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FULL CAST ANNOUNCED

FOR THE UK AND IRELAND TOUR OF

HERE & NOW

FROM 29 August 2025

The producers of the brand-new musical HERE & NOW, presented by UK pop sensation, Steps, are delighted to announce the full cast for the UK & Ireland tour which opens at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre on 29 August and will continue until 16 May 2026 at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury.

Ben Darcy (Pretty Woman, West End) will play Ben and Lauren Woolf (I Should Be So Lucky, UK Tour)will play Tracey alongside the previously announced principal cast members Rebecca Lock* as Caz, Jacqui Dubois as Vel, Blake Patrick Anderson as Robbie, Rosie Singha as Neeta, Finty Williams* as Patricia, River Medway as Jem, Chris Grahamson as Gareth, Edward Baker-Duly as Max and John Stacey as Lesley.

The cast is completed by Georgia Christofi (professional debut), Kade Ferraiolo (I Should Be So Lucky, UK Tour), Albert Green (The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, West End), Harry Jack (Les Misérables, West End), Casey Jay (Grease the Musical, Royal Caribbean), Charlie-Jay Johnson (Here & Now, Birmingham Alexandra Theatre), Rosemary Annabella Nkrumah (MAMMA MIA! The Party, O2 Arena), Dean Rickards (professional debut), Markus Södergren (Here & Now, Birmingham Alexandra Theatre), Genevieve Taylor (Wicked, West End)and Jessica Vaux (Starlight Express, Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre).

Featuring Steps’ most beloved hit songs, HERE & NOW has an original book by Shaun Kitchener and is produced by the band and ROYO with Pete Waterman. It will be directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, with choreography by Olivier Award-winning Matt Cole and Matt Spencer-Smith as musical supervisor, orchestrator and arranger.

Welcome to seaside superstore Better Best Bargains, where it’s Friday night, the vibe is right, and everyone’s dancing in the aisles. But when Caz discovers the shelves are stocked with lies and betrayal, the summer of love she and her friends dreamed of suddenly feels like a tragedy. Have they all lost their chance of a ‘happy ever after’? Or does love have other plans in store… 

Steps (Claire Richards, Faye Tozer, Ian ‘H’ Watkins, Lee Latchford-Evans and Lisa Scott-Lee) are the UK’s most successful mixed sex pop group of all time, with 14 top five singles, 4 number one albums, 22 million record sales, 500 million streams & 11 sold-out national arena tours under their belts. The band’s hits include #1 singles Tragedy/Heartbeat and Stomp, the gold certified One For Sorrow & Better Best Forgotten, the silver certified 5,6,7,8, Last Thing On My Mind, Love’s Got A Hold Of My Heart, Chain Reaction, all of which will feature in the musical alongside many more.

Steps’ 2017 comeback tour sold out all 300,000 tickets, making it one of the biggest pop tours of the year. The band have since continued to release new music including two further iTunes #1 singles, the Sia-penned What The Future Holds in 2020 and the Michelle Visage duet Heartbreak In This City in 2022. In 2022 Steps celebrated their 25th anniversary with a headline summer tour and released the #1 album Platinum Collection which means they join ABBA, Rolling Stones and Stereophonics as the only groups in UK history to score #1 albums in four consecutive decades.

Musical supervision, orchestrations and arrangements by Matt Spencer-Smith, set design by Tom Rogers, costume design by Gabriella Slade, lighting design by Howard Hudson, sound design by Adam Fisher, wigs and hair design by Sam Cox, make-up design by Jackie Saundercock, casting by Will Burton for Grindrod Burton Casting, Music Technology by Phij Adams and Production Management by Setting Line.

Website: TheStepsMusical.com

Instagram: @TheStepsMusical

X: @TheStepsMusical

TikTok: @TheStepsMusical

Facebook: @TheStepsMusicalUK

*Please note Rebecca Lock and Finty Williams will be performing in the production until November 2025, with further casting to be announced in due course.

