The Rose Theatre, Kingston – until Sunday 7 January 2024
Reviewed by Carly Burlinge
5*****
By J.M Barrie, in a new version by Evan Placey
The Rose Theatre brings you their Christmas production, outstanding once again, with only a handful of professional actors accompanied by some very talented young performers, that truly had some exceptional acting skills. Showing a strong performance throughout, with a bond that was clear to see.
The magical story of Peter Pan that we all know, and love was shown before our eyes, with new elements introduced making it that little bit more special and kicking off the Christmas season with a bang!
Peter Pan (Kaine Ruddach) arrives at Wendy’s window to whisk her off to the world of Neverland, playing a vibrant full of life character never wanting to grow up. Only for Wendy to discover that being a grown up around the lost boys is a lot more stressful than she thought, which opens up her eyes towards her feelings for her mother, because after all everyone needs some “Mummy Time”. She was a delight to watch throughout with a wonderful singing voice.
Captain Hook / Mrs Darling (Michelle Bishop) gave a strong performance, very dramatic and stern. She had a lot to offer as a pirate with her trusty side kick Smee (Dominic Rye), who played a simple but amusing character bringing laughter across the audience with his stupidity.
The Lost Boys were just exceptional to watch; so many varied characters that gave an awesome performance with their amazing catchy songs and dance moves, whilst bouncing off of each other, making the audience smile and laugh throughout
The Pirates, well what can I say? They offered much personality, were witty and creative. Their intelligence seemed questionable at times only providing more comedy to the show.
Tigerlilly (Shona Maggo) played her normal part as an outsider but willing to help in any situation.
The set was enchanting and magical, with the little details making it so much more. The little ship that sits in the background, the hook for the window latch, the twinkling stars upon the ceiling and the puppetry, with Nanna the dog and the incredible Tinker Bell. I really loved the expressions of the handlers, who were so involved, just remarkable! It was lovely looking across the theatre to see big smiling faces and laughter from both adults and children, whilst they absorbed the captivating scene before them.
I took my 11-year-old daughter with me, her opinion on this show was “their voices were amazing, strong and powerful. I loved the first song with catchy lyrics and outstanding moves. I especially loved the magical waves and props, everything in my eyes was just magical.”
What an outstanding performance by all! A truly magical experience that really gets you into the Christmas spirit – well worth a watch!
STORYHOUSE, CHESTER – UNTIL SATURDAY 6TH JANUARY 2024
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
5*****
Most people are familiar with the classic tale of Cinderella, but have you ever wondered how things would unfold if Cinderella had a good relationship with her stepsisters, if Cinderella and the Prince went on an adventure after the ball, if the wicked Stepmother had dark magical powers, and if the Prince were the one to lose a shoe?
This production of Cinderella certainly delivered on its promise of providing the audience with a ball! Director Hannah Noone has joined forces with Samantha O’Rourke, a writer from Cheshire, to produce a fresh new show. Although it bears a resemblance to a traditional pantomime, this production astutely reverses the classic rags-to-riches tale, presenting a brilliantly reimagined narrative and delves much deeper and explores more significant themes. This captivating story will truly engage both the young and old with its unexpected twists and turns. It’s not just Cinderella who experiences romance; other characters also find love in the most adorable manner and (almost) everyone gets a happy ending!
The stage brimmed with an abundance of talent, the versatile cast of ten were vibrant, larger than life and full of personality. Their true brilliance shone through in this performance, as they exuded energy and enthusiasm throughout. They showcased their skills in acting, playing instruments, and some even taking on multiple roles.
Paul Isaiah Isles showcased an exquisite choreography, complemented by a remarkable Christmas show soundtrack compiled by Barnaby Southgate. The show features an impressive selection of twenty great songs, including timeless classics like Abba’s “Dancing Queen,” Madonna’s “Material Girl”, Bee Gees’ “Night Fever” and B52’s “Love Shack”.
If you’re seeking something a bit more unconventional than the customary Christmas pantomime, Cinderella is definitely the show that suits your taste! You will have a ball!
During my visit to the Storyhouse Theatre, I was delighted to find out that they have two different auditorium layouts in their main theatre. This innovative feature enables them to host a diverse range of shows, including large-scale West End productions, as well as more intimate performances, like a Christmas family Pantomime.
I absolutely adored this production of Cinderella at Chester’s Storyhouse!
