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FULL CAST ANNOUNCED FOR

THE JAMIE LLOYD COMPANY’S

THE TEMPEST
AT THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE

The Jamie Lloyd Company today announces the full cast for William Shakespeare’s The Tempest at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Directed by Jamie Lloyd, The Tempest opens on Thursday 19 December, with previews from7 December 2024, running until 1 February 2025.

Sigourney Weaver (Prospero) is joined by Jude Akuwudike (Alonso), Jason Barnett (Stephano), Selina Cadell (Gonzalo), Mathew Horne (Trinculo), Mara Huf (Miranda), Forbes Masson (Caliban), Mason Alexander Park (Ariel), James Phoon (Ferdinand), Oliver Ryan (Sebastian) and Tim Steed (Antonio).

The Tempest is the first production in The Jamie Lloyd Company’s season of Shakespeare at Theatre Royal Drury Lane; it is followed by Much Ado About Nothing starring Tom Hiddleston (Benedick) and Hayley Atwell (Beatrice). Also directed by Jamie Lloyd, Much Ado About Nothing opens on Wednesday 19 February, with previews from 10 February, and runs until 5 April 2025. On sale dates and full cast and creatives to be announced.

The Jamie Lloyd Company also continues its commitment to accessibility, offering 25,000 tickets at £25 across the season exclusively for under 30s, key workers and those receiving government benefits. These tickets will be available across the first three levels of the theatre, and go on sale at a later date. Further information to be announced.

Book for The Tempest, or sign up for priority booking for Much Ado About Nothing here: thejamielloydcompany.com or lwtheatres.co.uk.

The Jamie Lloyd Company presents

THE TEMPEST

By William Shakespeare

Directed by Jamie Lloyd

Set and Costume Design: Soutra Gilmour; Lighting Design: Jon Clark; Sound Design and Co-Composer: Ben and Max Ringham; Co-Composer: Michael ‘Mikey J’ Asante; Movement Director: Fabian Aloise; Associate Director and Text Edited by Jonathan Glew; Casting Director: Stuart Burt CDG; Musical Director: Giles Deacon; Intimacy Coordinator: Ingrid Mackinnon; Associate Costume Designer: Anna Josephs; Props Supervisor: Fahmida Bakht; Production Manager: Lloyd Thomas

Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Saturday 7 December 2024 – Saturday 1 February 2025

“We are such stuff as dreams are made on.”

The legendary Sigourney Weaver makes her West End debut as Prospero in this enchanting story of revenge and forgiveness.

Produced by The Jamie Lloyd Company.

Jude Akuwudike plays Alonso.

Theatre credits include: Kyoto (Royal Shakespeare Company), A Mirror (Trafalgar Theatre), House of Ife (Bush Theatre), Three Sisters (National Theatre), The Convert (Young Vic), Henry V (Donmar Warehouse), The Faith Machine (Royal Court), Great Expectations (Watford Palace) and Moon On A Rainbow Shawl (National Theatre).

Film credits include: The Little Mermaid (Disney), Eyimofe (Berlin Film Festival), Beasts of No Nation (Red Crown Productions), The Tempest (Chartoff Productions), Touched By A Stranger (Trinamite Productions Ltd), Sahara (Paramount Pictures) and A World Apart (Working Title).

Television credits include: The Crown (Left Bank Pictures), Manhunt (ITV Studios), Culprits (Buried Treasure Productions Ltd), Gangs of London (Sky Atlantic), Chewing Gum (Retort & E4), Friday Night Dinner and Cucumber (Channel 4) and Law & Order: UK (Kudos Productions).

Training: Royal Academy of Dramatic Art

Jason Barnett plays Stephano.

For The Jamie Lloyd Company: The Seagull (Harold Pinter).

Theatre credits include: Hot Wing King (National Theatre), Hamlet (Bristol Old Vic), The Visit, Saint George, The Dragon, Emil & The Detectives and War Horse (National Theatre), Living Newspaper, Instructions for Correct Assembly, The Victorian in the Wall, Primetime, The Girlfriend Experience (Royal Court), Life of Galileo (Young Vic), About a Boy (Young Vic & UK Tour), Mogadishu (Royal Exchange), The Winter’s Tale, Pericles and Days of Significance (Royal Shakespeare Company) and The Fixer (Almeida).

Film credits include: Straight Shooter (Haggle Pictures), London Road (Cuba Pictures), Cinderella (Dark Forest Productions), Superbob (Fyzz Films).

Television credits include: The Count of Monte Cristo (Palomar), Seize Them (DJ Films), 3 Body Problem (Netflix), The Power of Parker (BBC), Black Ops (BBC), The Complete Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin (Big Talk Ltd), Murder They Hope (Shiny Button Productions & UKTV Gold), Bridgerton (Netflix), Agatha Raisin (Company Pictures), Hailmakers (BBC), Porridge (BBC), Jonathan Creek (BBC), Josh (BBC),  Death in Paradise (BBC 1), The Javone Prince Show (BBC 2), PhoneShop (Freemantle), Bad Education (BBC), Extras (BBC), Dream Team (Sky).

Selina Cadell plays Gonzalo.

Theatre credits include: A Monster Calls (The Old Vic & Bristol Old Vic), Humble Boy (Orange Tree Theatre), The Dresser (Duke of York’s), People, The Habit Of Art and Stanley (National Theatre), The Line (Arcola), The Cherry Orchard (Old Vic & Brooklyn Academy of Music, New York), The Clean House (Sheffield Crucible), The Government Inspector (Chichester Festival Theatre), The Rivals (Bristol Old Vic), Noises Off (Comedy Theatre), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Albery Theatre), Twelfth Night and Uncle Vanya (Donmar Warehouse).

