Home

PERFORMANCES BEGIN 22 SEPTEMBER 2025 AT THE APOLLO THEATRE

POST-SHOW CONVERSATIONS AND EDUCATION WORK ANNOUNCED FOR THE WEST END PRODUCTION OF

PUNCH

BY JAMES GRAHAM

BASED ON THE BOOK ‘RIGHT FROM WRONG’ BY JACOB DUNNE

• 9 free post-show conversations
• 11 charity partners including The Forgiveness Project and Go Live Theatre
• Led by a team of expert speakers
• Earlier 7pm start on Tuesdays from 30 September with post-show conversations ending by 10:20pm
• 3 performances with £10 tickets for young people and community groups

KPPL Productions, Mark Gordon Pictures, Eilene Davidson Productions in association with the Young Vic and Nica Burns today announce the details of weekly post-show conversations taking place on Tuesdays throughout the West End run of the critically-acclaimed Nottingham Playhouse production of Punch. The play is by Olivier Award-winning Nottingham playwright, James Graham, based on the book ‘Right From Wrong’ by Jacob Dunne, and directed by Adam Penford. It transfers to the West End following sold-out runs at Nottingham Playhouse and the Young Vic.

The post-show conversation series – After the Punch – will run Tuesday nights from 30 September featuring a variety of expert panellists. Curated by The Forgiveness Project, the series will be co-hosted by a range of Charity Partners from across the social justice and education sectors, on topics including The Process of Restorative Justice, What Makes a Man? and The Story Behind Punch. See below for full details.

Three performances with all tickets at £10 for schools, community and special interest groups, curated by charity partner Go Live Theatre, will offer wide access to the play in the West End.  An extensive education pack, aimed at the PSHE and Drama curriculums, will be made freely available via www.PunchThePlay.com, providing resources for schools’ work around the play during the West End run, and in the future.

Kate Pakenham, Producer,said, “In bringing Punch to the West End, we wanted to honour the real people at its centre by amplifying the important conversations the play provokes, and ensuring that we reach as many young people as possible with this powerful story.  This culture of care, conversation and learning was embedded in the production from its start at Nottingham Playhouse and carried through to the Young Vic, and it was important to the producing team that we continued that on Shaftesbury Avenue.  We are so grateful to our charity partners, particularly The Forgiveness Project and Go Live Theatre and their supporters, for working with us to curate the access opportunities and conversations around the production, and our investors in supporting our mission to make this more than a West End transfer of a great new play. We hope that success in the West End will allow for further sharing of this inspiring story with young people across the country.” 

As previously announced the producers have committed their royalties and any producer profits from the West End run into sharing the play with young people around the UK in the future. 

Alongside this, James Graham will be channelling all his earnings from the West End run of Punch into supporting access initiatives in the West End – particularly in paying for tickets and travel for community groups and young people from his home county of Nottinghamshire – and into the educational and social missions beyond the London run.

James Graham, Playwright, said, “I distinctly recall the moment after a show at the Nottingham Playhouse when audiences were informed of the ‘talking circle’ that Jacob Dunne had built and placed outside the theatre for willing audience members to stay and chat about what they had just seen. It was built to seat 8 people – but a couple hundred people stayed behind to cram in and engage with the conversation beyond the play. I commend and celebrate how our producers and their partners have thrown themselves into facilitating the wider debates and events around the themes of Punch.”

This production is dedicated to James Hodgkinson and all victims of one-punch.

POST-SHOW CONVERSATIONS – AFTER THE PUNCH
Curated by The Forgiveness Project

Made possible through the generous support of Carol Sellars

STEPPING INTO THE SHOES OF ANOTHER

Tuesday 30 September

After crime, how is it possible to embark on a journey of understanding?

Theatre has a profound capacity to build empathy and open the door to understanding. This conversation explores what it takes for a victim of crime to meet with the person who has harmed them; and asks how do you forge a path toward understanding, empathy and possibly even forgiveness. 

Hosted by The Forgiveness Project, the speakers include: Marina Cantacuzino (The Forgiveness Project – Founder) and Sandra Barefoot (The Forgiveness Project – Executive Director), Jo Berry (Public Speaker) and cast member Julie Hesmondhalgh.

WHAT MAKES A MAN?

Tuesday 7 October

Masculinity, shame and what lies beneath the surface.

This conversation explores the influences that shape young men and boys’ understanding of masculinity in today’s society. The discussion will consider factors such as shame and vulnerability, social media, families and popular culture. 

Hosted in partnership with Football Beyond Borders – Lost Boys Taskforce, the speakers include: Nico Concha (Social and Emotional Learning Practitioner at Football Beyond Borders), Dr Kenny Imafidon MBE (Entrepreneur, Author and Social Commentator), Gethin Jones (Unlocking Potential – Founder) and cast member Tony Hirst.

THE STORY BEHIND PUNCH

Tuesday 14 October

On truth, adaptation, and the power of lived experience.

A candid discussion with the real people behind the creation of Punch. 
How theatre can shape emotion, challenge assumptions, and humanise harm.

The speakers include: Jacob Dunne (Author of Right from Wrong), James Graham (Playwright), Adam Penford (Director) and cast member David Shields.

THE PROCESS OF RESTORATIVE JUSTICE

Tuesday 21 October

Hear from the real people who engaged in Restorative Justice and inspired the play.

This conversation invites the real people who inspired this play to share their own lived experience of Restorative Justice and its enduring impact to this present day. 

