TICKETS TO GO ON SALE FOR NEXT NATIONAL THEATRE SEASON INCLUDING PILOTING 6.30PM PERFORMANCES

• Upcoming season to include performances by Lindsay Duncan, Michael Sheen and Gemma Whelan, as well as National Theatre debuts from artists including PJ Harvey and Natalie Ibu
• Michael Sheen is cast in Tim Price’s new play Nye, a co-production with Wales Millennium Centre, opening at the National Theatre in February before transferring to the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff for a strictly limited two-week run
• Tickets for Nye, Dear Octopus, London Tide, Till the Stars Come Down and Underdog: The Other Other Brontë go on sale to the public on 9 November
• Following audience research the National Theatre is to trial earlier start times for selected evening performances as part of a pilot scheme
• The Lehman Trilogy, co-produced with Neal Street Productions,to make its Australian premiere at Theatre Royal Sydney in 2024
• Ten new plays to be added to the National Theatre Collection in February, available free to state schools and in local libraries across the UK

Tickets for the National Theatre’s upcoming season will go on sale to the public on Thursday 9 November. In the Olivier theatre Nye, Tim Price‘s new play directed by Rufus Norris, charts the life of Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan and his battle to create the NHS. Michael Sheen is cast as Nye in this co-production with Wales Millennium Centre.

In the Lyttelton is a revival of Dear Octopus by Dodie Smith, directed by Emily Burns and with a cast that includes Lindsay Duncan. This is followed by London Tide, based on Charles Dickens’ Our Mutual Friend, which will be directed by Ian Rickson and adapted by Ben Power, with original songs throughout by acclaimed singer-songwriter, PJ Harvey, and Ben Power.

In the Dorfman theatre is Till the Stars Come Down, a passionate, heartbreaking and hilarious portrayal of a larger-than-life family struggling to come to terms with a changing world, written by former writer-in-residence Beth Steel and directed by Bijan Sheibani. Completing the season is Underdog: The Other Other Brontë,an irreverent retelling of the life and legend of the Brontë sisters written by Sarah Gordon and directed by Natalie Ibu, in a co-production with Northern Stage.

Also announced today is the transfer of Tim Price’s new play Nye, directed by Rufus Norris, which will play at the Wales Millennium Centre following its world premiere in the Olivier theatre in February. Michael Sheen will continue his role as Nye Bevan in this strictly limited run from 18 May until 1 June 2024.

From February 2024 the National Theatre will pilot a selected number of early evening performances at 6.30pm. This trial follows a major piece of research undertaken by the National Theatre in recent months to understand more from audiences about their post-Covid lifestyles and habits, including varying working patterns and journey times, particularly for those living outside of London. The early evening performances offer flexibility for audiences to make the most of their evening, with more time after curtain down to eat or to travel. The 6.30pm performances will fall on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with a limited number available for every new production playing on the South Bank in the first half of the year.

The Lehman Trilogy, co-produced with Neal Street Productions and, in association with Trafalgar Entertainment, will make its Australian premiere at Theatre Royal Sydney from 21 February for a strictly limited season.

This critically acclaimed, five-time Tony Award®-winning epic play by Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power,directed by Academy Award and Tony Award®-winning director Sam Mendes with set design by Es Devlin, is also touring to the American Conservatory Theater’s Toni Rembe Theater in San Francisco, from 25 May until 23 June 2024. 

Director of the National Theatre, Rufus Norris, said: ‘I’m thrilled to have such a rich and diverse slate of shows coming up at the National Theatre for audiences to enjoy. We have a wealth of new plays, alongside an exciting revival of Dodie Smith’s Dear Octopus, a play by one of the UK’s most celebrated novelists, which hasn’t been seen on the stage for over 60 years. Audiences are always at the heart of everything we do, and in direct response to what they have told us, we are excited to be trialling an earlier start time of 6.30pm for selected performances. I am also excited to announce today that Tim Price’s brilliant new play Nye, which I will be directing in the Olivier in February, will be a co-production with Wales Millennium Centre where it will transfer following its run with us. To bring the story to Nye Bevan’s home in Wales feels very special and an appropriate way to further honour his legacy through this production.’

The following productions will go on sale to the public on Thursday 9 November. To book, visit the National Theatre website: nationaltheatre.org.uk

Olivier theatre

Nye is a new play by Tim Price (Teh Internet is Serious Business) directed by Rufus Norris (Small Island), charting the life of Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan. From campaigning at the coalfield to leading the battle to create the NHS, Nye Bevan is often referred to as the politician with greatest influence on our country without ever being Prime Minister. Michael Sheen (Under Milk Wood) plays Nye Bevan in this surreal and spectacular journey through the life and legacy of the man who transformed Britain’s welfare state. Cast also includes Remy Beasley, Roger Evans, Jon Furlong, Stephanie Jacob, Kezrena James, Tony Jayawardena, Rebecca Killick, Rhodri Meilir and Sharon Small.

Directed by Rufus Norris, theSet Designer is Vicki Mortimer, Costume Designer Kinnetia Isidore, Lighting Designer Paule Constable, Co-Choreographers Steven Hoggett and Jess Willams, Composer Will Stuart, Sound Designer Donato Wharton, Projection Designer Jon Driscoll and Casting Director Alastair Coomer CDG.

Playing in the Olivier theatre 24 February until 11 May.

Nye is a co-production with Wales Millennium Centre, where it will play from 18 May until 1 June. Tickets for these performances will go on sale to the public on 27 October.

Lyttelton theatre

Dear Octopus by Dodie Smith (I Capture the Castle) will play in the Lyttelton theatre from February, directed by National Theatre Associate Emily Burns (Jack Absolute Flies Again) in its first revival since the 1960s. When a golden wedding anniversary reunites the Randolph family on the eve of WWII, Dora and Charles must reckon with the adults their children have become. Their children, meanwhile, are haunted by the memory of the family they once were. Heartbreaking and joyful, this captivating revival is a moving dissection of family and what it means to grow up and return home. Lindsay Duncan (Hansard) is cast as Dora alongside Malcolm Sinclair,with further casting to be announced.

Directed by Emily Burns, the Set and Costume Designer is Frankie Bradshaw, Lighting Designer Oliver Fenwick, Composer Nico Muhly, Sound Designer Tingying Dong and Casting Director Bryony Jarvis-Taylor.

Playing in the Lyttelton theatre from 7 February until 27 March.

Following Dear Octopus in the Lyttelton theatre is London Tide, based on Charles Dickens’ Our Mutual Friend. Directed by Ian Rickson (Translations) and adapted by Ben Power (The Lehman Trilogy), with original songs throughout, the genius of Dickens meets the fierce musical imagination of acclaimed singer-songwriter, PJ Harvey.

