil Bartram
Book by Brian Hill

Directed by Robert McWhir

Stage Door Theatre
The Prince of Wales pub
150-151 Drury Lane
London
WC2B 5TD

Wednesday 4 September – Saturday October 19

Tuesday – Friday  at 19:30
Saturdays at 20.30pm  

Dinner Tickets: £41,
Show only: £24 (plus booking fee)

Box Office: 07917 221639

stagedoortheatre.co.uk

Show length 90 mins (no interval)

The Story of My Life is presented by
arrangement with Music Theatre International

Nottingham Theatre Royal – until Saturday 3 August 2024

Reviewed by Amy V Gathercole

3***

“Full of nostalgia, iconic 80s music and a timeless love story – it’s a fun night out”

The surprising scene where Richard Gere sweeps up his love interest in ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’, is arguably one of the more famous and memorable scenes in 80’s cinema.

Zach Mayo (Luke Baker) is a lad who’s been dealt one of the tougher hands in life and he just wants to show that he can better himself. He wants to prove everyone else wrong (especially his absent Father Byron Mayo (Tim Rogers), when he enlists in the programme with a dream of learning to fly jets, he’s going for all-or-nothing.

He’s one of many in the competitive and very challenging programme, and no one— including him has much confidence that he will make it through.

Zach is joined by several others including Seegar (Olivia Foster-Brown), a woman with a dream to do it better than the boys and escape her circumstances.

Sid (Paul French) is a troubled young man who desperately tries to please his parents, no matter what the cost to himself as he attempts to fill his brother’s shoes, literally.

They’re all in the care of Sergeant Foley (Jamal Crawford) – who anyone who saw the panto at this venue last winter, may recognise as Prince Charming?

Here, he’s bitter, he’s truly mean, and he’s there to ensure the cadets have what it takes to be an asset to their country and get the best out of them. Through commanding tortuous training exercises and deadly drills. He ultimately attempts to obtain their ‘DOR’ (drop on request) from the programme.

Jamal was my favourite performance in the show with his brutal drills, determination and charisma shining though.

One night Zach meets a local girl, Paula (Georgia Lennon) who’s got dreams a lot bigger than her home town and craves excitement and love. Above all else she doesn’t want to follow in her mother’s (Melanie Mason) footsteps and make the same mistakes she did.

Sparks attempt to fly but the chemistry between the two leads sadly doesn’t quite lift us up where we belong. Other romances are more convincing.

With Paula falling for troubled Zach, her best friend Lynette (Sinead Long) is also seeking her ticket out of small-time life in Pensacola, Florida. Lynette wants to marry a pilot to end her less-than-lovely life as ‘trailer trash’ and desires to be allowed to spread her own wings by marrying one of the flyboys. Enter Sid as her romantic fling.

Packed with iconic 80s pop and rock songs including Madonna’s ‘Material Girl’, Bon Jovi’s
‘Living on a Prayer’ and Blondie’s ‘Heart of Glass’ plus many more you’re bound to
recognise – the production has wholeheartedly embraced the nostalgia!

With an industrial looking and feeling set that constantly transforms into a naval camp and bunks to various town bars and a few other settings. It’s a slick set with a very clever build for its multi-purpose use.

Personally, I think I’ve had enough of this concept of the jukebox musical. This show, the latest in a long line and it’s starting to feel a little lazy and formulaic.

There were also a couple of jarring moments in the show to gain audience participation, by encouraging them to clap along with the action on stage, which removed some of the immersion for me!

Telling a story that’s well and truly set around the concept of the working class fighting for their own slice of the ‘American Dream’. This show absolutely nails the 80s aesthetic and nostalgia. The costuming from Michael Taylor, alongside his strong set vision, is impressive, as are the hair, make-up, and wigs from Sam Cox.

If you always wanted a handsome Richard Gere to sweep you up in your own fairytale and love an underdog story, grab tickets.

Jack Studio Theatre, London – until 3 August 2024

Reviewed by Sitarah Locke

3***

As a local myself, I was curious to see this one. Jack Studio is gem among south London theatres and is well suited to host smaller productions like this one. We are greeted by a simple set – a black room with a blasting DJ’s table.

That’s where small and simple stops, however. This larger-than-life story follows Chino Igwe, a Deptford baby born and bred, as he debates leaving the postcode he loves so much to pursue his dream of becoming a famous novelist. Unfortunately, an attempt to hand in his university thesis is interrupted by a sudden and inexplicable flood. And the water hosts more than just the locals…

Chukwudi Onwere, star and writer, brings boundless physicality to the role. As he cotches on the high street, we are vibing; as he throws himself around the stage, we are swept underwater with him; and as he hunches, gagging inside a fish (just go with it) we can almost smell the stench. His performance is timed to lighting and sound cues, helping transport us between locations. A shout out to designers Carey Chomsoonthorn and DJ Tommy Tappah. The whole thing is one big love letter to Deptford.

At this point, I should probably point out that it is also, basically, a one man show. Chukwudi spins characters like plates, introducing us to a collection of Deptford faces. These include Chino’s aging warrior father, a wise local aunty, community rallyist “ginger man”, sassy scouser Adaeze, beloved teacher Mr Hennessy, and a not-so-beloved school cleaner, to recall just a few.