Hosted in partnership with Remedi, the speakers include: Jacob Dunne (Author of Right from Wrong), Joan Scourfield (Mother of James Hodgkinson), Nicola Fowler (Restorative Justice Practitioner for Jacob, Joan and David) and cast member Shalisha James-Davis.

BEYOND THE SENTENCE

Tuesday 28 October

Does a prison sentence really end when you leave prison?

What awaits people returning on release into their communities and the workplace? How willing are employers and the public to believe in reform and rehabilitation? And how can those with lived experience sharing their stories, setbacks and success stories change perceptions?  This conversation will show how taking your second chance depends on a complicated range of issues.

Hosted in partnership with The Longford Trust, the speakers include, Roxanne Foster (Longford Scholar), Jimmy McGovern (Screenwriter), Andrew Morris (Longford Scholar) and Ronke Phillips (Presenter and Reporter).

IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD

Tuesday 4 November

What role do communities need to play in raising our children?

This conversation explores the vital components and (real-world practice) needed for an entire community to share responsibility in bringing up our children so that they feel they belong and can flourish into adulthood. How can we all get involved in supporting raising our children?

Hosted in partnership with St Giles Trust & Just for Kids Law, the speakers include: Aika Stephenson (CEO Just for Kids Law), Ciaran Thapar (Director of public affairs and communications at the Youth Endowment Fund) Desmond Skyers (St Giles Trust – Senior Mentor) and Jacob Dunne (Author of Right from Wrong).

INVISIBLE WOUNDS

Tuesday 11 November

How do we understand the effect of harm passed down the generations and empower young people to live well and thrive?

Not all wounds bleed. Some are carried silently along an intergenerational pathway. This conversation explores how the unseen forces of intergenerational trauma, and pain, can shape the behaviours of young lives today. It also asks how understanding intergenerational trauma can empower people to live well and thrive.

Hosted in partnership with Oasis Restore, the speakers include: Steve Chalke (Founder of the Oasis Trust), Dr Gwen Adshead (Psychotherapist), Danielle Manson(Barrister) and cast member Emma Pallant.

FACING THE PEOPLE WE HARM (RESTORATIVE JUSTICE WEEK)

Tuesday 18 November

Exploring the promise of restorative justice.

This conversation explores the promise and possibilities of restorative justice. What does it mean to take responsibility and accountability for harm?  What are the factors that make this process possible? And in what ways can it support profound transformative change?

Hosted in partnership with Why Me?, Calm Mediation and Remedi, the speakers include: Julie Clark (Calm Mediation), Michael Palin (Actor, Writer and Presenter) and Nick Dawson (Author and Ambassador for Why Me?).

JUSTICE BEYOND THE HEADLINES

Tuesday 25 November

Bridging divides to find common ground on justice

Hosted by Jacob Dunne, this discussion will include former Labour strategist, now writer and broadcaster, Alastair Campbell and Alice Dawnay, co-founder of The Common Ground Justice Project. Together they’ll explore how Britain can move past political divides and work towards a justice system that better serves victims, communities, and society as a whole. 

Hosted in partnership with The Common Ground Justice Project, the speakers include: Jacob Dunne (Author of Right from Wrong, Common Ground Justice Project), Alice Dawnay (Common Ground Justice Project) and Alastair Campbell (Writer and Broadcaster).

KPPL Productions, Mark Gordon Pictures and Eilene Davidson Productions

in association with the Young Vic and Nica Burns present

The Nottingham Playhouse production of

PUNCH

Written by James Graham

Based on the book Right From Wrong by Jacob Dunne

Directed by Adam Penford

Production Design by Anna Fleischle

Lighting Design by Robbie Butler

Sound Design and Composition by Alexandra Faye Braithwaite

Movement Direction by Leanne Pinder

Casting by Christopher Worrall CDG

Associate Direction by Omar Khan

General Management by New Road Theatricals

Apollo Theatre

Monday 22 September – Saturday 29 November 2025

Opening Night: Friday 26 September, 7pm

Jacob, a teenager from Nottingham, spends his Saturday nights seeking thrills with his friends. One fateful evening, an impulsive punch leads to fatal consequences. After serving prison time, Jacob finds himself lost and directionless. Searching for answers, Joan and David – the parents of his victim James Hodgkinson – ask to meet, sparking a profound transformation in Jacob’s life. A powerful true story of hope, humanity, and the possibility of change.

The original cast comprising of Alec Boaden (Masters of the Air) as Raf/DS Villers/Sam, Julie Hesmondhalgh (Mr Bates vs the Post Office) as Joan/Nan, Tony Hirst (Boiling Point) as David/Derek/Tony/Raf’s Dad, Shalisha James-Davis (I May Destroy You) as Clare/Nicola, Emma Pallant (Queenie)as Wendy/Sandra/Jacob’s Mum, and David Shields (Black Mirror) as Jacob will reprise their roles in the West End. They are joined by understudies Rob Alexander-Adams, Joshua Glenister, Rebecca Todd and Marnie Walkinshaw.

Opening on Broadway simultaneously, Punch will also be playing at the Samuel J Friedman Theatre this autumn, produced by Manhattan Theatre Club.

Tickets are on sale now, with Group and Education rates available, via www.PunchThePlay.com.