A storm rages and, in the darkest part of the night, a body is pulled from the swirling Thames. Across the city, two young women confront an uncertain future. In Limehouse, Lizzie Hexam struggles to break free of the river and its dark secrets. On the other side of town, Bella Wilfer mourns a lost marriage. The appearance of the mysterious John Rokesmith has the potential to change their lives for ever. Will they sink or swim? This romantic and propulsive thriller is a hymn to the city and the river that runs through it.

Cast includes Brandon Grace, Scott Karim, Bella Maclean, Tom Mothersdale, Ami Tredrea and Peter Wight.

Directed by Ian Rickson, the Set and Costume Designer is Bunny Christie, Lighting Designer Jack Knowles, Music Director Ian Ross, Co-Sound Designers Tingying Dong and Christopher Shutt, Movement Director Anna Morrissey and Casting Director Bryony Jarvis-Taylor.

Playing in the Lyttelton theatre from 10 April until 22 June.

Dorfman theatre

Opening in the Dorfman theatre in January is Till the Stars Come Down, a new play by former National Theatre writer-in-residence Beth Steel (The House of Shades) and directed by Bijan Sheibani (Barber Shop Chronicles). Over the course of a hot summer’s day, a family gathers to welcome a newcomer into their midst. But as the vodka flows and dances are shared, passions boil over and the limits of love are tested. This new play is a passionate, heartbreaking and hilarious portrayal of a larger-than-life family struggling to come to terms with a changing world.

Cast includes Lorraine Ashbourne, Lucy Black, Lisa McGrillis, Sinéad Matthews, Derek Riddell, Ruby Stokes, Alan Williams and Marc Wootton.

Directed by Bijan Sheibani, the Set and Costume Designer is Samal Blak, Lighting Designer Paule Constable, Choreographer and Movement Director Aline David, Sound Designer Gareth Fry, Fight Director Kev McCurdy, Intimacy Coordinator Asha Jennings-Grant,Staff Director Stephan Mysko von Schultze and Casting Director Alastair Coomer CDG.

Playing in the Dorfman theatre from 24 January until 16 March.

Underdog: The Other Other Brontë by Sarah Gordon (The Edit) will then play from March 2024, directed by Northern Stage Artistic Director Natalie Ibu (The White Card) in a co-production with Northern Stage.

Winner of the 2020 Nick Darke Writer’s Award, this play is an irreverent retelling of the life and legend of the Brontë sisters, and the story of the sibling power dynamics that shaped their uneven rise to fame. This is not a story about well-behaved women. This is a story about the power of words. It’s about sisters and sisterhood, love and jealousy, support and competition.

Cast includes Rhiannon Clements, Adele James and Gemma Whelan.

Directed by Natalie Ibu, the Set and Costume Designer is Grace Smart, Lighting Designer Zoe Spurr, Sound Designer Alexandra Faye Braithwaite and Casting Director Naomi Downham.

Playing in the Dorfman theatre from 27 March until 25 May.

National Theatre in the West End and on tour

The West End transfer of the critically acclaimed, sold-out production of Dear England is now playing at thePrince Edward Theatre. This new play by James Graham, directed by Rupert Goold, tells the story of the England men’s football team under Gareth Southgate. 

Joseph Fiennes has reprised his role as Gareth Southgate with Dervla Kirwan playing the role of Pippa Grange.

Playing until 13 January.

Following a highly acclaimed tour across the UK and Ireland, the smash-hit production of The Ocean at the End of the Lane has returned to the West End. Based on a best-selling novel by Neil Gaiman, adapted by Joel Horwood and directed by Katy Rudd, this spectacular and thrilling theatrical event is a tour de force of magic and storytelling.

Playing at the Noël Coward Theatre until 25 November.

The hugely celebrated The Motive and the Cue, co-produced with Neal Street Productions, written by Jack Thorne and directed by Sam Mendes, is transferring into the West Endthis winter. Inspired by the making of Richard Burton and Sir John Gielgud’s landmark Broadway production of Hamlet in 1964, this new play offers a glimpse into the politics of a rehearsal room and the relationship between art and celebrity. 

Following a sold-out run at the Lyttelton theatre, Johnny Flynn, Mark Gatiss and Tuppence Middleton will return to play the iconic roles of Richard Burton, John Gielgud and Elizabeth Taylor.

Playing at the Noël Coward Theatre from 9 December until 23 March.

The multi-award-winning Hadestown will make its highly anticipated return to London five years after its sold-out run at the National Theatre in 2018.  Winner of eight Tony-Awards® including ‘Best Musical’ and a Grammy Award® for ‘Best Musical Theatre Album’, Hadestown features music, lyrics and book by Anaïs Mitchell with direction by Rachel Chavkin. 

Hadestown is produced in London by Mara Isaacs, Dale Franzen, Hunter Arnold, Tom Kirdahy and the National Theatre in association with JAS Theatricals.

It makes its West End premiere at the Lyric Theatre from 10 February 2024.

Sheffield Theatres’ production of Standing at the Sky’s Edge,co-produced by the National Theatre and Various Productions, will make its West End debut in 2024. Originally written as a love letter to Sheffield and an ode to the iconic Park Hill Estate, Standing at the Sky’s Edge is directed by Sheffield Theatres’ Artistic Director Robert Hastie and features songs by Richard Hawley with book by Chris Bush. This Olivier Award-winning new British musical is a heartfelt exploration of the power of community and what it is we all call home.

Playing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre from 8 February 2024.

The Lehman Trilogy, co-produced with Neal Street Productions, will open in Sydney and San Francisco in 2024.

In association with Trafalgar Entertainment, this critically acclaimed, five-time Tony Award®-winning epic play by Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power, directed by Academy Award and Tony Award®-winning director Sam Mendes, with set design by Es Devlin will make its Australian premiere at Theatre Royal Sydney.

Playing from 21 February for a strictly limited season with tickets on sale via the venue’s website on 18 October.

The Lehman Trilogy will also visit the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco.

Playing from 25 May until 23 June 2024 at American Conservatory Theater’s Toni Rembe Theater. Tickets are now available to purchase via the venue’s website.

National Theatre Learning 

With National Theatre Learning activity now reaching every local authority across the UK, the National Theatre Collection continues to be a vital digital resource, with 85 per cent of all UK state secondary schools signed up to use the resource in the classroom. 

Ten new titles announced today will be added to the National Theatre Collection in partnership with Bloomsbury Publishing in February 2024, taking the total number of titles available to state schools to stream for free to 70. These new plays are also available to access for free in local libraries across the UK.