Film credits include: The Lady In The Van (BBC), Papadopoulos & Sons (Double M Films), Gambit (Shabandar Productions), Nativity! (BBC), Hereafter (Warner Bros), Confetti (BBC), Snow Cake (Revolution Films), Festival (Pathe), Match Point (BBC), Mrs Dalloway (First Look International) and The Madness of King George (MG).

Television credits include: Doc Martin (Buffalo Pictures), Litvinenko (ITV), Queens Of Mystery (Sly Fox), Love Nina (See Saw Films), Upstairs Downstairs (AXN), Spooks (Kudos), Lewis (ITV), Midsomer Murders (Bentley Productions), Sword of Honour and Bremner, Bird And Fortune (Channel 4), The Catherine Tate Show (Tiger Aspect), Sensitive Skin (Baby Cow), Foyle’s War (Greenlit Productions), The Amazing Mrs Pritchard, The Lady Vanishes, Father Brown, Toast, Great Expectations, As Time Goes By, Casanova and People Like Us (BBC).

Mathew Horne plays Trinculo.

For The Jamie Lloyd Company: The Pride (Trafalgar Studios and UK Tour)

Theatre credits include: The Lover / The Collection (Theatre Royal Bath), Noises Off (Theatre Royal Haymarket), The Homecoming (Theatre Royal Bath & UK Tour), Rain Man (UK Tour), The Miser (Garrick) and Charley’s Aunt (Menier Chocolate Factory & Theatre Royal Bath).

Film credits include: Bad Education (Cavebear Productions), Breaking the Bank (BTB Productions Ltd.), Horrid Henry (Vertigo Films) and Vanity Fair (VF Films).

Television credits include: Gavin and Stacey (BBC), Dad’s Army: The Lost Episodes (UKTV), Agatha Raisin (Sky), Worried About The Boy (BBC Two), Chekhov: Comedy Shorts (Baby Cow / Sky Arts), Catherine Tate’s Nan (Tiger Aspect) and Bad Education (BBC Three).

Mara Huf plays Miranda.

For The Jamie Lloyd Company: The Effect (National Theatre)

Theatre credits include: Childminder (Traverse Theatre), The True History of Bonnie and Clyde (Birmingham Repertory), Electra, Closer, Holy Day, La Ronde, Lord of the Flies, Pygmalion and Othello (Birmingham Conservatoire).

Film credits include: Death Do Us Part (Play Entertainment), The People We Hate at the Wedding (Amazon) and Tetris (Apple TV).

Television credits include: Toast of Tinseltown (Objective Media), Avenue 5 (HBO) and Storm (Treasure Hunt).

Training: Birmingham Conservatoire

Forbes Masson plays Caliban.

For The Jamie Lloyd Company: Macbeth, Richard III, The Ruling Class (Trafalgar Studios) and Dr Faustus (Duke of York’s).

Theatre credits include: Farm Hall (Theatre Royal Haymarket), Laughing Boy (Jermyn Street), Jekyll and Hyde (Lyceum), Boy in the Dress, Macbeth, Hamlet, Comedy of Errors, Twelfth Night, The Histories, As You Like It, Romeo & Juliet and Taming of the Shrew (Royal Shakespeare Company), Summer and Smoke (Almeida), Travesties (Menier Chocolate Factory), King Lear (Headlong).

Film credits include: The Road Dance (BBC).

Television credits include: The Crown (Netflix); As You Like It (CBeebies); Crime, EastEnders, Red Dwarf and The High Life (BBC), Catastrophe (Avalon Television), Young Person’s Guide to Becoming a Rock Star (Ch4).

Other credits include: Associate Artist at Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre Scotland, and co-writer of Victor and Barry’s Kelvinside Compendium (404ink).

Mason Alexander Park plays Ariel.

Theatre credits include: American Idiot (Deaf West, USA), Cabaret (Playhouse Theatre), I am Your Own Wife (Long Wharf) and Hedwig and the Angry Inch (US Tour).

Film credits include: National Anthem (LD Entertainment).

Television credits include: Quantum Leap (NBC), The Sandman (Netflix), Cowboy Bebop (Netflix) and iCarly (Nickelodeon).

James Phoon plays Ferdinand.

Theatre credits include: Harry Potter and The Cursed Child (Palace Theatre) and Underdog: The Other Other Bronte (National Theatre).

Television credits include: Bridgerton (Netflix) and Wreck (BBC Three).

Training: Guildford School of Acting

Oliver Ryan plays Sebastian.

Theatre credits include: Richard III (Liverpool Playhouse & The Rose Kingston), A Hero of the People (Sherman Theatre), Dr Faustus, As You Like It, Hamlet, Romeo & Juliet, Julius Caesar and Mojo (Royal Shakespeare Company), Memory, Macbeth, One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, The Crucible, Rosencrantz & Guildenstern are Dead, Arcadia, King Lear, Afore Night Come and Equus (Theatr Clwyd), Glengarry Glen Ross (Playhouse Theatre), The Winter’s Tale, Eyam (Shakespeare’s Globe), Oresteia (Trafalgar Studios), Red Velvet (Kiln & St Ann’s Warehouse NYC), Richard II and Coriolanus (Almeida, Brooklyn Academy of Music, Tokyo).

