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The Swan Theatre, RSC – until 21 March 2020

Reviewed by Megan Raynor

4****

The RSC presents ‘The Whip’- a brand new play by Juliet Gilkes Romero, directed by Kimberley Sykes. The play set in the early 19th century, deals with the political turmoil surrounding the abolishment of the slave trade but is so much more than just a history lesson on stage. The play places us in the heart of a corrupt political system in which the white man’s need for status and power manifests in questionable and immoral decisions. The Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 promised freedom and hope but ‘The Whip’ explores at what cost.

The play largely centres on Alexander Boyd (Richard Clothier), the chief Whip, and his political and moral struggle to push the abolition bill through parliament. A man seemingly with his heart in the right place is forced to put his beliefs and relationships at risk. In particular his relationship with Edmund (Corey Montague-Sholay), a former slave, taken under Boyd’s wing with the hope of a blossoming career in politics. Edmund is a deeply complicated character, Montague-Sholay portraying beautifully a character weighed down by his lifetime of repression. We observe his below the surface bubbling of rage, that he pushes down and displaces with submission for the ease of a simple life, but there is only so much he can take.

Another unlikely but equally interesting relationship is the one formed between Mercy Price (Debbie Korley) and Horatia Poskitt (Katherine Pearce), two women fighting for their voice and bonded by the shared grief of a lost chid. Horatia, Lord Boyd’s new vivacious and straight talking house keeper, forms a connection to Mercy through their shared passion for public speaking and solidarity in carving out a better life for women of the future. Korley’s opening speech, in a rich and compelling Barbadian accent, was a beautiful and heart breaking account of the torture endured by those enslaved and a stand out moment. Pearce was equally compelling with her brash northern charm.

Ciaran Bagnall’s simplistic and stripped back set encompassed the audience in the political debates, bringing up the house lights allowed you to feel truly immersed in the heat of the discussions without the audience involvement feeling invasive. Akintayo Akinbode’s string heavy score felt cinematic, creating a beautifully complimentary atmosphere.

The characters are dimensional and multifaceted; Romero’s writing must be commended for this. The piece at time lacks pace but what it lacks in pace it is made up for in honest and developed human relationships. Like all good theatre should, it is a piece that sparks questions and dialogue about corrupt political agenda that is still ever prevalent in today’s society. An eye-opening piece putting forward the uncomfortable reality of embedded and deep rooted inequality within human kind.

DIVERSE AND UNDEREPRESENTED VOICES DOMINATE SHORTLIST FOR THE 2020 VISIONARY HONOURS

SIR BOB GELDOF TO RECEIVE THE VISIONARY LEGACY HONOUR

FILM | TV | MUSIC | THEATRE | BOOKS | INFLUENCERS

18^th March | Ham Yard Hotel Soho

UK’S ONLY AWARDS CELEBRATING SOCIAL IMPACT OF CULTURE, MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT

HOSTED BY SALLY PHILLIPS

The Visionary Arts Foundation is delighted to announce the shortlist for the annual Visionary Honours awards on Wednesday 18^th March 2020 at the Ham Yard Hotel, Soho, hosted by leading British comic and disability rights advocate Sally Phillips and featuring a special guest performance by rising star singer-songwriter Marika Hackman.

Focused on making the arts, media and entertainment industries more inclusive and accessible in the UK, the not-for-profit Visionary Arts Foundation helps to develop and launch the careers of young creatives from BAME, LGBTQ+, disabled and low income groups as well as anyone who feels their story is not being told in the mainstream. The Visionary Honours launched last year to ensure culture, media and entertainment that have inspired social change and debate are recognised.

Nominations for the second Visionary Honours particularly focus on Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Mental Health, Anti-Social Behaviour and Environmental Change. From books that are breaking down mental health stigmas, to television shows inspiring self-love and positivity, films and documentaries that ignite and inspire generations to come, to gender-bending, rip-roaring feminist theatre shows and songs that are brimming with hope and a social message to be heard, the Visionary Honours offer a vital space and platform for under-represented voices that are having a cultural impact in the UK today.

Highlights of this year’s nominations include, Booker prize winning author Bernardine Evaristo who has made waves in the UK and beyond for her bold exploration of identity, race, womanhood and the realities of modern Britain in the standout book of 2019, Girl, Woman, Other, the pioneering, heart-breaking and awe-inspiring Oscar nominated and BAFTA winning Channel 4 documentary FOR SAMA, the essential, powerful, affirmative track HERO on Michael Kiwanuka’s album paying homage to leaders and figures of the Civil Rights Movement, the fierce, fun and uplifting all female led musical SIX, which has become a West End sensation, and the television show everyone has been talking about RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE UK.

Spanning across culture, media and entertainment, the Visionary Honours is not just about rewarding talent, but primarily about highlighting the social impact their work has had and the inspiration it will give the next generation of creatives to make their own mark in the arts and communitues beyond.

The prestigious Visionary Legacy Honour will be awarded to Sir Bob Geldof for his outstanding contribution to the music industry and the phenomenal worldwide social and cultural impact his humanitarian efforts have had over the years. Sir Bob Geldof will be attending the Visionary Honours awards ceremony to collect the award.

Last year’s Visionary Legacy Honour was awarded to Nelson Mandela, whose grandson, Mandla Mandela was present to collect the award. A star-studded evening was enjoyed by all at the inaugural Visionary Honours in 2019, held at BAFTA, London, presented by award-winning comedian and actor Sir Lenny Henry. Talent appearing on the night included world-famous author Malorie Blackman, star of Black Panther – Danny Sapani, rapper and documentary-maker Professor Green, and Channel 4’s one-man institution, Krishnan Guru-Murthy.

The winners will be chosen by a public vote which opens on Thursday 20^th February and they will be announced at the Visionary Honours on Wednesday 18 March at Ham Yard Hotel.

NOMINATIONS FOR THE VISIONARY HONOURS 2020

Nominations in the 10 award categories were made by our industry judges and editorial team.

