Upstairs at the Gatehouse – until Sunday 12th March 2023
Reviewed by Ben Jolly
3***
Just when you thought it was safe to go back to the theatre, Jumping the Shark, a brand new comedy hits the scene this week performing Upstairs at the Gatehouse…
The Golden Girls, Diff’rent Strokes, Only Fools & Horses…! I hear myself checking off theme tunes from the golden age of sitcoms being played through the sound system as we wait for an evening of entertainment; a lovely attention to detail which I do appreciate.
Taking place at a seminar for television sitcom writing, instructed by one of the industry’s prominent and respected writers, Frank Donohue, five privileged and eager writer newbies gather in a conference room in Farnham to meet their prophet and soak up the knowledge he has to bear. While time passes, each individual’s personal lives are brought up and we slowly learn the backstories behind this complex cast of characters.
The phrase from which the title takes its inspiration has been used in the television ‘biz for years and defines that pinnacle moment when a TV show has hit its peak and thus in the face of declining quality uses cheap gimmicks and gags to keep the show afloat.
One by one, as our characters arrive at the conference room, we are introduced to our classmates; while each persona has been thoroughly thought out, they initially come across two dimensional and it takes until the second act of this play to really see another side to them.
The first act has a clever, monologue performed by David Schaal as Frank (our sitcom professor) who has the difficult task of playing a character who is clearly bored and performing his own well–rehearsed speech without coming across as, well, bored and over rehearsed in the performance he is giving us – he does carry this well and when things start to go off script later in the play, manages to heighten his performance accordingly.
There are some truly wonderful performances from Sarah Moyle as Pam and Robin Sebastian as Gavin. Sarah lifts the text off the page and adds her own comedy magic while expertly trading the line so as not to go overboard or take anything away from the dialogue. Sarah and Robin have great chemistry as Gavin and Pam and we instinctively warm to these characters.
The other half of the cast include Jack Trueman as Dale, Jasmine Armfield as Amy and Harry Visinoni playing the part of Morgan. These actors all have their moments to shine and do a wonderful job at keeping the energy up throughout.
I couldn’t help but feel that the structure of the play could be better organised, such a linear timeline didn’t help the slow pace of the first act, and when things started to heat up during Act 2, it really highlighted how much the first act had been dragging, I am sure that nothing more than a little restructure of the scenes and some more dynamic direction could fix this.
The writers, David Cantor and Michael Kingsbury (who also directs) have had extensive careers in the sitcom television world and this definitely shows with their industry terminology, fast paced jokes and instinctive knowledge of comedic timing. The piece currently works as though it is a 6 episode television series, as a play however, I think just a touch more theatricality could take it to the next level. That being said, at the end of the day, if you’re as big a fan of the classic sitcom format as I am, you won’t be disappointed by this charming piece of work.
Live Theatre Newcastle – until Saturday 25th March
Reviewed by Sandra Little
4****
This latest offering from Live Theatre is described as, “A knockout play about Labour, Love , and the Beautiful Game,” Having watched the play this is a description I would wholeheartedly agree with! The play was written by Rob Ward and has been produced in association with Emmerson and Ward. It is set in 1996 when Newcastle United were a successful Premier League team, managed by Kevin Keegan, and New Labour, led by Tony Blair, were gathering momentum. The play suggests that these two facts were significant signs of hope for the region in 1996 .
The stage setting is a very realistic representation of a Working Man’s Club of the time and much of the action takes place around a centrally placed pool table. This set is also imagined as different locations throughout the performance. The play begins with Michael (Dean Bone) playing pool and he is soon joined by his friend Len (David Nellist). It transpires that Len is a long term hard left activist and following information from Michael, he decides to run as candidate for the position of local Labour MP.
Unfortunately for Len things do not go according to plan when New Labour candidate Victoria (Eve Tucker) arrives from Manchester with the intention of standing for the same seat. Victoria brings with her the New Labour view on politics which clash markedly with Len’s traditional left wing views. Len feels threatened by Victoria’s election campaign to become the new MP; a situation that does not please him and causes a great deal of tension. Through the characters of Len and Victoria issues relating to the huge differences that occurred at the time between the views of traditional left wing Labour supporters and the New Labour policies of Tony Blair are aired.
The storyline in the play takes a range of gripping twists and turns along the way and there are a variety of themes explored alongside the football and political narrative. Relationships, loyalties that are tested and the impact of past experiences on the lives of the characters are all woven into the the dialogue and storyline.