The ten new titles are:

• The Wife of Willesden adapted by Zadie Smith and directed by Indhu Rubasingham at Kiln Theatre
• Dylan Thomas’Under Milk Wood directed by Lyndsey Turner,with cast including Michael Sheen
• National Theatre primary schools’ touring production of Hamlet adapted by Jude Christian and directed by Tinuke Craig
• Othello directed by Clint Dyer, with cast including Giles Terera and Rosie McEwan
• Romeo and Julie, a modern love story by Gary Owen and directed by Rachel O’Riordan, with a cast which includes Callum Scott Howells
• New musical Hexbased on ‘Sleeping Beauty’ directed by Rufus Norris with book by Tanya Ronder, music by Jim Fortune and lyrics by Rufus Norris
• The Great Wave by Francis Turnly and directed by Indhu Rubasingham
• Shakespeare’s comedy of love and change As You Like It directed by Polly Findlay
• Dixon and Daughters by Deborah Bruce and directed by Róisín McBrinn in a co-production with Clean Break
• Trouble in Mind by Alice Childress and directed by Nancy Medina

Applications are currently open for teachers take part the National Theatre’s Drama Teacher Conference in February 2024 with workshops and masterclasses from creatives across the industry including Katie Mitchell, Ian Rickson and Gecko Theatre, exploring their new production Kin.

Applications are also open for young people to take part in free In Focus: theatre-making workshops exploring the theatre-making process of upcoming productions.

For more information please visit nationaltheatre.org.uk/learning

“MAMMA MIA!” ANNOUNCES NEW WEST END CAST

FROM MONDAY 9 OCTOBER 2023

AT LONDON’S NOVELLO THEATRE

NEW BOOKING PERIOD TO SATURDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2024

TICKETS ON SALE 10:00 TOMORROW, FRIDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 2023

Ahead of its 25th anniversary on 6 April 2024, producer Judy Craymer is delighted to announce the new cast of the global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! from Monday 9 October 2023 and the extension of its booking period to Saturday 28 September 2024 at London’s Novello Theatre, with tickets on sale at 10am tomorrow, Friday 1 September 2023.

The London cast will continue to star Mazz Murray as Donna, Christopher Dickins as Harry, Stephen Beckett as Bill, Meg Hateley as Sophie and Miles Henderson as Sky, with Jennifer Adab continuing as Donna at certain performances. Jessie Odeleye moves from Ensemble to play the role of Ali. They will be joined on Monday 9 October by Kate Graham (previously played Tanya in London from 2017 to 2019 and most recently played Diane in Come From Away at Phoenix Theatre) as Tanya, Nicola-Dawn Brook (Cirque du Soleil’s Saltimbanco for the European Big Top Tours, Royal Albert Hall and World Arena Tour; West End credits include Copacabana, Fame, Aspects of Love) as Rosie, Haydn Oakley (Lord Evelyn Oakleigh in Anything Goes at Barbican, Joseph/Jesus in The Book of Mormon at Prince of Wales Theatre and Henri Baurel in An American in Paris at Dominion Theatre) as Sam, Olivia Brookes (Glory Ride at The Other Palace and Pretty Woman: The Musical at the Savoy) as Lisa, Chay Wills (The Cher Show UK & Ireland Tour) as Eddie and Arcangelo Ciulla (Newsies at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre) as Pepper.

Also continuing in the cast are Sinéad Courtney and Lawrence Guntert. They will be joined by Aaron Archer, Amy Barker, Matthew Barrow, John-Paul Birss, Daniel J Brian, Izzy Cross, Ellis Dackombe, Lauren Dawes, Léa Desjacques, Samantha Ivey, Jennie Jacobs, Luke Jasztal, Nicole Lupino, Flyn Mullins, Hayley-Jo Murphy, Bradley Perret, Jacob Ritzema and Ella Tweed.

Since premiering in London in 1999, the irresistible feelgood musical has captured the hearts of millions around the globe. The sunny, funny tale of a mother, a daughter and three possible dads on a Greek island idyll, all unfolding to the magic of ABBA’s timeless pop masterpieces, has now been seen live on stage by 65 million people across the world and turned into two record-breaking movies – MAMMA MIA! The Movie and MAMMA MIA! Here We Go Again.

A new TV show, MAMMA MIA! I Have a Dream, will be broadcast on ITV1 later this year, produced by Thames (a Fremantle label) and Littlestar. The competition will culminate in a live, dazzling grand-finale, broadcast from a theatre in London’s West End, where two winners will win the roles of Sophie and Sky in MAMMA MIA! at the Novello Theatre as it celebrates its 25th year.

To date, MAMMA MIA! has been seen in 50 productions in 16 different languages grossing more than $4 billion at the box office. In 2011, it became the first Western musical ever to be staged in Mandarin in the People’s Republic of China.

MAMMA MIA! originally opened in London at the Prince Edward Theatre on 6 April 1999, before transferring to the Prince of Wales Theatre in 2004, and then to the Novello Theatre in 2012. The London production of MAMMA MIA! has been seen by over 10 million people, played over 9,300 performances and has broken box office records in all three of its London homes. It is the third longest running musical in West End history.

Produced by Judy Craymer, MAMMA MIA! The Movie became the highest grossing live action musical film of all time upon its release in 2008. A second film, MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN, opened in July 2018 and is the most successful live musical movie sequel of all time.

With music & lyrics by Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus, MAMMA MIA! is written by Catherine Johnson, directed by Phyllida Lloyd and choreographed by Anthony Van Laast. The production is designed by Mark Thompson, with lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Andrew Bruce & Bobby Aitken, and musical supervision, additional material & arrangements by Martin Koch.

MAMMA MIA! is produced by Judy Craymer, Richard East & Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Novello Theatre

Aldwych

London WC2B 4LD

Ticket Prices: from £17.75*

*All prices include a £2.75 per ticket booking fee and £1.50 restoration levy

Early Bird Pricing – anyone booking 16 weeks or more in advance of the performance they are attending (Monday to Thursday performances only) will save £20 on Band B, Band A and Premium tickets, but only through Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, either online or by calling the Novello Theatre Box Office.

Family Ticket Rate – £199 for a group of four on Band B or Band A tickets (up to a saving of £151), OR £99 for a group of four on Band D and Band C tickets (up to a saving of £111), for Monday to Thursday performances, excluding peak performances, but only through Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, either online or by calling the Novello Theatre Box Office.

Performance Times:

Monday, Wednesdays – Saturdays 7.30pm

Matinees – Thursdays & Saturdays 3.00pm, Sundays 2.30pm*

From Monday 8 January 2024

Monday – Saturday 7.30pm

Matinees – Thursdays & Saturdays 3.00pm*

*Extra 3pm matinee on Monday 2 October, Wednesday 25 October 2023, Wednesday 14 February, Tuesday 9 April, Tuesday 9 July, Tuesday 6 August and Tuesday 20 August 2024; no matinee on Thursday 5 October, Sunday 8 October 2023 and Sunday 7 January 2024.