BOOK OF THE YEAR

·     CROSSFIRE – Malorie Blackman

·     GIRL, WOMAN, OTHER – Bernardine Evaristo

·     IT’S NOT ABOUT THE BURQA – Miriam Khan

·     IT’S NOT OK TO FEEL BLUE (AND OTHER LIES) – Scarlett Curtis

·     PROUD – Juno Dawson

·     TRUTH TO POWER – Jess Phillips

FILM OF THE YEAR

·     BLUE STORY, Andrew Onwubolu

·     BOY ERASED, Joel Edgerton

·     IT’S A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD, Marielle Heller

·     THE LAST TREE, Shola Amoo

·     LITTLE WOMEN, Greta Gerwig

·     QUEEN & SLIM, Melina Matsoukas

DOCUMENTARY OF THE YEAR

·     DAVID HAREWOOD: PSYCHOSIS AND ME – BBC2

·     FOR SAMA – Channel 4

·     GARETH THOMAS: HIV AND ME – BBC1

·     HOMECOMING – Netflix

·     ICE ON FIRE – Netflix

·     JESY NELSON: ODD ONE OUT – BBC Three

TV SHOW OF THE YEAR

·     MAN LIKE MOBEEN – BBC3

·     ROSS KEMP LIVING WITH… – ITV

·     RUPAUL’S DRAGRACE UK – BBC3

·     SEVEN WORLDS, ONE PLANET – BBC1

·     WHEN THEY SEE US – Netflix

·     YEARS AND YEARS – BBC1

SONG OF THE YEAR

·     BLACK – Dave

·     HERO – Michael Kiwanuka

·     HOPE FOR THE UNDERRATED YOUTH – Yungblud

·     JUICE – Lizzo

·     OK – Mabel

·     PEOPLE – The 1975

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

·     ANY HUMAN FRIEND – Marika Hackman

·     CHARLI – Chari XCX

·     GREY AREA – Little Simz

·     HEAVY IS THE HEAD – Stormzy

·     HOODIES ALL SUMMER – Kano

·     PSYCHODRAMA – Dave

PLAY/MUSICAL OF THE YEAR

·     & JULIET – Luke Sheppard, Shaftesbury Theatre

·     COME FROM AWAY – Christopher Ashley, Phoenix Theatre

·     FAIRVIEW – Nadia Latif, Young Vic

·     LIFE OF PI – Max Webster, Sheffield Crucible

·     SIX – Jamie Armitage, Arts Theatre

·     WIFE – Indhu Rubasingham, Kiln Theatre

INFLUENCER/JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR

·     CANDICE CARTY-WILLIAMS

·     BELLA MACKIE

·     CARIAD LLOYD

·     EMMA BARNETT

·     GEORGE THE POET

·     JAMIE BARTLETT

COMMUNITY PERSON OF THE YEAR

·     CAROLINE BRYANT – Futures Theatre

·      DARREN RAYMOND – Intermission Youth Theatre

·     SIMON DEVEREUX – Access VFX

·     SULAIMAN KHAN – This Ability

MOST INSPIRING PERSON OF THE YEAR

·     JESY NELSON

·     JUNE SARPONG

·     LEWIS HAMILTON

·     PHOEBE WALLER-BRIDGE

·     JOHN BOYEGA

·     RUSSELL T DAVIES

The 2020 nominees and industry professional judges are delighted to be associated with the Visionary Arts Foundation who help give young creatives a steppingstone into the arts via their annual Bursary and Mentoring Scheme.

Founder of the awards and creator of the hit West End musical Thriller Live, Adrian Grant commented:

“The Visionary Arts Foundaton believe that entertainment and media has the power to change the world and voices of all cultures, creed, gender, sexuality and ability should be heard, seen and respected. Through the Visionary Arts Foundation it is our goal to open doors and provide opportunities for young creatives and to inspire them to produce work that can influence positive social change.”

Malorie Blackman, who attended the inaugural awards, commented on her nomination for Book of the Year:

“I’m thrilled to have been nominated for the Visionary Honours Book of the Year award in the company of so many fantastic authors and their books.  What I love about this award is the unique way that it celebrates culture, media and entertainment which seeks to move us forward.”

On discovering RuPaul’s Drag Race was nominated for Television Show of the Year, co-founder and director the show’s production company, Fenton Bailey also commented:

“Because diversity and inclusiveness is the lifeblood of Drag Race, we are honored and excited to be nominated for best television show by Visionary Arts. We are so grateful to the viewers and fans for championing the show, and for spreading its message of love and acceptance far and wide.”

Podcaster and influencer George the Poet was thrilled to be nominated for Influencer/Journalist of the Year:

“I feel blessed to have been nominated this year. My work is driven by hope  for tomorrow, and it’s an honour to have that recognised by my peers”

The incredibly talented entrepreneur, disabled man of colour Sulaiman Khan, who is nominated for Community Person of the Year summarised the reasons why he was thrilled to be nominated in the 2020 awards:

“As a disabled AF, creative, active intersectional ally-in-progress, socially conscious entrepreneur, South Asian man, continual work-in-progress, I am proudly running my business entirely myself, out of necessity, not luxury. This is very tough due to internalised ableism, an inaccessible world (and environments), and ableist attitudes/behaviours. But I keep pushing forward (because of my disability NOT despite it) to be who I needed when I was a youngster and be my own hero. So, for me, it’s a massive honour to be recognised and nominated.”

Nominated for TV show of the Year, the “Ross Kemp Living With” team at ITV commented:

“At a time when the country was preoccupied with Brexit, the team felt that it was more important than ever to shine a light on social issues that were affecting Britons’ lives in profound and often devastating ways; crises that need to be determinedly addressed whichever political direction we head in. To be shortlisted for the Visionary Awards, and to be in such esteemed company, feels like a vindication of the choice to tackle complex, and sometimes uncomfortable, subjects.”

Legendary comic, actress, disability rights advocate Sally Phillips announced her delight in hosting the 2020 Visionary Honours.

“I am very proud to be the host of the second annual Visionary Honours and to be a part of the Foundation’s work in empowering young creatives to inspire social change. Having been in the creative industries for over 20 years, I have seen how films and documentaries can influence minds and impact the world. My son, Oliver, has Down Syndrome, so it is perhaps no surprise that I strongly advocate inclusive opportunities which allow everybody to participate in the cultural and economic activities of the communities in which they live. The Visionary Arts Foundation promotes a more a diverse society, and for me that is much richer society.”

The BBC documentary telling the inside story of Jesy Nelson from Little Mix’s severe mental health issues that spiralled from online trolling, commented:

“Jesy and the team behind ‘Odd One Out’ are thrilled to be nominated for Documentary of the Year at the Visionary Honours.  Jesy wanted to make the film to help other people suffering from online abuse and bullying like she did.  Cyberbullying is a real issue that affects not only celebrities but so many young people out there and we are pleased the Visionary Arts Foundation has recognized our film for highlighting the subject and having an impact.  Hopefully the film has caused a discussion in society about how social media platforms should managed better and young people need to be protected from bullies and trolls.”