I absolutely loved this play and I don’t think you would have to be a fan of politics or football to enjoy it and feel the passion and humanity of the themes explored. The serious political issues are peppered with a great deal of humour which provides a lighthearted take on otherwise serious subject matter.It’s quite fast paced with some very amusing moments however the underlying political issues provide food for thought.
Live Theatre is a small gem of a place tucked away on Newcastle quayside. It prides itself in nurturing new talent and working with the local community. It is currently celebrating its 50th birthday with some fantastic productions and talented artists lined up for the coming year.
One of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen in the theatre”
Alan Cumming
BARBICAN THEATRE
17 JUNE – 9 SEPTEMBER 2023
TICKETS ON SALE MONDAY 20 MARCH FROM STRANGELOOPMUSICAL.COM
The smash hit Broadway musical sensation A Strange Loop will transfer from New York to London this summer opening at the Barbican Theatre on 17 June for a strictly limited one-time-only 12-week season. Tickets go on sale on 10am on Monday 20 March from Strangeloopmusical.com.
Nominated for 11 Tony Awards and winner of every Best Musical award in New York, Michael R. Jackson’s critically acclaimed Pulitzer Prize–winning, blisteringly funny masterwork exposes the heart and soul of Usher – a young, gay, Black writer who hates his day job, so writes a musical about a young, gay, Black writer who’s writing a musical about a young, gay, Black writer…a strange loop. Usher grapples with desires, identity and instincts he both loves and loathes, all brought to life on stage by a hilarious, straight-talking ensemble.
A Strange Loop is only the 10th musical to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama with the previous winner being Hamilton, with the committee citing the show as a “metafictional musical that tracks the creative process of an artist transforming issues of identity, race, and sexuality that once pushed him to the margins of the cultural mainstream into a meditation on universal human fears and insecurities.”
The New York critics heaped plaudits on this sensational production: The New York Times said the show was a “dazzling ride” and “no measure of praise could be too much”. The Wall Street Journal described the show as “hilarious, intimate and personal” adding that “A Strange Loop is extraordinary in just about every way. It represents theater at its most daring and unexpected”. And Variety summed it up, hailing A Strange Loop as “the most furiously entertaining show on Broadway”.
Michael R. Jackson is a playwright, composer, and lyricist who is a rising star in the world of contemporary writing and quickly gaining recognition as one of the most innovative voices in American theatre. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Jackson moved to New York to attend NYU (New York University), where he began his career as a writer and performer. His writing is already drawing comparisons to other literary greats, and he is quickly becoming recognised as an inspiring and transformative writer in his own right. His next musical, White Girl in Danger, a co-production between the Vineyard and Second Stage, is set to begin previews at the Tony Kiser Theater, New York on 15 March 2023.
Michael R. Jackson said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be bringing A Strange Loop to London. This show has been a true labor of love since my early twenties, and to have it continue its extraordinary journey from Musical Theatre Factory, to Off-Broadway, to Woolly Mammoth, to Broadway and now to London is a dream I never knew I had come true. I can’t wait to share the story of Usher and his thoughts with new audiences.”
Kate Varah, executive director for the National Theatre, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the transfer of this Pulitzer Prize & Tony Award-winning new musical into London this summer. A Strange Loop is a vital piece of new work by American playwright, Michael R. Jackson and we are so excited to be working with our producing partners to share this special story with UK audiences.”
Howard Panter said: “A Strange Loop is nothing short of a spellbinding masterpiece. When I saw it on Broadway I was transfixed and knew immediately that London audiences, like New York, would love this unique, moving and funny musical. Michael R. Jackson is a complete genius and we look forward to welcoming him to these shores for a very successful season at the Barbican this summer.”
Barbara Whitman, originating producer of the Broadway production, said “I’m overjoyed to be bringing A Strange Loop to the Barbican, and I can’t wait to introduce London to the work of the singularly brilliant Michael R. Jackson. It feels so right to have this be the next step for this uniquely original musical.”
LISTINGS INFORMATION
BARBICAN THEATRE
Previews: From 17 June
Tickets: from £20
Performances: Monday – Saturday at 8pm, matinees on Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm
Age guidance: 16+ (Contains explicit language, references to racism and scenes of an adult nature)
For access performances: please visit Strangeloopmusical.com
Complete Casting Announced for the Mischief Production
By Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, Henry Shields Based on Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie Limited 16 ½ week Broadway Engagement First Performance March 17, 2023 Official Opening Night April 19, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre
Producers Kevin McCollum, Kenny Wax, Stage Presence, and Catherine Schreiber are pleased to announce complete casting for the Broadway premiere of Peter Pan Goes Wrong, the international comedy sensation from Mischief.