Christmas 2023/24 Performance Schedule

Monday 18 December 3pm & 7.30pm

Tuesday 19 December NO PERFORMANCE

Wednesday 20 December 7.30pm

Thursday 21 December 3pm & 7.30pm

Friday 22 December 7.30pm

Saturday 23 December 3pm & 7.30pm

Sunday 24 December NO PERFORMANCE

Monday 25 December NO PERFORMANCE

Tuesday 26 December NO PERFORMANCE

Wednesday 27 December 3pm & 7.30pm

Thursday 28 December 3pm & 7.30pm

Friday 29 December 7.30pm

Saturday 30 December 3pm & 7.30pm

Sunday 31 December 2pm

Monday 1 January 7.30pm

Tuesday 2 January NO PERFORMANCE

Wednesday 3 January 3pm & 7.30pm

Thursday 4 January 3pm & 7.30pm

Friday 5 January 7.30pm

Saturday 6 January 3pm & 7.30pm

Currently booking to 28 September 2024

The performance lasts 2 hours and 35 minutes (including a 15-minute interval)

Box Office: 0344 482 5151

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H A R R Y   P O T T E R   A N D   T H E   C U R S E D   C H I L D

PARTS ONE AND TWO

BOOKING EXTENDS TO 29 SEPTEMBER 2024

AS NEW CAST TAKE TO THE STAGE

WWW.HARRYPOTTERTHEPLAY.COM

Today (17 October 2023) the producers of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Sonia Friedman Productions, Colin Callender and Harry Potter Theatrical Productions -are delighted to announce a further booking extension for the original two-part multi award-winning production to 29 September 2024 at London’s Palace Theatre, as the new cast take to the stage for their first performance.

Tickets for the new booking period go on sale from 19 October 2023 and remain priced from £15 per part. In addition to the access performances currently on sale, this booking period includes a Relaxed Performance on 7th June, 2024. The regular performance schedule is as follows – Monday, Tuesday and Thursday – no performance; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 2pm Part One & 7pm Part Two; Sunday – 1pm Part One & 6pm Part Two.

The new cast comprises David Ricardo-Pearce as Harry Potter, Polly Frame playing Ginny Potter and Ellis Rae as their son Albus Potter. Thomas Aldridge continues as Ron Weasley with Jade Ogugua playing Hermione Granger along with Taneetrah Porter as their daughter Rose Granger-Weasley. Steve John Shepherd plays Draco Malfoy, with Harry Acklowe as his son Scorpius Malfoy. 

They are joined by Ishmail Aaron, David Annen, Nairn Archer, Darrell Brockis, Sabina Cameron, Robert Curtis, Toby De Salis, Odelia Dizel-Cubuca, Rory Fraser, Jemma Geanaus, Harry Goodson-Bevan, Jemma Gould, Kelton Hoyland, David Ijiti, Chris Jarman, Sally Jayne Hind, Emma Louise Jones, Kathryn Meisle, Ian Redford, Abigail Rosser, Clancy Ryan, Tonny Shim, Adam Slynn, Sara Stewart, Benjamin Stratton, Maia Tamrakar, Alex Tomkins, Jake Tuesley, Sam Varley, Jess Vickers, Wreh-asha Walton, Katie Wimpenny. Benedict Archer, Jonah Haas, Honor Hastings, Delilah O’Riordan, Jude Parry, Jojo Perez Hoadley and Isabella Woodman alternate two children’s roles.

19 years after Harry, Ron, and Hermione saved the wizarding world, they’re back on a most extraordinary new adventure – this time, joined by a brave new generation that has only just arrived at the legendary Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Prepare for spectacular spells, a mind-blowing race through time, and an epic battle to stop mysterious forces, all while the future hangs in the balance.

Now in its 8^th year, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has been seen by over 1.5 million patrons at the Palace Theatre, home of the original production.

Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a new play by Jack Thorne, directed by John Tiffany with movement by Steven Hoggett, set by Christine Jones, costumes by Katrina Lindsay, music & arrangements by Imogen Heap, lighting by Neil Austin, sound by Gareth Fry, illusions & magic by Jamie Harrison,music supervision & arrangements by Martin Lowe, and casting by Julia Horan CDG and Lotte Hines CDG. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, Colin Callender and Harry Potter Theatrical Productions.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the first Harry Potter story to be presented on stage and the eighth story in the Harry Potter series, has sold over 10 million tickets worldwide since its world premiere in London in July 2016 and holds a record 60 major honors, with nine Laurence Olivier Awards including Best New Play and six Tony Awards including Best New Play. This summer, the international phenomenon celebrated its seventh year with four productions running worldwide in London, New York, Hamburg, and Tokyo. 

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Access performances:

Audio Described – Saturday 16 March 2024

British Sign Language – Saturday 4 November 2023 & Saturday 23 March 2024

Captioned Performances – Saturday 27 January 2024 & Saturday 11 May 2024

Relaxed performance – 7 June 2024

AUDRA MCDONALD, JULIAN OVENDEN,

MARISHA WALLACE AND PATRICK WILSON

ARE THE FIRST FOUR HEADLINE ARTISTS ANNOUNCED FOR

MY FAVORITE THINGS:

THE RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN

80^TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

WITH 40-PIECE ORCHESTRA

AT LONDON’S THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY ON DECEMBER 12, 2023

The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization today announce that Emmy^®, two-time GRAMMY^® and six-time Tony Award^® winner Audra McDonald, Olivier Award^® nominee Julian Ovenden, Olivier Award nominee Marisha Wallace, and two-time Tony, two-time Golden Globe^® and Emmy Awardnominee Patrick Wilson are the first four leading names to be revealed forthe previously announced My Favorite Things: The Rodgers & Hammerstein 80th Anniversary Concert. Featuring a 40-piece orchestra, the gala will be presented onDecember 12, 2023, at London’s newly restored Theatre Royal Drury Lane – the same venue that premiered the original West End productions of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, and The King and I. Additional headliners will be announced shortly.

All the announced stars have deep connections to R&H. Highlights include: McDonald won her first Tony Award for her portrayal of Carrie Pipperidge in the 1994 Broadway revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel; Ovenden received a 2023 Olivier Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical for his Emile de Becque in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific; Wallace’s performance of Ado Annie in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! at the Young Vic garnered her a 2023 Olivier Award nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role in a Musical; and Wilson received a Tony Award nomination for leading the 2002 Broadway revival of Oklahoma! as Curly.

Directed and staged by Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Christopher Gattelli, the celebration of the historic partnership of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II will feature the Rodgers & Hammerstein Concert Orchestra, conducted by Simon Lee, along with a West End chamber choir, dance ensemble and surprise guest appearances. Artist lineup subject to change.

Tickets are currently on sale at RH80Concert.com.

Presented by The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization, the concert is produced by Concord Originals, Concord Theatricals, Kilimanjaro Live/JAS Theatricals and Trafalgar Entertainment.