Film credits include: Mr Burton (BBC Wales), Dune (Warner Bros), The Last Vermeer (Tri-Star), All the Money in the World (Scott Free) and Killing Me Softly (Montecito Pictures).

Television credits include: Death Valley (BBC), Suspect (Disney), The Steeltown Murders (BBC), Halo (Paramount), Pennyworth (HBO), The Pembrokeshire Murders (ITV), The Accident (Channel 4) and Hinterland (BBC4).

Tim Steed plays Antonio.

Theatre credits include: Jack Absolute Flies Again (National Theatre), Ink (Almeida & Duke of York’s) The Pride (Royal Court) and Salome (Headlong).

Film credits include: One Life (See-Saw Films), The Phantom of the Open (Sony Pictures), Star Wars- The Last Jedi (Lucasfilm) Cruella (Disney Studios) and The Death of Stalin (Main Journey).

Television credits include: Breeders (Sky), The Nevers (HBO), The Crown (Left Blank Pictures & Sony Pictures), A Very British Scandal (BBC One & Amazon) and Brexit: The Uncivil War (Channel 4).

Sigourney Weaver plays Prospero.  

Theatre credits include: The Constant Wife (Shubert Theater), Crazy Mary (Playwrights Horizons), Mrs. Farnsworth, The Guys (The Flea Theater), The Mercy Seat (New York), Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike (Lincoln Center and Broadway), Sex and Longing (Broadway), The Merchant of Venice (Classic Stage Company of New York), Hurlyburly (Broadway – Tony Award nomination), Das Lusitania Songspiel (cowritten by Weaver with Christopher Durang), Titanic, The Nature and Purpose of the Universe. 

Film credits include: Alien, Aliens (Academy Award nomination), Aliens 3, Alien Resurrection, Gorillas In The Mist (Academy Award nomination), V (Golden Globe Award for Best Actress), Working Girl (Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress and Academy Award nomination), Ghostbusters, Ghostbusters II, The Year Of Living Dangerously, Eyewitness, Half Moon Street, One Woman Or Two, 1492: Conquest Of Paradise, Death And The Maiden, Snow White, Jeffrey, Copycat, The Ice Storm (BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actress), A Map Of The World, Galaxy Quest, Heartbreakers, Imaginary Heroes, The Village, Holes, The Guys, Infamous, The TVSet, Snow Cake, Wall-E, The Tale Of Despereaux, Baby Mama, You Again, Avatar, Avatar: The Way Of Water, Master Gardener, Call Jane, The Good House, My Salinger Year, Reassignment, A Monster Calls, Chappie, The Cabin In The Woods, Vamps, Cedar Rapids, Paul. 

Television credits include: The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart, Call My Agent, The Defenders, Political Animals, Prayers for Bobby, The Best of Families, Secrets of the Whales. 

Forthcoming projects include: Dust Bunny and The Gorge.

Jamie Lloyd directs. His credits for The Jamie Lloyd Company include Romeo & Juliet (Duke of York’s Theatre), Sunset Blvd. (Savoy Theatre – winner of seven Olivier Awards including Best Director and Best Musical Revival; Evening Standard Theatre Award for Best Director), The Effect (National Theatre/The Shed, New York), A Doll’s House (Hudson Theatre, New York – nominated for six 2023 Tony Awards including Best Direction of a Play and Best Revival of a Play), The Seagull (Harold Pinter Theatre), Cyrano de Bergerac (Playhouse Theatre/Harold Pinter Theatre/Brooklyn Academy of Music, New York – Olivier Award for Best Revival; Critics’ Circle Theatre Award for Best Director), Betrayal (Harold Pinter Theatre/Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre – nominated for four 2021 Tony Awards including Best Direction of a Play and Best Revival of a Play; Critics’ Circle Theatre Award for Best Director), Pinter at the Pinter (Harold Pinter Theatre), The Maids, The Homecoming, The Ruling Class, Richard III, The Pride, The Hothouse and Macbeth (Trafalgar Studios).

LISTINGS

THE TEMPEST

Saturday 7 December 2024 – Saturday 1 February 2025

Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Box Office: lwtheatres.co.uk / 020 3925 2998

Access Performances:

BSL Interpreted: Saturday 11 January, 2.30pm

Audio Described: Saturday 18January, 2.30pm  

Captioned: Saturday 25 January, 2.30pm        

Please email [email protected] to discuss your booking requirements.

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

Monday 10 February – Saturday 5 April 2025

On sale dates for Much Ado About Nothing to be announced. Sign up for priority booking and more information here: thejamielloydcompany.com or lwtheatres.co.uk.

Access performances:

BSL Interpreted: Saturday 15 March, 2.30pm

Captioned: Saturday 22 March, 2.30pm

Audio Described: Saturday 29 March, 2.30pm

Please email [email protected] to discuss your booking requirements.

Maureen Lipman

Stars in a brand-new play reading at JW3 

Trudy Zeller Lives Here

Trudy Zeller Lives Here is the true story of two elderly German women, one Jewish and the other Catholic, both were unwilling immigrants to the UK during WWII. Decades ago, divided by war and hatred, they now find themselves next-door neighbours. They agree on nothing except that their children routinely let them down and that the Nazis were a terrible thing. A turbulent yet inescapably symbiotic companionship starts to grow….

Maureen Lipman says “I am looking forward to this play reading of Trudy Zeller Lives Here. It is a Rom Com with heart.”