The cast of Peter Pan Goes Wrong will feature Bartley Booz as Dennis (March 17 – April 9), Matthew Cavendish as Max, Bianca Horn as Jill, Harry Kershaw as Francis, Chris Leask as Trevor, Henry Lewis as Robert, Ellie Morris as Lucy, Charlie Russell as Sandra, Jonathan Sayer as Dennis (starting April 11), Henry Shields as Chris, Greg Tannahill as Jonathan and Nancy Zamit as Annie. The company is completed by Ryan Vincent Anderson, Stephen James Anthony, Fred Gray, and Brenann Stacker.
Peter Pan Goes Wrong will begin performances on Friday, March 17th and open on Wednesday, April 19th at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre (243 West 47th Street) on Broadway for a limited 16 ½ week engagement.
Tickets are on sale now at Telecharge.com and in-person at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre Box Office. For groups call Broadway.com / Group Sales Box Office at 1-800-BROADWAY x2. Call now to guarantee disappointment.
This spring, brace yourself for an awfully big adventure as you finally get the chance to laugh again on Broadway. Co-written by Mischief company members Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, Peter Pan Goes Wrong is a highly physical comedy packed with finely-tuned and inspired slapstick, delivered with split-second timing and ambitious daring. The play sees the ‘Cornley Drama Society’ back on stage battling technical hitches, flying mishaps and cast disputes as they attempt to present J.M Barrie’s much-loved tale.But will they ever make it to Neverland?
Peter Pan Goes Wrong is directed by Adam Meggido, with set designs by Simon Scullion, costumes by Roberto Surace, lighting by Matt Haskins, sound by Ella Wahlström, and original music by Richard Baker and Rob Falconer.
Peter Pan Goes Wrong is produced on Broadway by Kevin McCollum, Kenny Wax, Stage Presence, and Catherine Schreiber.
Peter Pan Goes Wrong made its premiere at the Pleasance Theatre in London in December 2013. After a UK Tour in 2014, the production transferred to the West End’s Apollo Theatre for a Christmas season run in 2015 and returned to the West End the following year for another Christmas season run from October 2016. The play was also adapted into a one-hour television special, which was broadcast on December 31, 2016, on BBC One. The play made its North American premiere in 2022 at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton, Canada.
Peter Pan Goes Wrong was nominated for Best New Comedy at the Olivier® Awards and has joyfully wowed critics across the UK.
Mischief’s Tony® Award-winning Broadway hit The Play That Goes Wrong, opened in March 2017 at the Lyceum Theatre running longer than any other play that debuted in the 2017/2018 Season. After 737 performances the production moved to the New World Stages where the show continues to play to packed houses. The North American Tour was one the most successful Broadway play tours of the past twenty years. broadwaygoeswrong.com
Fisherman’s Friends is the story of a group of men from Port Isaac in Cornwall who meet to sing traditional sea-shanties on a Friday night. Normally, they just sing for themselves but, by a quirk of fate they find themselves with a much wider audience. This would be a lightweight story if it wasn’t, essentially, completely true.
In 2010, The Fisherman’s Friends, who laughingly called themselves ‘The Original Buoy Band’,were signed to Island Records and produced a critically acclaimed album that landed in the UK Top 10. In the ensuing years, two hit films have been released and now, this musical. Despite this recognition, the men have not given up their day jobs and continue to meet on a Friday night down at the Platt to keep the old songs alive and bring new songs to the world.
Although there is gentle storyline about love and community that runs through the show, it is the songs and the singing that really matter. Absolutely every singer on stage has a fine voice and they are all different. The traditional shanties they sang included ‘John Kanacka‘, ‘Drunken Sailor‘ and ‘Nelson’s Blood‘. James Gaddas as the gruff-voiced Jim reveals a surprisingly beautiful singing voice at one point and Parisa Shamir as Alwyn holds us in the palm of her hand when she sings Keep Haulin’. And when the Fisherman’s Friends sing together, they are a powerful, almost elemental force. I found myself in tears more than once, not because of the subject matter but because of the beauty of the sound they were making. And we would never have known, without being told, that the part of Maggie was played by Janet Mooney standing in for Susan Penhaligan.
