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This Sunday (28 June 2026) marks 20-years since the multi-award-winning hit musical AVENUE Q first opened in the West End at the Noel Coward Theatre (28 June 2006).

Now, the critically acclaimed 20^th anniversary production, which recently opened at the Shaftesbury Theatre, is playing a strictly limited season until Sunday 3 January 2027, bringing the original Broadway puppets back to the block!

The production stars Emily Benjamin as Kate Monster and Lucy The Slut, Noah Harrison as Princeton and Rod, Meg Hateley as Mrs T and Bad Idea Bear, Oliver Jacobson as Brian, Charlie McCullagh as Nicky, Trekkie Monster and Bad Idea Bear, Amelia Kinu Muus as Christmas Eve and Dionne Ward-Anderson as Gary.

The company is completed by Jasmine Beel, Jonathan Carlton, Angelis Hunt, Lesley Lemon, Jessica Niles Kadi and Joshua Williams-Ward.

The anniversary production is directed by the original award-winning Broadway director Jason Moore, has music & lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx and book by Jeff Whitty, music orchestrations and arrangements by Stephen Oremus, original Broadway puppets, conceived and designed by Rick Lyon and set design by Anna Louizos. Alongside  choreography by Ebony Molina, costume design by Jean Chan, lighting design by Tim Lutkin, sound design by Paul Groothuis, video design by Nina Dunn for Pixellux, musical direction by Benjamin Holder, puppetry coaching by Iestyn Evans and Andy Heath forTalk to the Hand Puppet, hair & makeup design by Jackie Saundercock, casting by Pearson Casting CDG and original West End company member, Julie Atherton,  as Associate Director.

Theatre@41, York – until 4 July 2026

Reviewed by Lauren Fordham

5*****

‘25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ is an American musical conceived by Rebecca Feldman, with music and lyrics by William Finn. 

Directed at theatre@41 by Neil Wood and performed by York Light Opera Company, it follows six teens and as they vie for the ultimate spelling championship. They spell their way through a series of complex (and occasionally made-up) words whilst discussing their home lives, simultaneously hoping never to hear the ‘ding’ of the adjudicators’ bell that indicates that they made an error and will be disqualified.  

The set contains as a backdrop a huge American flag, and the characters sit on raised benches before being called up to the podium to spell their words. There is also a stall set out by the Bee’s sponsors, Putnam County Optometrists with accompanying glasses illustration – because in popular cuture bookworms/nerds often need vision correction. While that stereotype could have grated on another critic, it amused this reviewer  – if the shoe fits, as the saying goes, she will good-naturedly wear it. 

One of the adjudicators of the Bee, Rona Lisa Perretti, is a former Putnam County Spelling Bee victor herself, and Katie Brier, who plays her, perfectly captures her nostalgia as she reflects on her own performance as a ‘marvellous memory,’ but also her slightly subversive side, ‘when the favourite loses, that’s my favourite moment of the Bee.’ 

Neil Foster, who plays her fellow judge, Vice Principal Douglas Panch, gives a believable comic performance when he melts down at a contestant calling him Principal ‘they won’t let me be principal!’

Daniel Wood evokes sympathy as the melodramatic and self-deprecating Leaf Coneybear. Coneybear placed third in his district and only got to the final due to the winner and attending a bat mitzvah and the runner-up attending it. As a result, his siblings bully him into believing that, as he sings, ‘I’m Not That Smart’. Wood excels at evoking Coneybear’s clumsiness, both visually through his wearing a helmet and when he randomly yet slickly falls off his chair.

Also physically, Wood strongly resembles the actor Tyger Drew-Honey from the television series ‘Outnumbered’, and with his comic aptitude this reviewer believes he could be equally successful professionally.

Stephen Wright, who plays William Barfee evokes Hyacinth Bucket when he is introduced by Perretti and immediately corrects her pronunciation to make his surname more pretentious, ‘it’s Barfée.’ His strengths range from linguistics to being lithe and fleet of foot as he spells out each word on the floor with his shoe as he articulates it, particularly in the number ‘My Magic Foot.’ This reviewer thinks a role in \ (perhaps as a slim Mr Braithwaite) is definitely within his purview, should he desire it. 

Rosa Burns plays the highly successful but also highly pressured and neurotic Marcy Park.  ‘[her paperwork] says I speak 6 languages but does it also say I only sleep 3 hours a night and I hide in the medicine cabinet and I’m not allowed to cry?’ She has great comic range and rapport with James Dickinson, who plays Jesus, who tells her it’s ok to fail the contest, which she then throws with glee, ‘I don’t have to win!’

It was lovely for this reviewer to see Lim act for the first time, particularly in a comic role as she first came across him in May directing Inspired By Theatre’s ‘Spring Awakening,’ a show which, while equally engrossing, is far from light-hearted.

Lim is impressively versatile in his role of ‘Comfort Counsellor’ Mitch Mahoney going from gritty, slightly threatening ex-con who’s only doing it for his community service, ‘I just want to beat them up a little, so they understand that pain has degrees, and this is nothing, you little freaks’ to moral supporter,handing out juice boxes and hugs.‘Go with dignity, you’re a real smart dude, spell with patience and care, that, dude, is my prayer.’

Lottie Farmer plays Logainne Schwartzandgrubenniere. Like Parks, her character is highly-strung and highly-pressured, in her case to not let down her dads (played by Wood and Lim, to excellent effect, I could instantly see them smashing the Heathers the musical anthem, My Dead Gay Son, and Farmer herself perhaps as Martha.)

Hannah Shaw, who plays Olive Ostrovsky, deserves credit before she even opens her mouth, simply for surviving the show while wearing a pink, fluffy, and very thick-looking jumper in 30 degree heat in a theatre with no air conditioning! I hope Carly Price from Wardrobe had plenty of fans and ice for her backstage. When Shaw does sing, however, she endears herself entirely to the audience as she relates how the words in her beloved dictionary have become forever friends compared to the (few) real ones she may have in school, a sentiment this bookish reviewer can well remember sharing.

But the stand-up performance of the night (if you’ll excuse the pun) came from James Dickinson who plays Chip Tolentino. Tolentino’s ‘Unfortunate Erection’ didn’t need to be spelled out at all and evicted him from the Bee. His bemoaning of it (forgive the pun again!) while throwing candy at the audience had us all in stitches. Magic Mike The Musical surely awaits his audition.

The only error the show made, in my opinion was having too few of the cast wear their glasses in the show, especially since the Bee is sponsored by Putnam Optometrists! There may have been practical reasons for these choices such as a preference for contact lenses onstage, perhaps due to lighting effects but should she have directed, this bespectacled reviewer would have said nerds/glasses-wearers unite and be proud!

