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TONY AND OLIVIER AWARD-WINNING MUSICAL

CELEBRATES 18 YEARS SINCE OPENING ON BROADWAY AND ANNOUNCES NEW LONDON CAST

“This fresh and vibrant production

is the feel-good hit that everyone will adore” BroadwayWorld

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM WWW.JERSEYBOYSMUSICAL.CO.UK

The original Grammy, Tony and Olivier award-winning smash-hit musical, Jersey Boys, celebrates its 18th birthday after opening on Broadway in 2005. This musical extravaganza goes behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the true-life phenomenon and is currently booking until 28th January 2024. Christmas performances are now on sale.

Alongside the birthday celebrations, the London production is delighted to announce its new cast from 26th July at the Trafalgar Theatre. Luke Suri as Frankie Valli and Karl James Wilson as Nick Massi continue their roles, with Peter Nash (Singin’ in the Rain UK tour) as Tommy De Vito and Declan Egan as Bob Gaudio, who previously played the role at the Piccadilly Theatre and on the UK tour, completing the Four Seasons.

Joining them will be Joey Cornish as Joe Pesci, Joseph Peters as Bob Crewe, Andy Barke as Gyp De Carlo, Kirsty Whelan as Mary Delgado, Oliver Tester as Norm Waxman/Hank Majewski, Jacob McIntosh as Barry Belson, Gracie Lai as Lorraine, Rosie Needham as Francine, Danny Knott, Bonnie Page, Olly Manley, Daniel Parkinson, Matthew Lawrence and Pearce Barron.

“Tough guys and tender harmonies. A cracking story and a seemingly

endless catalogue of hit songs”

The Guardian

They were just four guys from New Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story—a story that has made them an international sensation all over again.

From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s too good to be true. The show is packed with the hits of The Four Seasons, including Beggin’, Sherry, Walk Like A Man, December, 1963 (Oh What a Night), Big Girls Don’t Cry, My Eyes Adored You, Let’s Hang On (To What We’ve Got), Bye Bye Baby, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Working My Way Back to You, Fallen Angel, Rag Doll and Who Loves You.

“Too good to be true” New York Post

Howard Panter, producer for Trafalgar Entertainment Productions, said: “Eighteen years is a magnificent milestone for Jersey Boys and I’m thrilled that audiences continue to give standing ovations at the Trafalgar Theatre night after night. I can’t wait to see our incredible new cast take to the stage and perform the legendary hits that make Jersey Boys the smash hit musical it is”

Jersey Boys is written by Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, with music by Bob Gaudio and lyrics by Bob Crewe. Recipient of Broadway’s Tony, London’s Olivier and Australia’s Helpmann Awards for Best New Musical, Jersey Boys is the winner of 65 major awards and has been seen by over 30 million people worldwide. Jersey Boys was voted the favourite Olivier Winning musical of the 21st Century in a survey of theatregoers by The Stage newspaper. The musical opened to rave reviews at the newly refurbished Trafalgar Theatre in July 2021.

Jersey Boys originally opened on Broadway on 6 November 2005 and ran for more than 11 years. It was the 12th longest running show in Broadway history. It ran in London’s West End from 2008 to 2017 – nine amazing years – and, at the time, was the sixth longest musical running in the West End. It has recently completed its third record-breaking UK & Ireland tour which ran until May 2023, having previously played two tours from 2014-2016 and from 2017-2019.

“Staged with true all-American flair and polish” WhatsOnStage

They had a look, an attitude, and a sound like no other. Sure, they were born in Jersey. But they were made in America.

During the month of July celebrate Independence Day with the original American Feel-Good Musical, Jersey Boys! Use promo code 4JULY online for all performances in July and have a drink on us!*

*T&Cs £75 (Band A seat) plus your choice of a Frankie cocktail (Gin, Prosecco, Passion Fruit syrup) or Brooklyn Lager (Alcohol Free option available). Valid on all performances 1 – 31 July. Subject to availability.

Jersey Boys at the Trafalgar Theatre is staged by the original Broadway creative team, led by the Tony Award-winning team of director Des McAnuff and choreographer Sergio Trujillo, with scenic design by Klara Zieglerova, costume design by Jess Goldstein, lighting by Howell Binkley, sound by Steve Canyon Kennedy and projections design by Michael Clark. The orchestrations are by Steve Orich and the music supervision and vocal arrangements by Ron Melrose. Casting Director is Jill Green CDG.

Jersey Boys is produced in London by the Dodgers and Trafalgar Theatre Productions, with BB Investments, Kevin Kinsella, Pelican Group in association with Latitude Link and Eilene Davidson Productions.

Listings Information:

Website: www.jerseyboysmusical.co.uk

Twitter & Instagram: @JerseyBoysUK

Facebook: @JerseyBoysLondon

Trafalgar Theatre, 14 Whitehall, London SW1A 2DY

Performance Schedule:

Monday, Wednesday – Saturday 7:30pm

Thursday & Saturday 2:30pm

Sunday 4:00pm

Christmas schedule:

As above with an additional matinee at 2:30pm on 20, 27 December and 3 January.

