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Theatr Weston , Theatr Clwyd, Yr Wyddgrug/Mold – until Saturday 22nd November 2025

Reviewed by Julie Noller

4****

Having grown up not far away from Theatr Clwyd it must be something of a home coming for Chris Ashworth-Bennion and a never too late moment for this critic turned playwright. Having visited Ruthin Gaol he stumbled upon the story of John Jones better known apparently as Coch Bach y Bala; a story lost in folklore. Like Chris I too hadn’t heard of the Welsh Houdini. My top tip is to take your seat early and if you feel like mingling with the cast then grab a token from the bar outside, you will be able to exchange it for a drink at the bar on set.

Speaking of the set it’s a full hat’s off to set designer Mark Bailey from the first instant aroma of stale beer you are transported into the early 20th Century with local village/local people vibes full of laughter and sing-songs with plenty of national pride.

So was this Welsh anti-hero worshipped in the decades after his demise due to War fever taking effect and a belief in survival against the odds, the poor bad guy come good, Robin Hood attitude of peasant poacher helping those less fortunate fight against the landowners who aspire to an old world order?

The cast is outstanding especially Simon Holland Roberts (John Jones) the red welsh baritone who’s projections across the stage were mesmerising; each line delivered was totally believable as a lost welsh prince who could summon birds to sing on command. I could not say if it is that belief I would give an award or for the simple flick of an eye towards the audience in perfect comic timing much as Baldrick did in Blackadder perhaps it’s an award for hide and seek champion for just how did he just appear? The supporting cast for Simon truly is the star, slotted in well bolstering the story and allowing the little red head of Bala to shine.

Sion Pritchard (Julian Lewis Jones) Heledd (Maxine Evans) Tomos (Geraint de Cavalho) are a family at odds with each other, small holding farmers, publicans but a teenage son wanting more leaving you fearing for the First World War as it looms ever closer. Local Landowners never having lived in England despite the clipped tones perhaps suggesting otherwise Jones-Batman family Herbert (Wyn Bowen Harries) Children; Reginald (Qasim Mahmood) struggling to find his respect locally, Beatrice (Mia Khan) seeking change feeling no richer than the families looking for their next meal, perhaps nodding towards the suffragette movement unfolding nationally, Francis (Geraint de Carvalho) a character who demands respect without earning it, a character with little understanding of people.

Alongside tales of daring escapes, survival, joy of believing in the super powers of man there is love and passion a Father’s love and willingness to sacrifice his own life for his son to live and love John Jones Jnr (Theo Woolford) worships his Father, yet loves young Beatrice as much as Heledd adores John Jones Snr with an air of lost love that remains always. Constable Eifion Winstanley (Rhys ap Trefor) is a comic character perhaps under the control of the gentry, inept of solving any crimes because there are no real crimes. His change of personality towards the end comes in total contrast and is unexpected.

I can not write this review without mentioning the Badger, its use is pure comic genius, allowing Sion to shine, showing the humanity in John Jones plus an added pure magical Voldemort moment; Mr Badgers sad demise allows for John Jones to reappear totally unexpectedly in a messiah stance lit up in the moonlight; I almost expected a voice off stage to utter ‘he’s a very naughty boy’ in a nod to Monty Python.

Southbank Centre – 6 November 2025

Reviewed by Claire Roderick

3***

Choreographer Sung Im Her’s powerful new work explores climate change and the ability of art to spark action. Young Uk Lee’s lighting design is inspired by the rising temperature of the earth – periods of darkness, stark white spotlights and cool blues complement Husk Husk and Lucy Duncan’s sound design – inspired by data collected from rising atmospheric temperatures. Mio Jue’s costume design is simple and effective: the dancers wearing loose tops and trousers in earth and water tones, with silver and red plastic flakes attached.

Her begins I silence, rolling onto the stage and then galloping around before 6 dancers walk on and perform twitching, disquieting sequences of movement as a haunting repeated melody plays. Each dancer moves alone, creating uneven waves of collapse and movement (trees, buildings, societies, ecosystems?) – either doggedly facing the ground or stealing brief frightened glances up at the sky. A steady beat begins and the movement becomes more co-ordinated as the dancers walk around the stage in co-ordinated groups moving in sequences like a fast, smooth marching band. As the beat builds, Her rejoins the group and the dancers begin to break out into joyful dancing, with this joy eventually spreading throughout the whole company. The show ends in darkness, with no music, just the sound of the dancers breathing, their shuffling feet and rustling costumes and a moment of calm collective reflection.

Her’s intricate tapestry of movement, light and music is sometimes puzzling but is an intriguing and hypnotic call to action.

#SungImHer #1DegreeCelsius #DaeGyuMoon #GyeongMiHwang #HyeonTaekOh #JiSooRyu #JunHongCho #JaeSungYu #YoungUkLee #HuskHusk #LucyDuncan #MioJue #SouthbankCentre #FairyPowered

Park Theatre – until 29 November 2025

Reviewed by Claire Roderick

4****

Business is slow at Cafarelli & Sons, but boss Paula still takes on a summer temp in the cutting room – people will always want meat on the 4th of July, right?