2025/26 TOUR SCHEDULE

29 – 30 August 2025                         Aylesbury Waterside Theatre                       

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Aylesbury                      

2 – 13 September                              Manchester Opera House

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Manchester                   

16 – 20 September                            Glasgow Kings Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Glasgow                        

23 September – 4 October                Dublin Bord Gais Energy Theatre                  0818719 377 (ROI)

                                                           bordgaisenergytheatre.ie                                 08442485101 (UK)

7 – 11 October                                   Southend Cliffs Pavilion

                                                           www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk                            

14 – 18 October                                 Woking New Victoria Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/new-victoria-theatre       

21 – 26 October                                 Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre

                                                           aberdeenperformingarts.com                         

28 October– 2 November                  Newcastle Theatre Royal                               0191 232 7010

                                                           www.theatreroyal.co.uk                           

4 – 9 November                                 London New Wimbledon Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Wimbledon                    

11 – 16 November                             Nottingham Theatre Royal                             0115 989 5555

                                                           trch.co.uk                                                        

18 – 22 November                             Sheffield Lyceum                                            0114 249 6000

                                                           www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk                          

25 – 29 November                             Liverpool Empire Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Liverpool                       

2 – 13 December                               Theatre Royal Brighton

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Brighton

15 – 28 December                             Stockton Globe

                                                           www.stocktonglobe.co.uk                              

20– 24 January 2026                        Southampton Mayflower Theatre                  02380 711811

                                                           www.mayflower.org.uk                                   

27 – 31 January                                 Belfast Grand Opera House

                                                           www.goh.co.uk                                               

3 – 7 February                                   Cardiff Wales Millennium Centre

                                                           www.wmc.org.uk                                            

10 – 15 February                               York Grand Opera House

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/York                               

17 – 22 February                               Oxford New Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Oxford                           

24 February – 1 March                      Edinburgh Playhouse

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/Edinburgh                      

10 – 15 March                                    Wolverhampton Grand                                  01902 42 92 12

                                                           www.grandtheatre.co.uk

17 – 22 March                                    Hall for Cornwall Truro                                    01872 262 466

                                                           www.hallforcornwall.co.uk                                                      

24 – 29 March                                    Theatre Royal Plymouth                                01752 267 222

                                                           www.theatreroyal.com                              

31 March – 4 April                              Milton Keynes Theatre

                                                           www.atgtickets.com/milton-keynes-theatre       

8 – 12 April                                         Blackpool Opera House                                 0844 770 0593*

                                                           www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk               

14 – 19 April                                       Norwich Theatre Royal                                   01603 630 000

                                                           www.norwichtheatre.org                                 

21 – 26 April                                       Hull New Theatre                                            01482 300 306

                                                           www.hulltheatres.co.uk                                  

28 April – 3 May                                 Leicester Curve                                              0116 242 3595

                                                           www.curveonline.co.uk                                  

5 – 10 May                                         Leeds Grand Theatre                                      0113 243 0808                                                                      www.leedsheritagetheatres.com                    

12 – 16 May                                       Canterbury Marlowe Theatre                         01227 787787

                                                            www.marlowetheatre.com

Adelphi Room, Crucible Theatre, Sheffield – 2nd August 2025

Reviewed by Sophie Dodworth

5*****

As part of another fantastic ‘Together Festival’ running at Sheffield Theaters, The Blanket Fort Club fly into the Crucible Theatre and end their trip down the runway, slamming on the breaks to land in the Adelphi room, ready to entertain each and every one of you with a tale Adapted from The Flying Trunk by Hans Christian Andersen. This production has been co-created with children with complex needs and disabilities, from Nexus Multi Academy schools across South Yorkshire, in order to create and shape the fully immersive sensory piece of theatre.

Get ready for in-flight entertainment all the way with two talented baggage handlers: Will Batty and Elizabeth Robin as they take you on a journey ‘round the world in forty-two minutes on the bestest trip ever’. Batty and Robin whisk you away with them to many famous landmarks and wonderful locations, exploring history and all the wonders each place has to offer while you are there. Stopping off in ancient Egypt allows you to see the famous pyramids and camels while the actors use some impressive props to create such visual magic. Armed with a tiny pen torch, a camel key ring and a large sheet, it’s delightful how the production team have delved deep into their imaginations to deliver perfect effects.

The compact size of the Adelphi room really supports the audience participation and sensory offerings. From the start, the audience are made to feel like they are part of the cogs that enable the show to run smoothly. The children are in the actors’ grasp willingly, if they so wish. From fun-flip-flop crocodiles, snapping playfully at the young crowd, causing a wave of giggles and excitement, to tender moments of touch from a wave of sea going over the unicorn fans in the form of a huge piece of light silky cloth, it was all extremely welcome. The icing on the cake comes in the form of a tunnel at the end of the show, a true surprise and executed admirably.

Sound effects were aplenty and worked well, particularly to add gust to magical moments like the of the opening of suitcases, helping to build the anticipation and wonderment. Some beautiful music included, from national anthems to some old classics.