ROYAL EXCHANGE THEATRE, MANCHESTER – UNTIL 13th JANUARY 2024
REVIEWED BY ZOE BROWN
4****
Known for staging the unconventional at this time of the year, the Royal Exchange Manchester’s Christmas offering, Noel Coward’s Brief Encounter, is a refreshing take of that all-time classic film of 1945. Emma Rice’s stage adaptation has been transformed by director Sarah Frankcom for this version, which only includes original Noel Coward songs throughout, such as ‘Mad About the Boy’ and ‘Sail Away’. It also incorporates an original jazz score from Musical Director Matthew Malone and a live band on stage throughout.
For those that need to be reminded, this is a story of an unexpected and sudden romance between two respectable married people who meet quite by chance and fall deeply and hopelessly into forbidden love. Yet it is also an exploration of love in other forms, love grown through flirty familiarity between colleagues, young lovers experiencing the unfamiliar and heightened throws of a first crush, and the love of a mother and her children.
If the intense romantic drama of the film was too much, fear not, for this production is laced with humour and music and dance. Lots of impressive and lively dance that gets the audience clapping along, oh, and the singing is exquisite!
It primarily tells the tale of Laura (Hannah Azuonye) and Alec (Baker Mukasa) who have a brief encounter on a Thursday in the tearoom of Milford Junction train station. Over the course of the following months a deeply intense romance blossoms. However, the forbidden nature of this out-of-wedlock romance and the pressure to hide oneself within their ordinary lives proves too much.
Coward also observes love in different forms and from different societal classes, and this show celebrates that, through the ensemble cast of characters that sit within the same demographics. Casting by Hannah Williams allows these various characters to thrive. I particularly enjoyed the vivacious café manager (Christina Modestou) whose ‘I’m No Good at Love’ was so powerful. Paired with playful Train Conductor Albert (Richard Glaves) they made a good match. Young, shy Beryl (Ida Regan) was charming to watch and yet sang with a surprisingly dynamic voice. Georgia Frost showed her acting versatility, able to switch from the lustful Stanley to the frightful Bill with ease, and totally believable as both.
Azuonye’s Laura was wonderful to watch as her journey unfolded, she held the stage with her grace and was utterly believable as the guilt of her indiscretions grew. Unfortunately, I wasn’t convinced by the love affair of Laura and Alec (Baker Mukasa) as they didn’t seem to have the chemistry you would expect from such an intense coupling.
The dance and voice skills of the cast were amazing. They had the ability to shine in their individual solo moments yet support each other particularly in their harmonies and dance numbers.
The musical talents of Matthew Malone, Alice Phelps, Sam Quinn and Jenny Walinetski elevated this production from musical to a musical masterclass. The combined original score by Malone and sound design by Russell Ditchfield, using elements of musical avant-garde, enhanced the mood and accentuated moments in the performance, particularly the use of sound to note the blossoming romance between Laura and Alec. Having a live band on stage added a pleasing refined grace to the show which meant that when a character had a solo you were almost lifted out of the train station and into a jazz club.
If you’re looking for a Christmas show with period sophistication, then you could do no better than go the Exchange to see this production.
Find out what’s in store for 2024 at the Lyceum Theatre. The new year will see a host of dazzling touring productions, perfect as a Christmas gift or a treat to
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR 2024 AT THE LYCEUM
Find out what’s in store for 2024 at the Lyceum Theatre. The new year will see a host of dazzling touring productions, perfect as a Christmas gift or a treat to beat the January blues.
From Tuesday 9 – Saturday 13 January, the Lyceum welcomes the return of The Nutcracker, presented by The International Classic Ballet Theatre. A spectacular family favourite and the perfect introduction to classical ballet, Tchaikovsky’s delightful score is performed by a live orchestra, to tell the enchanting tale of Clara’s adventures with her Nutcracker Prince.
From the aisle to the isles, the official Stock Aitken Waterman musicalI Should Be So Lucky runs from Tuesday 16 – Saturday 20 January. Featuring the soundtrack of a generation with music from pop royalty including Kylie Minogue (I Should Be So Lucky), Rick Astley (Never Gonna Give You Up), Jason Donovan (Especially for You), Bananarama (Love In The First Degree), this hilarious and heart-warming new musical is about family, friends, love and great times.