Hannah Dorvan’s debut, winner of the 2024 Papatango New Writing Prize, is a scintillatingly tense play revealing the desperate measures needed to survive the brutality of chasing the American Dream. Doran isn’t American, but the characters and their motivations feel authentic and, while sometimes reprehensible, understandable.

Paula (Jackie Clune), whose grandfather founded the family butcher business 100 years ago after coming to New York from Sicily, is a straight-talking and apparently hardnosed boss who traditionally employs ex-cons in the cutting room. Senior cutter David (Eugene McCoy) is a former Wall Street hotshot whose drug habit was his downfall. Apprentices Billy (Ash Hunter) and JD (Marcello Cruz) are studying for their cutting test to become junior cutters. T (Mithra Malek) is Billy’s cousin and is the new summer temp.

The play takes place in the cutting room of the store – Mona Camille’s steel tables and hanging cuts of meat are lit starkly by Bethany Gupwell. There is a lot to set up in the first act, but Doran’s writing is so engaging, the cast are so charismatic, and George Turvey’s direction is so dynamic, that the pace and action never flag.

What starts as the usual backroom bickering takes a darker turn when Paula reveals that she can’t afford to keep all three men on – passing the test becomes vital for JD and Billy. Both men are desperate for the pay rise: Billy is caring for his mother and the payments for her cancer treatment are unmanageable on his apprentice salary, so he has quietly been taking advantage of Paula’s trust in him to make extra money, while JD needs the raise to pay for the renewal of his immigration papers. What will these two men do, and who are they willing to sacrifice, to survive?

T helps Billy in his sabotage campaign against JD at first, but her loyalties are soon tested as she gets to know JD and she must make her choice between the two men. Doran’s characters are fully rounded and recognisable. The bad choices made are completely understandable given the terrible financial and social pressures and burdens of the US system. Ash Hunter’s Billy could have been portrayed as a brash bully in lesser hands, but Hubnter’s performance is tinged with vulnerability, fear and regret. Marcello Cruz as JD is full of puppyish energy with haunted undertones and Mithra Malek’s T is wonderfully complex – loyal and fiercely protective. Jackie Clune’s character could have been something of a caricature, but Doran’s writing and Clune’s nuanced performance create a multilayered, tough but tender woman trying to keep her head above water. Eugene McCoy’s David is an enigmatic frustration – watching, joking and bitching, but never quite showing his true self. He always seems to be playing his own personal game with the others’ lives – it’s never clear whether this is out of loneliness, loyalty or spite, which feels perfect considering the character’s past.

The chilling climax is a visceral reminder of the reality and fragility of life on the fringes of American society, leaving the audience stunned and realising how wonderfully written these characters are, that their fate hits so hard.

A stunning debut from Hannah Doran – definitely a name to look out for in the future.

Hackney Empire, London – 5 November 2025

Reviewed by Phil Brown

5*****

One of the most beautiful theatres in London, if not the UK, the exotically decorated Hackney Empire makes a perfect match for one of ballet’s most exotic and thrilling creations – Nutcracker in Havana, brilliantly conceived and wonderfully choreographed by the global superstar of ballet’s modern era, Carlos Acosta.  

The traditional Nutcracker ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s music, is a retelling of the Alexandre Dumas 1844 short story about a young girl Clara, who receives a nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. That night, the doll comes to life, there is a battle with a Mouse King, and the doll morphs into a human Prince who leads Clara on a magical journey to the fantastical Land of Sweets where they meet the Sugar Plum Fairy.  

The Nutcracker has long been a popular Christmas entertainment but now has to recognise a serious rival for its position as the seasonal ballet of choice, in Nutcracker in Havana.

With the formation of his Cuban dance company, Acosta Danza, it seems entirely logical to look at transforming classic ballets into works that resonate more with Cuban history, customs and culture, and Nutcracker in Havana is the joyous, stunning result.   The traditional Nutcracker seems staid in contrast to the vibrancy of Nutcracker in Havana.  Kudos to Valid Productions and Stephen Crocker of Norwich Theatre for co-producing a future classic.

Acosta’s programme notes are fascinating.  With Castro taking power in 1959, the idea of Christmas was effectively banned in Cuba until the 90s and you wonder if this was an additional factor in inspiring Acosta to create this wonderful full length ballet in two sumptuous acts – a form of celebratory release from state constraints.  

Cuban influences and references abound – many (most?) drawn from Acosta’s own experiences growing up in Havana.  They are skilfully woven into every aspect of the performance, particularly the innovative instrumentation and beautiful arrangement of the original music (Pepe Gavilondo Peon and Yasel Munoz – composers and arrangers), and the breathtaking variety and athleticism of the dance.  The eye for detail and degree of creativity embodied in this production is exquisite.  Frankly, it’s hard to imagine anyone with sufficient sensory bandwidth to process it all in one viewing.  Several are surely required to absorb the richness of such a monumental work.   