Towards the end you are treat to some superb guitar and a short duet from Batty and Robin, incredible all-round actors and dedicated to remaining in character throughout. They both work so tenaciously, and it doesn’t go unnoticed, total professionals in every sense.

Hats off to the Director George Stone and the creative team, what a talent to have to be able to evoke such emotions and reactions throughout an entire crowd.

Exquisitely whimsical and educational, submerge yourself and your family in this spectacular piece of theatre and let your imaginations run wild.

Announcing an Exclusive Industry Presentation of A Heart-Warming New Comedy
STEP BY STEP
by Peter Quilter

starring
Gaynor Faye, Lorraine Bruce, Denise Welch

Directed by Sarah Frankcom

Thomas Hopkins Productions (THP) is delighted to announce an exclusive industry presentation of Step By Step, a brand-new British comedy by two-time Olivier nominee and Tony® Award nominee Peter Quilter (Glorious!, End of the Rainbow, Judy). The presentation will take place on Wednesday, 24 September at Soho Theatre.

The play will feature a stellar cast:
Denise Welch (Coronation Street, Waterloo Road, Boy Meets Girl, Hollyoaks)
Gaynor Faye (Playing The Field, Fat Friends, Coronation Street, The Syndicate, The Inheritance)
Lorraine Bruce (Denise in all four seasons of The Syndicate)

The production will be directed by the acclaimed Sarah Frankcom, former Artistic Director of the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester (2008–2019). Her celebrated body of work includes acclaimed collaborations with Maxine Peake (Hamlet, Miss Julie, A Streetcar Named Desire, Happy Days) and premieres of plays by Simon Stephens, including the Olivier Award-winning On the Shore of the Wide World.

Three women go on a 2-day hike together up a hill, as a memorial to a recently deceased friend. Each woman carries an inscribed stone to place as a monument at the peak. But they have to get there first – and the climb will be as challenging, unexpected, ridiculous and  hilarious as life itself…

Produced by Thomas Hopkins Productions (This Bitter Earth, Glorious!, The Talented Mr Ripley).

About Thomas Hopkins Productions (THP)

Founded in 2019 by award-winning producer Thomas Hopkins, THP is an industry leader specialising in transatlantic partnerships and full-service production support. With over 150 live productions spanning theatre, film, television, and radio, THP is committed to championing bold, new work.

Recent highlights include the seven-time Tony®-nominated John Proctor is the Villain on Broadway and This Bitter Earth, directed by Billy Porter at Soho Theatre. Upcoming projects include UK tours of The Talented Mr Ripley and a 20th-anniversary production of Glorious!. Current development titles include Boy George’s Taboo and Tony Robinson’s Maid Marian and Her Merry Men.

For more information, visit: www.thproductions.co.uk

To enquire about seats for the closed reading please email rsvp@thproductions.co.uk

The Show People Podcast with Andrew Keates announces August guests: Drag Icon Mary Mac and Screen Legend Sir Ian McKellen

Thursday 7th & 14th August – The Two Brewers, Clapham

Following a triumphant relaunch in June, The Show People Podcast continues its dazzling new chapter as a live monthly event at the iconic Two Brewers, Clapham. Hosted by award winning theatre director and Queer Theatre’s Artistic Director Andrew Keates, The Show People Podcast proudly announces the next two guests for August: internationally acclaimed drag artist and musical theatre star JP McCue aka Mary Mac on Thursday 7 August, followed by one of the world’s most celebrated actors and activists, Sir Ian McKellen, on Thursday 14 August. Funny, honest, and utterly captivating, these live episodes shine a spotlight on the UK performing arts industry and those dedicated to their craft.

Hailing from Glasgow, Mary Mac is a force of nature, known for her unique blend of humour, powerhouse vocals, and extraordinary stage presence. From starring in the acclaimed La Cage Aux Folles at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and the UK tour of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Mary Mac is a true star of stage and cabaret. She’s opened for drag legend Bianca Del Rio on her Unsanitized and Dead Inside tours across the UK and Europe and continues to electrify LGBTQ+ venues with her spectacular cabaret shows, always ending with the legendary “Mary Mac Medley.” She will be joining Andrew for an unmissable evening exploring drag, musical theatre, a life at sea, and behind-the-scenes tales from a career that continues to dazzle.