Instagram:           PunchThePlay

Facebook:            PunchThePlayUK

X:                           PunchThePlay

LISTINGS

Apollo Theatre

Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7EZ

Box Office: www.PunchThePlay.com

Monday 22 September – Saturday 29 November 2025

Opening Night: Friday 26 September, 7pm

Performance schedule:

Monday, Wednesday to Saturday, 7.30pm

Tuesday, 7pm, except 23 September which starts at 7.30pm (from 30 September performances will be followed by free post-show talks for ticketholders)

Thursday and Saturday, 2.30pm

Access Performances:

Audio Described Performance: Saturday 1 November, 2.30pm

Captioned Performance: Saturday 15 November, 2.30pm

BSL Performance: Thursday 20 November, 7.30pm

Education Rates:

For Monday to Thursday performances, Band C (£39.50) at £25 and Band D (£25) at £19.50 with a free teacher ticket per group of 10.

FULL CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR

THE 2025/2026 UK TOUR OF

THE MULTI OLIVIER AWARD-WINNING HIT MUSICAL

SUNNY AFTERNOON

OPENING AT THE

MANCHESTER PALACE THEATRE

ON 11 OCTOBER 2025

Sonia Friedman Productions and ATG Productions are delighted to announce the full company for the 2025/2026 UK tour of the multi Olivier Award-winning hit musical SUNNY AFTERNOON opening at the Manchester Palace Theatre on 11 October 2025. thekinksmusical.com/uktour

As previously announced, Danny Horn will play ‘Ray Davies’, Oliver Hoare ‘Dave Davies’, Harry Curley ‘Peter Quaife’ and Zakarie Stokes ‘Mick Avory’, forming the iconic band, The Kinks. Returning from the original Hampstead Theatre and West End companies are Ben Caplan as ‘Eddie Kassner’ and Tam Williams as ‘Grenville Collins’ and, from the original UK Tour are Victoria Anderson as ‘Gwen’, Deryn Edwards as ‘Mrs. Davies’, Joseph Richardson as ‘Robert Wace’, Lisa Wright as ‘Rasa’ and James Hudson. The company is completed by Alicia Ally, Morgan Burgess, James Chisholm, Phil Corbitt, Alasdair Craig, Dominic Gee-Burch, Kristian Jacobs, Robin Johnson, Sorrel Jordan, Jada Langley, Timothy Roberts, Georgiana Wainwright-Jones and Emily Whitby-Samways.

Producer Sonia Friedman said today, “From the very first workshop we produced, when I heard that incredible music played live in the room, I knew I had to produce this show. The songs don’t just get under your skin – they live in your veins, they stay with you forever. Paired with such honest, powerful storytelling, Sunny Afternoon became one of the most unforgettable theatre experiences of my life. To see it go on to win multiple Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical, was simply extraordinary – but what really matters to me is that the spirit of The Kinks’ music and their story still connects so deeply with audiences today. I’ve missed this show, so I’m beyond thrilled that it’s back on the road, giving new generations the chance to experience – or relive – the sheer joy, energy and heart of Sunny Afternoon. Huge congratulations to the brilliant company keeping its spirit alive.”

Ray Davies added, “We’ve assembled a fantastic company to retell our story and look forward to seeing them breathe new life into the production on tour. I hope SUNNY AFTERNOON will be a much-needed tonic for people.”

SUNNY AFTERNOON celebrates the raw energy, passion and timeless sound of one of Britain’s most iconic bands, THE KINKS. Charting the euphoric highs and agonising lows, it tells their story through an incredible back catalogue of chart-toppers, including “You Really Got Me,” “Lola,” and “All Day and All of the Night.” 

SUNNY AFTERNOON was the recipient of four Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical and Outstanding Achievement in Music for Ray Davies

Set against the backdrop of Britain on the cusp of the rebellious ’60s, SUNNY AFTERNOON is an exhilarating and moving celebration of the music, life, and the band that changed it all. 

Following a sell-out run at Hampstead Theatre, SUNNY AFTERNOON opened to critical acclaim at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London’s West End where it ran for two years ahead of its sensational sell-out tour of the UK and Ireland throughout 2016/17.

SUNNY AFTERNOON has music and lyrics by Ray Davies with a book by Joe Penhall and original story by Ray Davies. It is directed by Edward Hall and designed by Miriam Buether with choreography by Adam Cooper. Lighting design is by Rick Fisher with sound design by Matt McKenzie and musical supervision by Elliott Ware. Musical and vocal adaptations are by Ray Davies and Elliott Ware based on original Kinks’ recordings. Casting is by Natalie Gallacher CDG for Pippa Ailion & Natalie Gallacher Casting. Hair, wigs and make up are by Carole Hancock. Associate direction is by Christopher Chase Carter, associate set design by William Fricker, associate costume design by Deborah Andrews, associate lighting design by Eric Watkins and associate sound design by Ken Hampton.

SUNNY AFTERNOON 2025/2026 UK TOUR LISTINGS

thekinksmusical.com/uktour

11 – 18 OCTOBER 2025

MANCHESTER PALACE THEATRE

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/palace-theatre-manchester

21 – 25 OCTOBER 2025

BIRMINGHAM ALEXANDRA THEATRE
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham 

28 OCTOBER – 1 NOVEMBER 2025

GLASGOW KING’S THEATRE

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/kings-theatre-glasgow

4 – 8 NOVEMBER 2025

SUNDERLAND EMPIRE

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/sunderland-empire

11 – 15 NOVEMBER 2025

GRAND OPERA HOUSE, YORK

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/grand-opera-house-york

18 – 22 NOVEMBER 2025

NEW VICTORIA THEATRE, WOKING
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/new-victoria-theatre 