Aside from the remarkable music and dance, the other creatives have brought their ‘A’ game to this production.  Costumery (Angelo Alberto) is a brilliantly lavish spectacle in its own right.  Stage sets and video projection (Nina Dunn) really work a treat and skilful lighting (Andrew Exeter) creates a genuinely magical atmosphere.  I’m usually not a fan of ballet without live music, but the recording and sound (Declan Matwij) is excellent. 

The traditional story line remains intact except the nutcracker doll is now a Mambi soldier (Cuban Liberation Army), and the mice become (pointedly?) rats who do battle with the heroic soldiers of independence (the Mambises). 

Act 1 has four main scenes – the family party, post party transformation, the battle and the snow.   It carries most of the story line up to the departure for the Kingdom of Sweets.   The opening scene, full of visual humour and boisterous warmth is set in a humble wooden shack with a palm thatched roof in the place of a grand Victorian house. The tiny Christmas tree is decorated with empty drinks cans.  We see a large playful family gathered to celebrate Christmas and to receive the visit of the enigmatic uncle (Tio) Elias Drosselmeyer (marvellously played by Alexander Varona) returning to Cuba after many years away in Miami honing his craft as a magician.  He arrives in what appears to be a motorcycle and sidecar but the programme mentions a 1957 Chevrolet Corvette. I guess the constraints of the Hackney Empire played a part in this, but it seems that motorbike sidecar combos are indeed popular in Cuba.  

He brings gifts.  Along with three life size dolls, two of which represent Yoruba gods and the third a Tin Soldier, Tio brings a small Nutcracker doll for his favourite niece Clara (superbly danced by Adria Diaz with buckets of charm and innocent wonder).  He also brings wooden chancleta clogs traditionally used for dance in Carnival events and they are put to good effect in both acts with some energetic ensemble routines echoing the Latin beat of the music.  Tio magically transforms the family party into a much more opulent affair in a splendid hall, with enormous tree and fine costumes. He remains a looming string pulling presence throughout the ballet.

Dancing around a maypole is a Caribbean tradition that stretches back to the time of European plantations and there is a maypole scene in each act embodying the high spirits, verve and glorious explosion of colour that come with Carnival.  Once the guests have left the family gathering, Clara checks on her doll which transforms into the Mambi captain.  In a well choreographed battle scene, Clarahelps to vanquish the rats, the captain transforms into a handsome Prince (played regally by Alejandro Silva) and then whisks her via the Waltz of Snowflakes away to the Kingdom of Sweets.

Where the focus of Act 1 is more on the story-telling, the focus of Act 2 is on the dazzling sequence of set piece dances – Divertissement, Waltz of the Flowers, and the famous Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy plus more chancleta dancing.  These are bookended by the arrival of Clara and the Prince in the Kingdom of Sweets and their subsequent farewell, and are performed to fabulous musical arrangements.  It is an exhilarating piece of theatre from first to last.  And the audience response went up a notch or two if such a thing is possible for this show.  It’s also where the Cuban influences on the music seemed most noticeable (in a good way). 

Of the set-pieces, Divertissement is probably the most striking segment – a series of gorgeous pas de deux routines representing different treats and nationalities – the flamenco flavoured Spanish Dance, the haunting Arabian Dance, the Dance of the Mirlitons (Reed Flutes), the martial arts inspired Chinese Dance, and the Cossack themed Russian Dance. 

Even with Cuba more evident in the content, Act 2 is structured in a more conventional way than Act 1 and seems more coherent for it.  Overall though, a spellbinding and highly accomplished must-see production that I hope will become a Christmas institution.

To sum up Nutcracker in Havana in a nutshell – pure magic and an artistic triumph.

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre – until Saturday 8th October 2025

Reviewed by Michelle Richardson

5*****

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre is a cosy intimate community theatre in York and comes with free adjacent parking. Its current show is York Stage’s production of The Great British Bake Off Musical. Inspired by the well-loved television show, with book and lyrics by Jake Brunger and music and lyrics by Pippa Cleary.

The story is what you would expect, but a condensed version. It follows eight bakers, complete with back stories, two presenters and two judges for an entire season of Bake Off in just two hours. It’s packed with music, puns, show-stoppers, soggy bottoms and not forgetting the all-important handshake or two.

The opening scene is imaginative and surprising, offering a playful take on the origins of baking and cake making. It sets a strong tone for the show.

Presenting the Bake Off are Jim (Sam Roberts) and Kim (Mary Clare, who is an actual professional baker in York). They deliver delightful interactions, with frequent nods to “Mel and Sue”. Their comedic chemistry is evident as they playfully engage with one another, the contestants, judges and the audience.

Nik Briggs, producer/director at York Stage, is also front of stage in the role of Ben. He’s a widowed detective following his late wife’s recipes for his daughter, Lily (played by Abigail Hodgson in a shared role with Ella Laister, Eady Mensah and Megan Pickard), while coping with his loss. As the weeks fly by we see him undergo a personal journey, learning to live and love again. It was lovely to see him perform on stage again.