The only two roles he doesn’t embody are the backing DJ and local legend Deptford Cat. These are hilariously represented by DJ Tommy Tappah, the loyal mate every Deptford Baby needs. He acts as both hype man and silent side-eye king, backing Chino at every hurdle – and we’re right there with him.

Is the story rather far-fetched? Yes. Could the script be a bit more polished? Sure. But whether he is working up the courage to talk to Adaeze or to face off against sea monsters, Chino’s audience has committed to the tale and are egging him on. Ultimately, it is a family-friendly journey of discovering that bravery lives within all of us, in many forms, and we can help each other find it. In the face of adversity and selfdoubt, some may find strength in Deptford’s slogan: See it, Fight it, Restore your community.

GROSVENOR PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE, CHESTER – SATURDAY 31ST AUGUST 2024

REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN

5*****

Last night, I revisited the purpose-built outdoor theatre located in the lovely Grosvenor Park in Chester. This picturesque setting is once again hosting a season of live storytelling this summer, under the stars. One of the three performances this year is an adaptation of “The Gangs of New York” by award-winning writer Kieran Lynn and directed by John Young. This production is based on the iconic 1928 non-fiction book by Herbert Asbury, rather than the 2002 film by Martin Scorsese. The show tells a tale of the American Dream, fierce rivalries in New York’s notorious Five Points neighbourhood, and includes elements of humour and romance.

The show follows the journey of friends John Morrissey (played by Oisín Thompson) and Hellcat Maggie (played by Hanora Kamen) from Ireland as they search for a better future. Morrissey, a determined immigrant, transitions from an underground boxer to a gang leader, and eventually a respected politician. Along the way, he encounters the challenges of society in his quest for a brighter life, in a story filled with themes of love, rivalry, deception and power. Although it is a serious and intense play, it also incorporates a sense of fun. The script skilfully develops a couple of romances, adding to the overall enjoyment of the evening’s entertainment.

It’s challenging to choose a standout performance as the entire cast deserves recognition for delivering their lines flawlessly, nailing their accents, and bringing incredible energy to the stage. However, if I were to highlight one, it would be Oisin Thompson. His accent and charm captivated me from the moment he first appeared. I must also mention Jenny Murphy, who portrayed Catherine, and her comedic portrayal of a naive and childlike character really made me laugh.

One distinct aspect of the Storyhouse productions at the Grosvenor Open Air Theatre is that all performances take place in-the-round. This setup enhances immersion and provides an ideal setting for audience involvement, something that I believe GOAT audiences anticipate and enjoy. Whether you found yourself tapping your feet to the Irish inspired live soundtrack, witnessing an underground boxing match, or partaking in lively cheers at a political rally as either a Democrat or Republican, the experience was sure to make the audience feel part of the story. It adds a light-hearted element to this dark story with multiple funny and engaging moments. A friendly heads-up: remember to bring a raincoat, even if it’s not raining. Sitting at the front may result in getting splashed! As the theatre is located outdoors, it can be challenging to hear the dialogue clearly. However, efforts were made to enhance accessibility for all by providing captions for every performance.

I highly recommend both the show and the venue, as they offer a theatre experience unlike any other. The staff were all very helpful and friendly. Even if it rains, is expected, as long as you come prepared, you will still have a great time.

The Other Palace Theatre, – until 8th September 2024

Reviewed by Ava Clarkson

5*****

The Other Palace Theatre close to Victoria is the venue for the musical adaptation of the amazing book of the same name by Kate Pankhurst – a distant relative of Emmeline Pankhurst – very distant…. But as Kate says, with a surname like Pankhurst, who could not be inspired by such an iconic woman of history – the leader of the suffragettes who campaigned to secure votes for women in the early 1900’s and her call for “deeds not words”. This musical promises to wow us with more great women who changed the world and boy (or should I say girl) did it deliver…

The Other Palace Theatre is a modern and trendy venue, with a lively bar in the foyer which was buzzing with excitement when we arrived. The theatre inside is a steep 300 seated space which makes for a perfect view for all.

Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World is the award-winning musical which returns to London, for 7 weeks only. Chris Bush (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Gillian Lynne Theatre) and Miranda Cooper have adapted the books of Kate Pankhurst to the stage along with music by Miranda Cooper and Jennifer Decilveo and direction by Amy Hodge.

The story surrounds Jade, a schoolgirl separated from her class trip and feeling not only lost on the trip but lost in the world. She stumbles upon the “Gallery of Greatness” and is told not to enter at all costs… so in true female determined style, she goes inside where she meets 12 brilliant women from history – Amelia Earhart, Emmeline Pankhurst, Sacagawea, Gertrude Ederle, Jane Austen, Frida Kahlo, Agent Fifi, Mary Seacole, Mary Anning, Marie Curies, Rosa Parks and Anne Frank.