Geeks and freaks and those who love us, and American cultural traditions, I cannot spell it out more clearly if I was writing it in flames across the sky, this show is F A B U L O U S. Get your head out of your latest book and GO SEE IT NOW!

Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 27th June 2026

Reviewed by Jacqui Radford

4****

If you’re after a night out that blends nostalgia, razor-sharp wit, and the kind of political chaos that feels both timeless and painfully current, I’m Sorry, Prime Minister absolutely delivers. Written by Jonathan Lynn, co-creator of the iconic series Yes, Minister and Yes, Prime Minister, this production is peppered with the dry humour and bureaucratic bedlam that made those series so loved.

The play drops us back into the world of ex-Prime Minister, Jim Hacker (Robert Kitson). Now older and supposedly wiser, he is dreaming of a peaceful retirement at the tranquil Hacker College, Oxford. Naturally, that peace lasts all of five minutes. When the college committee decides to “cancel” him, Hacker finds himself embroiled in academic politics, public opinion storms, and the sort of administrative absurdity that would make his old Permanent Secretary, Sir Humphrey Appleby, giddy.

Sir Humphrey (Clive Francis) is back. Still verbose, still devious, still capable of turning a simple question into complicated debate and long-winded logic. The chemistry between the pair is wickedly funny. Fans of the original shows will feel instantly at home, but newcomers will not be left behind.

The script has been written to adapt the 1980s humour and attitudes that would not land in the same way today. Sophie (Princess Donnough), a Care Worker and Oxford graduate, calls out any outdated attitudes. Crucially, these touches don’t smother the satirical spirit of the original, they sharpen it.

The comedy is characterised by sly digs that feel especially pointed considering recent political events. It is political satire that makes you laugh at the madness rather than despair over it. Every exasperated sigh and every animated exchange land with the same timing as the original sitcom, often rousing the laughter before the punchline even arrives.

This show is an uplifting mix of wit, nostalgia, and political mischief. From start to finish, it is brimming with verbal sparring and the comedy of a world where nothing is ever simple — especially when Sir Humphrey is involved.

FOLLOWING AN EXTENSIVE GLOBAL SEARCH

THE FOUR BOYS ANNOUNCED TO PLAY THE TITLE ROLE IN THE NATIONAL TOUR AND LIMITED WEST END SEASON

OF THE ORIGINAL AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTION OF

ARE

NOAH MANNION, RAFFERTY SMALE

SPENCER COLLINS AND WILLIAM GURNEY

ORIGINAL OLIVIER AWARD-WINNING ‘BILLY’

LIAM MOWER TO PLAY ‘OLDER BILLY’

Following an extensive global search, Universal Theatrical Group and Working Title Filmsare delighted to announce that the four boys who will play the title role in the national tour and limited West End season of the original award-winning production of BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL are Noah Mannion (12 years old from Stockport), Rafferty Smale (12 years old from Leigh-on-Sea), Spencer Collins (13 years old from California) and William Gurney (12 years old from Berkshire).

It was also announced today that original Billy Elliot, Liam Mower, will return to the show to play ‘Older Billy’. Liam was one of three boys who created the role when the musical first opened in 2005, winning an Olivier Award for his performance.

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL will open at Sunderland Empire on 4 November 2026 where it will run until 28 November 2026. It will then visit Palace Theatre Manchester (2 December 2026 – 9 January 2027) and Edinburgh Playhouse (19 January – 6 February 2027) ahead of its first return to the West End in over 10 years, playing a limited West End season at the Adelphi Theatre from 12 February – 31 July 2027. Further touring dates and full casting to be announced soon. billyelliotthemusical.com

Noah Mannion (12 years old) has loved singing and dancing from an early age, whether performing for fun or entertaining family at home. After trying a variety of activities, including gymnastics and tennis, he began his dance journey at a local dance school. Soon after the school held open auditions for its competition team, Noah decided to give it a go. Despite arriving in his bare feet with no expectations, his natural talent, stage presence and flair were quickly recognised, earning him a place on the team. At just nine years old, Noah began training in ballet, tap, modern, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, acro and singing. He has since enjoyed great success at regional competitions in both solo and group performances. In 2025, after only two years of competitive dancing, Noah proudly represented England at both the Dance World Cup and the Global Dance Open, where he won multiple medals and earned the title of Global World Champion. Noah’s favourite singers are Sienna Spiro, Olivia Dean and Bruno Mars. He is very creative and good at drawing. In his spare time he loves to take the family’s pet dog Rafa on walks in the countryside. 

Rafferty Smale (12 years old) started ballet lessons aged 4 and joined Junior Masters Performing Arts learning tap and modern too. He joined Tring Park Performing Arts Classical Ballet Academy programme in 2021 and became a Royal Ballet Junior Associate in 2022. Rafferty has performed in Royal Ballet’s productions of Cinderella, Don Quixote and The Winter’s Tale as Mamillius. Rafferty became a full-time student at Royal Ballet’s White Lodge in September 2025. He was cast as the first Year 7 Fritz in The Nutcracker in 2025, followed by Wayne McGregor’s Woolf Works in 2026. Rafferty won gold for his ballet solo at the Dance World Cup 2023, aged 9. He won silver at the Dance World Cup 2024 in the age 10-15 category aged 10. Rafferty is a huge fan of Bruno Mars and Harry Styles. He loves going to concerts and to the theatre to watch ballets and musicals. He loves theme parks and rollercoasters, fashion and singing in the shower. His hobbies are dancing, dancing and more dancing!

Spencer Collins (13 years old) started dancing at the Los Angeles Ballet School at age 5. He joined Westside School of Ballet at age 9 and has trained there since under the guidance of Adrian Blake Mitchell. Spencer has competed on the YAGP (Youth America Grand Prix) circuit, notably winning the prestigious Hope Award at YAGP Finals in 2025, recognising the top classical and contemporary performances among all dancers worldwide in his age category. Spencer is an International Scholar of The Royal Ballet School and has received scholarships and trained with renowned dance academies around the world, including the Princess Grace Academy of Dance in Monaco, the John Cranko School, Joffrey Ballet, Elite Classical Coaching, The Royal Ballet School and Ellison Ballet School. He hopes to one day become a principal dancer with a premier ballet company. In addition to all things dance, Spencer loves sushi, iced matcha lattes, listening to Sienna Spiro and his rescue pup Betty.

William Gurney (12 years old) is a student at Sylvia Young Theatre School. He has appeared in The Nutcracker (Royal Ballet) and more recently has played Tommy in Matilda the Musical. William has appeared in various television programmes including Strike, Call the Midwife, Midsummer Murders, Breeders, Motherland and Silent Witness. In 2024 William appeared in Sophie Ellis Bextor’s music video Freedom Of The Night. William has competed in the Dance World Cup in Portugal and Czechia and was an All England Dance Finalist. William enjoys musical theatre at SSG Academy. He loves to teach himself routines from some of his favourite choreographers and choreographing routines for his friends is a favourite! When he is not dancing, he is chatting, laughing and playing games. 