The other contestants are Izzy (Amy Barrett), a spoilt rich kid who will do anything to win; Francesca (Alana Blacker), a passionate Italian baker who now lives in Bognor; Hassan (Fredo), a student from Syria who just goes with the flow, as long as he wears his lucky t-shirt. The delicious Russell (Stu Hutchinson), a crowd favourite and I can just see him as a pantomime dame; Dezza (Grant McIntyre) a vegan hipster baker; Babs (Joanne Theaker, a York Stage stalwart), thrice married and just maybe on the lookout for number four; and Gemma (Harriet Yorke), a back-up contestant, a shy carer who looked after her recently deceased mother, who gains confidence and friends through the contest. Completing the cast are judges Pam Lee (Tracey Rea) and Chris Wilson (Phil Hollinghurst), who lovingly parody real-life judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood.

The set features work stations with baby pink food mixers, mixing bowls, wooden spoons, and baked treats, recreating the Bake Off tent atmosphere perfectly. There are aprons aplenty, colourful clothing and accessories, mostly curtesy of Pam Lee.

The vocals were impressive from start to finish, with Barrett, McIntyre, and Yorke leaving a particularly strong impression on me. They were accompanied by a magnificent live band, which is not revealed until the end, comprising Stephen Hackshaw, Sam Johnson, Hannah Garnett, Peter Care, Ryan Griffiths and Sam Boyes. The cast delivered amazing performances, each member showing enthusiasm and commitment. Their infectious energy lit up the stage, drawing the audience into the world of the Great British Bake Off.

Great British Bake Off Musical is witty, full of warmth and captures the heart. It is extremely funny, full of innuendos, friendship and includes a developing love story. York Stage have once again hit the mark and have put on a show that is professional in every respect, offering a vibrant, playful homage to the cherished television series. Try and get to see this show, it will leave you with a smile as sweet as a show-stopper bake.

SAM RYDER
TO HEADLINE MAJOR PRODUCTION OF
TIM RICE AND ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM NEXT SUMMER 

Directed by Tim Sheader, Choreographed by Drew McOnie

and Designed by Tom Scutt
 

Strictly limited season to play from

Saturday 20 June – Saturday 5 September 2026

Tickets go on exclusive presale 25 November and general sale 26 November

Sign up for presale atlondon.jesuschristsuperstar.com

Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals is today thrilled to announce that the creative team of the 2016 production of Jesus Christ Superstar will reunite 10 years on to create a unique staging of their Olivier award-winning, worldwide smash-hit production. 

Now featuring a cast of 30, including Sam Ryder as Jesus in his West End debut, the production which was originally created and produced at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, will play for a limited 11-week season at The London Palladium.

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.

The show will play from Saturday 20 June to Saturday 5 September 2026, with a press night scheduled for Tuesday 7 July 2026. Tickets go on exclusive presale on Tuesday 25 November 2025 at 10am and general sale on Wednesday 26 November at 10am. Sign up for presale at london.jesuschristsuperstar.com.

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’.

Sam Ryder is a BRIT and Emmy nominated, critically acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician. He achieved dizzying success on TikTok andat Eurovision where his hit single ‘Space Man’ skyrocketed him to the forefront of the airwaves. He has since scored a #1 album, #2 single, accumulated billions of streams, over 20 million followers, and much more. Embarking on a new era of his career, Sam recently released new album Heartland, which went straight to #1 on the Independent Albums Chart in the UK. Jesus Christ Superstar marks his theatre debut.

Sam Ryder said:

“I’m so excited to be part of one of the biggest institutions in musical theatre the world’s ever known, at The London Palladium in the West End! I’m honoured to take on this responsibility as I follow in the footsteps of rock vocal titans like Ian Gillan and John Farnham. I can’t wait to immerse myself in the word of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2026.”

Michael Harrison said:

“It is thrilling to be bringing this astounding creative team from the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production back together, and I am excited to see them create Jesus Christ Superstar specially for The London Palladium. In Sam we have a true superstar to play the iconic title role, and I look forward to sharing further announcements about the production in the coming months.”

Originally released as a concept album, Jesus Christ Superstar opened on Broadway in 1971, at the Mark Hellinger Theatre, where it was nominated for 5 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. 

The creative team is joined by musical supervisor Tom Deering (Standing at the Sky’s Edge – Olivier Award for Outstanding Musical Contribution), lighting designer Lee Curran (A Streetcar Named Desire – Olivier Award Nomination for Best Lighting Design), sound designer Adam Fisher (Sunset Boulevard – Olivier Award for Best Sound Design), fight director Kate Waters (Othello) and BAFTA Award Winning casting director David Grindrod CDG.

Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals’ recent productions include the smash hit Evita at The London Palladium this Summer, the seven-time Olivier-Award and three-time Tony-Award winning revival of SUNSET BLVD., and Starlight Express, which has just extended for the sixth time at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. In 2026 they are set to bring CATS: The Jellicle Ball to Broadway, opening at the Broadhurst Theatre and 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. 