25 – 29 NOVEMBER 2025

WIMBLEDON NEW THEATRE

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/new-wimbledon-theatre

2 – 6 DECEMBER 2025

SWANSEA BUILDING SOCIETY ARENA

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/swansea-arena

17 DECEMBER 2025 – 3 JANUARY 2026

BRIGHTON THEATRE ROYAL

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/theatre-royal-brighton

15 – 31 JANUARY 2026

ALEXANDRA PALACE, LONDON
https://www.alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/sunny-afternoon/ 

3 -7 FEBRUARY 2026

MARLOWE THEATRE, CANTERBURY

10 -14 FEBRUARY 2026

NEW THEATRE, OXFORD
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/new-theatre-oxford 

17 – 21 FEBRUAURY 2026

NOTTINGHAM THEATRE ROYAL
https://trch.co.uk/whats-on/sunny-afternoon/ 

24 – 28 FEBRUARY 2026

LEEDS GRAND THEATRE

https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/whats-on/sunny-afternoon-2026

ON SALE 4 APRIL 2025

3 – 7 MARCH 2026

MALVERN THEATRE
https://malvern-theatres.co.uk/ 

17 – 21 MARCH 2026

PRINCESS THEATRE, TORQUAY
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/princess-theatre-torquay 

24 – 28 MARCH 2026

MILTON KEYNES THEATRE

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/milton-keynes-theatre

31 MARCH – 4 APRIL 2026

RICHMOND THEATRE
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/richmond-theatre 

7 – 11 APRIL 2026

NEW VICTORIA THEATRE, STOKE ON TRENT

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/regent-theatre

14 – 18 APRIL 2026

STOCKTON GLOBE

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/stockton-globe

21 – 25 APRIL 2026

CURVE, LEICESTER
https://www.curveonline.co.uk/ 

28 APRIL – 2 MAY 2026

BLACKPOOL GRAND
https://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/event/sunny-afternoon

5 – 9 MAY 2026

EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/edinburgh-playhouse 

12 – 16 MAY 2026
EDEN COURT, INVERNESS
https://eden-court.co.uk/event/sunny-afternoon

19 – 23 MAY 2026

LIVERPOOL EMPIRE
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/liverpool-empire

26 – 30 MAY 2026

WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE, CARDIFF
https://www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2026/sunny-afternoon

DAVID HAREWOOD, TOBY JONES &

CAITLIN FITZGERALD IN

Theatre Royal Haymarket, London

FULL CAST ANNOUNCED TODAY

EXTRA TICKETS RELEASED DUE TO PHENOMENAL DEMAND

23 October 2025 – 17 January 2026

www.OthelloOnStage.com

London, UK, 8 September 2025 – The full cast for Tom Morris’ highly anticipated new West End production of Shakespeare’s Othello starring David Harewood as Othello, Toby Jones as Iago and Caitlin FitzGerald as Desdemona was announced today.

Joining the already revealed David Harewood (Othello), Toby Jones (Iago), Caitlin FitzGerald (Desdemona), Vinette Robinson (Emilia) and Luke Treadaway (Cassio) are:  David Ahmad (Gratiano), Gethin Alderman (Nicos, Understudy Roderigo and Lodovico), Ewan Black (Montano, Understudy Iago and Fight Captain), Tom Byrne (Roderigo), Jonathan Cobb (Telemachos, Understudy Cassio, Montano and Memet), Peter Guinness (Brabantio), Felix Hayes (Duke of Venice), Jasmin Hinds (Julio/Julia, Understudy Emilia, Bianca and Nicos), Wela Mbusi (Memet, Marcus and Understudy Othello and Telemachos), Jude Owusu (Lodovico), Tom Peters (Vincenzio and Understudy Brabantio, Duke of Venice and Gratiano) and Rose Riley (Bianca and Understudy Desdemona). 

A photograph of the company on the first day of rehearsals can be downloadedhere.

The explosive new production, which began rehearsals this week,  is directed by Tony Award-winner Tom Morris (War Horse) with music by PJ Harvey.   This epic story of manipulation, jealousy and toxic masculinity explores the darker side of power, rage and desire.  

Performances begin at Theatre Royal Haymarket, London’s West End venue that specialises in short-run, star-led high quality productions from 23 October 2025 until 17 January 2026, with a press night on Tuesday 4 November 2025. 

Over 1000 more tickets have been released due to phenenomenal demand, including extra tickets during the previews and an extra matinee on Thursday 30 October at 2.30pm.

This is the first of a series of contemporary Shakespeare productions created by Tom Morris for Chris Harper Productions to be staged in the West End over the next five years.

Joining Tom Morris and PJ Harvey on the creative team are Ti Green (Designer), Jon Nicholls (Sound Design and Additional Music), Richard Howell (Lighting Design), Nina Dunn (Projection Design), Anna Cooper CDG (Casting), Yarit Dor (Movement and Intimacy Director) Kate Waters (Fight Director) Dominic Skinner (Make-up Design), Suzanne Scotcher (Hair & Wigs Design), Katie Henry (Associate Director), Bethan Mary-James (Assistant Director), Sabia Smith (Costume Supervisor), Mariama Bojang (Assistant Costume Designer), Damian Partington (Production Manager), Rob Casey and Genna Hill for Ammomite Studios (Technical Directors), Katie Balmforth and Zoe Wilson (Props Supervisors),  Zachary Woodman (Associate Sound Designers), Kellon Kutz (Associate Wigs and Hair), Carol Fairlamb (Voice Coach), Aundrea Fudge (Dialect Coach), Dom Coyote (Singing Coach), Samantha Adams (Dramatherapist).  NeuroTour (Physiotherapy), Sheena Linden (Company Manager), Ashley Mochan (Technical Stage Manager), Andy McCarthy (Deputy Stage Manager), Siobhan Scott (Assistant Stage Manager – Book Cover), Ebony Fosuhene (Assistant Stage Manager), Sean Dupont (Technical Swing), Charlotte Stidwell (Head of Wardrobe), Sharon Trickett (Head of Wigs, Hair and Make-Up), Jake Hanks (Head of Sound), Jonathan Harrison-Walsh (Head of Automation) and Harvey Saunders Woolley (Sound 2).