And last but not least, the executive producer of Sir David Attenborough’s Seven Worlds, One Planet, Jonny Keeling commented:

“This is a very special award from an organisation with great integrity and meaning – so it’s an honour and an inspiration to be nominated. Today the wildlife and people of this planet face huge challenges, but  the Visionary Arts Foundation gives me hope that we can work together to make the changes the world needs.”

A Hampstead Theatre production

THE DUMB WAITER

By Harold Pinter

Directed by Alice Hamilton

Design by James Perkins

Lighting by James Whiteside

Composition & Sound by Giles Thomas

Cast includes Philip Jackson & Harry Lloyd

The 60^th anniversary production

·         FULL CAST AND CREATIVE TEAM ANNOUNCED FOR HAROLD PINTER’S ICONIC THE DUMB WAITER

·         ACCLAIMED STAGE AND SCREEN ACTORS, PHILIP JACKSON AND HARRY LLOYD WILL PLAY THE ROLES OF BEN AND GUS, RESPECTIVELY, IN THIS 60^th ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTION WHICH MARKS THE PLAY’S WORLD PREMIERE AT THE THEATRE

·         ALICE HAMILTON, WILL DIRECT AFTER HER RECENT SUCCESSES AT THE HAMPSTEAD THEATRE WITH THE OLIVIER–NOMINATED EVERY DAY I MAKE GREATNESS HAPPEN AND PARADISE

·         THE DUMB WAITER WILL OPEN HAMPSTEAD THEATRE’S CLASSICS SEASON WHICH SEEKS TO CELEBRATE 60 YEARS OF ORIGINAL THEATRE, THIS SPRING/SUMMER

·         FOUR BOLD PLAYS FROM THE NEW WRITING THEATRE’S DIVERSE ARCHIVE WILL BE STAGED BY A VARIETY OF DISTINCTIVE BRITISH DIRECTORS

“We’ve proved ourselves before now, haven’t we? We’ve always done our job. What’s he doing all this for? What’s the idea? What’s he playing these games for?”

Ben and Gus have a job to do. But as they await instructions in a derelict building, they start to receive strange messages via a dumb waiter.

Hampstead Theatre, has announced the full cast and creative team for Nobel Prize-winning writer Harold Pinter’s timeless black comedy The Dumb Waiter which will run from 19 March until 18 April 2020.

Acclaimed stage and screen actors Philip Jackson and Harry Lloyd will play the roles of Ben and Gus, respectively, in this 60^th anniversary production which marks the play’s world premiere at Hampstead Theatre.

Philip Jackson is known to television audiences as Chief Inspector Japp in the long-running and highly successful Agatha Christie ITV series Poirot.  Other screen credits include My Week with Marilyn, Brassed Off and Little Voice. Theatre credits include Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman at the West Yorkshire Playhouse.

Jackson will be joined by Harry Lloyd, known to Game of Thrones fans as Viserys Targaryen in the HBO series and as Will Scarlett in the 2006 BBC drama Robin Hood.  Other screen credits include, Doctor Who, and The Theory of Everything and he is soon to appear in an American TV adaptation of Aldous Huxley’s sci-fi dystopian novel Brave New World.  Theatre credits include Good Canary at The Rose, Kingston and Ferdinand in The Duchess of Malfi at The Old Vic.

The Dumb Waiter, originally presented in Hampstead Theatre’s first ever season directed by its founder Artistic Director, James Roose Evans, received its world premiere in January 1960.  Alice Hamilton will direct the 60^th anniversary production, after her recent success at the theatre with the Olivier-nominated Every Day I Make Greatness Happen (2018) and Paradise (2019).  Alice is co-Artistic Director of Up in Arms and other directing credits include Blood Wedding (Salisbury Playhouse), The Weatherman (Park Theatre) and While We’re Here (Bush Theatre).  She will be joined by designer, James Perkins, with lighting design by James Whiteside and composition & sound design by Giles Thomas.

Alice Hamilton, Director of The Dumb Waiter said: “I am so excited to be making my debut on Hampstead Theatre’s Main Stage with this brilliant play. This savagely funny two-hander is generally held to be one of the masterpieces of the last century, and I can’t wait to explore it with these two wonderful actors.”

Roxana Silbert, Artistic Director ofHampstead Theatre,said “I am delighted to be opening Hampstead Classics with this remarkable play and once again sharing Pinter’s sharp wit with Hampstead audiences.”

The Dumb Waiter will open Hampstead Classics, its spring/summer programme, to mark its 60^th anniversary and celebrate its ambitious history as a new writing theatre.  Featuring four bold plays which all premiered at the theatre, the productions will be performed in chronological order and staged on the thrust, by a variety of distinctive British directors.  Sam Yates will make a highly anticipated return to Hampstead Theatre with Tennessee Williams’ The Two Character Playfrom 24 April until 23 May, founder and former Artistic Director of Eclipse Theatre Company Dawn Walton will direct Alfred Fagon’s remarkable tribute to the culture of London’s King’s Road in the 1970s, The Death of a Black Manrunning from 28 May until 27 June and Roxana Silbert, Hampstead Theatre’s Artistic Director, will direct Marsha Norman’s ground-breaking ‘night, Mother running from 2 July until 1 August.

Roxana Silbert’s critically acclaimeddirecting debut at Hampstead Theatre is currently playing until 7 March.  The Haystack, a fast-paced, topical play, which delves into the intriguing world of GCHQ and examines the human impact of national surveillance, is Al Blyth’s first full-length play.

Richmond Theatre – until 22 February 2020

Reviewed By Carly Burlinge

4.5****

Blithe Spirit by Noel Cowards and directed by Richard Eyre.

Charles Condomine (Geoffrey Streatfeild) is a chirpy enthusiastic man full of expression, along with his wife Ruth Condomine (Lisa Dillon) a glamorous, well dressed very pleasant woman, but who can become easily frustrated with him at times. The play opens with them in the first scene bickering about their previous marriages.

Charles (Geoffrey Streatfeild) then invites over their local medium both wondering if she will be able to contact anyone that they know and for him to also  gather and use any information to help in the writing of his new book. He also invites his neighbours over; the local GP, Dr Bradman (Simon Coates) who play a bold and sceptic character who’s seen it all being a doctor. Along with his wife Mrs Bradman (Lucy Robinson) who plays a very chatty,  giggly and over excited character.