JW3 is an exciting and safe space for artists to try out their work and enabling JW3’s audiences the rare opportunity to engage with new theatre, in turn helping shape the work hopefully to a future life. It is also a wonderful opportunity for the creative teams to work with high profile actors, directors, musicians and performers to explore and bring to life new theatre early in its development. JW3 this year alone, has already staged several new pieces, giving both audience and creatives that rare opportunity and insight of being there at the beginning, including Haffkine (by Paul Twivvy/Simon Schama – cast including Ben Caplan), The Horse Beneath The Ice (by Paul Herzberg – cast including David Suchet, directed by Joe Harmston), Betty and June and Baby Jane (by Tracy-Ann Oberman – cast including Sophie Louise Dann).

Trudy Zeller Lives Here by Allan Leas is a play that feels very topical with war and refugees making the daily headlines. Allan Leas is the son of a Lithuanian Jewish refugee and was granted political asylum in the UK from Apartheid South Africa. Leas dedicates his work to refugee protection efforts in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, working with the UN for three decades. Post Brexit and the UKs rapid deterioration of government refugee policies, Leas decided to write a contemporary play Trudy Zeller Lives Here that confronts the troubling questions of why collective memory fades so quickly, why intolerance is so brazen and why historical connections fail to be drawn? Trudy Zeller Lives Here is based on the relationship between Lea‘s German mother-in-law and her Jewish next neighbour. Trudy Zeller Lives Here by Allan Leas is directed by Joe Harmston (current 5* production The Silver Cord – The Finborough).

Now is the time to enjoy live theatre with new, exclusive and exciting performances – see it first at JW3!

COME FALL IN LOVE – THE DDLJ MUSICAL

A NEW MUSICAL COMEDY BASED ON
BOLLYWOOD’S MOST SUCCESSFUL FILM
DILWALE DULHANIA LE JAYENGE

TO OPEN AT
MANCHESTER OPERA HOUSE
ON 29 MAY 2025

DIRECTED BY ADITYA CHOPRA

THE FILM’S ORIGINAL DIRECTOR

Tickets on sale 4 Oct www.comefallinlovemusical.com

Monday 23 September 2024: It was announced today that Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical, a ‘high energy, colourful’ new musical comedy based on one of the biggest blockbuster films in the history of Indian cinema, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, will make its UK premiere at Manchester Opera House on Thursday 29 May 2025 where it will run until Saturday 21 June 2025.

Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical will be set in the UK and directed by Aditya Chopra, the original director of the record-breaking, award-sweeping Hindi-language film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, also known as DDLJ. DDLJ is the longest-running title in Indian cinema, playing continuously in Mumbai since its release in 1995.

Cultures will collide in the stage musical adaptation of the beloved hit romantic-comedy film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, set to the exuberant beat of 18 all-new songs created for the production. 

Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films (YRF), said:
“We are thrilled to open Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musial at the magnificent and historic Manchester Opera House. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge is not only YRF’s treasured IP but it is one of the biggest IPs in the history of Indian cinema. We look forward to sharing this magical version of DDLJ with those who cherish the original film, as well as introducing the charm of DDLJ to new audiences for the first time! This stage version of DDLJ celebrates how important love, joy and togetherness is in a growingly divisive world. We hope we entertain everyone with Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical as we bring all the flavours of a big Bollywood film to the UK stage!”

Robin Hawkes, Theatre Director at the Palace Theatre & Opera House, added:
“It is an honour for the Opera House to welcome its next premiere. Given that Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical is based on one of the biggest blockbuster films in the history of Indian cinema, I am sure it is set to resonate deeply with our audiences here in Manchester, while showcasing the city’s continued ability to attract groundbreaking new productions. 

The ongoing commitment from global producers to participate in our ‘Manchester Gets It First’ programme is a reminder that when it comes to cultural offerings, there really is no place like Manchester. I look forward to seeing the success this new musical has with our theatregoers before it takes the world by storm.”

Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical is the story of Simran, a young British Indian woman whose future is set: an arranged marriage back in India to a family friend. But when she convinces her strict father that she should spend a summer of freedom and fun in Europe, she falls in love with Rog, a rich, charming British boy who is her father’s worst nightmare. Can she be true to both her heritage and her heart? Can carefree Rog win over her traditional father?

The award-winning creative team for Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical includes Book and Lyrics by Nell Benjamin (Mean Girls with Tina Fey, Olivier Award winner for Legally Blonde with Laurence O’Keefe), Music by Vishal Dadlani and Sheykhar Ravjiani (popularly called Vishal & Sheykhar in India), Choreography by Rob Ashford (Tony, Olivier and Emmy Award winner whose credits include Frozen, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying on Broadway), Associate Choreography – Indian Dances by Shruti Merchant (Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl, Taj Express), Scenic Design by Derek McLane (two-time Tony Award winner whose credits include MJ the Musical and Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway and West End) and Casting by David Grindrod CDG for Grindrod Burton Casting.

Further creative team and casting information will be announced at a later date.

The World Premiere of Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical was produced in 2022 at The Old Globe, San Diego, California. Barry Edelstein, Erna Finci Viterbi Artistic Director. Timothy J. Shields, Audrey S. Geisel Managing Director.

Lowry Theatre, Salford – until 28 September 2024

Reviewed by Carla Whittaker

5*****

An Enchanting Experience

My family and I had the extraordinary privilege of attending the press performance of War Horse at The Lowry Theatre in Salford. It’s a rare delight to witness a production for the third time, yet this captivating performance evoked the same powerful emotions within me once more. The National Theatre’s cherished masterpiece, War Horse, unfolds an astonishing tale that immerses us in a poignant journey filled with heart-wrenching sorrow and uplifting hope.