Direct from The London Palladium, Join Dorothy, Toto, and friends on an unforgettable adventure down the yellow brick road with a sensational new production of The Wizard of Oz. Featuring the iconic original score from the Oscar-winning MGM film and starring RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner and Dancing On Ice star The Vivienne as The Wicked Witch Of The West, this spectacular production will be truly magical for all the family. From Tuesday 30 January – Saturday 3 February.
Bursting with razor-sharp wit and classic British humour, Drop the Dead Donkey: The Reawakening is live on stage for the very first time from Tuesday 6 – Saturday 10 February. 30 years since the launch of the trailblazing, smash-hit TV series, the Globelink News team are back, starring the original cast members Susannah Doyle, Robert Duncan, Ingrid Lacey, Neil Pearson, Jeff Rawle, Stephen Tompkinson and Victoria Wicks in this brand-new topical commentary on the cutthroat world of 24-hour news.
From Tuesday 13 – Saturday 17 February comes the stage phenomenon that has taken the West End by storm, 2:22 A Ghost Story. Written by Danny Robins, this edge-of-your-seat, supernatural thriller stars Jay McGuiness (The Wanted), Fiona Wade (Emmerdale), George Rainsford (Casualty) and Vera Chok (Hollyoaks) in anadrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear… What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?
Following their multi award-winning sell-out success with The Play That Goes Wrong, Mischief return with their riotous spin on a timeless classic, the West End smash hit Peter Pan Goes Wrong. The members of the Cornley Drama Society are back on stage, battling technical hitches, flying mishaps and cast disputes as they attempt to present J.M Barrie’s much-loved tale. But will they ever make it to Neverland? Running from Monday 19 – Saturday 24 February.
All productions are on sale now. Tickets can be booked through the Box Office in person, over the phone on 0114 249 6000 or at sheffieldtheatres.co.uk.
By Sally Cookson, Adam Peck and the Original Company
Directed by Jake Smith and Katy Weir
This retelling of a traditional fairytale is the Christmas family offering from Northern Stage. The programme for Cinderella describes the play as, “ a fairytale but not as you know it” and whilst the basic elements of the Cinderella story that we do know and love are present, there are also some interesting interpretations and additions to the original tale. The setting for this production is not what might be expected as much of the action takes place in a forest. Birds play a key role in the telling of the story and puppetry is used effectively. There is only one “ugly” stepsister (Peace Oseyenum) in this production and a rather unpleasant stepbrother ( David Fallon). Doc Martens have a very important role in this offering and there is no glass slipper in sight.
Ella ( played by Evlyne Oyedokun) is treated unkindly by her stepmother (Zoe Lambert) and forced by her to live amongst the cinders. However, Ella is not the downtrodden character one might expect and in fact she is quite a feisty young lady who plays tricks on her step siblings. We learn that Ella loves nature and she spends quite a lot of time in the forest where a chance encounter provides her with a ticket for a party at the palace. Although there is no fairy godmother in Northern Stage’s version to help Ella go to the party there is a happy ending and the chance encounter in the forest turns out to be a meeting with the prince, played by Charlie Venables.
Although this production is most definitely not a traditional pantomime, some elements of pantomime are successfully woven into the story. There is a good smattering of fun and audience participation; there are baddies in the cast to dislike and we see great comedy routines included alongside a sprinkling of magic and love to help the story along. Following a pantomime theme there are also some fabulously flamboyant costumes which deserve a mention and add glamour as well as comedy to the performance.
This Christmas production from Northern Stage includes some high energy song and dance routines that add a further dimension to a very enjoyable piece of entertainment. Both children and adults in the audience seemed to thoroughly enjoy this show and all of the main performers played great parts. It would be unfair to single out any one member of cast however there was a great dance routine from the prince in his pyjamas, Ella was a strong and determined young lady and Ella’s step mum and siblings were suitably unpleasant and funny in equal measure. If you are looking for some family Christmas entertainment I would certainly recommend a visit to Northern Stage.
A truly magical panto that transports you to a place where dreams come true and “Anythings possible”.
This particular version of Cinderella tells the tale of two abusive stepdaughters who are invited to a royal ball, leaving behind a sister whom they call Cinderella. Her fairy godmother appears and grants Cinderella’s wish to go to the ball, magically providing a coach, servants, a dress, and perfectly fitted glass slippers. Assisted by his royal liege Dandini, the prince is looking for true happiness and a princess to boot.
I was welcomed into the Churchill by friendly, full-out festive staff who were all very smiley and very helpful.