Liam Mower created the role of Billy Elliot when the musical first opened in 2005, winning an Olivier Award for his performance. Since 2011 he has been dancing with Matthew Bourne’s company, New Adventures. Roles and productions with New Adventures include Nutcracker! (2011–12), Play Without Words (2012), Count Lilac, Carabosse/Caradoc in Sleeping Beauty (2012–13, 2015-16 and 2022-23, The Prince in Swan Lake (2013–14 and 2018-19), Edward in Edward Scissorhands (2014–15 and 2023-24), Angelo in The Car Man (2015), Ivan and Grischa in The Red Shoes (2016–17 and 2019-20), Angel in Cinderella (2017–18) and Albert in The Midnight Bell (2021 and 2025). He recently performed the role of Mr Mistoffelees in the international tour of the musical Cats (2023/24 and 2024/5). He was also nominated for a Critics’ Circle National Dance Award for Outstanding Male Dancer (Modern).   Other career highlights include Elton John’s music video Electricity (2004), Electricity at Vogue’s The Met Ball (2005), Mikey Adams in Wire in the Blood (ITV), A Linha Curva by Itzik Galili  for Rambert Dance Company, Older Billy in Billy Elliot the Musical (Cinemas Worldwide), Disenchanted (Disney, 2022), The Greatest Days (2023) Matthew Bourne’s Christmas (More4/Leopard Films), Sleeping Beauty (BBC2), Cinderella (BBC), Swan Lake (Sky Arts), The Red Shoes (BBC2 and Sky Arts), Spitfire (BBC iPlayer).

Based on the highly successful multi BAFTA award-winning and Academy Award nominated film, the show is set in a northern mining town against the background of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike and follows Billy’s journey from the boxing ring to the ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family and whole community and changes his life forever.

Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL has been seen by just over 12 million people across five continents and is the recipient of over 80 awards internationally, including ten Tony Awards and five Olivier Awards. In 2006, Liam Mower, James Lomas and George Maguire, the first three boys to play the title role, became the youngest performers ever to have won the Olivier Award for Best Actor with the show also picking up the Best Musical prize. In total, over 125 boys have now played the iconic title role on stage worldwide.

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL is brought to life by the multiple award-winning creative team behind the film including writer Lee Hall (book and lyrics), director Stephen Daldry and choreographer, Peter Darling, joined by Elton John who composed the show’s score. The production features scenic design by Ian MacNeil, costume design is by Nicky Gillibrand, lighting design by Rick Fisher, sound design by Paul Arditti and hair, wig and make up design by Campbell Young. Musical supervision and orchestrations are by Martin Koch. The tour director is Simon Pollard and the associate choreographer is Jeroen Luiten. Adult casting is by Pippa Ailion CDG and Natalie Gallacher CDG and children’s casting is by Nick Hockaday CDG for Jessica Ronane Casting.

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL is presented by Universal Theatrical Group and Working Title Films and is based on the Universal Pictures/Studio Canal film. The show is produced by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Jon Finn and Sally Greene. David Furnish and Angela Morrison are executive producers.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL

billyelliotthemusical.com

Instagram – billyelliotuk

TikTok – billyelliotuk

Facebook – Billy Elliot the Musical

YouTube – BillyElliotMusicalUK

4 – 28 NOVEMBER 2026

SUNDERLAND EMPIRE

atgtickets.com/sunderland

2 DECEMBER 2026 – 9 JANUARY 2027

PALACE THEATRE MANCHESTER

atgtickets.com/manchester

19 JANUARY – 6 FEBRUARY 2027

EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE

atgtickets.com/edinburgh

12 FEBRUARY – 31 JULY 2027

ADELPHI THEATRE, LONDON
lwtickets.co.uk

FURTHER DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON

Lead cast and creative team announced
for the first UK tour production of the spectacular
Burlesque the Musical based on the hit movie

Led by Faye Brookes as Tess Richarde, the Burlesque club owner played by the legendary Cher in Steven Antin’s iconic Golden Globe-winning and Best Picture-nominated 2010 film, lead cast and the full creative team is today announced for the first UK tour of Burlesque the Musical.

Fresh from its 100% sold-out, critically acclaimed West End premiere at the Savoy Theatre, Burlesque the Musical will open a 24-venue UK tour at New Victoria Theatre, Woking on 25 July, before touring throughout 2026 and 2027, with more dates to be announced.

A second new production of Burlesque the Musical, starring Olivier Award winning Cassidy Janson as Tess, will return to London this September at brand new West End venue The Arts at Marble Arch.  Full cast to be announced soon.

Additional international productions will be announced soon.

Based on Steven Antin’s iconic Golden Globe-winning and Best Picture-nominated film starring Christina Aguilera and Cher, Burlesque the Musical is a glittering, high-voltage theatrical event packed with powerhouse vocals, jaw-dropping choreography, and outrageous glamour. With a creative team led by Producer, Writer & Creative Director Steven Antin, it is directed by Racky Plews (I‘m Every Woman The Chaka Khan Musical, Green Day’s American Idiot) with choreography by Robin Antin (creator of The Pussycat Dolls).

Step inside a club where sequins shimmer, seduction sparkles, and a single song can change your life forever. When Ali heads to New York searching for her mother, Tess Richarde, she is swept into a dazzling underground world of ambition, temptation, music, and desire – discovering not only her extraordinary voice, but the family she never knew she needed.

Featuring songs by Christina Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren, Jess Folley, Todrick Hall, and Steven Antin, Burlesque the Musical is a scintillating celebration of self-discovery, empowerment, and unapologetic fabulousness.

As Tess Richarde, Faye Brookes became a household name (Best Newcomer at the 22nd National Television Awards) as Kate Connor in Coronation Street, with her screen brother played by The X Factor winner Shayne Ward. Leaving after four years, she was later runner up in the 13th series of Dancing On Ice. On stage, her many musical theatre starring roles include Roxie Hart in Chicago, Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, Princess Fiona in Shrek and Fran in Strictly Ballroom

Ryan Carter (playing both Sean & Ms Loretta) has just finished playing The Iceberg in Titanique in the West End. His other West End credits include playing Smokey Robinson in Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations and Eddie Kendricks in Motown The Musical. He was Jagwire in Bat Out Of Hell (UK Tour) , The Hard Man in Choir of Man (UK tour) and Pierre in The Boy Friend (Menier Chocolate Factory).