This breathtaking narrative follows a boy and his beloved horse, showcasing a remarkable bond that bravely withstands the harshest trials of war. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War I, the story reveals a gripping transformation on a fateful day in 1912, altering their lives forever.

With a stunning legacy of eight record-breaking years in London’s illustrious West End and performances in 11 countries to over 7 million captivated audience members, War Horse serves as a powerful tribute to the sacrifices of horses during WWI—an astounding eight million of whom selflessly lost their lives on the front lines. While the tale also highlights the experiences of a young soldier and the profound impact of war on local communities, it primarily centres around the remarkable journey of Joey, the iconic horse.

Adapted by the talented Nick Stafford and originally directed by the visionary Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, War Horse has become the most celebrated play in the illustrious history of the National Theatre, winning over 25 prestigious awards, including the coveted Tony Award for ‘Best Play’. This new tour is co-produced by Michael Harrison, Fiery Angel, and Playing Field, promising an unforgettable experience that enchants the senses.

Set at the outbreak of World War I, the narrative follows Joey, the cherished horse of young Albert, who is sold by his father’s greed to the Cavalry and dispatched to France to support the British war effort. Joey soon finds himself amid the terrifying horrors of battle, facing enemy fire and embarking on an unparalleled odyssey that sees him serve on both sides of the conflict, ultimately stranded in no man’s land, leaving us to ponder his fate with bated breath.

Meanwhile, back on their picturesque Devon farm, Albert is left heartbroken and frustrated. Too young to enlist, he feels lost and abandoned without Joey but is resolute in his unwavering belief that they will be reunited. Driven by an indomitable love, he defies the odds and joins the war effort, embarking on a daring quest to bring his beloved horse back home.

Based on Michael Morpurgo’s iconic and evocative novel, this play is a masterfully crafted drama that is both deeply moving and imaginatively vibrant. It breathes life into the timeless words from Morpurgo’s celebrated 1982 masterpiece, filled with powerful, thunderous music and hauntingly beautiful songs. At the heart of the production are the astonishing life-sized horses created by the Handspring Puppet Company from South Africa. Their remarkable artistry brings these galloping, breathing creatures to life on stage, capturing the very essence of a horse’s movement and spirit. The attention to detail in the puppeteers’ work is nothing short of phenomenal, making you believe these majestic horses are as real as the talented actors themselves.

The visual storytelling is elevated by Rae Smith’s stunningly intricate set design, featuring an expansive 25-metre projection screen that transforms seamlessly into breathtaking landscapes, snowy terrains, and the grim realities of battle, all without cluttering the stage. The emphasis on storytelling in this National Theatre production is impeccably refined.

In a production rich with emotion, moments of light-hearted humour emerge in the most unexpected places, particularly through the delightful character of The Goose. My 13-year-old, who was experiencing this spectacular production for the second time and is a huge fan of the film, thoroughly enjoyed it. He found himself laughing at the clever adult humour woven into the narrative, especially during the antics of the mischievous Goose, which added a whimsical touch to the otherwise intense story.

Tom Sturgess delivers a mesmerizing performance as Albert Narracott, capturing the evolution of his relationship with Joey from a tender seedling to a profound bond that tugs at the heartstrings. Their connection forms the emotional core of the play, brilliantly brought to life by the exceptionally skilled puppeteers.

Sally Swanson’s breathtakingly powerful singing adds a magical layer to the already enchanting atmosphere, making the experience even more immersive. War Horse is a rich tapestry of memorable moments, balancing darker scenes with bursts of humour, resulting in a deeply emotional journey that keeps audiences returning time and again.

This production exemplifies the pinnacle of theatrical artistry—immersive, authentic, and profoundly transformative. If you have the chance to see it, seize the opportunity! I would give it a million stars if I could!

War Horse is truly an essential experience, deserving a top spot on your must-see list. It will be gracing The Lowry stage until 28 September 28, 2024, so make sure to grab your tickets now for an enchanting experience you’ll want to enjoy time and time again!

On a glorious day in September, we visited Darlington Hippodrome to see the launch of this years pantomime – Sleeping Beauty

For Lee Mead (Prince Lee) and Stephanie Costi (Princess Aurora) this was their first trip to Darlington.  Josh Benson (Muddles) and Jamie Jones (Nellie Nightnurse) appeared in the pantomime in Darlington last year and panto legend Su Pollard (Carabosse) has played Darlington so many times she’s forgotten how many times she’s appeared there.   All 5 have done panto before, but the others added together might just match the impressive Su, with this being her 49th pantomime.

Don’t be surprised to find the cast exploring Darlington during their stay.  They all have plans to explore the local area and the regional Christmas markets. Jamie also has plans to catch as many of the local pantomimes as he can.  Although all 5 say they will be getting plenty of sleep on their day off

With the exception of Su, who has had a sneak peak at the script, and Jamie, who knows how many of his dresses he needs to make, none of the others know what this year has in store.  But all agree it will be full of fun and magic and all the pantomime staples we have come to know and love.

With the cast already firm friends, it can only make the panto this year even more magical than ever.  So get your tickets now

Sleeping Beauty at Darlington Hippodrome from Friday 6 December – book tickets online or phone 01325 405405 or in person at the Hippodrome Box Office.

All photos by Scott Akoz Photography

The Place – until 21^st September 2024

Reviewed by Heather Chalkley

5*****

Founders of BOP Jazz Theatre Company, Dollie Henry MBE and Paul Jenkins have co-produced a phenomenal piece of storytelling through music and movement. In classic contemporary style, you are taken on a journey through the African roots of Jazz music and dance, plus the influences of other cultures. Throughout you can feel the African roots shining through. Then you are treated to a celebration of Miles Davis, his silky smooth playing and snatches of spoken word from interviews. 