Once altogether, the door bells goes. Edith (Rose Wardlaw) a very funny, energetic, over eager  and clumsy maid that runs around the house at full speed tripping up over things and almost dropping drinks trays over however, brings great laughter to the audience, welcomes in Madame Arcati  (Jennifer Saunders) an amusing, entertaining slightly eccentric medium that waffles on with great expression and detail. She is very clumsy and has some very funny movements and séance dances that had the audience laughing many times throughout the show. She definitely has an oddness to her and finds it easy to laugh at herself. She also starts of the séance which ends up bringing back Charles’s first wife who died at an early age – Elvira (Emma Naomi) who is very flirtatious and playful is very good at playing both Mr and Mrs Condomine against each other and wants nothing more than to get her husband back causing all mayhem within the house.

The set is very detailed, the Condimine’s living room has two levels with a staircase that is used throughout the show with a floor to ceiling bookshelf full of books which happened to have a great affect. There was a piano in the background with a fire place to the right and a writing desk to the left with double doors going out to the garden.  As well as an archway leading to a panelled hallway making this a very enjoyable set to watch.

This was an extremely amusing, stylish, playful imaginative show with layers of entertainment, a great watch and well worth seeing.

Newcastle Theatre Royal – until 22 February 2020

4****

It’s always a pleasure to attend Newcastle Theatre Royal and even more of a treat when it’s to see such a fabulous show.  You know you are in for a fun time when the warning at the beginning tells you take off your wig so the people behind can see.  And fun it is, with dancing diva’s, a myriad of colourful costumes designed by Charles Cusick-Smith and Phil R Daniels, and a cheese-fest of songs played by the live band led by Sean Green.

Starring Joe McFadden as disillusioned drag queen Tick (Mitzi), Priscilla is the bus that takes Tick from Sydney to Alice Springs at the request of his estranged wife Marion (Miranda Wilford), to meet his 6 year old son Benji (John Reeve, Sonny Paterson and Willem Roberts sharing the role).  Tick takes with him recently widowed transsexual Bernadette (Miles Western) and fellow drag artist Adam (Felicia) played by Nick Hayes. Picking up mechanic Bob (Daniel Fletcher) along the way

Whilst full of glitz and glam, feathers and sequins at the heart of the show is a story of overcoming prejudices whether it be their own or from the rednecks and hillbillies they encounter on their travels.  And a tale of love; Tick and the love he has for his son, the blossoming romance between Bob and Bernadette, and Adam learning to love himself for who and what he is.

Standing on top of Uluru, in full drag singing a Kylie medley fulfils Adams lifetime ambition “a cock, in a frock, on a rock”

Packed with well known numbers like I Will Survive, It’s Raining Men, Don’t Leave Me With Way, Go West and Hot Stuff, you can’t help but tap your feet.  But it’s the Pat Benatar classic We Belong that steals the show for me.  Showing in one song how to overcome everything life throws at you, it is the rightful final showstopper.  

Having previously starred in the show, Jason Donovan is now one of the producers and he’s clearly given some valuable insights into how to improve on previous productions.  This has a bus that works much better than previous incarnations; and whilst still a riot of colour, it proves the old adage that ‘Less is More’.

This is a joyful show, reminding us all to be be kind and accepting with a score that will Colour Your World and having you singing along for days

Northampton wins Cultural Compact champion funding

Arts Council England has awarded Northampton £20,000 for the creation of a Cultural Board to build on the strong offer which already exists.

A group of partners, brought together by Northampton Borough Council, submitted a bid for the Cultural Compact backing which will fund a role to assist in the development of an ambitious vision for the town.

Building on the already vibrant scene in the county, this new body will provide the leadership to embed culture in the DNA of Northampton at a critical moment in the town’s political and economic development. It will support other initiatives already underway, such as Northampton Forward which has culture at the heart of its planning for the improvement and revitalisation of the town centre.

Marking a step change in the ambition of the town, the Cultural Board make Northampton a destination of choice in which to live, work and study, and with the continued development of the Cultural Quarter, to attract world-class talent from the creative sector and promote the town as a visitor destination. A renewed sense of place will build stronger communities and allow Northampton to retain its finest emerging talent.

Cllr Anna King, Northampton Borough Council Cabinet member for community engagement and safety, said: “We have significant assets in this area – from Royal & Derngate to The Deco theatres, an unrivalled shoe collection at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery to the fantastic Rennie Mackintosh house at 78 Derngate.

“This provides an extremely strong base to build on and with the expertise and enthusiasm involved in this project, I have no doubt at all that we have the capacity to create something really special in Northampton.”

Jo Gordon, Chief Executive of Royal & Derngate, added: “This initiative will see key representatives from education, heritage, the visitor economy, and the creative industries work in partnership with Northampton Borough Council and other private and public stakeholders to forge a bold vision for our often overlooked town, helping us to reposition Northampton as a major creative centre, where talent, ideas and enterprise come together.”

Peter Knott, Midlands Area Director for Arts Council England, said: “Culture and creativity have a powerful effect in improving lives and wellbeing, developing communities and unlocking the economic potential for towns and cities.

“Northampton is a place of opportunity with a great history of industry and creativity, and we look forward to seeing the impact the Cultural Compact will bring to the town as it builds stronger communities and new networks across a broad range of partners.”

The newly formed Culture Board will shortly be seeking an exceptional individual to help it establish, drive, manage and co-ordinate its activities. Further details of the role and selection process will be announced in the near future.

Playful Productions, Stage Play and Trim the Wind present
GET UP, STAND UP!
THE BOB MARLEY STORY

• PRODUCERS TODAY ANNOUNCED THE WORLD PREMIERE OF A BRAND-NEW MUSICAL WHICH TELLS THE REMARKABLE STORY OF ICONIC ARTIST BOB MARLEY WILL OPEN AT THE NEWLY REFURBISHED LYRIC THEATRE IN LONDON’S WEST END NEXT YEAR. THE PRODUCTION WILL BEGIN PREVIEWS ON SATURDAY 6 FEBRUARY 2021, WHAT WOULD HAVE BEEN MARLEY’S 76th BIRTHDAY
   
• TAKING INSPIRATION FROM MARLEY’S VISIONARY LYRICS TO TELL HIS EXTRAORDINARY PERSONAL STORY, AND FEATURING AN ELECTRIFYING MIX OF HIS HITS PLAYED LIVE, GET UP, STAND UP! THE BOB MARLEY STORY IS BROUGHT TO THE STAGE BY THE OLIVIER AWARD-WINNING TEAM OF WRITER LEE HALL AND DIRECTOR DOMINIC COOKE
   
• THE PRODUCTION WILL STAR ARINZÉ KENE AS BOB MARLEY
   
• WITH UNPRECEDENTED ACCESS TO MARLEY’S CATALOGUE, THE MUSICAL WILL FEATURE MARLEY’S GREATEST SONGS PERFORMED LIVE BY THE CAST INCLUDING NO WOMAN NO CRY, EXODUS, 3 LITTLE BIRDS, GET UP STAND UP AND MANY MORE
   
• TICKETS FOR THE PRODUCTION WILL GO ON SALE ON 21 APRIL 2020. REGISTRATION FOR PRIORITY BOOKING IS NOW OPEN AT GetUpStandUpTheMusical.com.