As Ali Rose, Gracie O’Brien, a recent graduate, will be making her professional stage debut. Her roles in training include Beverly Bass in Come From Away and Margaret New in Everybody’s Talking About Jamie.

Davide Fienauri (Vince) was most recently in Kiss of the Spider Woman (Curve Leicester & UK tour). His West End credits include cover Christian and cover Santiago in Moulin Rouge, Cover Kristoff and cover Pabbie in Frozen and ensemble in Mary Poppins,

Tyler Davis (Jackson) made his West End and Broadway debut as Sheldrake in Jamie Lloyd’s production of Sunset Blvd. He was more recently seen as 3D/1st Cover Biff Tannen in Back To The Future the Musical in the West End.

Vanessa Ela Young (Nikki) made her West End debut in The Drifters Girl as understudy to Beverley Knight as Faye Treadwell. She was Alternate Satine in Moulin Rouge the Musical.

Creative team:
Writer & Creative Director: Steven Antin
Director: Racky Plews
Choreographer: Robin Antin Choreographer: Aaron Renfree Associate Choreographer Xena Gusthart
Orchestrator and Arranger: Tom Curran
Musical Supervisor: Adam Langston
Musical Director: Rob Wicks
Set Designer: Sara Perks
Lighting Designer: Joshie Harriette
Costume Designer: Marco Marco
Sound Designer: Ben Harrison
Video Designer: Duncan McLean
Wigs Designer: Marco Marco, Jess & Jo for JJ Wigs
Make-up Designer: Dominic Skinner
Casting Director: Harry Blumenau CDG CSA
Casting Associate: Laura Seaborn
Associate Director: Christopher D Clegg
Associate Musical Director: Bianca Fung
Costume Supervisor: Laura Hargreaves
Props Supervisor: Kristy Durman
Production Manager: Toby P Darvill for Production Solutions Group
Associate Production Manager: Lewis Moore
General Manager for Hartshorn Hook Productions: Kiki Stevenson

Producers: Christina Aguilera, Adam Paulden & Jason Haigh-Ellery, Steven Antin, Clint Culpepper and In Fine Company Associate Producer: Toby Brewer

BURLESQUE THE MUSICAL  

2026/2027 UK TOUR DATES

2026

WOKING
New Victoria Theatre
Saturday 25 July – Saturday 1 August

SUNDERLAND
Sunderland Empire
Thursday 6 – Saturday 15 August (2 weeks)

STOKE ON TRENT
Regent Theatre
Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 August

CARDIFF
Wales Millennium Centre
Tuesday 1 – Saturdav 5 September

GLASGOW
King’s Theatre
Tuesday 8 – Saturday 19 September (2 weeks)

BRADFORD
Alhambra Theatre
Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 September

SOUTHEND
Cliff’s Pavilion Theatre
Tuesday 29 Sep tember – Saturday 3 October

BIRMINGHAM
The Alexandra
Tuesday 6 – Saturday 17 October (2 weeks)

SHEFFIELD
Lyceum Theatre
Tuesday 27 – Saturday 31 October (2 weeks)

HIGH WYCOMBE
Wycombe Swan
Tuesday 3 – Saturday 7 November

AYLESBURY
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Tuesday 17 – Saturday 21 November

LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Empire
Tuesday 24 November – Saturday 5 December (2 weeks)

BLACKPOOL
Winter Gardens
Tuesday 22 December – Saturday 2 January (2 weeks)

2027

MANCHESTER            
Opera House
Tuesday 5  – Saturday 23 January (3 weeks)            

NORTHAMPTON        
Royal & Derngate
Tuesday 26 – Saturday 30 January              

EDINBURGH              
Edinburgh Playhouse      
Tuesday 16 – Saturday 27 February (2 weeks)              

LLANDUDNO              
Venue Cymru
Tuesday 16 – Saturday 20 March

YORK                              
Grand Opera House
Tuesday 23 March – Saturday 3-April (2 weeks)              

WOLVERHAMPTON  
Grand Theatre
Tuesday 6 – Saturday 10 April            

HULL                              
New Theatre  
Tuesday 20 – Saturday 24 April              

OXFORD                        
New Theatre
Tuesday 4 – Saturday 8 May            

WIMBLEDON              
New Wimbledon Theatre
Tuesday 11 – Saturday 15 May      

CANTERBURY 

Marlowe Theatre

Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 May

(On sale soon)

KEAKA PRODUCTIONS, LLC AND STEVEN M. LEVY FOR CHARING CROSS THEATRE PRODUCTIONS LIMITED 

with

Eric McCormack, Michael Scott and Second Set LLC

PRESENT

THE FIRST FULLY STAGED PRODUCTION OF NEW MUSICAL

WILD ABOUT YOU

TO OPEN AT CHARING CROSS THEATRE

MONDAY 18 JANUARY – Saturday 10 APRIL 2027

TICKETS AVAILABLE – WWW.WILDABOUTYOUMUSICAL.COM

Following sold-out concerts at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Keaka Productions LLC and Charing Cross Productions with Eric McCormack (Will & Grace, The Cottage), Michael Scott (The Hills of California) and Second Set LLC (Liberation) are proud to announce that Wild About You will open at the Charing Cross Theatre from Monday 18 January to Saturday 10 April 2027.

On the day of his high school graduation party, Billy, a young man feeling at odds with his future before it has even begun, finds a trunk of letters written to him by his late mother, whom he’d been told had abandoned him as a child. The discovery sets Billy and his best friend Scoot on a journey to uncover the truth about his past, and his connection to a woman he never knew, who might just be the key to understanding where he stands in the world.

With music and lyrics by Chilina Kennedy (Jesus Christ Superstar, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical), the show is as sonically contemporary as its themes and characters. The score blends contemporary songwriting with the lyrical depth and emotional intelligence of artists such as Joni Mitchell and Sara Bareilles. From electrifying melodic hooks to intimate and sensual acoustic moments, the songs will stay with the audience long after they’ve left the theatre. It draws from a rich musical palette of contemporary folk, pop, rock, country-pop, and soul to capture the extraordinary moments hidden within ordinary lives, creating a musical experience that feels both fresh and deeply human.

With an ensemble of characters from all walks of life, every person in the theatre will find a connection. Audience members will leave reflecting on their own direction, their journey, and their fulfilment, and the idea that “love is what we leave behind,” humming many of the earworm songs long after.

Bringing Dani Stoller’s (Easy Women Smoking Loose Cigarettes) book to life, the creative team behind Wild About You includes Director, Kristin Hanggi (Rock of Ages, Romy and Michele: The Musical), Music Supervisor, Music Director, Orchestrator and Arranger Daniel Edmonds (The Great Gatsby, Shucked), Producer Brian Spector (The Hills of California) and Associate Producer Caitlin McNeilage (Leading Lady Club at 54 Below/Edinburgh Fringe) with further names to be announced in due course.