The scene is set by guest performers Impact Dance, a young hip hop group bending their talents to a new beat with a great result. This is Jazz dance for the future. 

Jazz dance is unique in its sharp, staccato movement, combined with a fluid sensuality. This was exemplified by Nafisah Baba, with her strength in body and spirit penetrating every move. You can read the love and passion in Oraine Frater’s every facial expression and movement. The physical strength and skill of each dancer allows them to express their own personality through the choreography, by living in the moment.  Together they create a picture that draws you into the story. 

None of this would be possible without the smooth tones of the band. The speed of Jihad Darwish’s fingers as they glide across the double bass strings, provides that familiar deep energy that constantly bubbles up through the music. Elias Atkinson has a tall order to match Miles Davis and in fact does not attempt to. Beautiful in its execution, Atkinson makes the music his own. Led by Paul Jenkins, the band make it easy for the dancers to perform their craft. Together they are an art performance not to be missed.

Gareth Gates Presents a Spectacular Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons at Malvern Theatres, September 29th 2024

Gareth Gates, the celebrated singer and entertainer, is set to take the stage at Malvern Theatres on September 29th 7.30pm, with his newly produced show, *Gareth Gates Sings Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons*. Tickets are selling fast for what promises to be an unforgettable evening of iconic music.

Known for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Gareth Gates pays homage to one of his musical idols with this new production. “This show is essentially a tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons,” Gareth shared. “I’ve been a fan of their music since childhood, thanks to my parents. To perform hits like ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ and ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’ is incredibly exciting for me.”

Gareth, who has enjoyed over two decades of success in the entertainment industry, reflected on his journey since his breakout on *Pop Idol* in 2002. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 22 years since *Pop Idol*. Time flies, but my love for performing remains as strong as ever,” he said with a laugh. Throughout his career, Gareth has often included Frankie Valli songs in his performances around the world, recognizing the timeless appeal of their music.

For this special concert, Gareth has assembled a team of highly talented performers, including four accomplished West End singers. “One of the guys even starred in *Jersey Boys*, so we’re bringing authentic talent to this tribute,” Gareth noted. “The combination of these incredible voices, including my own, will deliver the high-pitched harmonies that defined the sound of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.”

With over 100 million records sold and countless chart-topping hits, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons have left an indelible mark on music history. Gareth Gates is set to bring their legacy to life in a show that promises to be an electrifying homage to these legendary performers.

At 40, Gareth Gates continues to captivate audiences not only with his vocal talents but also with his resilience and versatility. Fresh off his victory on *SAS: Who Dares Wins Celebrity* in November 2023, Gareth has shown remarkable physical and mental toughness, endearing himself to a new generation of fans. During the series, he candidly discussed his experiences with severe bullying due to his stammer, adding depth to his journey as a performer.

“I’ve always been able to sing without stammering,” Gareth explained. “When I’m on stage, whether it’s in a concert or a West End production, I become a different persona. It’s never an issue.” His career in musical theatre began with his role in *Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat*, a part he first played as a child in school. “Auditioning for Andrew Lloyd Webber and being offered the lead role was a dream come true,” he recalled.

Gareth went on to perform in *Les Misérables*, *Legally Blonde*, *Footloose*, and *SpongeBob*, solidifying his reputation as a versatile stage actor.

In addition to his performance career, Gareth is now venturing into musical theatre writing. He is working on a new musical set to debut in 2025, which tells the deeply personal story of a young man struggling with a stammer. The project, already picked up by a leading West End producer, is generating significant buzz in the industry.

Gareth’s musical ambitions don’t stop there. He has recently signed a major new record deal and is constantly in the studio working on a brand-new album, scheduled for release later in 2025. This album will showcase Gareth’s evolving artistry, blending his signature style with contemporary sounds, and is eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike.

Looking ahead to his performance at Malvern Theatres, Gareth expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m thrilled to bring this show to such a beautiful venue. Performing these iconic songs is a dream come true, and I can’t wait to share this special evening with my fans.”

Tickets for *Gareth Gates Sings Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons* are now on sale and are expected to sell out quickly. Fans are encouraged to book early to secure their seats for what promises to be a magical evening, backed by a live band that will leave audiences thinking, “Oh, What a Night!”

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit Malvern Theatre’s official website at www.malvern-theatres.co.uk or contact the box office directly 01684 580942

Full cast announced
for the UK premiere of the musical
FLY MORE THAN YOU FALL

Southwark Playhouse Elephant
1 Dante Place
80 Newington Butts
London SE11 4RX

18th October- 23rd November

The full 12-strong cast is announced today for the UK premiere of the new US musical Fly More Than You Fall at Southwark Playhouse Elephant from 18th October- 23rd November.

When Malia’s mother is diagnosed with terminal cancer, her life is thrown into turmoil. Yet as she navigates the next stage of her own life, Malia finds solace and strength in her writing and in her stories, Malia creates an imaginative world where a brave bird named Willow mirrors her own journey of resilience and growth. Based on lived experiences, the uplifting and inspiring show navigates grief with some incredible songs that are bound to get stuck in your head! This isn’t just a musical, it’s a journey that will break your heart and mend it all in one night.