Cedella Marley (Bob Marley’s daughter) said:  “Our father’s music means so much to so many people around the world, we’re beyond thrilled to be able to bring it to both fans and new audiences alike in a new way led by the stellar team of Lee Hall and Dominic Cooke, and starring the fantastic Arinzé.  As a family we feel that our father would be proud to know that his legacy is a source of creative inspiration and continues to bring people together.”

Following a hugely successful workshop in 2019, producers Playful Productions, Stage Play and Trim the Wind are delighted to announce that Get Up, Stand Up! The Bob Marley Story, the definitive new musical featuring Bob Marley’s iconic hits played live on stage, will begin previews in London at the newly refurbished Lyric Theatre on Saturday 6th February 2021.  Brought to the stage by a multi award-winning team, Lee Hall’s (Billy Elliot The Musical, Network) book takes direct inspiration from Marley’s visionary lyrics to tell his extraordinary personal story as an artist, the production will be directed by Dominic Cooke (Follies, Clybourne Park) and star Arinzé Kene (Misty, Girl from the North Country).

Tickets will go on sale on 21 April 2020 and there is a website (GetUpStandUpTheMusical.com) where people can sign up for priority booking.

Arinzé Kene said: “I feel absolutely honoured to be able to take on this role. It is not only an honour to be able to spread Bob Marley’s message further, but to get to be him for a little while is a lifelong dream come true. I grew up on his music and his mantra and he has been one of my role models since I was a child. I feel as if he’s in my DNA. He’s the man, I love him.”

FULL CAST ANNOUNCED FOR represent.’s INAUGURAL SEASON

Brand-new theatre company represent. today announces the full cast for their inaugural season. With the mission to increase access to the industry for those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, performing in repertory are Aaron Douglas (Girlboss, Southwark Playhouse; Wonder Boy, Arcola Theatre), Sarel Madziya (this is Sarel’s professional stage debut), Nemide May (Brothers With No Game, Close Friends), Bola Okun (Feels, Lyric Hammersmith), Loussin-Torah Pilikian (Foodie, The Hope Theatre) and Adam Rachid Lazaar (this is Adam’s professional stage debut). represent. will provide the cast with an acting apprenticeship where they can develop their craft, earning a London living wage.

The season begins with the European première of Stephen Jeffreys’ Interruptions adapted and directed by represent. creative director Guy Woolf. The production opens on 6 April with previews from 1 April and runs until 18 April. Following this HMP Macbeth adapted from a concept by Darren Raymond and directed by Karen Tomlin opens on 1 May with previews from 29 April and runs until 16 May. The season concludes with Albatross written by Isley Lynn and directed by Jess Edwards which opens on 1 June, with previews from 27 May, and runs until 13 June.

Creative director Guy Woolf today said, “We are so delighted to introduce our first ever represent cast. Bola, Nemide, Aaron, Adam, Loussin-Torah and Sarel are six of the most extraordinary actors about to take on three plays back to back for our first season. Represent is all about seeing new faces in new places: we are committed to making the Fringe and emerging artists’ scene a paid and sustainable platform. We can’t wait to share our season with you.”

EUROPEAN PREMIÈRE

INTERRUPTIONS

Written by Stephen Jeffreys, adapted for six actors by Guy Woolf

Director: Guy Woolf; Movement Director: Kasia Zaremba-Byrne; Lighting Designer: Jai Morjaria Sound Designer: Beth Duke; Designer: Catherine Morgan; Associate Artist: Annabel Arden 

Cast: Aaron Douglas (Cynic), Sarel Medziya (Isabelle), Nemide May (Irene), Bola Okun (Emilio) Loussin-Torah Pilikian (Abel) and Adam Rachid Lazaar (Carlos)

1 April – 18 April

At Jacksons Lane Theatre, Highgate 

“I like to read about the comedy of the world. But there is no point any more in taking part. I believe in nothing.”

Interruptions shows an imaginary country preparing for an election, undergoing a military coup, and then living through the consequences. Originally devised by Annabel Arden and Stephen Jeffreys, represent.presents its UK première with a new adaptation for a smaller cast. 

In her introduction to the collection Stephen Jeffreys: Plays (Nick Hern Books, 2018), Jeffreys’ wife Annabel Arden writes: ‘[Interruptions] sprang from [Stephen’s] fascination with the Japanese aesthetic principle of Jo-ha-kyu and his desire to create a particular narrative form to express our struggles with democracy and leadership.’ It asks the questions: Do we need to be led? How do we decide who leads? and What happens when there are no leaders?’

Stephen Jeffreys (1950 – 2018)was an internationally-acclaimed playwright and winner of the Evening Standard and Critics’ Circle Award for Most Promising Playwright. His theatre credits include The Clink (Paines Plough), The Libertine (Royal Court Theatre), A Jovial Crew (Royal Shakespeare Company), A Going Concern (Hampstead Theatre), I Just Stopped by to See the Man (Royal Court Theatre) and Bugles at the Gates of Jalalabad (Tricycle Theatre). For film his credits include The Libertine and Diana.

Guy Woolf is an actor, director and composer. Previous credits as an actor include 3 Guys Naked From The Waist Down (Finborough Theatre), Thrill Me (The English Theatre of Hamburg/Jermyn Street Theatre) and Becoming Electra (The Roundhouse/UK tour). He plays Electra in Cabaret Troupe Denim (Soho Theatre/Arts Theatre/Glastonbury), with TV credits including Trigonometry (BBC 2). His credits as a composer include Great Again (Tristan Bates Theatre/Vault Festival). 

HMP MACBETH 

Adapted from a concept by Darren Raymond

Director: Karen Tomlin; Lighting Designer: Jai Morjaria; Sound Designer: Beth Duke 

Designer: Catherine Morgan 

Cast: Aaron Douglas (Hag), Sarel Medziya (Dinah), Nemide May (Miss Beth), Bola Okun (Max) Loussin-Torah Pilikian (Megan), Adam Rachid Lazaar (Danny)

29 April – 16 May 

At Waterloo East Theatre

“Read your bible and say your prayers and it won’t be long till you’re home. Remember, angels are bright still, though the brightest fell.”