There are no performances on 24, 25 December and 1 January.

Tickets from £25

Actor and Director Jason Merrells answered 20 questions.  Jason is currently touring with The Verdict playing the lead role of Lawyer Frank Galvin.  Tickets are available to catch the tour here

Let’s start with a few favourites

Favourite show (whether you have been in it or not)?

I’m enjoying being in The Verdict and I enjoyed playing Astrov in Uncle Vanya which was a tick box role for me.  Shows I’ve not been in and enjoyed, I’d say Burn This with John Malkovich in the early 90’.  And Jerusalem must come a close second

Favourite book?

Notes from the Underground by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Favourite theatre?

The National Theatre

Favourite song?

I like all music but Into My Arms by Nick Cave if I must choose one

Favourite type of music?

Again, I like it all but I’d have to say electronic music if I can only have one

Favourite food?

Mexican

Favourite drink?

Manhattan

What is your favourite role so far?

I think your current role is always your favourite as it’s in your consciousness.  But like I said before Astrov in Uncle Vanya was a tick box role for me

What was your first role?

A fringe show where I play the Earl of Essex.  My first role on TV was Matt in Casualty

And what role would you really like to play?

Coriolanus and I’d like to be in the Scottish play

If you weren’t a performer what would you be?

I’m also an Artist, I paint and make prints.  I like wood work so I think I’d be happy as a Carpenter and I cook, so maybe a Chef?  But I think I’d enjoy working with wood

How are you finding touring?

It’s a long tour and it’s hard being away from home, but we get to revitalise new audiences every night

What advice would you give 16 year old you?

Hang in there.  Look after yourself. Observe and be kind

Do you fancy branching out in another avenue beyond acting e.g. Producing or Directing?

I already direct, I’ve done a some films and I have a few films up in the air, so I am happy directing

What was the last stage show you saw and really enjoyed?

I saw Bleak Expectations in the West End with my daughter and it was very funny

Favourite line from the show?

I say “Very good” in The Verdict, which is after a very dramatic moment and that’s my current favourite

What are the nicest/weirdest things you have ever received from fans?

I don’t really get anything, but it’s always weird to me when I’m given my photo to sign.  It’s weird to see my face

Can you tell us what you will be up to next?

No, not really.  I need a break after this tour and then we’ll take it from there

Festival Theatre, Malvern – until 8th July 2023

Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau

4.5****

Like many people, I knew Abigail’s Party from the TV adaptation starring Alison Steadman. With such an iconic performance to live up to, I had high expectations.

Ah, the 70’s – “the decade that taste forgot”. Set (and costume) designer Bek Palmer did a wonderful job recreating the era, immersing us immediately into the world (and psyches) of our hosts for the evening…

….and from word go Beverly set her stall out, boogeying whilst laying out the nibbles, glamorously decked out like the movie queen she knows she is in her orange evening dress. Rebecca Birch gave a winning performance of this cracked actress who conveys all the surface sheen and glamour of the thoroughly modern woman whilst being as frail as gold leaf on the inside. I really loved the small details In her portrayal. A different take from Steadman’s – neither better nor worse. Slightly more sexual I would say and less smarmy (but not by much). Great (two thumbs up) – truly cringeworthy.

Bev’s frustration lashes out mostly at her husband Laurence. Actor Tom Richardson’s performance was nicely nuanced – I really liked his various attitudes towards the guests invading his house. His pent up frustration, held in check with just a little escaping through the cracks, was particularly effective when it did eventually explode.

The first guests, Angela and Tony, provide the perfect canvas for Bev to play out her fantasies. Alice De-Warrenne was hilarious as Angela, wonderfully off kilter, it was a comedy tour de force, not least that voice and lack of etiquette! George Readshaw played her husband Tony with perfect pacing and barely held rage. Less was more with Tony and I loved it.

The last guest, Susan, Abigail’s mum who has been ousted from her house so that her daughter can have the eponymous party, is hard put upon by life and the overpowering Bev. The normal in the middle of the madness. Brilliantly underplayed (and I mean that as a compliment) by the wonderful Jo Castleton.

I wonder how close this production was to the original stage play. For instance, there was different music to the TV version I knew – no Demis Roussos. There was particularly brilliant use of Beethoven’s 5th opening movement, the “fate” theme, used to comi-tragic effect.

Each actor portrayed perfect range within the madness of their characters and situations as they unravel during the evening, everyone doing a stellar job of conveying the tension, drama, pathos and tragedy! I really loved Bev and Angela getting progressively more drunk and Angela’s use of props. The director’s use of the male cast when moving the sofa was masterful, (Tony with one hand, Laurence with 2) like Rams butting horns.

A wonderful play with something for everyone; nostalgia for those who remember this seminal, heady decade and fascination and wonderment for others (perhaps younger) at the ghastly fashions, music, décor and attitudes. But from whichever angle you come at it, it’s a fabulous night out being a fly on the wall of this excruciating soirée and one that I would recommend to everyone. Top marks to all concerned – terrific!

Gillian Lynne Theatre – until 20 January 2024

5*****

Charlie Stemp dazzles in this gloriously daft show full of joyous escapism, jaw dropping dancing and corny humour.