Producer, Brian Spector, said, “We are excited to return to London after our sold-out concerts at Theatre Royal Drury Lane in March 2024 and our appearance at Musical Con 2025.

Our freshly updated story strikes a rich thematic balance of romance and cheeky humour, but is also deeply human and heartfelt. Audiences will gush over Billy’s late mother’s past flames and the will-they-won’t-they tension between Billy and his pal Scoot, while also grieving loss, confronting the double standards of motherhood, and celebrating love in all forms. It’s the kind of show that is both entertaining and authentic—exactly what audiences crave. Night after night, audiences will leave the Charing Cross Theatre laughing, crying and singing, compelled to spread the word. The love for this show is inevitable.”

Actor and Wild About You producer Eric McCormack said: “I’m so happy to be part of the team bringing Chilina’s fantastic songs and this moving show to the world.”

Chilina Kennedy said: “Bringing Wild About You to the Off West End stage for its World Premiere production is an extraordinary milestone for me. As my debut musical as a lyricist and composer, seeing this story and its songs come to life in front of an audience is both deeply rewarding and a dream realized.”

KEAKA PRODUCTIONS is a Tony Award™- winning producer (The Inheritance, Leopoldstadt), served as a lead producer of The Hills of California on Broadway, and co-produced Suffs on both Broadway and the US National Tour. This season Keaka will be represented on Broadway in Inter Alia and the seven-time Olivier Award™- winning new musical Paddington. Keaka has also produced several recordings, including Randy Rainbow’s A Little Brains, A Little Talent, Marisha Wallace: Live in London, and the upcoming SVN and Kennedy Caughell – Just the Beginning albums.

Full casting and creative team to be announced in due course.

ROSE AYLING-ELLIS &

JAMES SPENCE

TO LEAD THE CAST OF

EUROPEAN PREMIERE OF

“PRIVATE JONES”

AT SOUTHWARK PLAYHOUSE ELEPHANT

FROM 14 DECEMBER 2026 – 30 JANUARY 2027 

CAST ANNOUNCED

Seth A. Goldstein and Isaac Robert Hurwitz of Hugo Six in association with Thomas Hopkins Productions are delighted to announce the cast for new musical PRIVATE JONES. The show will open at Southwark Playhouse Elephant from 14 December 2026 until 30 January 2027.

The production, which weaves together sign language, live captioning, a Foley soundscape, and a sweeping original score, will feature a cast of hearing, hard-of-hearing, and deaf performers including BAFTA-winning actor, presenter and children’s author Rose Ayling-Ellis MBE (Reunion, BBC; Code of Silence, ITV; As You Like It, Soho Place Theatre) as The Storyteller, Ffion Haf (The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, UK & Ireland Tour; The Watcher, Apple TV) as Gwenolyn/Evans, Nadeem Islam (The Father and the Assassin, National Theatre; Antigone, Regents Park) as Henry & Others, Bronwyn James (Glinda’s sidekick Shenshen in Wicked & Wicked: For Good; Mickey 17; How to Train Your Dragon; Harlots, BBC One) as King & Others, George Karanja (Journey’s End, Performers collegeBirmingham) as Swing, Luke McCall (Les Misérables, Arena Tour; Love Never Dies) as Father & Others, Lili Mohammad (The Emu War: A New Musical, Pleasance Theatre Edinburgh & New Wimbledon Theatre) as Ensemble, Thea Munoz-Buirski (Diana The Musical in Concert, Eventim Apollo Hammersmith) as Ensemble, Katie Louise Prichard (Cry Baby, RWCMD) as Swing/ Pit Singer, James Spence (Thespians UK Tour, Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch) as Gomer Jones, Jacob Ethan Tanner (Death Valley, BBC; Hold On To Your Butts, West End) as Alwyn & Others, Jacob Young (Fiyero in Wicked, Apollo Victoria; MAMMA MIA!, Novello Theatre; Heathers, The Other Palace) as Trystan & Others.

Rose Ayling-Ellis said “I’m delighted to be joining the cast of Private Jones and to work with Marshall Pailet, Misha Shields and Alexandria Wailes, alongside such a talented cast of deaf, hard of hearing and hearing people. It’s a special production and I’m excited to return to the stage in London.”

PRIVATE JONES is a thrillingly theatrical, completely original new musical set in WW1 about the journeys that transform us and the friendships that remind us we’re not meant to go it alone. 

Gomer Jones is restless to find where he belongs, but the recent loss of his hearing has left him feeling shut out of the world he longs to join. Amid a company of misfit young men, he becomes an unlikely hero, only to discover that the prize he’s been chasing may not be the one that matters. 

A coming-of-age story told with grit, heart, and a touch of irreverence, PRIVATE JONES is written and directed by acclaimed creative, Marshall Pailet (Marcel and the Train, Who’s Your Baghdaddy), with choreography by Misha Shields (Who’s Your Baghdaddy); artistic sign language direction by Alexandria Wailes (CODA film); music direction by Màth Roberts (Merrily We Roll Along, Oxford Playhouse); set design by Anna Kelsey (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Ambassadors Theatre); lighting design by Tim Deiling (Ride The Cyclone, Southwark Playhouse Elephant); sound design by Yvonne Gilbert (The Code, Southwark Playhouse Elephant); video design by Ben Glover (Little Shop of Horrors, Northern Stage and Derby Theatre); associate direction by Alice Eklund (The Last Five Years, Porters Theatre Cardiff); casting direction by Rob Kelly (Hadestown, Lyric Theatre West End); BSL direction by Daryl Jackson (The Rule And The Exception, Young Vic); Welsh language consultancy by Lowri Morgan (S4C presenter); music consultancy by Myrna Conn (Death Becomes Her, Broadway); production management by Sam Kelly (Manic Street Creature, Kiln Theatre) and dramaturgy by Jac Moore (Associate Director of New Work Development at The Public Theater).

The production, which weaves together sign language, live captioning, a Foley soundscape, and a sweeping original score, will feature a cast of hearing, hard-of-hearing, and deaf performers – to be announced

PRIVATE JONES has been in development since 2021 and was first presented in October 2023 at Goodspeed Musicals in Chester, Connecticut. The February 2024 World Premiere production at Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virgina won four Helen Hayes Awards including Outstanding New Musical. The musical has since been reworked with consultation and input from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff, Wales where it was workshopped in 2025.

PRIVATE JONES is produced by Hugo Six in association with Thomas Hopkins Productions.

Website: privatejonesmusical.com

Instagram: @privatejonesmusical

TikTok: @privatejonesmusical

Facebook: @privatejonesmusical

X: @privatejmusical

LISTINGS INFORMATION

PRIVATE JONES

14 December 2026 – 30 January 2027

Preview performances 14 – 16 December

Press night 17 December

Southwark Playhouse Elephant

1 Dante Place,

London,

SE11 4RX

How to get to Elephant Venue: the nearest stations are Elephant & Castle and Kennington.