The highlight of the show for me was Baron Hardup who was played by the very talented magician and ventriloquist John Kimmon. This was a first for me seeing a ventriloquist act in a panto, but it’s one I will never forget. John performs two ventriloquist acts during the show and both had the audience uncontrollably laughing throughout. To have a ventriloquist in a panto I think is very special and adds to traditional panto elements.
The flamboyant ugly stepsisters, Verruca (played by Jak Allen-Anderson) and Hernia (played by Darren Bennett) were a “gorgeous duo” who work hand in hand and never failed to impress with the jokes.
Buttons, who is played by Steven Dalziel, is a very versatile performer in my opinion. He was always full of life when on stage and loved by the kids.
He particularly had me in stitches at the end when the Prince Charming (Tom Dickerson), Dandini (Barry O’Reilly), Buttons (Steven Dalziel), and Baron Hardup (John Kimmons) perform the end song sheet. I thought each individuals performance during this was superb.
The duet between the fairy Godmother (Brenda Edward’s) and Cinderella (Tia Gyngell) was just angelic and a lovely way to end Act 1 . A remarkable moment in the show was Cinderella’s sparkly floating carriage at the end of Act 1. The Twins FX, are a company that specialises in theatrical visual special effects, illusions, and animatronics. All illusions that were in the show were top notch and seamless. Having elements involved like this in Cinderella elevates the whole fantasy fairytale world that panto is and especially makes it even more captivating for the children.
As well as having incredible special effects, the set for Cinderella was top class, not to mention everyone’s spectacular costumes throughout. Two costumes in particular that caught my eye were the dancing pumpkins and every outfit that Verruca and Hernia were in. The glittering pumpkin costumes glistened in the spotlights and complemented the precise and stylish dancers. Every costume Verruca and Hernia’s came out in were pristine and uniquely inventive which added another layer of comedy to what was already a hilarious show.
There was never a dull moment and the buzz of the audience afterwards, (especially the kids) was second to none. It was an extremely artistic and enchanting pantomime with lots of audience interaction and a must watch for the family if you want to be filled with joy and laughter.
TODAYTIX LAUNCHES ‘ALL YOU CAN SEAT’ THEATRE PACKAGE OFFERING AUDIENCES A CHANCE TO SEE ALL WEST END SHOWS IN 2024
TodayTix, the digital gateway to cultural experiences,todayannounces the launch of the ‘All You Can Seat’ theatre package just in time for the holiday season. The package offers audiences access to every single West End show in 2024, making this the perfect, once-in-a-lifetime gift for someone who has it all. Via the individually sold passes and access to premium Band A tickets, the ‘All You Can Seat’ theatre package offers true theatre aficionados and culture seekers alike a year-long adventure of theatre.
Featuring iconic, dazzling top-tier productions, audiences can enjoy some of West End’s all-time most popular shows such as Book of Mormon, Guys & Dolls, and Jersey Boys as well as brand-new productions including Hello, Dolly!, Dear England, andThe Devil Wears Prada. Each exclusive pass is sold separately and can be purchased for £10,000. For more information, visit todaytix.com and email [email protected]for purchase inquiries.
Guided by a TodayTix personal concierge who can assist with planning and booking tickets, purchasers will be able to enjoy a truly seamless experience. Through the concierge service, pass holders will receive further show information, availability details, and personalised recommendations to plan their year of theatre by seeing up to two shows per week.
For more information about TodayTix’s exciting promotions and to purchase tickets, please head to the TodayTix app or todaytix.com.
AND DEAR ENGLAND LEADS THE STRAIGHT PLAY CATEGORIES
WITH 10 NOMINATIONS IN A BUMPER YEAR FOR THE NATIONAL THEATRE
Hiba Elchikhe and Tim Mahendran today announced the nominations for the 24th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards, the only major theatre prize-giving decided by the theatregoers themselves. The announcement of the nominations marks the opening of the final voting stage (until 11 January), with winners announced at the annual Awards ceremony held on 11 February 2024 at The London Palladium for the first time in the awards’ history.
WhatsOnStage’s Darius Thompson and Alex Wood said today, “Watching our readers nominating in their record-setting droves was such a fantastic way to spend November and we’re thrilled to see them generate such a stellar and vibrant shortlist – filled with rising stars shoulder-to-shoulder with long-time favourites. It’s been an incredible year for the National Theatre, under out-going Artistic Director Rufus Norris, seeing the flagship venue receive an incredible 24 nominations across 5 productions – two of which, Dear England and The Motive and The Cue also transferred to the West End.