HMP Macbeth reimagines this classic, dispensing with king and castle, in a prison where institutional syndrome descends on the inmates.

Originally devised by Darren Raymond with Intermission Youth Theatre, based on Raymond’s experience, HMP Macbeth’s is an atmospheric, horrifying and immersive production.

Darren Raymond is the Artistic Director of Intermission Youth Theatre which was established in 2006. His credits include Shakespeare Walks, Sonnet Sunday and Voices in the Dark (Shakespeare’s Globe). He is a member of RSC’s Education Advisory Committee. 

Karen Tomlin is a director. Her previous credits includeThe Tempest (East 15),Not Bound Within (Albany Theatre), Stars in the Morning, Merchant of Venice (Fourth Monkey), Streets (Theatre Royal Stratford East), Our Four Walls, Doors, The Bear (Ovalhouse), The Wish Collector, Bye Bye Planet Earth (Unicorn Theatre), Yerma Response (Gate Theatre), De Botty Business (Hackney Empire/UK tour), Short and High (Shoreditch Town Hall), Three of Four the Bonnington Group (Arcola Theatre), The Gift (Cockpit Theatre), Skin Deep (Almeida Theatre) and A Light Swell (Bridewell Theatre).

WORLD PREMIÈRE

ALBATROSS 

Written by Isley Lynn

Director Jess Edwards; Lighting Designer: Jai Morjaria; Sound Designer: Beth Duke 

Designer: Catherine Morgan

Cast: Aaron Douglas (Ashleigh), Sarel Medziya (Jodie/Axel), Nemide May (Jesse/Lucy)

Bola Okun (Pip), Loussin-Torah Pilikian (Sunny/Warren), Adam Rachid Lazaar (Kit)

27 May – 13 June 

At The Smiths at The Vaults, Waterloo 

“It’s not just the choice

It’s never just the choice

Choice is a fairy-tale.”

Tattoos are forever. Almost. And at Noodle Soup Tattoo there are strict rules: No names unless they’re dead. Nothing on the face. Nothing you might get sued for later.

When Jodie, a rough sleeper, asks for a free tattoo from apprentice Kit, her request is well within the guidelines. But Kit is still unsure, because they know only too well that getting inked isn’t the only decision that stays with you for the rest of your life.

Albatross is a small but sweeping story about the past refusing to stay in the past.

Isley Lynn is a playwright. Her previous credits include Skin A Cat (Vault Festival/The Bunker/UK tour), Sleight of Hand (Theatre503/Arcola Theatre/Gate Theatre), What’s So Special (The Royal Court), Lean (Tristan Bates Theatre), Bright Nights (The Space) and Sie Und Wir (Werk X). 

Jess Edwards is a director. Herprevious theatre credits include Fitter (Soho Theatre), Hotter (Underbelly / Soho Theatre), Passengers (Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2018 – Winner of Summerhall Lustrum Award), Sparks (Vaults / Pleasance), Nacktsängerin (BKA Theater Berlin), Denim: World Tour (Soho Theatre / Underbelly), Punts (Theatre503), Torch (Latitude / Edinburgh Festival 2016), Haters Make You Famous (Almeida Theatre), Queering Marlowe (Duke of York’s Theatre), The Box (Latitude / Theatre Delicatessen), The Itinerant Music Hall (Lyric Hammersmith / Watford Palace / Greenwich+Docklands International Festival / Latitude), and Jekyll & Hyde (Southwark Playhouse / Assembly Edinburgh).

*represent. measures socioeconomic status using the civil service guide, more details found here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/768371/Measuring_Socio-economic_Background_in_your_Workforce__recommended_measures_for_use_by_employers.pdf

‘DRAGONS AND MYTHICAL BEASTS’ ANNOUNCES UK TOUR PRIOR TO SUMMER SEASON AT REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE, LONDON UK

Tour: 21 May – 22 Nov 2020

London Season at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre: 11 Aug – 6 Sep 2020

From the creators of the West End and international smash hit Dinosaur World Live, comes DRAGONS AND MYTHICAL BEASTS. Written by Derek Bond, this brand-new interactive children’s theatre show is set to delight and amaze with spectacular life-like puppetry. Receiving its world premiere at the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne on Thursday 21 May, the production will visit over 40 venues nationwide, including a summer season at London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre from Tuesday 11 August to Sunday 6 September 2020. Casting to be announced.  

Enter into a magical world of myths and legends in this spell-binding new adventure for all the family, as DRAGONS AND MYTHICAL BEASTS unveils a myriad of dark secrets. Come face to face with some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. Meet the colossal Stone Troll, the mysterious Indrik and Japanese Baku; the Tooth Fairy (not as sweet as you’d think), an adorable Unicorn and majestic Griffin. Take your place among legendary heroes, just don’t wake the Dragon…

Writer and Co-Director Derek Bond says: “This show is for everyone who has ever dreamed of getting up close to a dragon or a unicorn! We’re going to take you on a quest; the only equipment you’ll need is your imagination and our team of brilliant puppets and puppeteers will do the rest. What makes a true hero? Come and find out!”

The live show is followed by a post-show ‘meet and greet’, where audience members are invited to experience some of these fantastic beasts up close and in person.

This entertaining and engaging new show is sure to delight the whole family, whilst also educating young people (and adults) about these wondrous creatures from myth and legend. Heroes and champions alike are urged to book tickets fast before they vanish out of sight! 

DRAGONS AND MYTHICAL BEASTS reunites the creative team behind Dinosaur World Live. Co-directed by Derek Bond (Sweet Charity, Manchester Theatre Awards 2017 winner, Little Shop of Horrors Manchester Royal Exchange) and Laura Cubitt (Running Wild, Chichester Festival Theatre; Don Quixote, RSC; War Horse NT Berlin); Puppet Designer Max Humphries (National Theatre, Royal Opera House, Cirque de Soleil); and Lighting Designer John Maddox. Produced by Nicoll Entertainment Ltd. 

Listings Information:
Please note, venues marked with an asterisk are not yet on sale.