Created in 1992, but perfectly recreating the dizziness of the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals, Crazy For You is based on 1930’s Girl Crazy by George and Ira Gershwin, with some old favourites from the Gershwins’ catalogue added. Ken Ludwig’s book feels just like one of those old musicals – the flimsiest of plots with ridiculous situations, groan-inducing jokes, physical comedy interspersed between barnstorming song and dance numbers – brilliant! Beowulf Borritt’s glorious set, Ken Billington’s luscious lighting and William Ivey Long’s colourful costumes are on song.

Bobby Child (Charlie Stemp) wants to dance, but that’s not in his family’s business plans. Bobby is sent to Deadrock, Nevada to foreclose on the town’s theatre. Instead, he falls for the owner’s daughter, Polly (Carly Anderson) and somehow ends up impersonating theatre impresario Bela Zangler and putting on a show to save it. Of course, the real Zangler (the hilarious Tom Edden) shows up and things get complicated.

The frothiness and fizziness of the storytelling and performances draw you in, and it is wonderful to see Stemp get the chance to really show his comedic side – the scene where Bobby and Zangler, dressed identically, drunkenly mirror each other is a masterpiece of comic timing. Whether a huge set piece dance number or a heartfelt romantic song, the vocals are stunning, and with songs like these – what’s not to like? Embraceable You, Someone To Watch Over Me – gorgeous.

Susan Stroman’s choreography and direction is simply sublime. Making the most of Stemp’s incredible dancing talent, Bobby’s choreography becomes his language, the only time he is truly himself. The imaginative and intricate ensemble sequences are high energy and intoxicating. I Got Rhythm is mind-blowingly good – you’ll need a drink in the interval to recover.

Polly is clever, funny and full of strength and Carly Anderson allows her vulnerabilities to show in her beautifully performed songs. Sam Harrison and Rina Fatina make a huge impression as English tourists, and Natalie Kassanga is wonderful as Bobby’s fiancé Irene. But this is Charlie Stemp’s show – his dancing will take your breath away and his charm and comic characterisation will put a goofy grin on your face.

A revival with old school class and fizzing with energy, silliness and joy – Crazy For You is THE show of the Summer.

Curve Theatre Leicester – until 8th July 2023

Reviewed by Amarjeet Singh

5****

Bourne’s breathtaking interpretation of the Bards bad romance is enthralling. Refreshing, it reframes and reimagines the timeless tale of star-crossed lovers, set not in the Italian city of Verona but in a stark white, sterile Institute for Boys and Girls. It’s not clear of its purpose except segregation and compliance, what is clear is that the youth are forced into submission as they swallow medication and stiffly march in formation on command. The Verona Institute is perhaps part reform school, part hospital and is most definitely open to corruption. In this version, there is no direct feud between families, but rather a struggle between youth and authority, freedom and incarceration, love and brutality.

Drawing you in like the proverbial bull, a red curtain falls revealing tragedy before launching into the Dance of the Knights, powerful and urgent, you feel the angst pour from the pores of the performers. Bourne flips the script as expected so you don’t quite know what to expect. Tybalt is now an unorthodox and threatening guard, with inappropriate designs on Juliet. Nurse/Friar Lawrence is now a kindly Chaplain, Mercutio is a fiery, flirty and feisty, fellow inmate pushing boundaries. Early on there is a suggestion of something quite sinister happening to Juliet at the hands of Tybalt, which makes the final twist and deviation from the original plot, plausible. (No spoilers here)

We are introduced to the youth with some truly spectacular dance sequences, staccato stomps, and sullen swings with the youth literally climbing the walls in their caged confinement. Romeo, accompanied by paparazzi conscious parents, arrives at the institute and is deftly stripped and admitted, blending in, to become another brick in the wall.

Romeo and Juliet’s love is evident and celebrated in this production as is youth. Through the most exquisite dance their love blossoms. In ‘A Verona Institute’ dance for boys and girls. It flips from formal disco overseen by guards and chaplain, to full-on raunchfest when the authorities are out of sight, reminiscent of ‘Dirty Dancing’, the scene in the basement, with the watermelons. There are elements of ‘Grease’ and ‘Summer Nights’ when Romeo and Juliet’s friends huddle excitedly to debrief the morning after. Whilst their peers writhe, gyrate and undulate with sexual fury during the disco, they alone stand pure, centre of the stage, oscillating on a different frequency. The kiss sequence is spectacular, lips locked whilst they dance with abandonment, breathless, effortless and youre left questioning afterwards, how did they do that? Cordelia Braithwaite is a multifaceted Juliet, not simply passive and innocent, she portrays this Juliet with the depth she deserves. Paris Fitzpatrick is a gentle Romeo who develops in strength as the performance goes on and he endures the various trials forced upon him. Richard Winsor is sensational as a chilling and tyrannical Tybalt. More in need of incarceration than the inmates, Winsor completely encompasses the tortured rage and violence that consumes him. A fleeting moment of perceived softness is quickly shunned for the familiarity of brutalisation. The cast, as a whole, were energetic, enthusiastic and had you entertained at every moment. The tireless movements were innovative and polished but at the same time free and fluidlike. They had you on the edge of your seat trying to take it all in, all at once.