“Alongside our co-producers Alex Parker and Damian Sandys we’ve been assembling an exciting concert line-up laden with new musicals and fan favourites – ready to rock the iconic London Palladium in February. Now, it’s up to you to decide who take home the top prizes on the night!”
The Bridge Theatre’s critically acclaimed smash-hit production of Guys & Dolls leads the pack this year, with 12 nominations including Best Performer in a Musical for Marisha Wallace, Best Supporting Performer in a Musical for Cedric Neal, Best Professional Debut Performance for Andrew Richardson, Best Direction for Nicholas Hytner, Best Musical Revival, as well as nominations for Best Musical Supervision (Tom Brady), Best Choreography (Arlene Phillips with James Cousins), Best Costume Design (Bunny Christie), Best Lighting Design (Paule Constable), Best Set Design (Bunny Christie), Best Sound Design (Paul Arditti – double nominated for his work on Stranger Things: The First Shadow), and Best Graphic Design (Bridge Theatre). Also performing strongly in the musical categories are Jamie Lloyd’s production of Sunset Boulevard with Nicole Scherzinger with 9 nominations, and Michael Longhurst’s production of Next to Normal at the Donmar Warehouse with 6 nominations.
This year was a brilliant one for the National Theatre, who receive 24 nominations in total – they lead the straight play categories with their phenomenally successful production of James Graham’s Dear England with 10 nominations, including Best Performer in a Play for Joseph Fiennes’ portrayal of Gareth Southgate, Best Supporting Performer in a Play for Will Close, Best Direction for Rupert Goold, Best New Play, Best Casting Direction for Bryony Jarvis-Taylor – also nominated for her work on The Witches, Best Choreography (Ellen Kane and Hannes Langolf), Best Lighting Design for Jon Clark – one of 3 nominations for Clark, Best Sound Design (Dan Balfour and Tom Gibbons), Best Video Design for Ash J Woodward – also nominated for The Witches, and Best Graphic Design (Rick Guest, Rob Rae and the NT Graphics Studio). Also featuring strongly in the straight play categories are Stranger Things: The First Shadow, currently in previews at the Phoenix Theatre, with 8 nominations, and The Effect – also directed by Lloyd, with 5 nominations at the National Theatre.
In addition to nominations for Dear England, The Effect and The Witches, the National Theatre takes nominations for The Motive and The Cue – about to open in the West End, and Phaedra.
Completing the gender-free performance categories, in the Best Performer in a Play category, facing Joseph Fiennes are Paapa Essiedu and Taylor Russell both for The Effect, Andrew Scott for VANYA, Sheridan Smith for Shirley Valentine, and James Norton for A Little Life. The latter production, also saw a double nomination in the Best Supporting Performer in a Play for Luke Thompson and Zubin Varla, who go up against Michele Austin (also for The Effect), Will Close (Dear England), Bryony Corrigan (I, Daniel Blake), and Anjana Vasan (A Streetcar Named Desire).
In the Best Performer in a Musical category Scherzinger and Wallace face stiff competition from Next to Normal’s Caissie Levy, Michael Ahomka-Lindsay for Disney’s Newsies, Natasha Hodgson for Operation Mincemeat, and Ed Larkin for The Little Bigs Things; and in the Best Supporting Performer in a Musical category, Cedric Neal’s fellow nominees are Aynrand Ferrer for Miss Saigon, Jak Malone for Operation Mincemeat, Jason Manford for The Wizard of Oz, Amy Trigg for The Little Big Things and Jack Wolfe for Next to Normal.
Completing the performance categories, in Professional Debut alongside Andrew Richardson are Rita Bernard-Shaw for Trouble in Butetown, Laura Dawkes for Frozen, Lou Henry for SIX, Grace Hodgett-Young for Sunset Boulevard, and Louis McCartney for Stranger Things: The First Shadow; and in Best Takeover, Karis Anderson (TINA – The Tina Turner Musical), Cory English (Back to the Future: The Musical), Lucy St.Louis (Wicked) and three nominations for Cabaret for Mason Alexander Park, Rebecca Lucy Taylor AKA Self Esteem, and Aimee Lou Wood.