TONY & OLIVIER AWARD-WINNING

SMASH-HIT MUSICAL

JERSEY BOYS

20^th ANNIVERSARY TOUR

TO HEAD OUT ACROSS

THE UK AND IRELAND

FROM 17 JUNE 2026

The boys are back! The original Tony®-winning musical sensation JERSEY BOYS returns for its celebratory 20^th Anniversary tour across the UK and Ireland, opening at New Wimbledon Theatre on 17 June 2026 and booking through 2027, with further dates to be announced.

Tickets on general sale Tuesday 11 November 2025.

JERSEY BOYS is written by Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, with music by Bob Gaudio and lyrics by Bob Crewe.

Casting is to be announced.      

Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the true-life phenomenon, JERSEY BOYS. 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.

They were just four guys from 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. The show features all their hits, including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Beggin’, Oh What a Night and more.

Producer Michael David of The Dodgers said “We are thrilled for JERSEY BOYS to return to the road across the United Kingdom and Ireland. When the show first opened on Broadway 20 years ago, little did we know the story of these four blue collar kids from the wrong side of the tracks would resonate across the UK. We are so grateful to work our way back to you and celebrate 20 years of, as Frankie says, chasing the music, trying to get home.”

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 originally opened in New York on 6 November 2005 and, by the time it closed on 15 January 2017, it was the 12^th longest running show in Broadway history.  It returned to New York with a new production from November 2017 to May 2022. JERSEY BOYS has also had multiple record-breaking US National Tours.

JERSEY BOYS first ran in London’s West End from 18 March 2008 to 26 March 2017 – nine amazing years – and, at the time, was the 6^th longest musical running in the West End. The musical returned to the West End as the first show to play the reinstated Trafalgar Theatre from 14 April 2021 to 4 January 2024. JERSEY BOYS previously played three record-breaking UK and Ireland tours from 2014 to 2016, 2017 to 2019 and 2021 to 2022.

The JERSEY BOYS 20^th Anniversary UK and Ireland tour will be staged by the entire 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.

Website: JerseyBoysMusical.co.uk

Instagram: @JerseyBoysUK

TikTok: @JerseyBoysUK

Facebook: @JerseyBoysLondon

2026/27 TOUR LISTINGS INFORMATION

17 – 27 June 2026                                 New Wimbledon Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/Wimbledon                     On Sale 11 November

30 June – 4 July2026                            Nottingham Royal Concert Hall             0115 989 5555

                                                            trch.co.uk                                             On Sale 14 November

6 – 11 July 2026                                    Bristol Hippodrome

                                                            atgtickets.com/bristol                            On Sale 11 November

20 July – 1 August 2026                         AlhambraTheatre Bradford

                                                            bradford-theatres.co.uk                         On Sale 17 November

3 – 8 August 2026                                 Llandudno Venue Cymru

                                                            venuecymru.co.uk                                 On Sale 11 November

11 – 22 August 2026                              Cardiff Wales Millenium Centre

                                                            wmc.org.uk                                           On Sale 5 December

24 – 29 August 2026                              High Wycombe Swan Theatre

                                                            wycombeswan.co.uk                             On Sale 11 November

7 – 19 September 2026                          Manchester Palace Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/Manchester                    On Sale 11 November

28 September – 3 October 2026             Hull New Theatre                                   01482 300 306

                                                            hulltheatres.co.uk                                  On Sale 11 November

6 – 10 October 2026                              Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre

                                                            aberdeenperformingarts.com                 On Sale 25 November

12 – 17 October 2026                            Edinburgh Playhouse

                                                            atgtickets.com/Edinburgh                      On Sale 11 November

26 – 31 October 2026                            Stoke Regent Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/stoke                             On Sale 11 November

2 – 7 November 2026                            Dartford Orchard Theatre

                                                            orchardtheatre.co.uk                              On Sale 11 November

9 – 21 November 2026                           Birmingham The Alexandra

                                                            atgtickets.com/Birmingham                    On Sale 11 November

23 – 28 November 2026                         Southampton Mayflower Theatre                      

                                                            mayflower.org.uk                                  On Sale 14 November

30 November – 5 December 2026          Eastbourne Congress Theatre

                                                            eastbournetheatres.co.uk                       On Sale 11 November

26 – 30 January 2027                            Oxford New Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/Oxford                           On Sale 11 November

2 – 13 February 2027                             Belfast Grand Opera House

                                                            goh.co.uk                                             On Sale Soon

16 – 27 February 2027                           Glasgow King’s Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/Glasgow                        On Sale 11 November

15 – 27 March   2027                             Wolverhampton Grand                         01902 42 92 12

                                                            grandtheatre.co.uk                                On Sale 11 November

30 March – 3 April 2027                         Norwich Theatre Royal                         01603 630 000

                                                            norwichtheatre.org                                 On Sale 28 November

13 – 24 April 2027                                 Leicester Curve                                    0116 242 3595