Othello is produced by Chris Harper Productions with Len Blavatnik & Danny Cohen for Access Entertainment and Kevin and Kate McGrath on behalf of Cool Investments Ltd.

YORK THEATRE ROYAL ANNOUNCES MAJOR REVIVAL OF

THE SECRET GARDEN – THE MUSICAL

DIRECTED BY TONY AWARD-WINNER JOHN DOYLE

With the world premiere of Debbie Isitt’s Military Wives – The Musical about to open, York Theatre Royal today announces a major revival of the critically acclaimed Broadway hit The Secret Garden – The Musical with music by Lucy Simon and book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize-winner Marsha Norman. The production will be directed by Tony Award-winning Director John Doyle, who makes a welcome return to the theatre where he served as Artistic Director from 1993 to 1997.

Based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved classic, The Secret Garden, this new revival opens at York Theatre Royal on 19 March 2026, with previews from 17 March, and runs until 4 April.

The original Broadway production premiered at the St. James Theatre in 1991 to widespread critical acclaim, going on to win three Tony Awards and three Drama Desk Awards.

Director John Doyle said today, “I’m thrilled to be returning to York Theatre Royal and equally thrilled to be directing this beautiful, hopeful musical.” 

Paul Crewes, CEO of York Theatre Royal, said today, “It is wonderful to have John Doyle return to York Theatre Royal and direct this beautiful Yorkshire story. We are excited that this will be a fresh take on this critically acclaimed musical, and that our audiences will be the first to experience it.”

The show goes on sale to York Theatre Royal members from 1 pm on 8 September, with tickets going on general sale from 1 pm on 13 September.

York Theatre Royal presents

THE SECRET GARDEN – THE MUSICAL

Book and Lyrics by Marsha Norman

Music by Lucy Simon

Director: John Doyle

17 March – 4 April 2026

North Yorkshire, 1906. 

Newly orphaned, Mary Lennox is sent to the moors to live with her widower uncle. Arriving at the secluded Misselthwaite Manor, Mary finds the house inhabited by memories and spirits from the past.

When she discovers her Aunt Lily’s mysterious, neglected garden, Mary is determined to breathe new life into it. With the help of her new friends, she learns the power of connection and the restorative magic of nature.

Directed by Tony Award-winner John Doyle and brought to life by a cast of actor-musicians, this is a moving and timeless story of love, loss, healing and hope.

The production is sponsored by Myth Drinks. 

John Doyle is an award-winning director of theatre, film and opera. He has served as Artistic Director of five major theatre companies in the UK and the US, including York Theatre Royal from 1993 to 1997. His extensive stage credits include the world premiere of Alfred Hitchcock Presents at Theatre Royal Bath, Sweeney Todd (Tony Award for Best Director of a Musical), Company (Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical), The Visit (Tony Award nomination for Best Musical, Drama Desk nomination for Best Director), The Color Purple (Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical, Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Director, Grammy Award), Pacific Overtures (Drama Desk nomination for Best Musical Revival), Carmen Jones (Audelco Award for Best Musical Revival, Lucille Lortel nomination for Best Director), Mahagonny (Los Angeles Opera, two Grammy Awards), Passion (Drama Desk nomination for Best Director), Road Show, The Caucasian Chalk Circle, Kiss Me Kate and Assassins (Lucille Lortel nomination for Best Musical Revival, Best Director). In addition to numerous credits in London’s West End, John has also directed at Grange Park Opera, Sydney Opera House, the Metropolitan Opera, Houston Grand Opera, La Fenice in Venice, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Second Stage Theatre, Princeton McCarter Theatre and Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park.

Marsha Norman is an award-winning playwright, screenwriter and novelist. She received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize, the Hull-Warriner Award and the Drama Desk Award for her play ’night, Mother. She won the Tony Award and the Drama Desk Award for Best Book of a Musical for The Secret Garden, and received a Tony Award nomination for The Color Purple. Her plays include Getting Out, Traveler in the Dark, Sarah and Abraham, Trudy Blue and The Master Butchers Singing Club. For television, she won the Peabody Award for HBO’s In Treatment and has also written for Law & Order: Criminal Intent, as well as numerous films. She is co-chair of the Playwriting Department at The Juilliard School and the recipient of the William Inge Distinguished Lifetime Achievement in Theatre Award.

Lucy Simon is a Grammy Award-winning composer. She made her Broadway debut with The Secret Garden, for which she was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Original Score and a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Music. She later composed the score for Doctor Zhivago, with lyrics by Michael Korie and Amy Powers and a book by Michael Weller, which premiered at La Jolla Playhouse before going on to major productions in Australia and on Broadway. Her theatre work also includes songs for the Off-Broadway revue A… My Name is Alice. Beyond the stage, she released two solo albums for RCA Records and composed the celebrated setting of Wynken, Blynken and Nod. With her husband, David Levine, she won two Grammy Awards for Best Recording for Children for In Harmony/A Sesame Street Record and In Harmony 2.