Expect truth, humour, and unforgettable stories from national treasure Sir Ian McKellen as he joins The Show People Podcast for a very special night of insight, inspiration, and legendary storytelling. A towering figure in British and international culture, Sir Ian has received more than 60 major awards for his work on stage and screen, including Waiting for Godot The Lord of the Rings and X-Men

Beyond his accolades, Sir Ian has been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights since publicly coming out in 1988. He co-founded Stonewall, has used his platform to campaign for equality, and was knighted in 1991 for services to the performing arts before being appointed a Companion of Honour for services to Drama and Equality. This live recording offers an extraordinary opportunity to hear from one of the greatest actors of our time in an intimate venue.

These events are part of Queer Theatre’s mission to ensure LGBTQ+ theatre-makers always have somewhere to connect, create, and be inspired. They sit alongside our 2B: Acting Classes, OutCast showcases, theatre trips, parties, masterclasses, and original productions.

Another incredible event hosted by Queer Theatre are their monthly Queer Play Reading Club’s in partnership with Nick Hern Books – an opportunity to celebrate the richness and diversity of LGBTQIA+ playwriting. Queer Theatre are proud to share that the next three Reading Club’s will be centred iconic queer playwrights, each being in attendance: Jennifer Lunn (Es & Flo; Terrior), Michael Dennis (Dark Sublime; A Grand Day Out) and Nathaniel J. Hall (First Time). This offers attendees a unique chance to deeply explore the text alongside the writer and gain valuable insight into their work. More details will be available of these upcoming events will be available at www.queertheatre.co.uk.

FULL CAST ANNOUNCED FOR

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME

THE MUSICAL IN CONCERT

AT PRINCE EDWARD THEATRE

Award-winning producer Jack Maple is delighted to announce that Ben Joyce, Zachary James, Christine Allado, Dex Lee and Adam Strong will lead an onstage company of over 50 in the UK professional premiere of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Prince Edward Theatre, a Delfont Mackintosh Theatre.

The production will have three performances, 3pm and 7:30pm on Sunday 17 August 2025 and 6pm on 24 August 2025.

Ben Joyce (Quasimodo) has previously starred as Beau in Shucked (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre); Marty McFly in Back to the Future The Musical (Adelphi Theatre), for which he was nominated for a 2023 WhatsOnStage Award for Best Takeover and his professional debut as Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys (Trafalgar Theatre), for which he was nominated for a 2022 The Stage Debut Award for Best Performer in a Musical and Best West End Debut.

Zachary James (Claude Frollo) has starred in the original Broadway casts of The Addams Family, South Pacific and Coram Boy. He made his West End debut as Hades in the 2024 cast of Hadestown at the Lyric Theatre. In 2020 he was named BroadwayWorld’s Vocalist of the Decade and in 2022 he won the Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording. His other credits include Jesus Christ Superstar (Hollywood Bowl), Spain, The Pirates of Penzance, The Most Happy Fella and Irma La Douce (Off-Broadway) as well as multiple new and traditional operas with prestigious companies across the world. His television credits include SNL, Succession, Law & Order: Organized Crime, The Blacklist and 30 Rock.

Christine Allado (Esmeralda) starred in the original West End casts of Hamilton as Peggy/Maria Reynolds at the Victoria Palace and The Prince of Egypt as Tzipporah at the Dominion Theatre which was also recorded for cinema release. Her other credits include: Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends (Gielgud Theatre), We Will Rock You (London Coliseum), In The Heights (Kings Cross Theatre), Here Lies Love (National Theatre) and Sweet Charity (Royal Exchange).

Dex Lee (Captain Phoebus) is perhaps best known for playing the role of Bear Sylvester in BBC’s Doctors for five years. His theatre credits include: Bill Calhoun in Kiss Me, Kate (Sheffield Crucible); Curly McLain in Oklahoma! (Grange Park Opera); Know Moe in Five Guys Named Moe (Marble Arch Theatre); Jackie in The Wild Party (The Other Palace); Danny Zuko in Grease (Curve, Leicester); Benny in In The Heights (King’s Cross Theatre); Charlie Weems/ Victoria Price in The Scottsboro Boys (Garrick Theatre) directed by Susan Stroman. Currently, Dex is playing the role of Toulouse-Lautrec in the West End production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical at the Piccadilly Theatre.

Adam Strong (Clopin) has most recently starred as Frank-N-Furter in the UK and Ireland tour of The Rocky Horror Show. His other credits include: Disney’s Aladdin (UK & Ireland tour), Rock Of Ages (UK tour), We Will Rock You (20^th Anniversary Tour), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (UK tour) and Jesus Christ Superstar (World Area Tour).