Terry Davies’s shaping of Prokofiev’s score is a stripped-back version of the score, which suits this adaptation, still dramatic and poignant, it delivers strong in the dramatic stakes. Lez Brotherston’s white-tiled set was cold and clinical. Monochrome, with splashes of colour for effect. Wired gates, walls you could climb with a walkway which so cleverly doubled as Juliet’s balcony. A huge light fitting coming down from the ceiling which was a sort of surgical UFO and a glitter ball. Combined with Paule Constable’s lighting it set the scene for a dystopian future for our youth, so bright, yet so bleak, full of shadows and things that haunt us. A medicated future to suppress impulses.

Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet is beautiful. Full of spectacular performances and pathos, combined with Prokofiev’s haunting score and set through the lens of youth, this truly is a fresh and surprising adaptation that absorbs and awakens the senses.

The UK Pantomime Association is looking for a diverse range of volunteer judges to join its team for the 2023/24 Season 

The UK Pantomime Association has launched a search for new judges to join its experienced team, visiting over 200 professional pantomimes across the length and breadth of the UK to shortlist nominations for The Pantomime Awards. The Association aims to ensure the team of more than 60 judges represents the diverse nature of pantomime audiences.  

Applications are especially welcome from disabled and neurodiverse individuals, members of the LGBTQI+ community, and people from the global majority, in particular those with African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, North African, South Asian or South East Asian heritage, as these voices are currently underrepresented in the team.  

Simon Sladen, Chair of the UK Pantomime Association, said: “We aim to celebrate, support and champion diversity and inclusivity in our work, and we aspire to engage our judges from a diverse group of volunteers. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and acknowledge the importance of lived experience, as well as the significant role local audiences play in regional pantomime’s production and reception.” 

Applications are invited from seasoned audience members with a critical eye, people with a professional pantomime performance or production credit and those with a journalistic/reviewing background. To apply, just complete a short questionnaire which is available here: https://forms.gle/yg9zScxX1XHo7JrD8. The deadline is 26 July 2023 at midnight.   

The benefits of being a judge include complimentary tickets for pantomime performances within an agreed region, an invitation to The Pantomime Awards judging conference and tickets for The Pantomime Awards ceremony. 

All judges will be required to watch approximately eight performances in their region from November until January (with the team clocking up more than 700 performances collectively!). They will be required to attend a training session and they will need to commit time to submit show reports via an online portal.  Judges are engaged on a voluntary basis, with no expenses covered. 

The Pantomime Awards 2023 in association with Butlin’s took place in a star-studded ceremony at the Trafalgar Theatre in London’s West End. Amongst the winners were Special Recognition Awards given to Ian McKellen for passionate advocacy and services to the artform of pantomime, Cast, Doncaster, for their ongoing commitment to integrated BSL signing in pantomime and the Theatre Royal Stratford East for their continued innovative and inclusive practice in the field of pantomime. 

Founded in 2021, the UK Pantomime Association is a charity that explores, shares and celebrates pantomime by investigating the genre’s rich past, engaging with contemporary practice and inspiring the future.  To find out more, visit https://pantomimeassociation.co.uk. 

MAYFLOWER THEATRE WELCOMED NEIL GAIMAN, AUTHOR OF THE OCEAN AT THE END OF THE LANE TO WATCH HIS SMASH HIT PLAY LIVE ONSTAGE

Neil Gaiman, the author behind the best-selling novel, The Ocean at the End of the Lane which was adapted for stage by Joel Horwood, directed by Katy Rudd visited the National Theatre’s smash-hit production at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton on Tuesday 4 July. The company also celebrated over 200 shows on tour.

This first major stage adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s work blends magic with memory in a tour-de-force of storytelling that takes audiences on an epic journey to a childhood once forgotten and the darkness that lurks at the very edge of it.

This year marks 10 years since Neil Gaiman’s best-selling novel, The Ocean at the End of the Lane, was first published. The novel won Book of the Year at the 2013 National Book Awards and has sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide.

The 17-strong ensemble cast are: Charlie Brooks (Ursula), Daniel Cornish (alternate Boy), Trevor Fox (Dad), Emma-Jane Goodwin (ensemble/understudy), Paolo Guidi (ensemble), Millie Hikasa (Lettie Hempstock), Lewis Howard (ensemble/understudy), Kemi-Bo Jacobs (Ginnie Hempstock), Jasmeen James (ensemble/understudy), Ronnie Lee (ensemble), Aimee McGoldrick (ensemble), Laurie Ogden (Sis), Keir Ogilvy (Boy), Domonic Ramsden (ensemble), Joe Rawlinson-Hunt (ensemble/understudy), Risha Silvera (ensemble/understudy) and Finty Williams (Old Mrs Hempstock)

The award-winning creative team includes set designer, Fly Davis; costume and puppet designer, Samuel Wyer; movement director, Steven Hoggett; composer, Jherek Bischoff; lighting designer, Paule Constable; sound designer, Ian Dickinson; magic and illusions director and designer, Jamie Harrison; puppetry director, Finn Caldwell and casting director, Naomi Downham. The associate creative team includes associate director, Sophie Dillon Moniram; associate set designer, Tim Blazdell; associate movement director, Jess Williams; associate lighting designers, Rob Casey (for Ammonite) and Tom Turner; associate sound designer, Chris Reid; associate magic and illusions director, John Bulleid; and associate puppetry director, Gareth Aled.