LISTINGS

THE SECRET GARDEN – THE MUSICAL

York Theatre Royal

St Leonard’s Place, York YO1 7HD

Box Office: 01904 623568

Age guidance: 10+

Performance Dates and Times:

Tue 17 Mar, 7.30pm

Wed 18 Mar, 7.30pm – Post Show Discussion

Thu 19 Mar, 2pm & 7pm – Press Performance

Fri 20 Mar, 7.30pm

Sat 21 Mar, 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Mon 23 Mar, 6.30pm

Tue 24 Mar, 7.30pm

Wed 25 Mar, 7.30pm

Thu 26 Mar, 2pm & 7.30pm

Fri 27 Mar, 7.30pm – British Sign Language Interpreted Performance

Sat 28 Mar, 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Mon 30 Mar, 6.30pm

Tue 31 Mar, 7.30pm

Wed 1 Apr, 2pm & 7.30pm – Audio Described Performance

Thu 2 Apr, 2pm & 7.30pm 

Sat 4 Apr, 2.30pm- Captioned Performance & 7.30pm 

MILITARY WIVES – THE MUSICAL 

10 September – 27 September 2025

SLEEPING BEAUTY

2 December 2025 – 4 January 2026

THE LAST PICTURE

5 February – 14 February 2026

THE SECRET GARDEN – THE MUSICAL

17 March – 4 April 2026

THE PSYCHIC 

29 April – 23 May 2026

yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

Instagram: @yorktheatreroyal

Facebook: @yorktheatreroyal

X: @yorktheatre

GREAT SCOTT!!!

THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING
WORLDWIDE SMASH-HIT

ANNOUNCES FIRST EVER UK TOUR

OPENING AT

BRISTOL HIPPODROME
FROM 8 OCTOBER 2026

Lead producer Colin Ingram, together with Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale, the creators of the Back To The Future film trilogy, are delighted to announce the first ever UK tour of the multi award-winning BACK TO THE FUTURE The Musical, opening at the Bristol Hippodrome from Thursday 8 October 2026 to Saturday 21 November 2026.

The tour will also visit the Edinburgh Playhouse (2 December 2026 – 2 January 2027), Liverpool Empire (12 January – 6 February 2027), Milton Keynes Theatre (9 – 27 February 2027), Sunderland Empire (13 April – 8 May 2027) and Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (8 June – 3 July 2027), with further tour dates and casting to be announced.

BACK TO THE FUTURE The Musical continues to run in the West End at the Adelphi Theatre, entering its 5^th year in London, having broken box office records at the venue, and been seen by over 2 million people. The critically acclaimed Olivier, WhatsOnStage and Broadway World Award-winning Best New Musical is also a global success, with productions currently running in North America, Japan and on Royal Caribbean Cruises, with Australian and German productions to follow. The show has been seen by over 4 million people worldwide so far.

“I’m so delighted that the DeLorean will be travelling 88 mph to all the main theatre cities in the UK so that we can bring this heartfelt spectacle of a show to those who haven’t seen it in the West End or want to see it again. Great Scott! Audiences are going to have such a fun and thrilling ride in a show which will tour in all its glory and be one of the biggest sets to come out on the road” said Lead Producer Colin Ingram.

Based on the Universal Pictures/Amblin Entertainment film, BACK TO THE FUTURE The Musical has a book by Bob Gale and new music and lyrics by Emmy and Grammy Award-winning Alan Silvestri and six-time Grammy Award-winning Glen Ballard, with additional songs from the film including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode.

BACK TO THE FUTURE The Musical is directed by Tony Award-winning director John Rando (Urinetown, On The Town), alongside the multi Tony and Olivier Award-winning design team of Tim Hatley (set and costume design), Chris Bailey (choreography), Chris Fisher (Illusions), Tim Lutkin and Hugh Vanstone (lighting), Gareth Owen (sound) and Finn Ross (video), with  musical supervision and arrangements by Nick Finlow. Orchestrations are by Ethan Popp and Bryan Crook, with dance arrangements by David Chase. Casting is by David Grindrod CDG for Grindrod Burton Casting.

Back to the Future the movie was released in 1985, starring Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd as Dr Emmett Brown – this year marks the 40^th anniversary of the film’s release. The film grossed $360.6 million (£279 million) at the box office worldwide and the total box office for all three films in the Back to the Future franchise was $936.6 million (over $1.8 billion in today’s money).

BACK TO THE FUTURE The Musical is produced by Colin Ingram.

www.BackToTheFutureMusical.com    

BACK TO THE FUTURE THE MUSICAL UK TOUR – 2026/ 2027 LISTINGS

THURSDAY 8 OCTOBER – SATURDAY 21 NOVEMBER 2026
BRISTOL HIPPODROME
https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome/
ON SALE SOON

WEDNESDAY 2 DECEMBER 2026 – SATURDAY 2 JANUARY 2027
EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE
https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/edinburgh-playhouse/
ON SALE SOON

TUESDAY 12 JANUARY – SATURDAY 6 FEBRUARY 2027
LIVERPOOL EMPIRE
https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/liverpool-empire/
ON SALE SOON

TUESDAY 9 – SATURDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2027
MILTON KEYNES THEATRE
https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/milton-keynes-theatre/
ON SALE SOON

TUESDAY 13 APRIL – SATURDAY 8 MAY 2027
SUNDERLAND EMPIRE
https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/sunderland-empire/
ON SALE SOON

TUESDAY 8 JUNE – SATURDAY 3 JULY 2027
MAYFLOWER THEATRE, SOUTHAMPTON
https://www.mayflower.org.uk/
ON SALE SOON

FURTHER VENUES TO BE ANNOUNCED

Cast Theatre, Doncaster – Saturday 6th September 2025

Reviewed by Adam Craddock

2**

Myself and my partner were very excited to be invited along to review the touring production of Cirque: The Greatest Show Reimagined, and both being big kids we were particularly excited for all the thrilling and daring circus acts this promised! I had no real knowledge of the show going into it but judging from the poster I was very much expecting a Greatest Showman cabaret style show and more or less this was what we received. You will have to forgive me for the vagueness when it comes to cast members but I was not provided with a cast list, neither could I find one online so descriptions will have to suffice!