                                                            curveonline.co.uk                                  On Sale Soon

26 April – 1 May 2027                            Woking New Victoria Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/new-victoria-theatre         On Sale 11 November

4 – 8 May 2027                                      Hall for Cornwall Truro                          01872 262 466

hallforcornwall.co.uk

11 – 15 May 2027                                  Southend Cliffs Pavilion                       0343 310 0030

                                                            thecliffspavilion.co.uk                            On Sale 11 November

17 – 22 May 2027                                  Blackpool Opera House

                                                            wintergardensblackpool.co.uk                On Sale 11 November

25 May – 5 June 2027                            Sunderland Empire

                                                            atgtickets.com/sunderland-empire          On Sale 11 November

7 – 19 June 2027                                   Leeds Grand Theatre                             0113 243 0808

leedsheritagetheatres.com                     On Sale 14 November

21 June – 3 July 2027                            Sheffield Lyceum                                  0114 249 6000

sheffieldtheatres.co.uk                          On Sale Soon

5 – 17 July 2027                                    Milton Keynes Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes                  On Sale 11 November

19 – 24 July 2027                                  Liverpool Empire Theatre

                                                            atgtickets.com/liverpool                         On Sale 11 November

Further dates to be announced

DELFONT MACKINTOSH THEATRES ANNOUNCE

LIVE IN THE DELFONT ROOM CABARET WITH

THE CAST OF HADESTOWN

Delfont Mackintosh Theatres today announce a one-off cabaret performance as part of the Live in the Delfont Room series, featuring the cast of Hadestown. The event will take place at the Prince of Wales Theatre on Thursday 27 November at 11pm, with a collection to raise vital funds for Acting for Others.

The Live in the Delfont Room series brings West End performers to the Prince of Wales Theatre for exclusive, one-night only late-night cabarets. Doors open at 10:30pm before the cast of the hit West End production Hadestown swap the underworld for the intimate surroundings of cabaret. Expect show-stopping vocals, exclusive performances, and a few surprises along the way – presented in association with Acting for Others, a charity providing essential financial, emotional, and welfare support to theatre workers in times of need.

Tickets go on sale for DMT+ members at 11am this morning, Friday 7 November 2025, with general bookings opening at on-sale at 12pm via this link: www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/whats-on/hadestown-cast.

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Prince of Wales Theatre (A Delfont Mackintosh Theatre)

Coventry Street, London, W1D 6AS

Box Office 0344 482 5151

Trafalgar Theatre Productions, the Dodgers, Tommy Mottola and TEG Dainty present

The electrifying new musical celebrating

Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash

Their music. Their love. Their story

THE BALLAD OF JOHNNY & JUNE

MAJOR UK AND IRELAND TOUR:

MARCH – SEPTEMBER 2026

TICKETS ON SALE 7 NOVEMBER AT 10.00AM

FROM JohnnyAndJuneMusical.com

Hot on the heels of sold-out seasons at New York’s La Jolla Playhouse and Canada’s Citadel Theatre, the acclaimed hit new musical The Ballad of Johnny & June will make its dazzling debut this side of the Atlantic in 2026 with a major tour of the UK and Ireland.

Packed with all the legendary hits of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash including I Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Hey Porter, Jackson, I’ve Been Everywhere The Ballad of Johnny & June is directed by two-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff (Jersey Boys, The Who’s Tommy, and Summer: The Donna Summer Musical), this major new musical opens at Bromley’s Churchill Theatre on 2 March 2026, before visiting a further 20 theatres across the country.

Love is a burning thing, and no one burned brighter than Johnny Cash and June Carter. He was a small-town musician and storyteller with a voice that stirred the soul. She was a multi-talented performer and a music pioneer. Johnny Cash sold more than 90 million records worldwide, won 13 Grammy Awards and a lifetime achievement award in 1999. June Carter Cash won five Grammy Awards across her illustrious career. The pair married in 1968 and remained together until June’s death in 2003.

The Ballad of Johnny & June transports you through the soaring highs and shattering lows of a love story that defined an era. Told through the eyes of their son John Carter Cash, this new musical shows why Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash remain one of the most infamous couples of the 20th Century.

Producer Howard Panter said: “We are delighted to be bringing this acclaimed production of The Ballad of Johnny and June to theatres in the UK and Ireland for a major tour in 2026. A journey through love, struggle and redemption told through some of the greatest music ever written and brought to life by an exceptional creative team. We can’t wait for audiences to experience this extraordinary story that captures the passion and power of two true musical icons.”