Joining the previously announced Tony nominated Broadway star Keala Settle as Malia’s mother Jennifer, are:

Robyn Rose-Li stars as Malia. Robyn recently played Simonè in The Baker’s Wife (Menier Chocolate Factory) and was in the world premiere of Tammy Faye The Musical (Almeida). Her West End credits include Hairspray and The Book of Mormon.

Cavin Cornwall (Paul) played Caiaphas in Jesus Christ Superstar (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre/Barbican/50th anniversary arena tour of Denmark). His West End credits include Disney’s Aladdin The Musical,  Porgy and Bess and Chicago.

Sara Bartos (ensemble) is a recent graduate of Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. A Stephen Sondheim Student Performer of the Year finalist, she played Isabella Sanchez in the world premiere of Barista the Musical.

Maddison Bulleyment (Willow) was in 42 Balloons (Lowry, Salford), The Witches (National Theatre) and played Anne Boleyn in SIX (Original UK Tour).

Edward Chitticks (Flynn) was Link Larkin in Hairspray, Dick in 9 to 5 and also appeared in Mamma Mia! and On the Town (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre).

Bessy Ewa (ensemble) was in Back to the Future and & Juliet (West End).

Max Gill (Caleb) was Greta in Fangirls (Lyric, Hammersmith), The Boy in the Dress (RSC), Bugsy Malone (Lyric, Hammersmith).

Harry Mallaghan (ensemble) recently played Roger in Grease.

JoJo Meredith (ensemble) recently played the alternate Kosei in Your Lie in April (West End). Other credits include Death Note the Musical (West End) and Pacific Overtures (Menier Chocolate Factory) .

Zasha Rabie (swing) is a recent graduate of the BA Musical Theatre at Guildford School of Acting.

Keala Settle (Jennifer) achieved global fame as the bearded lady Lettie Lutz in the film The Greatest Showman. She made her Broadway debut in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, played Madame Thenardier in Les Misérables and originated the role of Becky in Waitress, she played Tracy Turnblad in the US national tour of Hairspray, Bloody Mary in the Lincoln Center production of South Pacific, made her West End debut as Angélique in & Juliet and co-starred with Jennifer Saunders in Sister Act. She was recently unmasked as “Air Fryer” taking fifth place in The Masked Singer UK.

Kieran Usher (ensemble) is a recent graduate of the BA Musical Theatre at Guildford School of Acting.

Fly More Than You Fall, with Book & Lyrics by Eric Holmes (TV’s The Good Fight, Smash), Music & Lyrics by Nat Zegree, will be directed by Christian Durham.

Creative team:
Director Christian Durham
Associate Director Georgie Rankcom
Movement Director Heather Douglas
Orchestrations & Arrangements Daniel Edmonds
General Manager  James Steel Productions
Casting Director Pearson Casting CDG
Lead Producer Marc David Levine

Fly More Than You Fall is being lead produced by Tony & Olivier Award winner Marc David Levine   (Hadestown, Company, Merrily We Roll Along, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical).

Multiple award-winner Eric Holmes was a writer on the critically acclaimed TV series The Good Fight  for four seasons. His musical Wild About You, with a score by Chilina Kennedy, played two sold out concerts at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane earlier this year.  His new musical with Chilina Kennedy and Daniel Edmonds is releasing a concept album later this year. His musical Born Country, that he wrote with his wife Erin Holmes, received a NYC workshop in 2024. Other credits include: Smash (NBC).

Nat Zegree has been playing piano since he was three years old. A native of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Nat performs one man shows and concerts across the country. Nat is also a writer/composer and recording artist. His original album Fly More Than You Fall is available on iTunes, He has written three original musicals with writing partner Eric Holmes. He has played Jerry Lee for over 300 performances in Million Dollar Quartet, receiving a Broadwayworld award. He played Mozart in a live music production of Amadeus and his voice has been heard as a virtual singer for the Broadway hit Dear Evan Hansen.

Christian Durham (Director)
Theatre credits include: Zorro – the Musical (Hope Mill/Charing Cross Theatre), Breaking The Code (Salisbury Playhouse), Cafe Society Swing (Theatre Royal Stratford East), Quaint Honour (Finborough), Spend Spend Spend and Children of Eden (Union Theatre), Pieces of String (Waterloo East), Proud (New Wimbledon Theatre Studio), Boy George’s Taboo (UK tour – Best Musical, Manchester Evening News Awards), Debbie Does Dallas (Edinburgh Fringe, nominated Best Musical Production – MTM Awards).

LISTINGS INFO

FLY MORE THAN YOU FALL
a new musical
Book & Lyrics by Eric Holmes
Music & Lyrics by Nat Zegree

Directed by Christian Durham

Southwark Playhouse (Elephant)
1 Dante Place
80 Newington Butts
London
SE11 4RX

How To Get There:
The nearest stations are
Elephant & Castle and Kennington

Box office:
https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/fly-more-than-you-fall/

Performance Dates & Times:

18th October- 23rd November

Previews:
Friday, 18th October at 7:30pm
Saturday, 19th October at 2:30pm & 7:30pm
Monday, 21st October at 7:30pm
Tuesday, 22nd October at 7:30pm

Regular Performances:
25th October – 23rd November
Mondays to Fridays: 7:30pm
Thursdays & Saturdays: 2:30pm & 7:30pm

Tickets:
£18 Previews
Mon-Wed, Standard Tickets: £40/£35/£20, Off Peak
Thu – Sat, Standard Tickets: £45/£36.50/£25.50, Peak
Mon-Wed, Concessions: £32/£28 Off Peak

Social media
Instagram: @flymorethanyoufall
Twitter: @flymorethanfall
TikTok: @flymorethanyoufall

website: https://www.flymorethanyoufall.com/

Theatr Clwyd,Yr Wyddgrug/Mold – Saturday 14^th September 2024

Reviewed by Julie Noller

5*****

Theatr Clwyd is on course to change it’s whole future, the massive refurbishment is slowly taking place brick by brick and has led to utilising differing theatre setups, mostly under canvas which quite often gives us a festival feel; more relaxed and intimate shows.