The show featured 3 brilliant vocalists, performing a range of musical theatre/film songs to a backdrop of circus acts and all in all the vocals were brilliant, in particular the jaw dropping rendition of Into The Unknown by the male vocalist in act one. The core story of the show followed a mime, who may I add was absolutely exceptional and the absolute highlight of the show in my opinion, as he followed his dream of appearing on a talent show after receiving his first technicolour TV. The mime had the audience in the palm of his hand throughout and myself and my partner were actively cheering for him every time he came on, he was absolutely hilarious!

The were a couple of wowing circus acts, including a crazy roller skate routine and also what I can only describe as foot acrobatics (you’ll understand when you see the show), and these have very much stuck in my mind. I have to say the rest of the show however failed to deliver in my opinion. We grew tired of watching lyrical dance routine after lyrical dance routine and while I take my hat off to them, there is only so much contortion I can watch before it has diminishing effects. The ensemble dance pieces were sloppy throughout, with dancers not in time and moves being missed fairly frequently. What particularly spoiled these ensemble dances for me was the male dancer who was clearly looking to his other performers to copy them, it was quite clear that this gent did not know the show and I could not take my eyes off him whenever he was on stage for all the wrong reasons, whether it be walking to the wrong side and having to run back or starting routines two or three counts behind the rest of the dance troupe.

All in all I did have a good night out at Cirque and the children in the audience did seem to enjoy the show, I however did leave with a slight feeling of being a bit underwhelmed, I certainly wouldn’t call it the Greatest Show…

The Barn Theatre, Cirencester – until 11th October 2025

Reviewed by Josie and Win Armand Smith

4****

This slick production of a highly enjoyable play written by Tim Stimpson, who has penned almost five hundred episodes of the The Archers.  It was commissioned by the Barn Theatre and licensed by the BBC to celebrate 75 years of the Archers on BBC Radio.

The play is a juxtaposition of time travel and current day thinking. Set in a BBC studio it tells the story of how a group of actors set the scene of rural life that went on to become the longest running radio programme. It is a splendid celebration of such a long lasting, much loved show. It became relevant to country life and the change in farming methods as well as taking up current topics.It is easy to forget that radio in 1950 was a key communication tool for light  entertainment. It touches on Dick Barton , Special Agent and all his daring deeds, Mrs Dales Diary, a morning drift through the daily life of a doctor’s wife and The Goon Show. Everyone listened to some or all of these shows but it was The Archers that prompted huge numbers to tune in to the wireless once a day. It evokes so many memories of the squeaks and dings of tuning a wireless through Hilversum, Luxembourg etc to get the the Light Programme.

There are brilliant performances by all with a particularly skilful portrayal of multiple characters by Liam Horrigan and Rosanna Miles.  The rest of the ensemble, Anthony Glennon, Kieran Brown, Olivia Bernstone, Geebs Marie Williams and James Mack make this a memorable performance.

It’s directed by Joseph O’Malley. Great set and costumes designed by Alfie Heywood, with lighting design provided by Adam Foley, composer and sound designer is Amanda Priestley.

This is a must see for all Archers fans but it does not matter if you have never heard the Archers, you will still enjoy this fun play. 

Playhouse Theatre, Sheffield – until 6th September 2025

Reviewed by Sharon Farley

5*****

In Dear Young Monster, Pete MacHale (Still Here, Choose or Die, Involuntary Activist) has created a multi-layered, funny, touching, and poignant portrayal of the early stages of a trans man’s physical journey into realising his true self. The direction from Sammy J. Glover (Baby in the Mirror, Unicorn, The Last Show Before We Die) is tight and the simple set permits MacHale’s performance to dominate the focus.

On opening, the character we meet is awkward and anxious, but eagerly embracing what in reality is a truly daunting prospect; the physical transformation that will complete their identity. As if this process weren’t difficult enough, MacHale frames it for us not only by relaying the physicality and frustration of medical transition, but also via the lens of how his transformation is received by those around him. It’s a mixed bag of highs and lows that demonstrates both beautifully and painfully the isolating experience generated through fielding the opinions and behaviours of others. By cleverly blending this deeply personal storytelling with the projected images of the 1931 horror classic ‘Frankenstein’, parallels are created that any viewer can relate to, be they Queer, CIS, or anything in between.

The fluctuations between confidence and shame, elation and frustration, fun and fear provide the emotional hooks that enable the audience to ride the course alongside him, transversing terrains such as the concerned parent, judgemental neighbour, fractured friendships and dangerous strangers. All these densely loaded themes are skilfully navigated with the grounding interjections of witty observations that instantly dispel the weight.

On arrival at the (spoiler alert) happy ending, we see the character transform into a secure and self-assured individual standing in the completeness of their own creation. We are witness to the growth from nervous teen to confident adult as well as the tangible physical transformation.