A word too for the musicians, many of whom are women (although the cast is necessarily male-heavy) and all of whom are multi-instrumentalists. Carrying their instruments around on stage, their movements were cleverly choreographed to make them become an integral part of the cast. And the sound design is exemplary – all these acoustic instruments were clearly audible and beautifully balanced with the voices. It was a real pleasure to listen to them and a testament to the technical work that made this possible, without the tech making itself apparent.
Fisherman’s Friends does not ask too much of us from an intellectual standpoint but it is a powerful, almost visceral, moving and entertaining experience with lots of laughs. As we left the packed theatre I could not help but notice that the audience’s mood seemed to have been lifted. To borrow a Cornish phrase; Proper Job!
THE TURBINE THEATRE IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE ITS FULLY ASSEMBLED CAST FOR
RUNNING FROM 17 March – 28 May 2023
EUGENIUS IS BACK. RE-ASSEMBLED AT THE TURBINE THEATRE
This spring, The Turbine Theatre will host a reworked version of the iconic cult musical, which previously ran at The Other Palace in 2018, and in concert form at the London Palladium in 2016.
A thrilling, high-energy 80s-inspired British musical with a superhero-sized heart and an uplifting score.
A show where geeks rule, dreams do come true, and everyone finds the superhero inside themselves.
Leading the cast, as our unlikely hero, Eugene, is Elliott Evans(Kiln – A New Musical) with his two best friends Janey and Feris being played by Jaina Brock-Patel(SIX The Musical) and James Hameed(Be More Chill).
Completing the cast is Naomi Alade (Beautiful – The Carole King Musical) asEugenie (Swing), Dominic Andersen (What’s New Pussycat?) as Gerhard/Tough Man/Dad, Joseph Beach (Ortistic Augasm) as Evil Lord Hector, Lara Denning (Matilda)as Lex, Louis Doran (Bugsy Malone) as Eugenie (Swing), Maddison Firth (Heathers The Musical)as Carrie/Super-Hot Lady, Sebastian Harwood (Treason The Musical In Concert) as Eugenie (Swing) and Rhys Taylor (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie) as Theo/Space Diva.
Boasting a pulsating soundtrack, streamed by millions and heard across 125 countries, Eugenius! is a hilarious love letter to the iconic movies, comic books and nostalgia of the 80’s. A champion of the underdog, a place where anyone can become the hero. With our legion of Eugenies we’re set to prove that together we are mighty.
The musical is written by Ben Adams and Chris Wilkins and is directed by Hannah Chissick, it will run at the Turbine Theatre from Friday 17 March until Sunday 28 May 2023.
Musical Direction by Nick Pinchbeck, Set and Lighting Design by Andrew Exeter, Sound Design by Alistair Penman and Video by Andy Walton with Choreography by Aaron Renfree.
Following the success of How the Other Half Loves and with Brief Encounter just around the corner, Wiltshire Creative today announces programming for their Summer Festival Season, this year incorporating Salisbury International Arts Festival 2023.
Highlights of this year’s Salisbury International Arts Festival include:
The Festival centrepiece – Wiltshire Creative’s outdoor, site-specific production of The Tempest in a reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic tale in Churchill Gardens from 24 May to 4 June
Returning to the festival’s classical roots, vocal ensemble Siren present Doomsday, performed beneath and inspired by St Thomas’ medieval Doom painting, exploring themes of chaos and uncertainty at St Thomas’ Church on 7 June
Opera della Luna returns to the Festival with Gilbert and Sullivan’s much-loved HMS Pinafore at Salisbury Playhouse in a hilarious recreation of the original hit on 8 June
Festival favourites The Lord Chamberlain’s Men return in their outdoor, all-male production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, performed at Rack Close on 9 and 10 June
Salisbury International Arts Festival includes a range of music events for the whole family, including With The Beatles, celebrating the 60th anniversary of The Beatles’ performance at Salisbury City Hall in 1963 in collaboration with Salisbury History Festival; tweed-clad 10-piece ensemble Old Dirty Brasstards with their cross-genre eclectic party covers; as well as blues and jazz sensation Elkie Brooks performing her numerous hit singles at the Playhouse. Artistic Director of La Folia Howard Moody returns with a transporting evening of Bach’s Musical Offering on violin, flute, cello and harpsicord, in collaboration with Best Foot Music andinterwoven with music and poetry from across the world at St Thomas’ Church on 14 June.