Best New Musical is a closely contested category with Disney’s Newsies, The Little Big Things, Mrs Doubtfire, Next to Normal, Operation Mincemeat, and The Time Traveller’s Wife in contention; with Best Musical Revival featuring La Cage aux Folles, The Lord of the Rings, The Sound of Music and The Wizard of Oz up against the heavily nominated Guys & Dolls and Sunset Boulevard.
Dear England goes up against A Little Life, Cowbois, Hamnet, The Motive and The Cue and Stranger Things: The First Shadow for Best New Play; with Best Revival of a Play seeing nominations for A Streetcar Named Desire, The Effect, The Merchant of Venice 1936, The Pillowman, Shirley Valentine and VANYA.
Hytner and Goold, are joined by Polly Findlay for Assassins, Rebecca Frecknall for A Streetcar Named Desire, Jamie Lloyd for Sunset Boulevard and Sam Mendes for The Motive and The Cue in a heavily garlanded Best Direction category.
The long runners battle it out for Best West End Show, with Back to the Future: The Musical, Cabaret, Les Misérables, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, The Phantom of the Opera and SIX all aiming to be the fan favourite; with Best Off-West End Production featuring Flowers for Mrs Harris, George Takei’s Allegiance, Othello, Rebecca, Scouts! The Musical and The Shape of Things; and Best Regional Production between Boys from the Blackstuff, Choir Boy, In Dreams, The Lord of the Rings, Miss Saigon and To Wong Foo The Musical; and again a strong year for the Best Concert, a form that continues with strength post pandemic, with Ariana DeBose and Darren Criss up against Evita, Love Never Dies, Once and Schwartz at 75.
Taking place on Sunday 11 February 2024, the evening will see winners crowned across a range of categories. Theatregoers will also enjoy a host of exclusive live performances, which will be announced soon, from top stage talent, accompanied by a 24-piece orchestra. The event, co-produced with creative directors Alex Parker and Damian Sandys, is currently on sale.
Now in their 24th year, the WhatsOnStage Awards are the only major theatre awards decided by the theatregoers themselves.
Theatr Clwyd, Yr Wyddgrug/Mold – until Saturday 6th January 2024
Reviewed by Julie Noller
5*****
It’s Pantomime!!!!! Which means Christmas is getting ever closer, love it or loathe it you can’t deny it’s appeal. Changes may be afoot with the refurbishment of Theatr Clwyd which has seen the main auditorium named after famed actor Anthony Hopkins out of action. We have questioned could Panto be cancelled (oh the shock and the horror) but hurrah approaching Mold a new construction has set locals talking ‘have you seen the big top?’ Double hurrah Panto is saved. I was amazed to discover that Theatr Clwyds Big Top Theatre can seat upwards of 900 people!!!! I loved the lay out a large square sized set placed perfectly in the middle, it was brightly lit with lots of neon lights. The sound was clear and we had no difficulty in hearing any voices or music. The only difficulty I actually had was in realising I was sat in a tent; on top of a hill on an icy cold evening. The welcome was warm and friendly in fact the only frostiness was in the ice creams at interval time!
So it’s Panto there are certain checklists to expect and they were all ticked, silliness with added fart jokes, slight mishaps that you are never sure were always meant to go wrong, bright lights, singsongs, super squirter waterguns, magical bubbles. All ticked off, for those few people who have never been to Panto or to my utter disbelief refuse to go to Panto because its just not theatre darling; I doubt I can change your mind but to see 900 people laughing, singing, clapping and not to mention the joy of a child who is utterly amazed at so many fart jokes is priceless.
Sleeping Beauty has been given the rock n roll panto effect by writer Christian Patterson. It contains many songs we found ourselves singing away to from Kate Bush to Supergrass via AC/DC this is the rock n roll panto after all. Most of the cast we recognise obviously they all love Theatr Clwyd and Panto as much as we do.
Ben Locke 2023 Villain of the Year award winner (so very well deserved) is captivating as Mordecai a sort of fairyesque panto version of he who can’t be named. His version of a puffy overweight french chef had us in stitches and changes to his voice were superb, he is aided by sidekicks Snarl and Fang (Theo Diedrick and Alice McKenna). Celia Cruwys-Finnigan portrays Muddles a girls best friend who just as I was beginning to think they were all going to sing down and play up the comedy smashed a heart churning ballad out into the Flintshire countryside. There’s King Dom acting like he’s straight out of a Black Adder episode with added farts just to make sure Dan Bottomley isn’t taking his role too seriously, his daughter Beauty wants to climb, wants to explore isn’t too sure of her place and doesn’t quite understand why. Emma Kinney tries her hardest to bring out the stronger sides of her character. Our three fairies Cariad (Ai Kumar), Cwtch (Caitlin Lavagna) and Calon (Georgina White) amazed and dazzled; I was captivated by their makeup, hair and outfits. They were our storytellers along with Olwen the spider voiced by Sian Gibson.