The role of Quasimodo will also be BSL interpreted on-stage by Oliver Hewing. Olivier is about to graduate from the Performers College and has performed as a dancer whilst training in City Rhythm, The Door and The Focus for MOVE IT, the world’s biggest dance event.

Completing the cast are Lois Mia Chapman (The Mad Ones: There Was An Afterparty, The Other Palace), Davide Fienauri (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, UK Tour), Caleb Lagayan (Miss Saigon, UK Tour), Emma Lloyd (Sunset Boulevard, West End & Broadway), Anna Marya Smith (Billy Elliot The Musical, Curve Leicester), Fanja Parent (The Wizard of Oz, West End),and Aaron Rahn (Aladdin, Norwich Theatre).

The production also features a 20 piece choir from the London Voices.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame has music and lyrics from the 1996 animated film by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz and additional songs written for the musical by the two Oscar winners, a book by Peter Parnell and will be directed by Jonathan O’Boyle with musical direction by Olivier Award-winner Alan Williams. The concert will have choreography by Olivier Award nominee Mark Smith (The Little Big Things, Founder of Deaf Men Dancing), lighting design by Jamie Platt (Something Rotten in Concert), costume design by Alice McNicholas (Spring Awakening 15^th Anniversary Reunion), sound design by Sound Quiet Time (Stereophonic, West End) casting direction by WhatsOnStage Award-winner Harry Blumenau (Why Am I So Single?), production management by Toby P Darvill for Production Solutions Group and creative signing consultation by Kevin Jewell.

The orchestra includes Jonathan Lee (leader; violin), Laura Melhuish (violin), Ciaran McCabe (violin), William Hillman (violin), Millie Ashton (violin), Rebecca Bill (violin), Rachel Robson (viola), Elaine Ambridge (viola), Nerys Richards (cello), Dave Hornberger (cello), Adam Higgs (double bass), Jack Reddick (Flute/Piccolo/Clarinet/ Soprano Saxophone), Hannah Lawrance (Alto Saxophone/Clarinet), Janey Miller (Oboe/Cor Anglais), Alice Lee (Baritone Saxophone/Bass Clarinet/Bassoon), Russell Bennett (Trumpet I/Piccolo Trumpet); Angela Whelan (Trumpet II/Flugelhorn); Chris Augustine (Trombone/Bass Trombone/Euphonium); Anna Douglass (French Horn); James Turner (Drum/Percussion); Alan Berry

(Keyboard I) and Mark Etherington (Keyboard II).

This extraordinary production brings to life Victor Hugo’s timeless tale of love, power, and redemption, set against the majestic backdrop of Notre Dame Cathedral. With a story that still resonates today, this unique concert performance will captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Prepare for an evening of soaring melodies, passionate performances, and the beauty of a timeless tale brought to life like never before!

Featuring a breathtaking symphonic score by legendary composer Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid) and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pocahontas). Prepare to be swept away by iconic songs like ‘Out There’, ‘God Help the Outcasts’, and ‘The Bells of Notre Dame’, all performed by a full orchestra, choir, and an all-star West End cast.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame first opened in Berlin in 1999, with a book by James Lapine, under the German name Der Glöckner von Notre Dame where it ran for over 1200 performances and was seen by 1.4-million people. In 2014, a new version premiered in San Diego with a new book by Peter Parnell and additional songs from Menken and Schwartz. This version has gone on to be produced by multiple US regional theatres and has had productions in Japan and Germany.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME IN CONCERT

Sunday 17 August & Sunday 24 August 2025

Prince Edward Theatre

Old Compton St

London

W1D 4HS

Performances: Sunday 17 August – 3pm & 7:30pm, Sunday 24 August – 6pm

Tickets: from £30

The performance on Sunday 24 August will be signed.

Box Office: 0344 482 5151 (Monday – Saturday, 10am – 7.30pm)

Website: www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk

Instagram – @hunchbackconcertldn

Further information regarding accessibility at the Prince Edward Theatre and how to book tickets can be

found at: www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/accessibility

NEW REVIVAL OF KANDER & EBB’S
KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN
A Bristol Old Vic, Curve and Mayflower Southampton co-production
Directed by Paul Foster
Starring Anna-Jane Casey as Aurora
Tour launches at Curve from 3 April 2026

Bristol Old Vic today announced it will be co-producing a revival of an iconic Kander and Ebb musical KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN in Spring 2026 with Leicester’s Curve theatre and Mayflower Southampton.