DRAGONS AND MYTHICAL BEASTS UK TOUR 2020

*Venues not yet on sale

EASTBOURNE Congress Theatre

Carlisle Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN21 4BP

Thursday 21 – Sunday 24 May

Thu: 4.30pm, Fri: 7pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01323 412 000 | eastbournetheatres.co.uk

ST ALBANS Alban Arena

Civic Centre, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3LD

Monday 25 – Tuesday 26 May

Mon: 1.30pm & 4pm, Tue: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01727 844488 | alban-arena.co.uk

POOLE Lighthouse Theatre

21 Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 1UG

Wednesday 27 – Thursday 28 May

Wed: 12.30pm & 3pm, Thu: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01202 280000 | lighthousepoole.co.uk

READING Hexagon Theatre

Queen Walk, Reading, Berks RG1 7UA

Friday 29 – Saturday 30 May 

Fri: 1.30pm & 4pm, Sat: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 0118 9606060 | whatsonreading.com

STAFFORD Gatehouse Theatre

Eastgate Street, Stafford ST16 2LT

Tuesday 2 – Wednesday 3 June 

Tue: 4.30pm, Wed: 1.30pm & 4.30pm

Box Office 01785 619080 | staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk

EXETER Northcott Theatre

Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QB

Friday 5 – Sunday 7 June 

Fri: 1.30pm & 4.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01392 726363 | exeternorthcott.co.uk

NORTHAMPTON Derngate Theatre

19 – 21 Guildhall Road, Northampton NN1 1DP

Friday 12 – Sunday 14 June  Fri: 4.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01604 624811 | royalandderngate.co.uk

HUDDERSFIELD Lawrence Batley Theatre

Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield HD1 2SP

Tuesday 16 – Thursday 18 June 

Tue: 4.30pm, Wed & Thu: 1.30pm & 4.30pm

Box Office 01484 430528 | thelbt.org.uk

HARROGATE Theatre

6 Oxford Street, Harrogate HG1 1QF

Friday 19 – Sunday 21 June 

Fri: 4.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01423 502116 | harrogatetheatre.co.uk

MARGATE Winter Gardens

Fort Crescent, Margate, Kent CT9 1HX

Tuesday 23 – Wednesday 24 June

Tue & Wed: 4.30pm

Box Office 01843 292795 | margate-live.com

HULL New Theatre

Kingston Square, Hull, HU1 3HF

Friday 26 – Sunday 28 June

Fri: 4.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01482 300 306 | hulltheatres.co.uk

ST HELENS Theatre Royal

Corporation Street, St Helens, Merseyside WA10 1LQ

Monday 29 June – Wednesday 1 July

Mon – Wed: 4.30pm, Tue: 1.30pm, Wed: 10.30am

Box Office 01744 756000 | sthelenstheatreroyal.com

OXFORD Playhouse*

Beaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LW

Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 July

Sat: 1.30pm & 4pm, Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01865 305305 | oxfordplayhouse.com

NORWICH Theatre Royal

Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL

Friday 10 – Sunday 12 July

Fri & Sat: 4.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01603 630000 | theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

SWINDON Wyvern Theatre 

Theatre Square, Swindon, Wiltshire SN1 1QN

Monday 13 – Tuesday 14 July

Mon & Tue: 1.30pm & 4.30pm

Box Office 01793 524481 | swindontheatres.co.uk

CHESTER Storyhouse 

Hunter Street, Chester CH1 2AR

Wednesday 15 – Thursday 16 July

Wed & Thu: 1.30pm & 5pm

Box Office 01244 409 113 | storyhouse.com

OLDHAM Coliseum Theatre

Fairbottom Street, Oldham OL1 3SW

Friday 17 – Saturday 18 July

Fri: 4.30pm, Sat: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 0161 624 2829 | coliseum.org.uk

DARLINGTON Hippodrome 

Parkgate, Darlington DL1 1RR

Tuesday 21 – Thursday 23 July

Tue: 1.30pm & 4pm, Wed & Thu: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01325 405405 | darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk

HERTFORD Theatre 

The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS

Friday 24 – Sunday 26 July

Fri: 1.30pm & 4pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01992 531500 | hertfordtheatre.co

CHELMSFORD Civic Theatre 

Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JG

Tuesday 28 – Wednesday 29 July

Tue: 1.30pm & 4pm, Wed: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01245 606505 | chelmsford.gov.uk/theatre

CHELTENHAM Everyman 

Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ

Friday 31 July – Sunday 2 August

Fri: 1.30pm & 4.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01242 572573 | everymantheatre.org.uk

CARDIFF New Theatre

Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3LN

Monday 3 – Wednesday 5 August

Mon: 2pm, Wed & Thu: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 029 2087 8889 | newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

TELFORD Oakengates Theatre 

Limes Walk, Oakengates, Telford TF2 6EP

Thursday 6 – Saturday 8 August

Thu: 2pm, Fri & Sat: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01952 382382 | theplacetelford.com

LONDON Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre

The Regent’s Park, Inner Circle, London NW1 4NU

Tuesday 11 August – Sunday 6 September

Tue – Thu 2.15pm, Fri 10.30am & 1pm, Sat 10.30am, Sun 10.30am & 1pm

Box Office 0333 400 3562 | openairtheatre.com

(No performance Thu 4 & Fri 5 Sep) 

MANCHESTER Opera House*

3 Quay Street, Manchester M3 3HP

Monday 28 – Wednesday 30 September

Mon & Tue: 4.30pm, Wed 1.30pm & 4.30pm

Box Office 0844 871 3018 | atgtickets.com/manchester

BRIDLINGTON Spa 

South Marine Drive, Bridlington, YO15 3JH

Friday 2 – Saturday 3 October

Fri: 4.30pm, Sat: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01262 678258 | bridspa.com

BILLINGHAM Forum Theatre*

Queensway, Stockton-on-Tees TS23 2LJ

Sunday 4 – Monday 5 October

Sun: 1pm & 3.30pm, Mon: 1.30pm & 4.30pm

Box Office 01642 552663 | forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk

DERRY Millennium Forum  

Centre Newmarket St, Londonderry BT48 6EB

Thursday 8 – Friday 9 October

Thu: 4.30pm & 7pm, Fri: 11.30am & 4.30pm

Box Office 028 7126 4455 | millenniumforum.co.uk

BELFAST Waterfront Hall  

2 Lanyon Place, Belfast BT1 3WH

Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 October

Sat: 11.30am & 2pm, Sun: 11.30am & 2pm

Box Office 028 9033 4455 | waterfront.co.uk

CROYDON Ashcroft Playhouse*

Fairfield Halls, Park Lane, Corydon CR9 1DG

Tuesday 13 – Wednesday 14 October

Tue: 4.30pm, Wed: 1.30pm & 4.30pm

Box Office 020 3292 0002 | fairfield.co.uk

CRAWLEY The Hawth  

Hawth Avenue, Crawley RH10 6YZ

Friday 16 – Saturday 17 October

Fri: 4.30pm, Sat: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01293 553636 | parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