Last year I went along to watch a performance of a young man following a successful Edinburgh Fringe; well I laughed, I also felt this man reads people, knows them, watches them and that story well I listened, actually felt like I was there. This year The Mix has departed the hillside outside and instead the chairs are lined up in the bar area (which is also under canvas) I blinked shaking my head no I was not attending a wedding. I didn’t hesitate to attend Part 3 of what feels like James Rowlands Friendship trilogy, this man is a modern day bard; he uses his skills perfectly, fabulous story teller, combining music, words and his knowledge of people.

I nudged my husband as James does what James does, begins before his actual performance time, bimbling into the room looking like a stage assistant; I’m convinced he is actually checking out his audience, are we distracted,nervously glancing around or at phones? He engages people with a simple act a smile keeping up eye contact; he is a man full of confidence but content with a simple way of just being. He leaves again presumably to get changed out of stage assistant gear.

The lights dim and swing a little as the wind whips up outside, but this ambience is perfect a minor distraction but I’m warm inside and as comfortable as if I’m sat in a pub with friends. When James appears there’s sniggering,it’s not a surprise I’ve seen the publicity shots but I giggle as he strolls onto the stage in hospital gown and we all know hospital gowns gape in the rear (I wont spoil things but the seam of those flesh tights ran somewhere it shouldn’t) . He chats easing into things, sensing how we are, will we interact, how many of us have been to a show of his before, mine were not the only hands to proudly show I’m a fan. He draws our attention to the clock sat on the table, set at 70.00. He tells us it’s the countdown to the end, he pushes the button and you turn your attention back to James.

Tonights story once again takes us back into childhood, stories of Robin Hood images of Disney foxes and ladybird books fill my head followed by swashbuckling heroes with curved moustaches and sword fights (my head screams please don’t play a certain song when arrows split in 2 thankfully I hope only I heard brief notes of Everything I Do.) Wearing a hospital gown allows us the audience to think, hospital, operation, something is wrong, worry, dread and fear usually follow. For James I’m sure it’s so that he can set up a dance scene between Robin Hood and Maid Marian whom James believes were great childhood friends destined to be together.

The story then departs knocking us off-kilter tales of swimming in waterfalls, ripples in the water almost reflecting ripples in time; red kites fighting back from the edge of extinction and Voyager sending back a blue dot – earth billions of miles away, tiny spec within the universe. Voyager’s golden disc our very own ultimate mixed tape for the universe, Bach and Beethovan being favoured over others. Suddenly you realise how the stories including those no longer critically endagered red kites all interlink it’s love; the 2 scientists working on the golden disc project fell in love. I’m aware equally that James is glancing at the clock more often, I feel anxious as I see the clock moving at what feels a faster pace. My stomach churns as I realise time is getting closer to the end (please don’t die James) But wait; imagination, storytelling is often viewed with rose tinted glasses and here comes James with 6 minutes left on the clock to let us know how he loves life but let’s be realistic Robin Hood was part of the Crusades (Knights, Kings, Christianity) history tells us was a brutal era. Well those 2 scientists were in fact married destroying futures for 2 families. And then the finale Voyagers music is played loud, James encourages us to close our eyes for natures blackout, a reset and when we open our eyes James is gone, the clock at zero and our night is over.

We have 5 senses; what we see and hear more than often shapes our beliefs and actions. Quite often there is another side to the coin and James wants us to open our eyes and see, I pick up my glass and raise a toast to the bard of the fringe and sincerely hope that there is more to come.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre – until Sunday 22nd September 2024

Reviewed by Rachel Clark

4****

What a great show for kids and big kids (adults). This show is brought to Aylesbury by the Birmingham Stage Group. The Show is an adaption of David Walliams book of the same name Awful Aunty. It is like you have started reading the book and jumped into it coming alive with the characters. The theatre had plenty of excited children that couldn’t wait to see the show and they weren’t disappointed.

Stella Saxby lived at Saxby Hall with her parents and Aunt Alberta, until a tragic accident, when Stella parents are killed leaving Stella in a coma with lots of broken bones – or are they broken? Has naughty Aunt been lying! Would she do such a thing?

Stella Saxby played brilliantly by Annie Cordoni comes round from the coma and meets Soot a ghost played by Matthew Allen and they start to play detectives. My Grandson aged 6 said Soot was his favourite character as he was funny and let out regular farts !!.

Aunt Alberta played superbly by Neil Foster has a pet Owl – Wagner who is a puppet and as the show progress’s you will see other puppets which were a great surprise to the audience as not what we expected, these were executed very well. Wagner is on Aunt’s side ensuring that Stella doesn’t escape. Wagner’s puppeteer was Emily Essery who whizzed around the stage set, flying the owl round.

The stage set was simple but so effective and very well managed and a was regularly changed by the funny butler Gibbon (Zian Abrahams) – who staggered around the stage and was very forgetful, he brought laughter to the show. There was also plenty of giggles and laughter when Soot and Stella play a few tricks on the Awful Aunt. Well worth a visit to this refreshing show with the great sense of humour from the book.