BIOGRAPHIES

Richard Rodgers & Oscar Hammerstein II

After long and highly distinguished careers with other collaborators, Richard Rodgers (Composer, 1902-79) and Oscar Hammerstein II (Librettist/Lyricist, 1895-1960) joined forces in 1943 to create the most successful partnership in American Musical Theatre. Prior to joining forces, Rodgers collaborated with lyricist Lorenz Hart on musical comedies that epitomized wit and sophistication (Pal Joey, On Your Toes, Babes In Arms and more), while Hammerstein brought new life to operetta and created the classic Show Boat with Jerome Kern. Oklahoma!, the first Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, introduced an integrated form that became known as “the musical play.” Their shows that followed included Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I and The Sound of Music. Collectively, the Rodgers & Hammerstein musicals have earned Tony, Oscar, GRAMMY, Emmy, Pulitzer, and Olivier Awards. The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization is a Concord Company, www.concord.com.

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Audra McDonald is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry as both a singer and an actor. The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two GRAMMY Awards and an Emmy, in 2015 she was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people and received the National Medal of Arts – America’s highest honor for achievement in the field – from President Barack Obama. In addition to her Tony-winning performances in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel, Master Class, Ragtime, A Raisin in the Sun, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess and Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill – the role that also served as the vehicle for her Olivier Award-nominated 2017 debut in London’s West End – she has appeared on Broadway in The Secret Garden; Marie Christine (Tony nomination); Henry IV; 110 in the Shade (Tony nomination); Shuffle Along, or, The Making of the Musical Sensation of 1921 and All That Followed; Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune (Tony nomination); and Ohio State Murders (Tony nomination).

On television, she was seen by millions as the Mother Abbess in NBC’s “The Sound of Music Live!,” won an Emmy Award for her role as host of PBS’s “Live From Lincoln Center,” and received Emmy nominations for Wit, A Raisin in the Sun and Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill. Having played Dr. Naomi Bennett on Shonda Rhimes’s “Private Practice” (ABC), and Liz Reddick (formerly Lawrence) on both “The Good Wife” (CBS) and “The Good Fight” (Paramount+), she may now be seen as Dorothy Scott on Julian Fellowes’ “The Gilded Age” (HBO). On film, she has appeared in Seven Servants, The Object of My Affection, Cradle Will Rock, It Runs in the Family, The Best Thief in the World, She Got Problems, Rampart, Ricki and the Flash, Disney’s live-action Beauty and the Beast,the movie-musical Hello Again, Cinergistik’s documentary Whitney Houston in Focus, the Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions’ Rustin, and MGM’s Aretha Franklin biopic, Respect.

McDonald is a Juilliard-trained soprano, whose opera credits include La voix humaine and Send at Houston Grand Opera, and Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny at Los Angeles Opera, where the resulting recording earned her two GRAMMY Awards. She has issued five solo albums on the Nonesuch label as well as Sing Happy with the New York Philharmonic on Decca Gold. She also maintains a major career as a concert artist, regularly appearing on the great stages of the world, and with leading international orchestras. She is a founding member of Black Theatre United, board member of Covenant House International, and prominent advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, whose favorite roles are those performed offstage, as an activist, wife to actor Will Swenson and mother.

Julian Ovenden has built a reputation over the last two decades as a truly versatile performer in constant demand on stage and screen, in concert and in the recording studio.

Theatre work includes leading roles at the Donmar Warehouse, the Almeida, the Theatre Royal Haymarket, the Young Vic, the RSC, Roundabout Theatre Company in NYC, and in the West End and on Broadway. Most recent stage work includes starring opposite Gillian Anderson in Ivo Van Hove’s All About Eve, and playing Emile de Becque in the smash hit revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific, directed by Daniel Evans at Chichester Festival and Sadler’s Wells, for which he was nominated for the 2023 Olivier Award for Leading Actor in a Musical.

Julian has starred in many TV shows on both sides of the Atlantic, including “Downton Abbey,” “Foyle’s War,” “Person of Interest,” “Any Human Heart,” “Knightfall,” “Smash,” “The Crown,” “The Sound of Music Live” and “Adult Material.” Recent screen work includes the second season of Armando Ianucci’s “Avenue 5”for HBO, the global hit “Bridgerton” for Netflix and Shonda Rimes, and The People You Hate At The Wedding for Amazon. Julian has just begun to film the second season of “Trigger Point” for ITV and Jed Mercurio.

As a singer, Julian has headlined at some of the world’s great venues, including Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Sydney Opera House, the Royal Opera House, the Concertgebouw, the Palladium, the Royal Albert Hall and the Royal Festival Hall. He has been a recording artist for both Warner Music and Universal. His latest recording work includes a Broadway duets album with American soprano Sierra Boggess, and Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel for John Wilson and the London Sinfonia.

Olivier nominated actress, singer and songwriter Marisha Wallace is a Broadway and West End sensation. She’s best known for starring in Guys & Dolls, Disney’s Aladdin, Dreamgirls, Something Rotten!, Waitress, Hairspray and most recently taking on the role of Ado Annie in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! at the Young Vic, where she was nominated for an Olivier Award. Marisha is currently starring in Guys & Dolls where she received five-star reviews as Miss Adelaide. 

She’s topped the music charts with her cover of Annie’s “Tomorrow,” released at the peak of the pandemic to raise funds for performers out of work and been playlisted on Radio 2 with her singles and subsequent album. Marisha took her album and EPs around the UK and the US with the Tomorrow tour. The tour was rated top 10 best concert in Minneapolis along with Harry Styles and Erykah Badu. 

Marking her TV debut in 2021, Marisha starred in season two of Netflix’s “Feel Good” alongside Mae Martin, Lisa Kudrow and Eve, and in CBBC’s “Almost Never.” This added to an already incredible 12 months for Marisha where she fronted a Charlotte Tilbury campaign, performed on “This Morning” to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride, had Radio 2’s Album of the Week, performed on “Strictly Come Dancing,” “Dancing on Ice,” “Britain’s Got Talent” and sang for the Queen at the Royal Variety Show and Festival of Remembrance.  

Patrick Wilson is a critically acclaimed and award-winning actor who has quickly become well known for his vast variety of work. Over the years, Wilson has tackled lead roles in major Broadway musicals as well as starring in big-budget blockbusters.

He starred in the global sensation Aquaman, directed by James Wan. Wilson portrayed ORM, Aquaman’s (Jason Momoa) supervillain half-brother. The film was released in December 2018, with the box office surpassing $1 billion.

Patrick is widely acclaimed for his role of Ed Warren in The Conjuring franchise. The Conjuring is one of the top 5 highest grossing supernatural films of all time. The Conjuring 2 released in 2016 and grossed an impressive $40 million in its opening weekend. The Conjuring 3 (The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It) was released in May 2021.