Motionhouse present the new circus production for all the family, Starchitects, incorporating gravity-defying choreography and digital projections at the Playhouse on 14 June; Farm Yard Circus at Rack Close, is a family-friendly farmyard-inspired eclectic mix of acrobatics, juggling, theatre and live music on 11 June. Gyles Brandreth and Susie Dent bring their award-winning comedy podcast Something Rhymes with Purple to the Playhouse stage on 17 June, with other comedy events from Marcus Brigstocke and Lucy Porter. The Festival will also feature exhibitions and films across Salisbury.
Outside Salisbury International Arts Festival, Wiltshire Creative also today announces their other Summer Festival Season events, including Musical Theatre Salisbury’s production of Legally Blonde, returning to the Playhouse stage this July; and their hugely popular Beerex festival, returning for its 41st year at Salisbury Arts Centre from 7 – 8 July.
Artistic Director of Wiltshire Creative Gareth Machin said today: “We have mapped out another marvellous programme for Wiltshire Creative’s summer season. It’s hugely exciting to be creating the Festival centre piece, The Tempest, here in Salisbury working with incredible professional artists alongside many members of our local community. Churchill Gardens will be reimagined as Shakespeare’s island in our biggest, boldest event yet. Elsewhere, music, dance, circus and spoken word events will fill our stages, bringing world class talent to our audience here in Salisbury.”
SALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL:
Wiltshire Creative presents
THE TEMPEST
By William Shakespeare
Churchill Gardens, Salisbury SP1 2HS
Wednesday 24 May – Sunday 4 June at various times
“O brave new world, That has such people in’t!”
A stunning re-imagining of Shakespeare’s fabulous tale, and journey deep into one of Salisbury’s most beloved parks. This centrepiece to Salisbury International Arts Festival follows a King and his entourage shipwrecked on an island of magic and mystery. It is a place of music and visions, surprising encounters and unlikely friendships. But what secrets does this island hold? Who or what is really in charge? And will the world ever be the same again? This unique new show is an outdoor walkabout production, meaning our professional actors and talented community contributors will take you from scene to scene to different locations around the park.
Siren presents
DOOMSDAY
St Thomas’ Church, St Thomas’s Square, Salisbury SP1 1BA
Wednesday 7 June at 7.30pm
Invoking the spirit of end times, Siren’s Doomsday explores themes of chaos and uncertainty, stewardship and salvation. Performed beneath, and inspired by, St Thomas’ medieval Doom painting, this unique evening combines music and words across multiple genres and centuries, from Gregorian chants to popular music by REM and Billie Eilish, as the group explores apocalypse throughout history.
Siren is a new vocal ensemble formed from the 2021–22 cohort of VOCES8 Scholars. Members spent a year learning from 2023 Grammy-nominated British vocal group VOCES8 and sing in some of the country’s leading vocal ensembles.
Opera della Luna presents
Gilbert and Sullivan’s
HMS PINAFORE
Directed by Jeff Clarke; Conducted by Michael Waldron
Cast includes: Louise Crane, Ian Belsey, Matthew Siveter, Lynsey Docherty, Tim Walton and Martin George
Opera della Luna returns to Salisbury with HMS Pinafore. Their iconic production is a fast-moving, totally delightful and hilarious recreation of the original hit that took the UK and America by storm. Gorgeous costumes, a chamber orchestra and an ingenious and imaginative approach make this a festival event not to be missed.
THE DIME NOTES
Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury SP1 3UT
Thursday 8 June at 7:30pm
The Dime Notes dig back into the blues-drenched sounds of clarinet-driven 1920s New Orleans jazz,
unearthing a repertoire of stomps, blueses and forgotten gems of the era from musicians such as Johnny Dodds, Jelly Roll Morton and Red Nichols.
Tweed-clad 10-piece ensemble Old Dirty Brasstards performs a selection of unique and exhilarating brass interpretations from 80s smash hits to modern chart-topping tunes.
Festival favourites the Lord Chamberlain’s Men invite you to join them this summer for the timeless and classic love story Romeo and Juliet. The company’s history stretches back to Shakespeare himself. This passionate play, packed with poetry, is presented in the open air with an all-male cast and Elizabethan costumes, music and dance.
Wiltshire Creative in association with Salisbury History Festival
WITH THE BEATLES
Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury SP1 3UT
Friday 9 June at 7:30pm
A celebration of the 60th anniversary of The Beatles’ live appearance at Salisbury City Hall in 1963. Enjoy the Fab Four’s greatest hits in an evening of live music and presentations. Jamie Hayes from the famous Abbey Road Studios will give a talk alongside some lively Beatles covers from local artists, from choral renditions to acoustic solos.