There are moments of behind yous and oh no your nots for what is any Panto without those bits of simple joy. Now to the elephant in the room, no quite literally the elephant mobility scooter that delivers us Nurse Nellie the absolute main star without any doubt. Poor Nathan (there will be always be a Nathan) plucked from the front row, made to sign a pre nup, introduced as Nellies next husband.
Phylip Harries has been encouraging and delighting audiences for 20 years as Molds very own Dame, Nurse Nellie from Abergele, we all responded to queries of how she looked with ‘looking lush love’ I checked with that great online oracle and apparently 41 years is the record to beat, no pressure there then. I and many others wait for the costumes and the one liners that we can take comfort in as sure as Santa brings us presents then Nurse Nellie delivered laughs a plenty. Do you believe you’ll be sat in an audience rocking out 12 days of christmas? Rock n roll stylee sees 900 people belting out ‘5 toilet rolls’ and the Big Top stage set up is perfect for audience to cast interactions, they run up and down the stairs although its hard to explain bloomers on a string and everyone enjoyed batting beachballs around. The only serious point I have to make is how perfectly insync with modern society Christian Patterson has written this panto with local touches including the dreaded 20mph scheme but that no girl needs a Prince Charming she just needs self belief and the love of a best friend.
A singsong then brought to an end the perfect night wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and looking forward to many more nights at Theatr Clwyd and seeing Phylip Harries daming it up for next years Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto.
CAST ANNOUNCED for the much-awaited London premiere of ‘Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical’ at The Other Palace
(L-R) Rose Galbraith, Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky, Abbie Budden, Daniel Bravo Photo Danny Kaan
The stage musical is based on the hit 1999 Hollywood movie (now celebrating its 25th anniversary) and is packed with ‘90s pop classics from Britney Spears, Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, TLC, Natalie Imbruglia, The Verve, *NSYNC, R.E.M and many more!
OPENING 11 JANUARY 2024 for a 14-week season
Josh Barnett, Daniel Bravo, Jess Buckby, Abbie Budden, Rose Galbraith, Nickcolia King-N’Da, Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky, Barney Wilkinson
Bill Kenwright Ltd is delighted to announce the cast for the London premiere of Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical. Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky (Six) and Daniel Bravo (Witness for the Prosecution) lead the cast as Kathryn and Sebastian the manipulative step-siblings, with Abbie Budden (Peter Pan, TikTok star) as Annette and Rose Galbraith (Old Friends) as Cecile.
Completing the line-up are Josh Barnett (Newsies, Last 5 Years) as Blaine, Jess Buckby (42nd Street, Anything Goes) as Ms Bunny Caldwell / Dr Greenbaum, Nickcolia King-N’Da (RSC) as Ronald and Barney Wilkinson (Bonnie & Clyde, Bat out of Hell) as Greg, with further casting to be announced.
Step-siblings Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil, manipulative monsters flushed with their own sexual prowess, engage in a cruel bet: Kathryn goads Sebastian into attempting to seduce Annette Hargrove, the headmaster’s virtuous daughter. Weaving a web of secrets and temptation, as the two set out to destroy an innocent girl – and anyone who gets in their way – their vengeful crusade wreaks havoc on the students at their exclusive Manhattan high school and the diabolical duo become entangled in their own mesh of deception and unexpected romance, with explosive results…
Based on Roger Kumble’s classic hit film Cruel Intentions, starring Reese Witherspoon, Ryan Phillippe, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Selma Blair – this year celebrating its 25th anniversary – and also inspired by the French novel, Les Liaisons Dangereuses, Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical was created by Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin, and Roger Kumble.