Each character is brought to life through songs such as “Deeds not words”, “Mary, Mary and Marie” and “Rosa’s Lullaby” to name but a few. These songs are high energy and full of colour and comedy. The Suffragette Rap and Jane Austen’s Operatic moment are truly amazing, combined with incredible choreography and use of props, mean every musical number is a joy and has the audience clapping and singing along. There is a happy vibe coming from everyone inside the theatre and as the play continues this ramps up even more.

The costumes really deserve a mention in this musical, Joanne Scotcher has done a stunning job with the outfits. Each historical woman feels true to character but with a modern twist. You know exactly who each woman is even though they are dressed in fluorescent camouflage or a PVC jumpsuit!

As we move through the stories of these 12 great women, we learn a little about each and Jade, the focus of the story, becomes more and more inspired and empowered – as do we the audience. These women really have changed the world, Marie Curie was the 1st woman to win a Nobel Peace Prize, Gertrude Ederle at just 20 years old swam the English Channel 2 hours faster than the 5 men who had attempted it before her. The stories go on and as we come to the end of the show I want to jump up and punch the air. We are treated to a megamix of the show’s songs at the end and the musicians Audra Cramer, Nicola T. Chang and Isis Dunthorne, who we have seen above the stage throughout the show join the stage. The audience stands and dances along to the catchy songs we have been treated to. A ticker tape finale brings the show to a close in an explosion of noise and colour.

The cast have been spectacular throughout. Georgia Grant-Anderson played a great role as the schoolgirl Jade who navigated us through the show. The performers Elena Breschi, Meg Hateley, Charlotte Jaconelli and Anelisa Lamola played several parts each, all seamlessly changing into each character. A mention must go to the amazing voice of Anelisa Lamola, who gave me goosebumps when she sang “Rosa’s Lullaby!”

I can truly say this is one of my favourite plays. The energy, colour and empowerment on the stage was inspiring. We leave the theatre feeling we can change the world. We are reminded that “you must never be fearful of doing something right” and “a better world for everyone begins with better dreams”.

Every woman leaves with a membership card to the Fantastically Great Women Club – to continue the work of great women everywhere!. My number is 59,746,280,445 and I am going to use it!!

York Theatre Royal – until Saturday 3rd August 2024

Reviewed by Michelle Richardson

4****

Around the World in 80 Days-ish is a York Theatre Royal production and is currently wowing the audience in York. Directed and adapted by Juliet Forster, it first hit the city of York in the summer of 2021, in an outdoor setting due to Covid restrictions, it has since added ish the title. I was lucky enough to see it then and I was blown away, so I jumped at the chance to catch it again within a theatre setting.

This time it was me and three grandchildren, 8 and under, attending on press night. The theatre had some pre-show activities in the foyer and outside courtyard. We were encouraged to participate in some plate spinning, juggling and other bits, plus with a fire-eating show also laid on. We all enjoyed taking part and were wowed with the breathtaking fire show, though I did have to explain to the boys not to try the latter at home. Thank you YTR for a fabulous start to the evening.

As we entered the theatre, the stage is set with a big-top tent, indicative of the circus theme that runs through this adaptation. Based on the Jules Verne book, not any of the films which you might have seen. Did you know there is not a hot air balloon in the book? You do now, and it was a surprise to me when I first saw this show, as it is such an iconic image of certainly, the first film I ever saw of Around the World in 80 Days.

Phileas Fogg (Kiefer Moriarty), is set in his ways, doing the same thing day after day, at the same time, that is until he agrees on a wager to circumnavigate the globe in 80 days. Along with his newly appointed man servant Passepartout (David Abecassis), they set off on their travels. It’s a wild ride, through many different countries, these were written on a reel as the journey unfolded, the boys enjoyed spelling and reading these out. A range of characters are encountered on the way, Mr Fix (Rowan Armitt-Brewster), Aouda (Ambika Sharma). This show is not just about Phileas Fogg and his travels, but also covers the real-life adventures of Nellie Bly (Maria Gray), a female American journalist, who actually managed to circumnavigate the globe in only 72 days, a huge feat in Victorian times, and by a woman at that. A remarkable story that is not often heard about.

Moriaty, resplendent in his ringmaster outfit and wonderful moustache, is a commanding presence on stage. Gray not only plays Bly, but she is also the acrobat, twirling on a ring in the air, the captain of the ship and many more, jumping from accent to accent, from American to Hull. The supporting cast bring a lot of energy to the stage and some wonderful comedic moments with their clownish antics. A highlight with the audience was Armitt-Brewsters over the top accents.

The stage and props were imaginatively used by the five actors, used to depict a ship, steamboat, carriage, and a train, changing as we travelled from country to country.

The costumes were quite stunning, from Fogg’s ringmaster attire to Aouda’s tradition Indian wear, and Bly’s magnificent, chequered coat, which tied in nicely with Fogg’s waistcoat. There was even an elephant costume, depicted by Gray, simple but effective.

We really enjoyed the show, and afterwards the boys said they loved it, but at 2 ½ hours long, with interval, they were very fidgety at times. After the interval we did sit in different seats, in order not to disturb others. For the suggested age group, it could have been shorter, with a bit less storytelling and more action.

Around the World in 80 days-ish is a wonderful riot of colour and should be watched. Recommend to all ages over 10 and Theatre is an amazing experience for children