Farm Yard Circus revels in acrobatics, juggling, theatre and live music. Expect a bewildering display of group acrobatics and juggling using hay bales, wheelbarrows, a tractor tyre and even an old scarecrow! This high-energy boot-stomping show is set to a score of old-time tunes and raucous rhythms that will bring the cows home, played live throughout.
Wiltshire College and University Centre present
AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS
Salisbury Arts Centre Grounds, Bedwin Street, Salisbury SP1 3UT
Tuesday 13 June at 7pm
In partnership with Wiltshire College and University Centre, our Further Education students present their final performance of the year, in this unique retelling of the familiar favourite. The fabulously wealthy Victorian gentleman Phileas Fogg wagers his life’s fortune that he can circumnavigate the globe in just eighty days.
The new show from Motionhouse is a joyful cosmic adventure. With its mix of gravity-defying choreography and digital projections, Starchitects presents a visual spectacle using the company’s renowned dance-circus fusion.
Best Foot Music and La Folia present
LA FOLIA: MUSICAL OFFERINGS
Written by Howard Moody
St Thomas’ Church, St Thomas’s Square, Salisbury SP1 1BA
Wednesday 14 June at 7.30pm
A transporting evening of music from La Folia under Artistic Director Howard Moody, in collaboration with Best Foot Music – an agency supporting musicians, poets and communities who have moved to the UK from around the world. Bach’s ‘Musical Offering’ on violin, flute, cello and harpsichord is woven with sounds from around the world like oud and percussion, opening borders between musical traditions.
Now in the sixth decade of her career, Ellie Brooks is still one of the most powerful and versatile vocal talents of a generation. With numerous hit singles and million selling albums and awards, her annual tours are a treat for fans old and new. Performing some of her classic hits, blues and jazz.
You and your baby are invited into a universe of song, music and movement in this interactive storytelling event. MOONmoon is a musical experience for the littlest audience members, seated on the floor: the show revolves around melody, rhythm, pulse and timing.
Absolute Shower is the blisteringly funny stand-up show from multi-award-winning comedian Marcus Brigstocke. This joyful show celebrates the personal triumphs and small victories of the past couple of years, while acknowledging it hasn’t exactly been easy…
HANNAH MOULE AND THE MOULETTES
Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury SP1 3UT
Friday 16 June at 7:30pm
The string-loving multi-instrumentalists of The Moulettes, led by cellist and songwriter Hannah Moule, push the boundaries of a traditional chamber ensemble. Moving between classical and steel string guitars, cellos, piano, violin, harp, percussion and harmonious vocals, they’ve arranged for and played with Nick Cave, Bonobo and The Levellers.
Tilted presents in association with Somethin’ Else
Delve into a world of words with Something Rhymes with Purple on Stage, based on Gyles Brandreth and Susie Dent’s award-winning podcast. Expect theatrical antics from the show’s affable hosts as they bring their infectious love of words to Salisbury Playhouse.
LUCY PORTER presents
Wake Up Call
Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury SP1 3UT
Saturday 17 June at 7:30pm
Wake Up Call is a show about revelations, realisations and epiphanies – both large and small. A brand-new stand-up show from TV and radio favourite Lucy Porter, as heard on Radio 4’s The News Quiz and The Now Show; and seen on Would I Lie to You, QI and Live at the Apollo.
Following the success of The Full Monty in 2022, Musical Theatre Salisbury returns to The Playhouse stage to present their rendition of the adored film. This award-winning musical is action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances. It follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams.
Drink it up!
CAMRA, Salisbury Rotary COGS and Wiltshire Creative present
BEEREX XLI
Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury SP1 3UT
Friday 7 – Saturday 8 July
Beerex is back for its 41st year, and CAMRA, Salisbury Rotary COGS and Wiltshire Creative are pleased to be hosting it at Salisbury Arts Centre again this July. You can enjoy over 50 ales and 15 ciders, live music on our outdoor stage, food stalls and a full bar for those who would prefer other drinks. Your first half pint, glass and programme are included in the ticket price.
Oliver Tompsett will star as Edward Lewis from Tuesday 4 April2023 in PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL at the Savoy Theatre until Sunday 18 June2023 when the production leaves London ahead of embarking on a UK and Ireland Tour opening at the Birmingham Alexandra Theatre on 17 October 2023. Casting for the UK and Ireland Tour to be announced.