THE BALLAD OF JOHNNY & JUNE – UK & IRELAND TOUR DATES 2026

2 – 7 March Bromley, Churchill Theatre

9 – 14 March Cardiff, New Theatre

30 March – 11 April Dublin, Bord Gais Energy Theatre

13 – 18 April Brighton, Theatre Royal

20 – 25 April Birmingham, Alexandra Theatre

27 April – 2 May Edinburgh Festival

11 – 16 May Wycombe Swan

25 – 30 May Southend, Cliffs Pavilion

1 – 6 June Newcastle, Theatre Royal

8 – 13 June Salford, The Lowry

15 – 20 June Plymouth, Theatre Royal

29 June – 4 July Bradford, Alhambra Theatre

6 – 11 July Richmond Theatre

13 – 18 July Hull, New Theatre

20 – 25 July Blackpool, Winter Gardens

27 July – 1 August York, Grand Opera House

3 – 8 August Belfast, Grand Opera House

10 – 22 August Glasgow, Pavilion Theatre

24 – 29 August Eastbourne, Congress Theatre

31 August – 5 September Canterbury, Marlowe Theatre

7 – 12 September Southampton, Mayflower Theatre

14 – 19 September Leeds, Grand Theatre

The production arm of Trafalgar Entertainment, Trafalgar Theatre Productions, produces new shows and classic musicals in London and internationally including the sold out London’s Barbican Theatre and UK Tour of Regent Park Open Air Theatre’s Fiddler on the Roof, Sean Hayes reviving his Tony Award Winning performance in Good Night, Oscar at London’s Barbican Theatre, one of the all-time classic musical comedy farces, Kiss Me Kate, starring the multi-award-winning Adrian Dunbar and Broadway musical superstar and Tony Award winner Stephanie J. Block at London’s Barbican Theatre in summer 2024, the Lincoln Center’s award-winning production of The King and I in London and worldwide, The Merchant of Venice 1936 in partnership with Watford Palace Theatre and the RSC (London and UK Tour), The Duchess (Of Malfi) starring Jodie Whittaker at London’s Trafalgar Theatre, new musical comedy Clueless based on the Paramount Pictures classic film, the Tony and Olivier award-winning smash hit musical Jersey Boys, which opened the renovated Trafalgar Theatre in London alongside a UK Tour, a National Theatre co-production of Michael R. Jackson’s critically acclaimed, Pulitzer Prize and multi award-winning A Strange Loop at London’s Barbican Theatre in the summer of 2023, Broadway’s favourite multi award-winning musical, Alanis Morrisette’s Jagged Little Pill which opened at Trafalgar’s Theatre Royal Sydney in December 2021 and became the first major international production of it to open in Australia straight from Broadway without a West End season, a major revival of the award winning classic musical Anything Goes at London’s Barbican Theatre in the summers of 2021 and 2022, starring Sutton Foster, Robert Lindsay, Felicity Kendal and Gary Wilmot, the tenth anniversary UK & Ireland tour of the acclaimed National Theatre production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, hilarious comedy Death Drop (London and UK Tour), the current 50th Anniversary World Tours of The Rocky Horror Show with numerous engagements in Australia and the UK, and a co-production of War Horse with The National Theatre in Australia and Asia-Pacific.

THE DODGERS

THE DODGERS (Producer) is a theatrical producing partnership hatched at BAM in New York in 1978 by six friends.

Over 200 productions in North America, London, Europe and Australasia; blessed by Broadway’s Tonys (56), London’s Oliviers, Australia’s Helpmanns.

On Broadway: Jersey Boys, Matilda (with RSC), Groundhog Day (with Whistle Pig), 42nd Street, Urinetown, Into the Woods (original ’87 and ’02), High Society, Titanic, ….Forum, The King and I, The Who’s Tommy, Ralph Fiennes’ Hamlet (with Almeida), Guys and Dolls, Jelly’s Last Jam, The Secret Garden, Gospel at Colonus, Big River among others. The original producers of Jersey Boys, their Offices in Times Square and Covent Garden.

Their president Is Michael David, who Is also Exec Producer of MJ, coming to the Prince Edward In 2024.

PAUL DAINTY / TEG DAINTY

TEG DAINTY has been producing live entertainment across Australasia since the early 1970s and was recognised by the highly acclaimed Sport Business International Magazine as one of world’s 20 most influential promoters and ranked by Billboard Magazine as the 5th largest promoter in the world.

In 2016, TEG DAINTY was formed when TEG acquired Dainty Group International which prior to the acquisition had been owned and operated as independent entity by Paul Dainty AO, AM. With Dainty’s history and unparalleled experience in bringing some of the world’s biggest acts and productions to Australia, combined with TEG’s superior capabilities in ticketing, promotion and data analytics, TEG DAINTY will offer fans and stakeholders access to the best and most compelling music, sporting and entertainment events in Australia.

Producing and promoting shows across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, South East Asia and South Africa, TEG DAINTY has become a global live entertainment company showcasing tours such as Hugh Jackman’s Broadway to Oz and the global tour of The Man. The Music. The Show, Katy Perry, Michael Buble, Bon Jovi, Guns n Roses, Iron Maiden, Ricky Martin, Miley Cyrus, Kings of Leon, Oprah and Jerry Seinfeld to name a few. TEG Dainty also specialises in theatrical productions as a Producer on TINA The Tina Turner Musical, Jersey Boys, Hairspray, Mamma Mia and A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical premiering at The Princess Theatre in Melbourne in August 2026.