This brand-new production of Kander and Ebb’s ground-breaking Broadway musical is the first major UK revival since 1992. Directed by Paul Foster (who is directing this year’s Bristol Old Vic Christmas production Treasure Island) KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, will run in Curve’s Studio Theatre 3 – 25 April, at Bristol Old Vic 29 April – 16 May and at Mayflower Studios 2 – 6 June. Tickets will go on sale for the Bristol Old Vic run in September 2025.

Initial casting has also today been announced, as it is revealed Anna-Jane Casey will star as Aurora, the legendary actress who plays the Spider Woman. With a career spanning over four decades, Casey’s previous credits include the original revival cast of CABARET (The Kit Kat Club), the UK and Ireland tour of MOTHER GOOSE, GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY (Gielgud Theatre) and BILLY ELLIOT (Victoria Palace).

Based on the novel by Manuel Puig and adapted for the stage by Terrence McNally, the 1993 Broadway production of KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN received seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score. A new film adaptation of the musical, starring Jennifer Lopez, will be released later this year.

Obsession or salvation? One kiss from the Spider Woman can change everything.
In a brutal prison, Molina – condemned for his sexuality, and Valentin – a political prisoner, are forced into an unlikely friendship in the cell they share. To escape their harsh reality, Molina conjures dazzling fantasies of glamorous movies, spinning tales of the seductive and dangerous Spider Woman. As their conditions worsen and the line between truth and fiction blurs, the two men find a deeper connection – one that could cost them everything.

KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN is directed by Paul Foster (A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, Watermill Theatre and KISS ME, KATE, Sheffield Crucible), with Choreographer Joanna Goodwin (MY FAIR LADY, Curve), Set Designer David Woodhead (TITANIC, UK and international tours, ABIGAIL’S PARTY, Curve), Tony Award-winning Orchestrator and Arranger Sarah Travis (MISS LITTLEWOOD, RSC, BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL, AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN, both at Curve and on UK tour), Lighting Designer Howard Hudson (STARLIGHT EXPRESS, Troubadour Theatre, A CHORUS LINE, Curve) and Casting Director Stuart Burt CDG (CABARET, Kit Kat Club). Further cast and creative team members will be announced in due course.

KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk

Theatre Royal Windsor – until Saturday 2nd August 2025

Reviewed by Liberty Noke

3***

Shout! Is a musical set in London in the 1960s and features over 20 songs from this era. From the moment you enter the theatre, you know when this musical is set. The stage is set with a 3 piece band and brightly coloured lights with a platform on each side with brightly coloured steps up to them. The steps allow the characters to enter the stage at different levels making the small, simple stage feels more dynamic.

There are 5 characters Yellow Girl (Gabrielle Cummins), Green Girl (Lauren Allan), Orange Girl (Lauren Bimson), Blue Girl (Madeline Doody) and Red Girl (Sophie Ingoldsby). They form a sort of girl group as they sing but each character also has their moments to shine.

There isn’t a plot in the traditional sense, the characters read Shout! Magazine and write in to the agony aunt about their problems. The agony aunt then gives them advice. This advice is old fashioned and outdated- the musical is set in the 60’s- but as the show goes on we see the characters resist the stereotypes and think more freely.

The musical numbers are exceptional. All 5 actresses had great voices and danced with energy all of the way through. Shout, in particular, was incredible with Gabrielle Cummins as Yellow Girl on lead vocals.

Unfortunately the microphones regularly didn’t start working until the actresses had already been speaking for a few seconds and as the actresses moved around the stage the lights didn’t always follow them meaning they were unlit for key moments. This did make the production feel a little bit amateur. I also felt that the wigs were ill-fitting and cheap; again reducing the production value.

The costumes were incredible, each character had go go boots that matched their colour and changed costumes multiple times. This is exactly what you would hope for in a musical set in such an iconic era for fashion. Some of the audience even dressed ‘mod’ for the show which made this even more special.

At the end of the performance the audience had the opportunity to stand up and sing along to “Shout!” and I have never seen so many people on their feet on a Wednesday night in Windsor Theatre Royal. This is a testament to the talent of the performers and the timelessness of the music.

Shout! The Mod Musical is a fun, upbeat night at the theatre that will transport you back to the 1960’s. It will leave you singing all the way home and wondering if you should buy yourself a pair of go go boots. With the technical issues worked out this could be amazing.

Winter Gardens, Blackpool – until Saturday 2 August 2025

Reviewed by Debra Skelton

5*****

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe has landed at the Winter Gardens Blackpool and will be showing until Saturday 02nd August.