LINCOLN New Theatre Royal

Clasketgate, Lincoln LN2 1JJ

Sunday 18 – Monday 19 October  

Sun: 1.30pm & 4pm, Mon: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01522 519999 | newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

MANSFIELD Palace Theatre*

Leeming Street, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG18 1NG

Tuesday 20 – Wednesday 21 October

Sun: 1.30pm & 4pm, Mon: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01623 633133 | mansfieldpalace.co.uk

NEWPORT Riverfront Theatre*

Kingsway, Newport NP20 1HG

Friday 23 – Sunday 25 October

Fri: 6.30pm, Sat: 11am, 2pm & 4.30pm, Sun: 11am & 2pm 

Box Office 01633 656757 | newportlive.co.uk/riverfront

WOLVERHAMPTON Grand Theatre 

Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1DE

Monday 26 – Wednesday 28 October

Mon: 1.30pm, Tue & Wed: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01902 429212 | grandtheatre.co.uk

GRIMSBY Auditorium

Cromwell Road, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire DN31 2BH

Tuesday 3 – Wednesday 4 November

Tue: 4.30pm, Wed: 10.30am & 4.30pm

Box Office 0300 300 0035 | grimsbyauditorium.org.uk

PORTSMOUTH New Theatre Royal 

20-24 Guildhall walk, Portsmouth PO1 2DD

Friday 6 – Sunday 8 November

Fri: 4.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 023 9264 9000 | newtheatreroyal.com

AYLESBURY Waterside Theatre*

Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP20 1UG

Wednesday 11 – Thursday 12 November

Wed: 4.30pm, Thu: 1.30pm & 4.30pm

Box Office 0844 8717607* | atgtickets.com/Aylesbury

WELLINGBOROUGH Castle Theatre* 

10 Castle Way, Wellingborough NN8 1XA

Friday 20 – Sunday 22 November

Fri: 4.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am & 2pm

Box Office 01933 270007 | parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

FURTHER AUTUMN TOUR DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED!

Running Time: 50 minutes + 15 min post show meet and greet
Suitable for ages 3+

SERGEI POLUNIN MAKES LONDON DEBUT AS ROMEO IN THE UK PREMIERE OF DAZZLING BRAND-NEW ROMEO & JULIET SET TO PROKOFIEV’S MAJESTIC SCORE

THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL – 8.00 PM, TUESDAY 14 APRIL 2020

Polunin Ink presents international ballet star SERGEI POLUNIN in his London debut as Romeo alongside world-renowned ballerina ALINA COJOCARU in the UK premiere of award-winning dancer and choreographer JOHAN KOBBORG’s acclaimed new version of Romeo & Juliet, it is announced today, 5 February.

Critics and audience alike were wowed at the sensational world premiere of the ballet in the Arena di Verona, Italy last summer. Now Polunin and Cojocaru reprise their roles as star-cross’d lovers in the first London performance of this truly iconic ballet.

General booking opens at 10.00 am on Thursday 6 February for the UK premiere in the unique and spectacular setting of London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Johan Kobborg’s version of the world’s greatest love story marries classical dance with a contemporary twist to create a dynamic, vibrant and modern re-telling of this ageless drama of all-consuming love, passion, ecstasy and heartbreak. Set to Prokofiev’s powerful, exquisite score, and with a striking stage set design by Canadian-based sculptor David Umemoto, the story follows the narrative of Shakespeare’s play with the classical ballet vocabulary as its core language.

What the critics said:

Il Manifesto: “Polunin on the stage is unique … (Polunin & Cojocaru), two artists in whom the movements, from the virtuoso step to the simple look, are intertwined with cinematographic naturalness. A rarity.

“Powerful in unhinging the vision that ballet is an art form devoted to the past … this Romeo & Juliet seals the birth of a great partnership.”

Il Stampa: “A fine performance .. over 10,000 people for his first time in the Arena di Verona .. it’s been a great success.”

La Nazione: “What a triumph in the Arena di Verona. Fifteen minutes of applause.”

Dance International: “Polunin shows his magnetic stage personality and the quality of his dance which is sparkling, rich with nuance and appearing incredibly natural although full of ballet virtuosity .. no wonder this Romeo & Juliet thrilled more than 10,000 spectators who came from all over the world to attend the one-night-only performance.”

Danza & Danza: “Beautiful, passionate, romantic .. Kobborg’s Romeo & Juliet flows between past and present, between medieval tones and modernity. Alina and Sergei – capable of feeding the credibility of the characters down to the smallest details: the looks .. the passionate kisses .. that intersect with absolute naturalness, virtuosity and rigorous style.”

SERGEI POLUNIN says: “I am very thankful to the Royal Albert Hall for the opportunity to dance here; it’s been a long hope of mine. It’s going to be a special evening thanks to Johan Kobborg’s vision and choreography. In my opinion he can bring classical ballet to this generation and beyond, and I am looking forward to dancing with beautiful Alina.”

JOHAN KOBBORG says: “I am more than excited to showcase this production of Romeo and Juliet here in London at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. Creating this production for the Arena di Verona last summer proved a most magical time for me, the culmination of weeks of discovery and joy, of working and creating with an absolute dream cast.

“Working with phenomenal artists Alina Cojocaru and Sergei Polunin at the very height of their powers is a once in a lifetime opportunity and the kind of momentous experience we as artists often only dream will come along.

“I also feel fortunate to be able to work alongside David Umemoto, an artist whom I have admired from afar for a long while. To see one of his creations come alive has been a spectacle to treasure.

“Collaborating with this group of incredible artists, bringing this pivotal love story to life in this, like the original production, one act version, will be a unique occasion for all involved, and I hope a ballet spectacle that will move, touch, and if needed, remind the audience of the incredible strength and beauty of the ballet art form.”

ALINA COJOCARU says: “At 19 I had my first encounter with Juliet and found my Romeo: a ballet very special to me! Now, years later and having performed in seven different productions, I am most excited to return to her once again. Johan’s vision for this ballet has taken me on a fascinating journey of discovery.

“I look forward to working and performing with Sergei once again and to take even further what has been a truly memorable creative experience so far.

“I very much look forward to returning to this role and performing the greatest of love stories in the beautiful setting of the Royal Albert Hall.”

Listings information/ticket sales:

Romeo & Juliet

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP

Tuesday 14 April 2020, 8.00 pm

Tickets from £28.38 Box Office: 020 7589 8212 / www.royalalberthall.com