Performances:

Monday – Saturday 7pm

Thursday & Saturday 2.30pm

Please note there will be no performances on the Thursday 24 December, Friday 25 December, Thursday 31 December & Friday 1 January. Additional performances are available on Tuesday 22 December, Wednesday 23 December, Tuesday 29 December, Wednesday 30 December & Tuesday 05 January at 2:30pm.

Captioned performance – Open captions are available at every performance

Running time: 2 hours and 30 minutes including 15-minute interval

Age guidance: 15+

Content Guidance: This show is recommended for mature teens and up and has strong language, derogatory and ableist terms, gunshot/explosive sounds, depictions of war and death, harm to animals and will use strobe lights and theatrical haze.

Box Office

020 7407 0234

Box Office opens Mon – Sat, 10am – 6pm.

Tickets

Standard tickets from £20 | Concessions tickets £16

JOHANNES RADEBE

PRESENTS HIS BRAND NEW SHOW

JOHANNES RADEBE: FINALLY HOME

TOURING THE UK FROM

1 APRIL – 13 JUNE 2027

WITH GALA PERFORMANCE AT

THE LONDON PALLADIUM

ON 9 MAY 2027

ROYO are delighted to announce that beloved dancer, Strictly Come Dancing host and star of the West End smash-hit musical Kinky Boots, JOHANNES RADEBE will tour the UK from 1 April – 13 June 2027 with a gala performance at the London Palladium on 9 May 2027.

Following three record-breaking, sold-out tours across the UK and Ireland, JOHANNES RADEBE: FINALLY HOME marks a joyful new chapter. Packed with dazzling choreography, sensational live vocals, spectacular costumes and the warmth and energy that have made him a national favourite, this unforgettable show brings together the music and moments that have shaped his journey. From ballroom classics to South African rhythms and beloved pop anthems, Finally Home is a heartfelt celebration—and everyone is invited.

2026 has been a remarkable year for JoJo. He became a British citizen, made his West End debut and stepped into his dream role as host of Strictly Come Dancing. Yet one thing remains unchanged: Johannes was born to dance.

Johannes said: “People have been asking if I won’t be dancing anymore…darling, I’m just getting started! Bringing this tour FINALLY HOME across the UK and Ireland is my way of saying thank you to everyone who has supported my journey. So come ready for joy, fun and celebration, because we’re bringing the biggest party to your town and I cannot wait to dance with you all!”

Born and talent-nurtured in Zamdela Sasolburg, Johannes Radebe started dancing at the tender age of 7, fascinated by the discipline and the glamour of Ballroom and Latin. At the age of 21, Johannes left South Africa to work on the internationally renowned Italian cruise liner Costa and in 2018, he was invited to join the debut season of the international hit show, Dancing With The Stars, in South Africa.

Johannes toured the world in international dance show Burn The Floor before being head-hunted by Strictly Come Dancing in the UK and moved to London to dance on the flagship BBC show, from which he has become the breakout star. In 2021, he was partnered with John Whaite and together reached the final in this groundbreaking same-sex partnership. Johannes and John won ‘Media Moment of the Year’ for their stunning series at the LGBT Awards and the ‘Game Changer Award’ at the Attitude Awards. Johannes was also awarded ‘The Inspirational Public Figure Award’ at the Ethnicity Awards.

His debut solo UK Tour Freedom and follow-up show Freedom Unleashed sold out across the UK, including a week in London’s West End at the Peacock Theatre, whilst his 2024 UK tour, House of Jojo, played to packed houses including 2 shows at the London Palladium.

2022 saw his film choreography debut with the feature Pretty Red Dress (Teng Teng Films, in collaboration with the BFI, BBC Film, and the Sundance Institute) which premiered at London Film Festival. In 2023, he also was asked to be a Co-Producer on the Olivier nominated A Strange Loop at The Barbican.

His first book Jojo: Finally Home was published on 7 September 2023 and became a Sunday Times best-seller. South African film company Arrested Industries run by Anthony Kimble, Argo Films and Oscar-nominated Helena Spring Films, have optioned Jojo: Finally Home for a film.

Johannes made his West End and musical theatre debut playing the iconic role of Lola in KINKY BOOTS, which toured the UK and Ireland in 2025 and is in its final weeks at the London Coliseum in the West End.

TOUR LISTINGS INFORMATION 2027

1 April                                     High Wycombe Swan Theatre

wycombeswan.co.uk                                                   on sale 23 June  

2 April                                     Oxford New Theatre 

atgtickets.com/Oxford                                                 on sale 24 June

3 April                                     Eastbourne Congress Theatre                                 

eastbournetheatre.co.uk/venues/congress-theatre    on sale 23 June

4 April                                     Liverpool Empire Theatre

                                               atgtickets.com/liverpool                                               on sale 24 June

7 – 8 April                               Blackpool Grand Theatre                                           01253 290190

                                               blackpoolgrand.co.uk                                                  on sale 23 June

9 – 10 April                             Manchester Palace Theatre

                                               atgtickets.com/Manchester                                         on sale 24 June

14 – 15 April                           Brighton Theatre Royal Brighton                 

                                               atgtickets.com/brighton                                               on sale 24 June

16 April                                   Stockton Globe

                                               stocktonglobe.co.uk                                                    on sale 24 June

17 April                                   Glasgow SEC Armadillo

                                               sec.co.uk                                                                     on sale 23 June

18 April                                   Birmingham Hippodrome

                                               birminghamhippodrome.com                                      on sale 1 July

20 April                                   Bromley Churchill Theatre

                                               churchilltheatre.co.uk                                                  on sale 23 June

22 – 24 April                           Belfast Grand Opera House                                       028 9024 1919

                                               goh.co.uk                                                                     on sale 14 August

25 April                                   Dublin Gaiety Theatre                                                0818 719388

                                               gaietytheatre.ie                                                           on sale soon

28 April                                   Aylesbury Waterside Theatre                                    0844 871 7607

                                               atgtickets.com/aylesbury                                            on sale 24 June

29 April                                   Carlisle, The Sands Centre

                                               betterboxoffice.co.uk/the-sands-centre                      on sale 23 June

30 April                                   Aberdeen Music Hall

                                               aberdeenperformingarts.com                                     on sale 23 June

1 May                                     Edinburgh Playhouse

                                               atgtickets.com/edinburgh                                           on sale 24 June

2 May                                     Southampton Mayflower Theatre

                                               mayflower.org.uk                                                        on sale 23 June

5 May                                     Southend Cliffs Pavilion                                            0343 310 0030