A wild nostalgic throwback laced with a soundtrack of the greatest ‘90s pop classics, all performed live, including ‘Bittersweet Symphony’ by The Verve, R.E.M’s ‘Losing My Religion’, Natalie Imbruglia’s ‘Torn’, ‘I Saw the Sign’ by Ace of Base, Christina Aguilera’s ‘Genie in a Bottle’, TLC’s ‘No Scrubs’, Boyz II Men’s ‘I’ll Make Love to You’, *NSYNC’s ‘Bye Bye Bye’, Britney Spears’ ’Sometimes’ and many more.
Roger Kumble said: “The perfect 25th anniversary celebration of my 1999 film about a pair of hedonistic Manhattan step-siblings is seeing it re-imagined on the London stage as a musical. It’s an amazing show with a soundtrack loaded with all the greatest ‘90s guilty pleasures songs. Even people who hate musicals will love it!”
This London premiere is produced by Bill Kenwright Ltd, who recently produced the smash hit Heathers The Musical to great success in the West End, on UK tour and at The Other Palace.
Josh Barnett (Blaine Tuttle/Court Reynolds) was Race in Newsies (Troubador Theatre), alternate Jamie in The Last 5 Years (international tour), swing in Anything Goes (Barbican), and Rodger in Grease (UK tour).
Daniel Bravo (Sebastian Valmont) was 1st cover Leonard Vole in Witness For The Prosecution (County Hall), George Holly in Suddenly Last Summer (The English Theatre Frankfurt), Patrick in Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens (King’s Head Theatre) and Luke in Speak (Paines Plough).
Jess Buckby (Mrs. Bunny Caldwell/Dr. Greenbaum) was Ann Reilly in 42nd Street (Théâtre du Châtelet, Paris), Angel (Virtue) & understudy Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes (Barbican/UK tour), Mimsie in Funny Girl (Théâtre Marigny, Paris), 1st cover Morticia in The Addams Family (UK tour).
Abbie Budden (Annette Hargrove) was Tiger Lil in Peter Pan (Capitol Theatre) and has gained 1.5m followers on TikTok through a series of hugely popular self-written and performed comedy sketches.
Rose Galbraith (Cecile Caldwell/Marci Greenbaum) was in Sondheim’s Old Friends (Gielgud Theatre) and Maria Friedman and Friends: Legacy (Menier Chocolate Factory) and High Society (West Green House Opera). On TV she was in Dalgliesh: The Murder Room (C5).
Nickcolia King-N’Da (Ronald Clifford) was Simon Chachava in The Caucasian Chalk Circle (Michael Grandage Company, Rose Theatre Kingston), Boy/Myself in Boys (Barbican), Shakie in The Death of a Black Man (Hampstead Theatre) and Venice Preserv’d and The Provoked Wife (at the RSC). He recently filmed two upcoming movies, Dali and Monique.
Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky (Kathryn Merteuil) was Catherine Of Aragon in Six (Vaudeville). Her other West End shows include Alline Bullock/Tina Turner in Tina, The Tina Turner Story, Bat Out of Hell for which she won a nomination for Best Understudy in the 2018 West End Wilma Awards; and The Book of Mormon. She was also Rizzo in Grease (UK tour).
Barney Wilkinson (Greg) was alternate Clyde in Bonnie & Clyde (Garrick/Arts Theatre), alternate Strat in Bat Out of Hell (Dominion), Jack in Into The Woods, directed by Terry Gilliam (Theatre Royal Bath), Adam/Artie Green in Sunset Boulevard (The Curve UK tour & international tour), Young Gideon in Sting’s The Last Ship (Toronto). On TV he was in Dr Who, Grantchester and Father Brown. He recently played Joe Buck in the workshop of Midnight Cowboy, directed by Nick Winston. Creative Team:
Director Jonathan O’Boyle Associate Director & Choreographer Gary Lloyd Set & Costume Designer Polly Sullivan Lighting Designer Nick Richings Sound Designer Chris Whybrow Musical Director Denise Crowley Associate Choreographer Matt Nicholson Costume Supervisor Hugo Aguirre Casting Will Burton for Grindrod Burton
LISTINGS INFO
Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical
Created by Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin, and Roger Kumble Based on the original hit film by Roger Kumble Originally produced by Eva Price
**The ticket price includes a 50p contribution from every ticket sold to a development fund to enable The Other Palace to develop and support new writing.
The Original Off-Broadway cast of Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical is available to listen to on Spotify https://spoti.fi/2xqRDog
After two sold out runs in Los Angeles, Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical made its New York debut at Greenwich Village nightclub Le Poisson Rouge where it extended three times.