Most recently, Patrick made his directorial debut as well as starring in Insidious 5 (Insidious: The Red Door), which became the highest grossing film in the franchise. Also set to come out this year, Wilson will return in the highly anticipated sequel Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Further down the line in 2024, the 4^th Conjuring movie, The Conjuring: Last Rites, is set to be released. You can also anticipate seeing Wilson in Tunnels, directed by John Krokidas, which he will be starring in alongside Jaeden Martell, Alicia Silverstone and Anna Faris.

Additional film credits include Moonfall, Midway, In The Tall Grass, Annabelle Comes Home, The Nun, The Commuter, The Founder, A Kind of Murder, The Hollow Point, Bone Tomahawk, Zipper, Home Sweet Hell, Matters of the Heart, Jack Strong, Big Stone Gap, Stretch, Space Station 76, Insidious: Chapter 2, Insidious, Prometheus, Young Adult, The Ledge, Morning Glory, The Switch, The A-Team, Barry Munday, Watchmen, Life in Flight, Passengers, Lakeview Terrace, Purple Violets, Brothers Three: An American Gothic, Little Children, Running with Scissors, Hard Candy, The Phantom of the Opera, The Alamo and My Sister’s Wedding.

In 2015, Wilson garnered Critics’ Choice and Golden Globe nominations for Best Actor in a Limited Series for his portrayal as Lou Solverson in the hit TV series “Fargo.”Also on the small screen, Wilson received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for his portrayal of the morally conflicted Joe Pitt in the HBO miniseries “Angels In America: Millennium Approaches,” the much honored 2003 adaptation of Tony Kushner’s award-winning “Angels In America: Perestroika.”He also starred in “A Gifted Man,” and the second season of the award-winning HBO original series “Girls.” The episode, “One Man’s Trash,” became one of the most talked about episodes of the show’s history, as well as one of the most watched episodes of the season. Additional television credits include appearances in “The Other Two,” “Little Demon” and “Teen Titans, Go!”

Wilson has also been honored with two consecutive Tony Award nominations for Best Actor in a Musical, one for his performance as Curly in the successful 2002 Broadway revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!, for which he also received a Drama Desk Award nomination. He earned his first Tony nomination for his work in the 2001 Broadway hit The Full Monty, for which he also garnered Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Award nominations and won a Drama League Award. In 2006, he returned to Broadway to star in the revival of the Neil Simon comedy Barefoot in the Park, opposite Amanda Peet. His most recent Broadway credit is the 2008-2009 revival of Arthur Miller’s All My Sons, with John Lithgow, Dianne West and Katie Holmes.

Wilson, along with other film industry insiders, have formed a theatre development company named Cinema Lab, which will focus on the restoration of theatres impacted by the pandemic. The group plans to buy, renovate and revive theatres across the U.S.

Born in Virginia and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, Wilson earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Carnegie Mellon University. Starting his career on the stage, he earned applause in the national tours of Miss Saigon and Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel. In 1999, he starred Off-Broadway in Bright Lights, Big City, winning a Drama League Award and a Drama Desk Award nomination. That same year, he made his Broadway debut in Gershwin’s Fascinating Rhythm, for which he won another Drama League Award.

Patrick currently resides in New Jersey with his family.

Awkward Productions present festive frolic
Gwyneth Goes Skiing at The Pleasance
Wednesday 13th – Saturday 23rd December 2023

Awkward Productions will transform London’s Pleasance Theatre into a snowy winter wonderland this Christmas for Gwyneth Goes Skiing. This brand-new show from the harbingers of queer chaos is a story of justice, betrayal, optometry and, somehow, Christmas. It recounts the biggest case to rock the legal world since Vardy vs Rooney. You’ve had Wagatha Christie – get ready for Gwagatha Christmas. This show makes the audience the jury, asking them to decide who’s guilty and who’s gooped.

Gwyneth Goes Skiing stars Linus Karp as the Goop-founding, Door-Sliding, Shakespeare InLoving, consciously-uncoupling Hollywood superstar Gwyneth Paltrow, and Joseph Martin as her nemesis, Terry Sanderson, a retired Optometrist from Utah. Karp and Martin have worked together many times as a producing/writing duo, but Gwyneth Goes Skiing marks the first time they will perform opposite one another.

This camp seasonal spectacular recounts Gwyneth and Terry’s fateful collision in 2016 on the slopes of Deer Valley and the court case seven years later that enthralled the world. Gwyneth Goes Skiing features a whole lot of fiction, a sprinkling of verbatim lines from court transcripts and original music by Leland (RuPaul’s Drag Race; Cher’s Christmas; Troye Sivan’s Something To Give Each Other). Audiences are advised that Gwyneth Goes Skiing is BYOJE (bring your own jade eggs).

Awkward Productions comment, We are gagged and gooped to be bringing you our take on the cultural phenomenon that was Gwyneth in court. Combining Christmas cheer and queer joy, we can’t wait to share the wildest and most ridiculous show we’ve ever created. See you in court. Awkward Productions have developed a reputation for outrageous, hilarious cult-hit shows including Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story and how to live a jellicle life: life lessons from the 2019 hit movie musical ‘Cats’. Karp and Martin’s award-winning work has been called an outrageous triumph by Edgar Wright, hilarious, joyful and ridiculous to the point of sublime by Deborah Frances White and repellent trash by The Daily Mail.

EXCLUSIVE LIVE MUSIC SESSIONS ANNOUNCED FOR

NUTCRACKER NIGHTS

AT THE TUFF NUTT JAZZ CLUB, SOUTHBANK CENTRE

• FIRST TEN NUTCRACKER NIGHTS AT THE TUFF NUTT JAZZ CLUB ANNOUNCED FEATURING CELEBRATED UP AND COMING JAZZ ARTISTS FROM TOMORROW’S WARRIORS AND SEASONED PROFESSIONALS BEN BROWN, MARCIO PHILOMENA, LULU PIERRE AND INEZA & WOMEN’S WORDS, SISTERS’ STORIES

• FOLLOWING PERFORMANCES OF NUTCRACKER THURSDAY-SUNDAY FROM 9 NOVEMBER, AUDIENCES ARE INVITED TO JOIN INTIMATE AND EXCLUSIVE LIVE MUSIC SESSIONS IN LONDON’S HOTTEST NEW POP-UP VENUE, THE TUFF NUTT JAZZ CLUB AT THE SOUTHBANK CENTRE

• NUTCRACKER IS DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY OLIVIER AWARD WINNER DREW MCONIE WITH TCHAIKOVSKY’S SCORE REIMAGINED BY MERCURY MUSIC PRIZE NOMINATED CASSIE KINOSHI

• PREVIEWS BEGIN ON 28 OCTOBER WITH GALA NIGHT ON 4 NOVEMBER

• TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR MCONIE COMPANY’S NUTCRACKER.  NUTCRACKER NIGHTS ON GENERAL SALE FROM WEDNESDAY 18 OCTOBER

Underbelly, Francesca Moody Productions and Southbank Centre with Rachel Edwards and Winkler Smalberg, today announce the first ten Nutcracker Nights at the Tuff Nutt Jazz Club, featuring the brightest emerging jazz artists from Tomorrow’s Warriors and seasoned professionals Ben Brown, Marcio Philomena, Lulu Pierre and Ineza & Women’s Words, Sisters’ Stories.