Neil Gaiman is known for his graphic novels, including The Sandman series (a major new Netflix series which in its first 10 days was watched for over 198 million hours by audiences around the world); his novels for adults and children including Stardust, Coraline, and The Graveyard Book; and multiple film and television projects including Good Omens (season 2 is due to appear on Amazon Prime from 28 July) and Anansi Boys.

The Ocean at the End of the Lane finishes its run at Mayflower Theatre this Saturday, 8 July 2023.

Tickets for The Ocean At The End Of The Lane (Tuesday 4 – Saturday 8 July) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.

FULL CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR

ENGLISH-LANGUAGE WORLD PREMIÈRE OF

FAREWELL MISTER HAFFMANN

Adam Blanshay Productions and Norel Productions today announce full casting for Jean-Philippe Daguerre’s Farewell Mister Haffmann, the English language world première of one of France’s most successful new plays. Joining the previously announced Alexander Hanson, Lisa Dillon and Ciarán Owens, are Josefina Gabrielle and Nigel Lindsay. Translated by Jeremy Sams, and directed by Lindsay Posner, the production opens at the Ustinov in Bath Theatre Royal on 31 August, with previews from 24 August, and runs until 23 September.

The French play Adieu Monsieur Haffmann by Jean-Philippe Daguerre has been a commercial and critical success in France, winning four Molière Awards, including Best New Play. It has been one of the longest running plays in France and was recently made into a film starring Daniel Auteil.

Adam Blanshay Productions and Norel Productions present

FAREWELL MISTER HAFFMANN
By Jean-Philippe Daguerre

Translated by Jeremy Sams

Director: Lindsay Posner; Set and Costume Designer: Paul Wills; Lighting Designer: Peter Mumford;

Sound Designer & Composer: Giles Thomas; Casting Director: Serena Hill

24 August – 23 September 2023

Opening at the Ustinov Studio in Bath Theatre Royal, this will be the English language world première of Jeremy Sams’ translation of Jean-Philippe Daguerre’s play, directed by Lindsay Posner, one of the UK’s most accomplished directors.

The year is 1942. Paris is under Nazi occupation. Jews are being rounded up.  Joseph Haffmann, a Jewish owner of a jewellery shop and his long- standing employee Pierre Vigneau change roles as part of a strange deal which could only take place against the background of an absurd and tragic reality. Joseph Haffmann will transfer the ownership of the jewellery store to Pierre, but asks that Pierre hides him from the Nazis. In return, Pierre insists that that Joseph enter a very unusual intimate arrangement with Isabelle, Pierre’s wife. 

Add to that a Matisse painting, an ‘art loving’ Nazi officer and his outrageous wife, marital difficulties amplified by the bizarre domestic situation, it is no wonder that Pierre is driven to the brink.

Director Lindsay Posner returns to the Ustinov Studio fresh from his widely acclaimed production of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? One of the UK’s most accomplished directors, his recent productions in Bath include Noises Off, God of Carnage, Stone in his Pockets, She Stoops to Conquer and Hay Fever.

Lisa Dillon plays Isabelle Vigneau. Her theatre credits includes The Fever Syndrome and Hapgood (Hampstead Theatre); The Roaring Girl, The Taming Of The Shrew, and Othello (RSC); A Flea In Her Ear and Design For Living (Old Vic); When The Rain Stops Falling, Hedda Gabler and Period of Adjustment (Almeida Theatre); Blithe Spirit, Private Lives,  Under The Blue Sky and The Master Builder (West End); As You Like It, The Cherry Orchard and Iphigenia (Sheffield Theatres); Love’s Labour’s Lost and Much Ado About Nothing (Chichester/RSC/Haymarket); Present Laughter and The Hour We Knew Nothing of Each Other (National Theatre). For television, her work includes Black Work, Dirk Gently II, Midsomer Murders, The Jury II, Cambridge Spies, Cranford and Hawking; and for film, Suffragette, The Beat Beneath My Feet and Bright Young Things.

Josefina Gabrielle plays Suzanne Abetz. Her theatre credits include Les Miserables (Sondheim Theatre), Chicago (Phoenix and Adelphi Theatres), The Box of Delights (Wilton’s Music Hall), A Little Night Music (The Watermill Theatre), Stepping Out (Vaudeville Theatre), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Theatre Royal Drury Lane), Merrily We Roll Along (Harold Pinter Theatre), The King and I (UK tour), Me and My Girl, A Chorus Line (Sheffield Theatres), Sweet Charity (Menier Chocolate Factory and Theatre Royal Haymarket), Hello Dolly! (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), The 39 Steps (Criterion Theatre), Tonight at 8.30 (Chichester Festival Theatre), The Witches of Eastwick (Prince of Wales’ Theatre), Oklahoma! (National Theatre and Gershwin Theatre), The Goodbye Girl (Albery Theatre) and Carousel (National Theatre). Her television work includes Miranda, Heartbeat – as semi-regular Debbie Black, Totally Frank, Born and Bred, Auf Weidersehen Pet, and Sunburn.