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL opened in London’s West End at the Piccadilly Theatre in March 2020 before reopening at The Savoy Theatre in July 2021
Oliver Tompsett is currently starring as Shakespeare in & Juliet at the Shaftesbury Theatre. His many other West End theatre credits include Charlie Price in Kinky Boots at the Adelphi Theatre, Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls at the Phoenix Theatre, Galileo in We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre, Drew Boley in Rock of Ages at the Shaftesbury Theatre, Fiyero in Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre and Mamma Mia! at the Prince of Wales Theatre.
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL currently stars Aimie Atkinson as Vivian Ward, Danny Mac as Edward Lewis (until 2 April 2023), Courtney Bowman as Kit De Luca and Andy Barke as Happy Man/Mr Thompson. The cast is completed by John Addison, Jemma Alexander, Becky Anderson, Matt Bateman, Patrick Barrett, Robertina Bonano, Oliver Brenin, Alex Charles, Daniel Clift, Ben Darcy, Hannah Ducharme, Elishia Edwards, Tom Andrew Hargreaves, Antony Hewitt, Helen Hill, Mark Holden, Elly Jay, Matt Jones, Kurt Kansley, Georgia Kleopa, Annabelle Laing, Will Luckett, Curtis Patrick, Hassun Sharif, Cilla Silvia and Charlotte Elisabeth Yorke.
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL features original music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, a book by Garry Marshall and the film’s screenwriter J.F. Lawton, it is directed and choreographed by the two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell.
Featured in the musical is Roy Orbison and Bill Dee’s international smash hit song ‘Oh, Pretty Woman’ which inspired one of the most beloved romantic comedy films of all time. PRETTY WOMAN the film (produced by Arnon Milchan – New Regency Productions) was an international smash hit when it was released in 1990.
Atlantic Records’ PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL(ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST RECORDING)is produced by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and is now available on all DSP’s.
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL has scenic design by David Rockwell, costumes by Tom Rogers from the original Broadway designs by Gregg Barnes, lighting design by Kenneth Posner and Philip S. Rosenberg, sound design by John Shivers, hair design by Josh Marquette, and music supervision, arrangements and orchestrations by Will Van Dyke. 101 Productions, Ltd are the Global General Management Consultant.
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL had its world premiere at Chicago’s Oriental Theatre in March 2018 before transferring to Broadway where it ran at the Nederlander Theatre. The German production opened in Hamburg at the Stage Theater an der Elbe in September 2019 to rave reviews, and a US Tour of the show opened in October 2021.
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL is produced by Ambassador Theatre Group Productions, Paula Wagner, Nice Productions, LPO, New Regency Productions, Gavin Kalin Productions, Kilimanjaro Theatricals/Joshua Andrews, Hunter Arnold, Caiola Productions & Co., Roy Furman, Edward Walson, deRoy Kierstead and Stage Entertainment.
LOUISE DEARMAN, ROB HOUCHEN, JOANNA RIDING, GARY WILMOT AND ALAN TITCHMARSH
TO STAR IN
A WEST END GALA CHARITY CONCERT OF
AT LAST, IT’S SUMMER!
A NEW MUSICAL
BY CLIVE RICHARD DAVIS
DIRECTED BY IAN TALBOT
WITH ORCHESTRATIONS AND CONDUCTED BY LARRY BLANK
ALL TICKET SALES TO BE DONATED TO PARKINSON’S UK
LONDON PALLADIUM, SUNDAY 16 APRIL @ 7.30PM
A star-studded company will appear on stage at the London Palladium in a West End Gala charity concert of a new musical, AT LAST, IT’S SUMMER by Clive Richard Davis. Directed by Ian Talbot, and with choreography from Jordan Langford, At Last It’s Summer will be staged at the London Palladium on Sunday 16 April at 7.30pm, with all ticket sales in aid of Parkinson’s UK.
Louise Dearman
Rob Houchen
Joanna Riding
Louise Dearman will star as ‘Lady Serina Stanwick, Rob Houchen as ‘Count Orilov’, Joanna Riding as ‘Countess Orilov’, Gary Wilmot as ‘Mr Wellbeloved’, Gerard Carey as ‘Gerald’, Steve Fortune as ‘Sir Garfield Sykes’, Kelly Mathieson as ‘Lady Alice Stanwick’, Shannon Rewcroft as ‘Francesca’, and with Alan Titchmarsh as the Narrator.
Gary Wilmot photographed by Wolf Marloh
Gerard Carey
Steve Fortune
Larry Blank orchestrates a sumptuous score and will lead a 35-piece orchestra, alongside Jack Bennett as Musical Director. Casting is by Richard Johnston.
Further casting for the company of 30 will be announced.