Nutcracker Nights is a series of live sessions from leading jazz and music artists. Following  performances of The McOnie Company’s Nutcracker, Thursday – Sunday from 9 November, audiences are invited to continue a fun and festive evening at the Tuff Nutt Jazz Club, London’s hottest new pop-up venue, putting audiences at the centre of one of the coolest jazz clubs in town.

The producers of Nutcracker are delighted to be working in collaboration with the Southbank Centre’s long-term partner Tomorrow’s Warriors, a pioneering talent development organisation, creative producer, learning and training provider, giving a platform to some of their astonishing jazz musicians.

A Black-led organisation founded in 1991 by Janine Irons OBE and Gary Crosby OBE, Tomorrow’s Warriors plays a vital role in the UK music scene, pushing young talent to the forefront of the vibrant UK jazz scene and supporting those from challenging circumstances.

Gary Crosby OBE Co-Founder of Tomorrow’s Warriors Said: “We’re incredibly excited to see the creation of a pop-up venue beneath the Southbank Centre that is dedicated to jazz. We can’t wait to see the new interpretation of the Nutcracker and are delighted that audiences will also be able to catch some of Tomorrow’s Warriors’ finest young emerging artists as part of the programme.”

Mark Ball, Artistic Director of the Southbank Centre, said: “This series of late night live sessions will offer Nutcracker audiences something completely unique in our new pop-up venue – the Tuff Nutt Jazz Club. Through our long-standing partnership, Tomorrow’s Warriors have become  part of the Southbank Centre’s DNA, and we’re proud to be collaborating with them to platform the next generation of jazz stars as part of this new performance work.

Nutcracker Nights will be featured as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival, 10 – 19 November 2023.

Further Nutcracker Nights to be announced. Admission for Nutcracker Nights is included in tickets purchased for Nutcracker. A small number of additional tickets will be available online on the Southbank Centre’s website and on the door.

The world premiere production of Nutcracker is directed and choreographed by Olivier Award winner Drew McOnie. This new version of the festive classic is playful, mischievous and a lot of fun. Dive into a glittering wonderland head on and prepare to reimagine everything with a jazz infused twist.

The McOnie Company’s Nutcracker is a thrilling reinvention of the timeless holiday classic.

Tchaikovsky’s world-famous score is reimagined by multi award-winning jazz artist Cassie Kinoshi for a swinging onstage jazz band, with dancers moving in and amongst the cabaret style seating bringing the storytelling and wild-spirited adventure of the Nutcracker to life.

The cast for Nutcracker includes Amonik Melaco (Action Man), Sam Salter (Clive) and Patricia Zhou (Sugarplum) with Chanelle Anthony, Christie Crosson, Tim Hodges, Lukas Hunt and Rachel Muldoon. 

Nutcracker will be composed by Cassie Kinoshi with additional music by Rio Kai, venue and set design by Soutra Gilmour, costume design by Ryan Dawson Laight, music supervision by Benjamin Kwasi Burrell, lighting design by Joshie Hariette, sound design by Simon Baker, and casting by Will Burton.

Nutcracker is a McOnie Company production produced by Underbelly, Francesca Moody Productions and Southbank Centre with Rachel Edwards and Winkler Smalberg.

DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND MUSICAL THEATRE RAVES ANNOUNCES MORE

2024 UK TOUR DATES

Due to popular demand, Musical Theatre Raves has added more dates for its 2024 tour!

Following its initial launch at the end of 2021, Aunty Willy’s Musical Theatre Raves will continue to bring stagey nights to a club near you! The “raves” feature cameo and guest appearances by West End and touring stars, alongside musical theatre-themed DJ sets and lip sync battles and fans are encouraged to attend in fancy dress.

For more information and to book tickets https://bit.ly/45AqqOe

Founder, Willy said today: “It’s fantastic that so many of our early dates are selling out and we are delighted that we have now added in more dates for next summer and beyond. The nights are going to fan favourite spots and travelling to places we haven’t been before and I’m very proud to see them travel”. 

2024 dates confirmed include: 

January 13th – The Liquid Room in Edinburgh – SOLD OUT

February 14th – Club Revenge in Brighton

March 2nd – JUNIOR 13-17 Peckham Levels

April 5th – AXM Glasgow in Glasgow

April 6th – AXM Glasgow in Glasgow – SOLD OUT

April 28th – Heaven in London

June 16th – Heaven in London

June 28th – Kremlin in Belfast

July 6th – Exeter Phoenix in Exeter

July 19th – Thekla Boat Party in Bristol

August 17th – Warehouse in Leeds

August 18th – Heaven in London

September 5th – Digital in Newcastle

September 28th – Camp and Furnace in Liverpool

October 31st – The Church in Manchester

December 8th – Heaven in London 

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/aunty-willy-presents-musical-theatre-raves-2460069

Tiktok: MusicalTheatreRaves

Instagram: MusicalTheatreRaves

Facebook: Musical Theatre Raves

In a ground-breaking initiative from Ardent Theatre Company, 40 young acting graduates from working class backgrounds across the UK auditioned for the opportunity to become part of the Ardent8 ensemble…Cast announced for the premiere of
BEYOND OURSELVES
created for the Ardent8 Ensemble and written by Andrew Muir

UNION THEATRE
7 November 2023 – 12 November 2023

In a ground-breaking initiative from Ardent Theatre Company, 40 young acting graduates from working class backgrounds across the UK auditioned for the opportunity to become part of the Ardent8 ensemble – an 18-month engagement involving participation in 10 industry led workshops and a two-week London based residency culminating in the production of a new play written for them by Andrew Muir.

With an Equity agreed paid contract this is a wonderful showcase and opportunity they wouldn’t otherwise get.

In September 2022, the eight selected participants, selected from De Montfort University Leicester, Manchester Metropolitan University and Bournemouth & Poole College took part in the first of 10 workshops.

‘Beyond Ourselves’ at the Union Theatre from, 7 November 2023 – 12 November 2023, is the play created for the Ardent8 Ensemble and written by Andrew Muir which aims a spotlight on the current state of our creative industry for those young graduates wishing to make a career out of it. The obstacles they face and the drive and determination to overcome them. A dream turned sour and then turned sweet again with the help of a song, a prop and a touch of rouge, this story aims to ignite the flame that is so often blown out.

A group of recent performing arts graduates take over an empty space with the intention of creating something. Anything, it doesn’t matter. A moment that can be shared with an audience if in fact any audience ever turns up to see it. But should that matter? Is art created for an audience or for the artist themselves?