Alexander Hanson plays Otto Abetz. His extensive theatre work includes Noises Off (Phoenix Theatre); Follies (National Theatre); The Truth (Menier Chocolate Factory/Bath Theatre Royal/Wyndham’s Theatre); Single Spies (Rose Theatre Kingston); Uncle Vanya (Chichester Festival Theatre); A Little Night Music (Menier Chocolate Factory/Garrick Theatre); Marguerite and Arcadia (Theatre Royal Haymarket); The Sound of Music (London Palladium); Talking to Terrorists (Out of Joint/Royal Court Theatre); Candide, The Merchant of Venice, Troilus and Cressida, and The London Cuckolds (National Theatre); Sunset Boulevard (Adelphi Theatre); and The Memory of Water (Hampstead Theatre). For television, his work includes Auf Wiedersehen Pet (as Tarquin in two series), Midsomer Murders, Killing Eve, Endeavour, Lewis, London’s Burning, Heartbeat, and Rosemary and Thyme; and for film, The Stranger in our Bed, and Kidulthood.

Nigel Lindsay plays Joseph Haffmann. His theatre credits include The Lehman Trilogy (Gillian Lynne Theatre), Woman in Mind (Chichester Festival Theatre), Same Deep Water as Me (Donmar Warehouse), Faith Healer (Abbey Theatre), God of Carnage (Theatre Royal Bath), Harrogate, Sucker Punch (Royal Court Theatre), Guys and Dolls (Phoenix Theatre), Bull (Young Vic), Speed-the-Plow (Playhouse Theatre), A Small Family Business (National Theatre), Richard II (RSC), Shrek the Musical (Olivier Award nomination), Broken Glass (Tricycle Theatre – WhatsOnStage Award for Best Supporting Actor), and Under the Blue Sky (Duke of York’s Theatre). His television work includes The Chelsea Detective, Salisbury, Tin Star, Plebs, The Last Kingdom, The Capture, No Offence, Safe, White Gold, Innocent, Unforgotten, Victoria, Death in Paradise and Gifted; and for film, Six Minutes to Midnight, Dead in a Week (Or Your Money Back), Access All Areas, Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa, Breakfast with Jonny Wilkinson, Four Lions (Nomination for Best British Comedy Performance in Film), First Night, Scoop and Rogue Trader.

Ciarán Owens plays Pierre Vigneau. His theatre work includes The Windsors: Endgame (West End); The Duchess of Malfi (Almeida Theatre); Rutherford and Son, and Love and Information (Sheffield Theatres); Abigail’s Party (Theatre Royal Bath/UK tour); A Handful of Stars (Trafalgar Studios); Disco Pigs (UK & Ireland tour); The Brink (Orange Tree Theatre); King John (Shakespeare’s Globe); So Here We Are (Manchester Royal Exchange/ High Tide); The Crocodile (Manchester International Festival); Oh What a Lovely War (Theatre Royal Stratford East); Candide, A Mad World, My Masters and Titus Andronicus (RSC); Mercury Fur (Trafalgar Studios); and Our Country’s Good (Out of Joint). For television, work includes Peaky Blinders, Father Brown, Call The Midwife, The Last Kingdom, Strike Back, Crazyhead, Arthur and George, Spotless and Wallander. Film includes Red Joan and Where Hands Touch.

Jean-Philippe Daguerre is a French writer and director. His work over the last 20 years includes: Paroles de Prévert, Le Médecin malgré lui, Les Contes des 1001 Nuits, Alice au Pays des Merveilles, Aladin, Cyrano de Bergerac, Le Cid.  Jean-Philippe Daguerre is also the artistic director of “Le Grenier de Babouchka” Company. He was nominated for Molière Awards in 2016 for Aladin, in 2017 for Scapin, and in 2018 for Le Malade Imaginaire and for Clérambard. In 2018, the play Adieu Monsieur Haffmann, which he wrote and directed, won 4 Molières awards. Since then, he wrote and directed La Famille Ortiz, Le Petit Coiffeur, Le Voyage de Molière, La Chambre des merveilles and Huitième ciel.

Jeremy Sams is a translator, director, composer, and playwright. His translations and adaptations have been used at the National Theatre, on Broadway, in the West End, as well at ENO, Covent Garden, the Metropolitan Opera New York. He has directed and written music for many shows at the National Theatre, on Broadway, in the West End, and pretty much everywhere else. His most recent credits are What’s in a name?, Edmond de Bergerac, Roman Holiday (Bath) The Lavender Hill Mob, The Good Life (UK tours) as well as the operas Flight (Royal College of Music ) and Die Fledermaus (The Met).