                                               thecliffspavilion.co.uk                                                 on sale 23 June

6 May                                     Nottingham Royal Concert Hall

                                               trch.co.uk                                                                   on sale 23 June

7 May                                     Bath Forum                                                               0161 832 1111

                                               bathforum.co.uk                                                         on sale 23 June

9 May                                     London Palladium

                                               lwtheatres.co.uk/theatres/the-london-palladium        on sale 23 June

12 May                                   Guildford G-Live                                                       0343 310 0055

                                               glive.co.uk                                                                  on sale 23 June

13 May                                   Truro Hall For Cornwall                                             01872262466     

                                               hallforcornwall.co.uk                                                  on sale 20 July

14 May                                   Poole Lighthouse

                                               lighthousepoole.co.uk                                                on sale 26 June

15 May                                   Stoke-on-Trent Regent Theatre

                                               atgtickets.com/stoke                                                  on sale 24 June

16 May                                   Leeds Grand Theatre0113 243 0808

                                               leedsheritagetheatres.com                                        on sale 26 June

19 May                                   Bradford Live

                                               trafalgartickets.com/bradford-live-bradford/en-GB    on sale 23 June

20 May                                   Peterborough New Theatre                                     01733 852992

                                               newtheatre-peterborough.com                                  on sale 26 June

21 May                                   Dartford The Orchard Theatre

                                               trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB on sale 23 June

22 May                                   Sheffield City Hall

                                               sheffieldcityhall.co.uk                                                on sale 23 June

23 May                                   Sunderland Empire

                                               atgtickets.com/Sunderland                                       on sale 24 June

26 May                                   Woking New Victoria Theatre

                                               atgtickets.com/Woking                                              on sale 24 June

27 – 29 May                           Leicester Curve                                                        0116 242 3595

                                               curveonline.co.uk                                                      on sale 7 July

30 May                                   Grimsby Auditorium

                                               grimsbyauditorium.org.uk                                          on sale 23 June

2 – 3 June                              Canterbury Marlowe Theatre                                    01227 787787

                                               marlowetheatre.com                                                  on sale 20 July

4 June                                    Torquay Princess Theatre

                                               atgtickets.com/venues/princess-theatre-torquay       on sale 24 June

5 June                                    Swansea Building Society Arena

                                               swansea-arena.co.uk                                                 on sale 24 June

6 June                                    Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall Theatre

                                                assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk                                        on sale 23 June

9 June                                    York Grand Opera House

                                               atgtickets.com/York                                                    on sale 24 June

10 June                                  Hull New Theatre                                                       01482 300 306

                                               hulltheatres.co.uk                                                       on sale 23 June

11 – 12 June                          Plymouth Theatre Royal

                                               theatreroyal.com                                                        on sale 7 July

13 June                                  Cardiff Wales Millennium Centre

                                               wmc.org.uk                                                                on sale 3 July

Huge crowds take in the sun and a dazzling array of acts as West End LIVE turns 21

Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 June 2026

WestEndLive.co.uk 

• Hailed as ‘Glastonbury for theatre lovers’, Europe’s largest free musical theatre festival returned to Trafalgar Square on Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 June
• The weekend featured over 60 performances from top shows from the West End and beyond
• Presenting this year’s event were Mathilde Barker, Shanay Holmes and Tobias Turley on Saturday, and Courtney Bowman and Tosh Wanogho-Maud on Sunday

MORE than 70,000 people gathered around Trafalgar Square for the West End LIVE weekend as the UK’s most unique free musical festival entered its 21st year. 

The event – featuring more than 60 shows including some of the most famous productions from across the West End and beyond – has now become a landmark of the theatrical year with theatre fans flocking from across the world to enjoy the musical menu. 

Productions ranged from established hits like Les Misérables, Mamma Mia! and Oliver! to new shows like the Olivier Award-winning Paddington The Musical and Into The Woods, and the yet-to-open Sinatra The Musical. Fans were also delighted by the unexpected, with performances from English National Opera and Showstopper! The Improvised Musical proving to be highlights of the weekend. The square and surrounding streets were packed from early on Saturday and Sunday as fans braved soaring temperatures into the high 20s to support London’s theatre scene. 

Launched in 2005, West End LIVE – presented by Official London Theatre (the not-for-profit ticketing platform run by the Society of London Theatre) and Westminster City Council – has established itself as an important curtain raiser not only for the amazing array of choice in West End’s theatreland, but also as a showcase for central London’s other attractions. 

Cllr Paul Swaddle, Leader of Westminster City Council, said: 

“West End LIVE is a curtain raiser for the capital and a showcase for the creative industries which support around 80,000 jobs in London.

“People travel from across the world to attend West End LIVE. It is a springboard for tourism with visitors heading into the West End to enjoy our galleries, museums, bars and restaurants.   

“In this 21st year it was great to once more put on this jewel in this creative crown with the Society of London Theatre and many generous sponsors. With a stellar line-up, once again it proved essential viewing for fans of West End theatre.”

VIP guests attending included not only the Lord Mayor of Westminster but even the Mayor of Phoenix, Arizona! 

Emma D’Souza MBE, Executive Director (Audiences & Commercial) at Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, said:

“Each year, West End LIVE showcases the incredible breadth and quality of theatre on offer in the West End and beyond, and this year’s line-up has been one of our most exciting yet. From the multi-Olivier Award-winning Paddington The Musical to brand-new productions yet to open, including Sinatra The Musical and One Day, alongside many of the West End’s best-loved favourites, audiences have been delighted by the weekend’s spectacular performances.

“West End LIVE would not be possible without Westminster City Council, our sponsors, and all of the shows involved – we are incredibly grateful for their ongoing partnership and support.”

West End LIVE would not be possible without the ongoing commitment shown by Westminster City Council and Official London Theatre, with special thanks to Art of London, ATG Entertainment, Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, Gascoyne London, Heart of London Business Alliance, London Heritage Quarter, LW Theatres, and New West End Company. With the additional support of Conway, Criterion Theatre, Crowdguard, The Crown Estate, Disney on Stage, Lynne & Land Foundation, Mayor of London, Nederlander Theatres, Nimax Theatres, Nimbus, The Noël Coward Foundation, The Portman Estate, Regent Street and St James’s, Shaftesbury Capital, Theatre Royal Haymarket, Theatrical Rights Worldwide, Trafalgar Entertainment, and Veolia.   

Catch up on the weekend’s performances and exclusive backstage content on Official London Theatre’s YouTube and social media channels. 