Cast:
Jacob Rayner Blair
Callum Diaz
Eddie Drummond
Danielle Laurence
Caoimhe Mackin
Thoma O’Neill
India Pignatiello
Annabel Worsfold

Creative team:
Director Andrew Muir
Lighting Designer Charlie Speck
Stage Manager Chloe Brown
Social Media Manager Gigi Pacifico

ABOUT ARDENT8

We discover 8 emerging actors from across the UK Manchester, Leicester, Bournemouth and beyond! Our mission is to offer opportunities to those in need. We bring these talented individuals to London, opening doors to countless possibilities. We are bringing outsiders in.

We believe theatre should be for everyone, irrespective of their background or economic
circumstances. We believe artists deserve fair pay based on industry-recognised rates. We believe theatre can be a vehicle for change, where we challenge or deepen our understanding of the world. We believe in bringing outsiders in.

Ardent seeks fresh talent yearly, specifically scouting young graduate actors outside London. We provide opportunities beyond traditional paths, breaking down barriers of class and social divides. We give these eight actors a taste of the real acting world by providing ten professional workshops, preparing them for a week-long performance in a prestigious London theatre. The play, tailored for and inspired by them, is written by Andrew Muir.  

Before signing their contracts, the Ardent8 undergo session with a representative from Actors Equity to gain insights into industry standards, contractual obligations, and tips for navigating the professional acting world. This prepares them with valuable knowledge and a clear understanding of the expectations of their commitment.

Ardent8 is a game-changer for young actors, giving their voices the spotlight they deserve! Passionate about inclusivity, Ardent8 breaks down barriers for outsiders-those often sidelined in society. Through compelling stories and a commitment to emerging talent, especially from outside London, they’re reshaping the theatre scene. Join Ardent8 in creating a space where nobody feels like an outsider.

Ardent Theatre Company
presents

Beyond Ourselves

A new piece of work created
for the Ardent8 Ensemble
and written by Andrew Muir

Tuesday 7 – Sunday 12 November

Union Theatre
229 Union St,
London
SE1 0LX
www.uniontheatre.biz

Tue 7th 7:30pm
Wed 8th 7:30pm
Thu 9th 2:00pm
7:30pm
Fri 10th 7:30pm
Sat 11th 2:00pm
Sun 12th 2:00pm

Tickets:

£10.00 (£8 concs)

Social media:

Website
https://www.ardenttheatre.co.uk

Twitter:
@ardenttheatre

Facebook:
ardenttheatrecompany

Instagram:
ardenttheatre

Government must fund theatre visit for every child before they leave school, call Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre  

·         Today, Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre launch the “Theatre for Every Child campaign” ahead of the next general election. They are asking for politicians to commit that every child will attend the theatre before they leave school. 

·         This ambitious yet deliverable campaign was launched today at an event attended by actors Charlie Russell, Luke Thompson and Nancy Zamit, writer Lolita Chakrabarti, and politicians Baroness Christine Blower and Barbara Keely MP 

All children have the right to experience our country’s world-leading theatre sector. The benefits are far reaching – it enhances children’s educational attainment and wellbeing¹, addresses skills shortages in the theatre sector² and boosts the economy³. 

But access is unequal. Children from low-income families are missing out the most because they are less likely to have access to cultural experiences outside of school.⁴ The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has also led to teachers and parents reporting a reduction in school trips of up to 68% compared to last year, which includes theatre visits.^{5 6} 

Ahead of the next general election in 2024, the Theatre for Every Child campaign asks all political parties to commit to fund a theatre visit for every child before they leave school. A pledge supported by 84 percent of parents.⁷ 

The campaign was launched at an event on stage at London Palladium with campaign supporters, including the following, who said:   

Co-CEO of SOLT & UK Theatre, Claire Walker: 

“We believe every child has the right to experience and enjoy our country’s world-leading theatre. Despite amazing work that theatres do up and down the country, access is not equal. This is not right. Which is why we are calling on all political parties to support our call for every child to attend the theatre before they leave school.” 

Fozia Nisar, Deputy Head at Montgomery Primary Academy,and a member of The Birmingham Hippodrome Education Network which is made up of 44 of the most economically and culturally deprived schools in the Birmingham region reaching over 40,000 young people each year, spoke at the event and adds: 

“As a mother and as an educator I stand firm that the key to unlocking minds is through artistic exposure: music, dance, acting are all fundamental to a child’s emotional journey and senses whereby they can explore a plethora of feelings in the safety of a theatre platform.” 

Luke Thompson, actor and campaign supporter:  

“I was lucky to be taken to the theatre by my school when I was growing up. It’s an exciting and enlightening experience, which can stay with you for a very long time, no matter what you want to do when you grow up. I am passionate about ensuring that every child can have the same opportunities I did. That is why I support the Theatre For Every Child campaign.” 

Lolita Chakrabarti, actor, writer and campaign supporter: 

“Theatre changes lives. It encourages empathy and widens our understanding of ourselves in the world. Every child should experience the transformative effects of going to the theatre. A Theatre Fund would guarantee minimum equal access, which can only benefit every child and in the end, the whole of society.” 

Hull City Hall – until 17th October 2023

Reviewed by Dawn Bennett

5*****

Concrete Youth production of The Whispering Jungle is in association with Mercury Theatre, Colchester and supported by Arts Council England, Hull City Council and Back to Ours.

I reviewed Concrete Youth’s last production called To the Moon and Back and I did wonder how they would be able to do the same high level of show that I saw last time. I needn’t have worried … they were absolutely brilliant!

Concrete Youth provide shows for people who are labelled with having Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD). The shows are multi-sensory and are also signed in Makaton. The cast Ewan S Pires (Turtle), Laura Kaye Thomson (Bird), Finn Kebbe (Monkey) and accompanied by Frew (who was also the Music, lyrics and Musical Director) on keyboard all played their parts brilliantly. This multi-talented cast also played guitar, double base and their singing, acting and beautiful harmonies were fabulous.

The set is simple but lovely and very effective, muted greens of the jungle and bright coloured flowers. The audience sits within the speakers so we were surrounded by the sounds of the ocean, the jungle and the animals within it.

The story is of Bird, Monkey and Turtle living in the jungle together and how they are all friends. We meet all the animals individually the cast bring the puppet animals to meet the audience and we were all encouraged to touch and interact with them. From Birds plumage and beak, Turtles shell and head and Monkeys fur and hands. It was lovely to watch the audience interact with the puppets and they really loved the bubble machine!

The animals then lose their home when the men in hard hats come and chop down all the trees and the story then shows us how the animals cope with the change and how home isn’t a place it is where your family and friends are.

This production is beautifully done, it’s thought provoking and it is one of the best pieces of inclusive theatre I have had the pleasure to watch.