Director Lindsay Posner has directed in every major London theatre as well as the RSC and on Broadway. His recent credits include the West End Production of Noises Off (Theatre Royal Bath, Phoenix Theatre & UK tour) starring Felicity Kendal and Edward Albee’s classic Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (Theatre Royal Bath). Next year Posner will direct David Morrissey in a double bill of The Lover and The Collection by Harold Pinter, and Tamsin Grieg in Terence Rattigan’s The Deep Blue Sea at Bath’s Ustinov Studio, in addition to the stage adaptation of Drop the Dead Donkey

Mayflower Theatre, Southampton – until 8th July 2023

Reviewed by Emma Barnes and Gill Gardiner

5*****

The mystical adventure that is enticingly named ‘The Ocean at the End of the Lane’ arrived in Southampton last night. This is an acclaimed National Theatre stage adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s 2013 Book of the Year in the British National Book Awards. 

Having loved the book I was very intrigued as to how the mood, the emotions and the images conjured up in the mind of a reader could possibly translate to the stage.  The results were amazing, an outstanding production with elements of science-fiction, thriller, fantasy, which to my mind absolutely did justice to the book.

We knew that we were in for something rather special when we entered the theatre to see the beautiful Mayflower stage transformed into a mysterious forest scene.  The staging placed the story firmly into the fantasy world from the start as we are immediately drawn into the story. A man revisits the scene of his childhood trauma and takes us into an adventure of pure escapism including the unleashing of ancient forces, monsters, friendship and magic.

This production really was a treat for the senses, forcing us to suspend any disbelief. Pure theatrical magic at play,   the lighting, the sound, puppetry and especially the clever illusions all worked together impeccably to create a dark and magical world laced with childlike wonder.  I find myself not wanting to include any spoilers in the review,   however the door scene in particular had us on the very edge of our seats. 

Charlie Brooks (famous for her role as Janine in Eastenders ) is excellently cast as the demonic Ursula, she does villain so very very convincingly. 

This is a story that is guaranteed to remain in my thoughts.  Never have I walked away from a performance so eager to watch it all over again for the opportunity to soak up more.  Hauntingly memorable.   There is magic waiting for you too at the Mayflower until the 8th July.

★★★★★

“Fresh, subversive, essential”

Daily Telegraph

HOLBY CITY & STRICTLY STAR JOE MCFADDEN

TO PLAY THE NARRATOR FOR A FOUR WEEK LIMITED RUN

AS THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR OF THE LEGENDARY MUSICAL CONTINUES TO THRILL AUDIENCES ACROSS THE UK

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

FROM ROCKYHORROR.CO.UK

Scottish actor and winner of Strictly Come Dancing Joe McFadden will join the 50th Anniversary tour of the legendary smash hit musical The Rocky Horror Show for a limited four week run in Belfast, Southend, Nottingham, and Swindon. Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical celebrates 50 years of non-stop partying with this special anniversary production that continues to play a newly extended tour through 2023 to sell-out crowds. Tickets are on sale now from RockyHorror.co.uk.

Joe, known for his extensive work on both stage and screen (Holby City/Heartbeat /Priscilla Queen of the Desert/The Mirror Crack’d), is excited to be hitting the road to add to the frivolities. No stranger to the dancefloor, Joe is more than qualified to don his fishnets as the Narrator and join this extraordinary cast to deliver a guaranteed party not to be missed.

Joe said: “I’m really excited to be joining the Rocky Horror Show during the 50th anniversary tour. I’ve seen the show countless times over the years and am a massive fan so I can’t wait to join the celebrations of this iconic show. I am looking forward to donning my fishnets as the Narrator and Time Warping up and down the country with this amazing cast”.

Since it first opened in London in June 1973 at the Royal Court Theatre The Rocky Horror Show has become the longest continuous run of a contemporary musical anywhere in the world. The show has been seen by over 30 million people worldwide in more than 30 countries and translated into 20 languages as it continues to delight audiences on its sell-out international tour.

“So fast, so funny, so sexy” – Daily Mail

“Still the sexiest and funniest show in town” – Evening Standard

Without doubt the Rocky Horror Show is as iconic as it gets. Lighting up the stage this phenomenal cast will perform songs that are embedded in pop culture. The celebratory tour will continue throughout 2023, visiting Aylesbury, Crewe, Woking, Portsmouth, Belfast, Southend, Nottingham, Swindon, Canterbury, Norwich, Aberdeen, Bradford, Ipswich and Hull – with further dates to be announced. The cast are in full throttle and ready to honour this monumental moment, delivering a guaranteed party that leaps off the stage and transcends into the audience.

Producer Howard Panter said: “Rocky Horror has always been a show I loved, since its earliest days in the Kings Road. Richard O’Brien and I are delighted this non-stop party continues to thrill audiences across the world, and we look forward to the next 50 years!”

Richard O’Brien said: “Back in the 1970’s when someone asked me to entertain the Christmas staff party at the EMI Film Studios and I turned up with a song called Science Fiction Double Feature who would have known this was the germ of the idea to turn into today what is The Rocky Horror Show. To be celebrating fifty years is beyond my wildest expectations – from the humble beginnings back in 1973 at the Royal Court Theatre in London. The fact that The Rocky Horror show continues to delight audiences as it tours the UK fifty years on is simply thrilling. The Rocky Horror Show is one of Britain’s most performed and beloved musicals of all time.”