WestEndLive.co.uk | X | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube 

TIM RICE AND ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

STARRING SAM RYDER

TO OPEN MAJOR UK TOUR IN 2027
STARTING AT MANCHESTER PALACE THEATRE
ON 11 FEBRUARY 2027

FOLLOWING WEST END ENGAGEMENTS AT

THE LONDON PALLADIUM (NOW PLAYING – 5 SEP 2026)

THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE (16 OCT 2026 – 9 JAN 2027)

 uktour.jesuschristsuperstar.com
 

Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals is today delighted to announce Jesus Christ Superstar will tour the UK following the conclusion of its West End engagements at The London Palladium (now playing until Saturday 5 September 2026) and Theatre Royal Drury Lane (Friday 16 October 2026 to Saturday 9 January 2027). Sam Ryder brings his highly anticipated take on the iconic role of Jesus to theatres across the UK for the first time. The tour will begin at the Palace Theatre Manchester from Thursday 11 to Saturday 27 February 2027.

Following Manchester the production will go on to visit Cardiff (Wales Millennium Centre); Newcastle (Theatre Royal); Edinburgh (Playhouse); Oxford (New Theatre Oxford); Norwich (Norwich Theatre Royal); Southend (Cliffs Pavilion); Blackpool (Winter Gardens); Birmingham (Hippodrome); Belfast (Grand Opera House); Bradford (Alhambra); Nottingham (Theatre Royal); Woking (Theatre); Milton Keynes (Theatre); Plymouth (Theatre Royal Plymouth); Glasgow (King’s Theatre); Southampton (Mayflower Theatre); Sunderland (Empire); Liverpool (Empire); Aberdeen (His Majesty’s Theatre); Hull (New Theatre) and Bristol (Hippodrome).

Tickets for touring venues go on sale this week. For full details please see: uktour.jesuschristsuperstar.com

Producer Michael Harrison said
“We are absolutely delighted that Jesus Christ Superstar will embark on a major UK tour following the phenomenal response to this extraordinary new production. The tremendous buzz generated by Saturday night’s first performance at The London Palladium underlines just how special this iconic musical remains, and we are thrilled that audiences across the country will now have the opportunity to experience Tim Sheader’s visionary staging, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary score, and Sam Ryder’s electrifying performance.

This is fantastic news for touring theatre and audiences throughout the UK, ensuring that this remarkable production can be enjoyed by many more people following our seasons at The London Palladium and Theatre Royal Drury Lane.”

Full casting will be announced at a later date.

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic global phenomenon is directed by Tim Sheader with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Drew McOnie and design by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Tom Scutt. Reuniting the creative team of the 2016 production to create a unique staging of their Olivier award-winning, worldwide smash-hit production. The production which was originally created and produced at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, heads out on a tour of the UK following an 11-week season at The London Palladium and a 12-week season at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

Jesus Christ Superstar follows the events of the last days of the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, ‘Gethsemane’ and the iconic title number ‘Superstar’.

Originally released as an album, Jesus Christ Superstar opened on Broadway in 1971, at the Mark Hellinger Theatre, where it was nominated for five Tony Awards including Best Original Score. The original London production ran for over eight years. By the time it closed, after 3,358 performances, it had become the longest-running musical in West End history at that time. 

Joining Tim Sheader, choreographer Drew McOnie and designer Tom Scutt on the creative team are musical supervisor Tom Deering,lighting designer Lee Curran, sound designer Adam Fisher, wigs, hair and makeup designers Sam Cox & Maria Johal, fight director Kate Waters and casting directors Grindrod Burton Casting.

Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals’ recent productions include the smash hit double Olivier-Award winning Evita at The London Palladium last summer which transfers to Broadway in spring 2027, the seven-time Olivier-Award and three-time Tony-Award winning revival of SUNSET BLVD. and the award-winning Starlight Express, which will embark on a World Tour in spring 2027 after recently concluding its London run. They have just opened CATS: The Jellicle Ball on Broadway to huge critical acclaim and three Tony-Award wins; and this summer bring a brand-new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s global sensation CATS to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre ahead of a major UK Tour.

Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals presents the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production by arrangement with LW Entertainment. 

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR UK TOUR 2027 LISTINGS

MANCHESTER, PALACE THEATRE
Thursday 11 – Saturday 27 February 2027
atgtickets.com/venues/palace-theatre-manchester

CARDIFF, WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
Tuesday 2 – Saturday 13 March 2027
wmc.org.uk/en

NEWCASTLE, THEATRE ROYAL
Tuesday 16 – Saturday 27 March 2027
theatreroyal.co.uk

EDINBURGH, EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE
Tuesday 30 March – Saturday 3 April 2027
atgtickets.com/Edinburgh

OXFORD, NEW THEATRE OXFORD
Tuesday 13 – Saturday 17 April 2027
atgtickets.com/venues/new-theatre-oxford

NORWICH, NORWICH THEATRE ROYAL
Tuesday 20 – Saturday 24 April 2027
norwichtheatre.org

SOUTHEND, CLIFFS PAVILION
Tuesday 27 April – Saturday 1 May 2027
thecliffspavilion.co.uk

BLACKPOOL, WINTER GARDENS
Tuesday 11 – Saturday 15 May 2027
wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

BIRMINGHAM, HIPPODROME
Tuesday 18 May – Saturday 5 June 2027
birminghamhippodrome.com

BELFAST, GRAND OPERA HOUSE
Tuesday 15 – Saturday 26 June 2027
goh.co.uk

BRADFORD, ALHAMBRA THEATRE
Tuesday 29 June – Saturday 3 July 2027
bradford-theatres.co.uk

NOTTINGHAM, THEATRE ROYAL
Tuesday 6 – Saturday 17 July 2027
trch.co.uk

WOKING, WOKING THEATRE
Tuesday 20 – Saturday 24 July 2027
atgtickets.com/Woking

MILTON KEYNES, MILTON KEYNES THEATRE
Tuesday 27 – Saturday 31 July 2027
atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

PLYMOUTH, THEATRE ROYAL PLYMOUTH
Tuesday 3 – Saturday 14 August 2027
theatreroyal.com

GLASGOW, KING’S THEATRE
Tuesday 17 – Saturday 28 August 2027
atgtickets.com/venues/kings-theatre-glasgow

SOUTHAMPTON, MAYFLOWER THEATRE
Wednesday 1 – Saturday 11 September 2027
mayflower.org.uk

SUNDERLAND, EMPIRE
Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 September 2027
atgtickets.com/Sunderland

LIVERPOOL, EMPIRE
Tuesday 21 September – Saturday 2 October 2027
atgtickets.com/Liverpool

ABERDEEN, HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE
Tuesday 5 – Saturday 9 October 2027
aberdeenperformingarts.com

HULL, NEW THEATRE
Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 October 2027
hulltheatres.co.uk

BRISTOL, HIPPODROME
Tuesday 19 – Saturday 23 October 2027
atgtickets.com/Bristol