Though the medical transition process is one only a tiny percentage of the population will ever experience, this performance is replete with easily relatable moments anyone that has survived life’s challenges can identify with, thus highlighting how very human the Trans journey is. Being so accessible makes this production as important to raising awareness of Trans issues as it is an enjoyable and entertaining piece of theatre. Writer and performer MacHale is highly deserving of the standing ovations being received.

Theatre Royal Newcastle

Reviewed by Sandra Little

The Green Room is not the latest stage production at Theatre Royal in Newcastle, but it is in fact a new bar which has just opened as part of developments at the theatre. This bar is on the corner of Grey Street and Market Street and is accessible both from Market Street (daily from 11am until 11pm) and directly from the theatre for pre and post theatre drinks when performances are taking place. This addition to the theatre not only takes its name from the room that performers use for relaxing but is also named after the original designers involved in the building of the theatre, namely John and Benjamin Green.

I was lucky enough to be invited to attend the launch of this new venue and had a thoroughly enjoyable experience! It’s a very stylish and contemporary space with a light and airy feel. There are pale green tiles and a fabulous chain mail feature above the bar. This feature is also replicated in a more intimate area where there is a grand piano in one corner and space for corporate events. Some warmth is added to the décor in The Green Room with the rich rust and dark green tones used for the upholstery.

In addition to the gorgeous chain mail the other stand out feature of the décor in this bar is the unique wallpaper frieze designed by a local award winning artist called Beth Travers. Within the landscape on the frieze Beth has included a host of interesting features linked to the history of this theatre that opened in 1837.A teacup in the frieze for example, is a nod to the fact that ladies disguised their sip of whisky in a teacup! Meanwhile apple trees in the frieze remind us that the theatre stands on land that was once an orchard. There are several other intriguing and significant additions including a parrot, a raven and a hot air balloon. It is very clear that Beth has done some in depth research for this project.

One aim of this new addition to the Theatre Royal is to attract members of the public and also patrons attending the theatre and I’ve no doubt that it will have no difficulty in achieving this aim. There is an extensive wine, beer and spirit menu available alongside tea and coffee. However I do think that maybe in the future some food in the form of small plates or charcuterie would be a great addition to this lovely bar and would enhance even further the delightful experience that is drinks in The Green Room.

Soho Theatre Presents

Adam Riches and John Kearns ARE: Ball & Boe 

Soho Theatre Walthamstow | Saturday 27^th September 2025

Previous Praise for Adam Riches and John Kearns are Ball and Boe
 

“If I could have gone back straight afterwards to see it again, I would have”
  ★★★★★ The Times

“The single funniest hour I’ve spent in a theatre all year”
 ★★★★★ The Telegraph

“A blast, with nothing taken too seriously except the drive to hit the next laugh, and quickly.” 

★★★★★ Chortle

“An hour of sheer brilliant stupidity. A true must-see one-off from two comedy greats.”
 ★★★★★ Beyond the Joke

“a deliciously silly sendup”
 ★★★★ The Guardian

This autumn, audiences are invited to treat themselves to the show they never knew they needed – and experience one of the best-reviewed live comedy shows of 2024. Directed by Tom Parry (Pappy’s, Don Rodolfo, Jimmy),Adam Riches and John Kearns ARE ‘Ball & Boe – For One Night Only’

Needing no introduction to fans of super-smart cult comedy, and after a phenomenal double run at Soho Theatre’s central London venue last Christmas – where they garnered a constellation of 5-star reviews and, in a twist that blurred the line between spoof and reality, were joined in the room and onstage by the real duo (!) plus a three-night run at the Pleasance Grand at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe, Adam Riches and John Kearns are heading to Soho Theatre Walthamstow for one night only, marking their debut in the new venue.

Adam Riches is an award-winning writer and performer who won the Edinburgh Comedy Award, Time Out Comedy Person of the Year and was nominated for The Times Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the Sky Arts South Bank Show Awards. He’s also well known to TV audiences through his guest appearances as an exaggerated comic parody of actor Sean Bean on the panel show 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown.

John Kearns is the only comedian to have won both the Edinburgh Comedy Awards for Best Show (Shtick) and Best Newcomer (Sight Gags for Perverts) in the awards’ 40-year history. John was a breakout star of series 14 of Taskmaster (Channel 4) and the co-host of Guessable on Comedy Central alongside Sara Pascoe and team captain Alan Davies. He also played the lead role in cult hit BBC3/Netflix sitcom Top Coppers.

Michael Ball and Alfie Boe have been working together for over a decade – their first joint album was the best-selling LP in the UK that year. Shifting over 600,000 copies in the UK alone and reaching double-platinum status, it outsold the likes of The Rolling Stones and Little Mix.  

Indeed, between the four of them, Adam Riches, John Kearns, Michael Ball and Alfie Boe have won countless Oliviers, achieved double platinum album sales, sold out multiple arena tours and won two Edinburgh Comedy Awards.

Stupid, silly, and full of heart. This is one night of glitz, gags, and glorious nonsense.

More Praise for Adam Riches and John Kearns ARE Ball and Boe

“Unpredictable yet hilarious”
 ★★★★★ Curtain Call Reviews

“An amazing night of comedy, filled with some of the best comedic character acting and plenty of show tunes” 
 ★★★★★ Adventures in Theatreland

“a masterclass in comedy, musicality, and sharp satire… a must-see” 
 ★★★★.5 A Young(ish) Perspective

“Pretty much the perfect fringe show, this pastiche comedy has a freewheeling sense of carefully controlled chaos that is thoroughly winning, largely because it’s also hilarious.” ★★★★ Shadows on the Wall

“Clever, funny, and meticulously crafted” ★★★★ The Spy In The Stalls