A brilliant cast are already wowing Rocky Horror audiences up and down the country, with West End star Stephen Webb (Jersey Boys/Legally Blonde) continuing in the iconic role of Frank, slipping into a corset and heels with ease, Richard Meek (Hairspray/Spamlot) makes a welcome return as Brad and is joined by fan favourite Haley Flaherty (Mamma Mia/Chicago) as Janet.

Kristian Lavercombe (Jersey Boys/Jesus Christ Superstar) once again reprises his role as Riff Raff, following more than 2000 performances around the world, with Darcy Finden who made her professional debut last year as one of the Phantoms now stepping up to play the role of as Columbia. Ben Westhead (Oliver/The Sound of Music) plays Rocky, Suzie McAdams (School of Rock/Kinky Boots) takes on the role of Magenta and Joe Allen (Little Shop of Horrors/Charlie & The Chocolate Factory) plays Eddie & Dr Scott. Playing the Phantoms are Stefania Du Toit (Starlight Express/Singing in the Rain), Beth Woodcock (Bat Out Of Hell), Reece Budin (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical/Man of La Mancha) and Fionán O’Carroll (Theatre whilst training: Urinetown/Children of Eden) who is making his professional debut. Nathan Shaw (Walk Like A Man) and Tyla Nurden (Funny Girl/Carrie, The Musical) are Swings.

Directed by Christopher Luscombe, The Rocky Horror Show is ready to thrill you with fun and naughty moments, and features timeless classics including Sweet Transvestite, Damn it Janet, and of course, the pelvic thrusting show stopping Time Warp.

The Rocky Horror Show is the story of two squeaky clean college kids – Brad and his fiancée Janet. When by a twist of fate, their car breaks down outside a creepy mansion whilst on their way to visit their former college professor, they meet the charismatic Dr Frank’n’Furter. It is an adventure they’ll never forget, filled with fun, frolics, frocks, and frivolity. The Rocky Horror Show is a guaranteed party, which famously combines science-fiction, horror, comedy and music while encouraging audience participation – meaning, of course, getting dressed-up in the most outrageous fancy dress.

The Rocky Horror Show first began life in 1973 before an audience of just 63 people in the Royal Court’s Theatre Upstairs. It was an immediate success and transferred to the Chelsea Classic Cinema, before going on to run at the Kings Road Theatre, 1973-79 and the Comedy Theatre in the West End, 1979-80. In 1975 it was transformed into a film called ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’. This film adaptation took over $135 million at the Box Office and is still shown in cinemas around the world more than 40 years after its premiere, making it the longest running theatrical release in cinema history. Many stars including Russell Crowe, Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Jerry Springer, Jason Donovan and Meatloaf have appeared in The Rocky Horror Show over the past 45 years.

In 2015, as part of a sold-out season at London’s Playhouse Theatre, a special star-studded Gala charity performance in aid of Amnesty International was broadcast to over 600 cinemas across the UK and Europe. The live screening – featuring a host of celebrities playing The Narrator including Stephen Fry, Mel Giedroyc, Emma Bunton, Ade Edmondson, Anthony Head and Richard O’Brien – smashed box office records and was the biggest grossing film in cinemas across the UK. The performance was subsequently screened on the Sky Arts channel.

Ready to thrill you with fun and naughty moments, The Rocky Horror Show is the boldest bash of them all. But be warned, this show has rude parts!

What the press have said about The Rocky Horror Show:

“Relentlessly energetic and high on audience participation” – The Times

“Hard to think of another musical quite as unique as this. Christopher Luscombe’s affectionate production feels like a genuine blast from the past” – Mail on Sunday

“As delightfully naughty as ever!” – Daily Telegraph

3rd July – 8th July 2023 Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury

10th July – 15th July 2023 Lyceum Theatre, Crewe

17th July – 22nd July 2023 New Victoria Theatre, Woking

24th July – 29th July 2023 Kings Theatre, Portsmouth

7th August – 12th August Grand Opera House, Belfast

14th August – 19th August 2023 The Cliffs Pavillion, Southend

21st August – 26th August 2023 Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham

28th August – 2nd September 2023 Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

4th September – 9th September 2023 The Marlowe, Canterbury

11th September – 16th September Theatre Royal, Norwich

19th September – 23rd September 2023 His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

25th September – 30th September 2023 Alhambra Theatre, Bradford

2nd October – 7th October 2023 Regents Theatre, Ipswich

9th October – 14th October 2023 New Theatre, Hull

8th January – 13th January 2024 Sunderland Empire

23rd January – 28th January 2024 Manchester Opera House

30th January – 4th February 2024 Glasgow Pavilion

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Ticket prices: From £10 Website: www.rockyhorror.co.uk

Twitter: @rockyhorroruk

Instagram: @rockyhorrorofficial

Facebook: /rockyhorrorshow