This production is based on the well-known and well-loved novel by C S Lewis and original production by Sally Cookson. It is presented by Chris Harper Productions, produced by Chris Harper and Catherine Schreiber and directed by Michael Fentiman.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe tells the story of the four Pevensie siblings, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy who in 1940 to escape the Blitz, are evacuated from London and sent to the English countryside to live in a large house with Professor Digory Kirke.

Whilst there, Lucy decides to explore the house and comes across a wardrobe that sends her to the magical world of Narnia via a portal where she meets the faun Tumnus for the first time who eventually befriends her after initially planning to betray her.

Narnia is currently under a spell by the evil White Witch where it is always perpetually Winter and this is where the children become involved with the majestic lion Aslan who is the true king of Narnia and the creatures of Narnia to free the land from this spell.

Unfortunately, Edmund betrays Aslan and his siblings as he is lured in with the promise of power and enchanted Turkish Delight by the White Witch and unwittingly becomes her ally. However, Aslan saves Edmund from the Witch’s claim by sacrificing himself at the Stone Table which is a pivotal moment in the story.

This is not the end for Aslan as he is resurrected and along with the creatures of Narnia and the Pevensie children they restore spring to Narnia by defeating the White Witch in an epic and climatic battle.

The children are crowned Kings and Queens of Narnia leading to a time of prosperity and peace during their reign of many years establishing a Golden Age before they decide to return to their own world through the wardrobe with no time having passed by back home.

This production starred Joanna Adaran as Susan, Jesse Dunbar as Peter, Bunmi Osadolor as Edmund, Kudzai Mangombe as Lucy, Alfie Richards as Mr Tumnus (White Mouse, Badger), Katy Stephens as the White Witch and Stanton Wright as Aslan (Soldier, Hedgehog). With the support of an incredible and very versatile cast with incredible voices and along with their acting talents, they really did create such a presence on stage.

Special thanks are also needed to composers Barnaby Race and Benji Bower for the sensational music, Tom Paris for creating such an adaptable set and for the fabulous costumes, Tom Marshall for the electrifying sound, Jack Knowles for the illuminating lighting, Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus for the flawless choreography, Tobie Olie the Puppetry Director and Max Humphries for puppetry design (Aslan was just amazing).

All there is left to say is head on down to see such an incredible performance that will not only thrill children but adults too.

FURTHER CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR THE

NATIONAL THEATRE’S WEST END TRANSFER OF

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

CAST INCLUDES

OLLY ALEXANDER, NATHAN STEWART-JARRETT,

HUGH DENNIS, SHOBNA GULATI,

KITTY HAWTHORNE, JESSICA WHITEHURST,

HAYLEY CARMICHAEL 

AND

STEPHEN FRY

AT THE NOËL COWARD THEATRE FROM 18 SEPTEMBER

IN A CO-PRODUCTION WITH SONIA FRIEDMAN PRODUCTIONS

The National Theatre announces today further casting for the West End transfer of its critically acclaimed production of The Importance of Being Earnest.Joining Olly Alexander, who plays the role of Algernon Moncrieff, is Nathan Stewart-Jarrett as Jack Worthing, Hugh Dennis as Rev. Canon Chasuble, Shobna Gulati as Miss Prism, Kitty Hawthorne as Gwendolen Fairfax, Jessica Whitehurst as Cecily Cardew, Hayley Carmichael as Merriman/Lane, and Stephen Fry as Lady Bracknell.

This ‘bold and brash Wilde reboot’ (★★★★ The Times) will run for a limited season at the Noël Coward Theatre, a Delfont Mackintosh Theatre, in a co-production with Sonia Friedman Productions, from 18 September 2025 until 10 January 2026. 

This ‘sparkling new production’ (★★★★★ Daily Mail) directed by Max Webster, is a joyful and flamboyant reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy.

Max Webster, director, said:

“Oscar Wilde was a master of elegance, rebellion, and razor-sharp wit. With this cast – led by the audacious brilliance of Olly Alexander, the hugely captivating Nathan Stewart-Jarrett and the legendary Stephen Fry as Lady Bracknell – we’re embracing the play’s subversive heart in a way that feels utterly now.  I’d like to think Wilde would be delighted – and perhaps even a little scandalised – by this bold, joyful take on his most iconic comedy.”