WEST END SUPERSTAR BEN FORSTER RELEASES SINGLE ‘FOR GOOD’ FROM HIS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ALBUM MUSICALS GREATEST HITS ON NOVEMBER 21

2026 UK TOUR ANNOUNCED

Ben Forster, the TV star and internationally renowned vocalist best known for his powerhouse performances in Jesus Christ Superstar, The Phantom of the Opera, and Elf The Musical is releasing new single ‘For Good’. The track marks the first male solo rendition of the iconic Wicked duet and celebrates the London premiere of the Wicked: For Good this Monday (10th).

It is the second single from his brand new studio album Musicals Greatest Hits which comes out on November 21 through Westway Music. The album will also be available on CD and can be pre-ordered now via https://shop.westwaymusic.com/product/177556.

The track will feature on Ben’s upcoming album ‘Musicals Greatest Hits’ which was recorded with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and will see Ben reimagine some of the world’s biggest musical hits, breathing new life into beloved classics with his trademark vocal power and emotional depth. The album is a heartfelt tribute to the genre that has shaped his career, offering fans a rich, cinematic experience that celebrates the magic of musical theatre. Despite winning Superstar on TV and playing Phantom (The Phantom of the Opera) both on the West End and internationally, this is the first time his versions of these songs will be made available on record. The album will also feature a duet with fellow West End star Sydnie Christmas on the beloved classic ‘Tell Me It’s Not True’ from Blood Brothers – the British favourite that has been captivating audiences for 45 years.

As well as his album release, Ben is also set to tour the UK next year. 2026 Dates are:

09 SEP            CHANDLER’S FORD Thorden Hall

10 SEP            PETERBOROUGH New Theatre

12 SEP            YARM The PAA

13 SEP            WHITLEY BAY The Playhouse

16 SEP            ILKLEY Kings Hall

18 SEP            NORWICH Theatre 

19 SEP            SPALDING SOUTH Holland Centre

20 SEP            HERTFORD Beam

23 SEP            ESHER Theatre

26 SEP            RINGWOOD The Barn

03 OCT           TREORCHY Park and Dare

07 OCT           STAMFORD Corn Exchange 

08 OCT           BURNLEY Mechanics

09 OCT           SOUTHPORT The Atkinson

10 OCT           MUCH WENLOCK Edge Arts Centre

11 OCT           SHREWSBURY The Buttermarket

14 OCT           BARNSTABLE Queen’s Theatre

16 OCT           EVESHAM Henrican

17 OCT           FROME Memorial Theatre

18 OCT           BRIDGEWATER McMillan

21 OCT           DURHAM Gala Theatre

22 OCT           BLYTH Phoenix Theatre

23 OCT           LANCASTER Grand Theatre

24 OCT           ULVERSTON The Coro

30 OCT           KELSO Tait Hall

31 OCT           GLASGOW Eastwood Park

01 NOV           ABERDEEN Tivoli Theatre

05 NOV           RUNCORN The Brindley

06 NOV           PORT SUNLIGHT Gladstone Theatre

07 NOV           BAKEWELL Torn Hall

08 NOV           MILLAM Beggar’s Theatre

12 NOV           HUNSTANTON Princess Theatre

13 NOV           MARY ST EDMUNDS The Apex

14 NOV           HARPENDEN The EMC

Tickets are available to purchase now via https://www.awaywithmedia.com/tours/ben-forster.

About Ben Forster    

Known around the world for his spine-tingling vocals and commanding stage presence, Ben rose to international fame after winning the TV show Superstar, which was created by Andrew Lloyd Webber to find his next Jesus. As a result of his resounding victory, Ben went on to play Jesus in the smash hit global arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar alongside Melanie C and Tim Minchin. He has since become a staple of British theatre, with critically acclaimed turns in Evita, The Rocky Horror Show, and a celebrated run as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera

Musical’s Greatest Hits is not only a showcase of Forster’s extraordinary range and versatility, but also a love letter to the shows and songs that continue to inspire generations.

Tracklisting:

1. The Winner Takes It All (Mamma Mia!)
2. Gethsemane (Jesus Christ Superstar)
3. For Good (Wicked)
4. Bring Him Home (Les Miserables)
5. From Now On (The Greatest Showman)
6. Tell Me It’s Not True (Blood Brothers) feat. Sydnie Christmas
7. Losing My Mind (Follies)
8. You Will Be Found (Dear Evan Hansen)
9. If I Can’t Love Her (Beauty And The Beast)
10. Music Of The Night (The Phantom of the Opera)

ABOUT WESTWAY MUSIC

Westway Music is a music and film platform for artists who have performed on the West End and Broadway. Formed in November 2020 it has become the home of ‘The Music of Theatre’. Westway has worked with some of the biggest names in UK musical theatre including Kerry Ellis, Ramin Karimloo, Rachel Tucker, Jamie Muscato, Hadley Fraser and Samantha Barks, as well as Sydnie Christmas, Jason Manford and Joe Stilgoe, to put on concerts and release albums and films with great success.