Kelly Mathieson
Alan Titchmarsh
It’s summer 1920, and in an idyllic country estate in the leafy shires of England the Lord of the Manor celebrates his birthday. While a new love blossoms, an unexpected arrival throws the whole house into disarray as dark secrets escape the past.
Born and raised in the suburbs of West London, the show’s originator Clive Richard Davis (he adds the middle name to avoid confusion with the illustrious American record producer) never left the keyboard alone for long during a City and commercial career spanning several decades. Partial retirement provided the time to complete the music and story behind his first musical comedy At Last, It’s Summer. It may be his first but is unlikely to be his last as he is already working on ideas for the next show.
Clive Richard Davis explains, “The story idea laid fallow in my head for years; a plot to hang some earworm melodies around. That is where it would have stayed were it not for the gentle ribbing of chums who thought it more likely a donkey would win the Derby than that I would finish the thing, with its impossibly convoluted plot. The challenge was set and accepted. Sadly, one of the prime culprits is no longer with us, him having finally given up the battle with Parkinson’s. Paul was struck down with the dreadful disease at far too early an age as was my wife’s father. If the ticket proceeds can contribute to finding a cure for Parkinson’s I could not wish for more.”
Director Ian Talbot said, “I’m thrilled to be supporting Parkinson’s UK whilst working with a fantastic team on this lovely new piece – it’s truly a breath of fresh air. Funny, romantic with some beautiful music”.
Kirsty Berrigan and Rebecca Landolt, Heads of Regional Fundraising at Parkinson’s UK, said, “We are so grateful to Clive Davis for taking on this incredible fundraising effort for Parkinson’s UK.
With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson’s can devastate lives. We’ve made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not good enough. We hope that this fundraising inspires you to get involved with Parkinson’s UK. There are lots of ways for you to get involved and support us – from volunteering at an event, to campaigning for better services. Without the generosity of people like you, our work would not be possible.”
Following a horribly successful run last summer Birmingham Stage Company today announces that Horrible Histories – Terrible Tudorswill return to the West End’s Garrick Theatre. Prepare for the gory details as Birmingham Stage Company take audiences on a whistle stop tour of the Tudor dynasty, delving into the abominable stories of this frightful family. The production opens on 1 August, with previews from 27 July, and plays until 2 September.
Horrible Histories – Terrible Tudors is directed by Neal Foster, designed by Jacqueline Trousdale, with lighting by Jason Taylor, music by Matthew Scott, sound by Nick Sagar, with choreography by Kenn Oldfield.
Actor/Manager of Birmingham Stage Company Neal Foster said today: “Our 2022 run of Terrible Tudors was the most successful Horrible Histories season we have had in the West End, so we’re delighted to be back for our twelfth year with our most popular show so far”.
Birmingham Stage Company presents
HORRIBLE HISTORIES – TERRIBLE TUDORS
Garrick Theatre
27 July – 2 September
We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!
So Terrible Tudors is back with the hit West End show for a second sensational year!
From the horrible Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the legends (and the lies!) about the torturing Tudors. Find out the fate of Henry’s headless wives and his punch up with the Pope. Meet Bloody Mary and see Ed fall dead in his bed. Survive the Spanish Armada as they launch their attack!
It’s history with the nasty bits left in!
Terry Deary is co-writer of Terrible Tudors. He is the creator of Horrible Histories and one of Britain’s best-selling authors of the 21st Century. He’s also the tenth most-borrowed author in British libraries. There are around 50 Horrible Histories titles with total sales of 25 million in 40 countries. Deary is also the author of over 200 fiction and non-fiction books for young people including his series of books Dangerous Days.
Neal Foster performs, co-writes and directs Terrible Tudors. He is Actor/Manager of Birmingham Stage Company which since its foundation in 1992 has staged over one hundred productions. The company has become one of the world’s leading producers of theatre for children and their families, including Horrible Histories Live on Stage for eighteen years in the UK, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Bahrain, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand and Australia. Foster has directed and co-written all of the most recent Horrible Histories shows including Barmy Britain – Parts One, Two, Three, Four and Five, and Terrible Tudors (Garrick Theatre, Apollo Theatre and Sydney Opera House), Groovy Greeks and Incredible Invaders for a national tour and Wicked Warwick at Warwick Castle. His first fictional adaptations were David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny and Billionaire Boy, both of which transferred to the Garrick Theatre, and were nominated for an Olivier Award. Horrible Histories shows are recommended for ages 5 to 105 (106 year olds may not like them!)