Stephen Fry said:

“I was delighted to be asked by Max Webster to join his jubilant National Theatre production and play the formidable Lady Bracknell in the West End. Oscar Wilde has been a hugely important figure in my life and career and The Importance of Being Earnest is a play that changed my life when I first saw it aged 10. It made me understand what language can do and absolutely transported me.  Wilde is a beacon to people who still believe in open thinking and adventuring with the mind and spirit.“

Being sensible can be excessively boring. At least Jack thinks so.

While assuming the role of dutiful guardian in the country, he lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy takes on a similar facade.

Unfortunately, living a double life has its drawbacks, especially when it comes to love. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate.

Max Webster is an award-winning theatre director, specialising in spectacular new work, opera and live music events. Recent acclaimed productions include Macbeth (Donmar Warehouse/West End), Life of Pi (Sheffield Theatres/West End/Broadway), Henry V (Donmar Warehouse) and The Lorax (Old Vic).  He was Associate Director at the Old Vic from 2015 until 2019 and at the Donmar Warehouse from 2020 until 2024.

‘This exuberant production’ (★★★★ The i) also features the work of set and costume designer Rae Smith, lighting designer Jon Clark, sound designer Nicola T. Chang, movement director Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, composer DJ Walde and casting director Alastair Coomer CDG. They are joined by associate director Aaliyah McKay, associate set designer Tim Blazdell, associate costume designer Johanna Coe, associate lighting designer Hector Murray and associate sound designer Chris Reid.  Completing the creative team are, physical comedy advisor Joyce Henderson, intimacy coordinator Ingrid Mackinnon and dialect coach Hazel Holder.

Webster’s ‘Wilde party of irresistible anarchic charm’(★★★★The Guardian) was first performed in the Lyttelton Theatre from 21 November 2024 until 25 January 2025.  Following a sold-out run at the National Theatre, it was subsequently released to cinemas worldwide through National Theatre Live.  Over 165,000 people in the UK have watched ‘this joyous production’ (★★★★ The i).  Over 20,000 tickets are available for under £30 across the upcoming West End run. 

A National Theatre production co-produced with Sonia Friedman Productions.

In association with No Guarantees, Playing Field and Winkler & Smalberg.

Grand Theatre, Leeds – until 2^nd August 2025

Reviewed by Katie Brewerton

5*****

Fiddler on the Roof has been around for over 50 years and is still thrilling audiences today. Originally opening on Broadway in 1964 it’s clear to see why it has stood the test of time. Based on the stories of Jewish writer Sholem Aleichem, telling the story of a Jewish family in Russia in 1905.

In the village of Anatevka tradition is one of the most important things. Tevye (Matthew Woodyatt) has 5 daughters which all need to be married and as is tradition the matches must be made by a matchmaker in Anatevka it’s Yente (Beverley Klein). They must also be approved by Tevye, it is simply unheard of for someone to find their own match.

Tevye’s 3 eldest daughters gradually break further and further from tradition and test Tevye’s love for his family, tradition and faith. Beginning with eldest Tzeitel (Natasha Jules Bernard) making her own promise to marry her childhood friend Motel (Dan Wolff). After Yente makes a match for Tzeitel with much older Lazer Wolf (Michael S. Siegel) they must beg Tevye to allow them to marry and to break his word to Lazer Wolf.

After allowing this match he then has his values and traditions questioned even further when his second eldest daughter, Hodel (Ashleigh Schuman) asks just for his blessing and not his permission to wed Perchik (Greg Bernstein) a radical who’s passing through after studying in Kyiv. He decides his daughters happiness is more important than tradition and uses unconventional methods to convince his wife Golde (Josie Jacobs) that these marriages are the best thing for his daughters.

His resolve is tested for a final time with his middle daughter Chava (Hannah Bristow) choosing to marry Fyedka (Gregor Milne)  who isn’t even Jewish, this is something Tevye can’t accept and is something that may cause him to lose Chava forever.

Alongside this there are rumours of Jews being driven out of their homes in other villages throughout Russia, with a lot of Anatevka not interested in what’s happening in the rest of the country they believe they are safe, this soon proves not to be the case despite the constable being a supposed friend to them. 

With hits such as Matchmaker and If I Were a Rich Man the songs are sure to get stuck in your head and get you tapping your feet. The orchestra and cast being on stage for large parts of the show only adds to the magic. A fantastic set including the roof being lowered when required, it’s never made clear why there is a Fiddler on the Roof but he plays beautifully as does Bristow when her clarinet is introduced towards the end. The whole cast is hugely talented with Matthew Woodyatt standing out in the lead role. 

With humour mixed with darker thought-provoking scenes this show is up there as one of the greatest and longest running musicals and is a must see for all theatre goers.