Theatre Royal Windsor – until Saturday 18^th November 2023

Reviewed by Ben Jolly

4****

Over at the Theatre Royal Windsor, the holiday season has officially commenced; kicking off is the now-annual outing of Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol – On Air. TRW has now largely become associated with the radio play format staging several productions each year. It is both an economical and thoroughly entertaining device used for storytelling – one that I am surprised isn’t used more often across the country. With little rehearsal time and just a week of performances, the theatre is able to secure highly sought after actors to play these formidable roles between other work commitments.  

The set-up is always faithful to previous incarnations, we begin in a period styled BBC Radio sound studio with the cast dressed in 1950s attire (well, for this Christmas production the ’50s-era ensemble have been asked to attend the broadcast in vintage Victorian costume pieces!) The stage, decked with Christmas tree and period streetlamp sets the scene, tantalising the senses, it prompts an audible “ahhhh” from the audience. Entering one by one, the cast prepare themselves for the live broadcast, perpetual anticipation lingers in the air as we begin our journey through the radio waves…  

This piece remains faithful to the original story, but like all adaptions has its own voice. Directed by Roy Marsden, who also takes the role of Scrooge himself, the staging is much more visual than previous On Air productions. There’s even a nod to costume and some minor choreography, just enough to suggest staging without there being too much to distract. Marsden’s Scrooge is subtler than some have chosen to play the miserable miser; glossing over some of the most famous lines of the piece, Marsden commands an audience to lean in and keenly listen to the speech. This isn’t a Scrooge for the masses, it is an intimate, underlying portrayal of a man’s confrontation with his past, present and future.  

Ashley D Gale’s scrumptious character work goes down extremely well, he tackles a multitude of characters from Marley to Fezziwig with charisma and individuality. Playing both the mystical Ghost of Christmas Past and Mrs Cratchit, Jenny Seagrove is back home at TRW showing us you can have a heart of gold and be hard as nails in the same beat!  

With London’s count of various incarnations of this classic Christmas story reaching double figures, it’s a wonder what will draw audiences to one over the other. The truth is that a great story, like a well written song can be told in so many ways, like Shakespeare we can always find more, always find something new to take away. With TRW’s radio play format, this production induces imagination and these legendary characters come back to life again for another year. We end the evening led by the charming Leon Ockenden in a few rousing verses of classic Christmas carols. A Christmas Carol – on Air is the perfect aperitif for the festive season, but if you’re planning on attending, be sure to “Sing out, Louise!” or should that be Marley? 

IAN MCKELLEN IS FALSTAFF IN

ROBERT ICKE’S PRODUCTION OF

PLAYER KINGS

ADAPTED FROM SHAKESPEARE’S HENRY IV, PARTS 1 & 2

Ambassador Theatre Group Productions today announce Player Kings, adapted by Robert Icke from William Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2. Icke directs Ian McKellen as John Falstaff, with further casting to be announced.

The production runs at the Noël Coward Theatre, 1 April – 22 June 2024, with previews at New Wimbledon Theatre, 1 March – 9 March 2024, and Manchester Opera House, 14 – 23 March 2024.

Robert Icke said today, “It’s a genuine honour to work with one of our greatest Shakespearean actors, Ian McKellen, especially as he tackles one of the most iconic Shakespearean roles – and one he’s previously never turned his hand to. It’s an exciting challenge to bring together two of Shakespeare’s plays into one production, and I’m so excited to share Player Kings with audiences in the West End and across the country. I’m also thrilled that we’ll have at least 60 dedicated £30 tickets for those under 30 at every performance, including in some prime spots in the auditorium.”

Ian McKellen also commented, “I decided to become a professional actor at Cambridge in 1959, when I was in John Barton’s undergraduate production of Henry IV. Derek Jacobi played Prince Hal and I was the ancient Justice Shallow. Ever since, the plays have been among my favourite Shakespeares, although through the years I’ve resisted offers to play John Falstaff. Robert Icke’s ingenious adaptation was irresistible.”

Across the three venues there will be 8,000 tickets at £30 or under exclusively for under 30s – with at least 60 tickets available for every performance located across all levels of the auditorium. Available to book from general on sale via www.playerkingstheplay.co.uk.

Tickets for New Wimbledon Theatre and Manchester Opera House are available to ATG+ members today, Wednesday 15 November at 12pm; with general booking open from tomorrow, Thursday 16 November at 10am.

Tickets for Noël Coward Theatre will be available to DMT+ Priority on Monday 20 November at 10am, and those signed up for priority booking at 12pm; general booking opens Tuesday 21 November at 10am.

Find out more and sign up for priority booking access at www.playerkingstheplay.co.uk

Ambassador Theatre Group Productions, Gavin Kalin Productions and No Guarantees present

PLAYER KINGS

Based on William Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2

Adapted and Directed by Robert Icke

Designer: Hildegard Bechtler; Lighting Designer: Lee Curran; Sound Designer: Gareth Fry;

Casting Director: Julia Horan; Fight Director: Kev McCurdy

Ian McKellen – ‘one of the world’s greatest actors’ (Times) – plays Falstaff in a new version of Shakespeare’s Henry IV, adapted by the award-winning writer and director Robert Icke. 

A divided country, leadership crumbling, corruption in the air. Welcome to England. 

Hal wasn’t born to be king. Only now, it seems, he will be. His father longs for him to leave behind his friends in the taverns of Eastcheap, most notably the infamous John Falstaff. War is on the horizon. But will Hal ever come good?

Bringing together Shakespeare’s two great history plays (Henry IV, parts 1 and 2), Player Kings will reign over London’s West End for twelve weeks only – playing at the Noël Coward Theatre from April 2024.

Ian McKellen plays John Falstaff. He first acted at school and with amateur groups in the north of England, where he was born and brought up. He studied English at Cambridge University and, since 1961, has worked non-stop in the British theatre. He has been leading man and produced plays, modern and classic, for the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre of Great Britain and in the West End of London.

He was in the first production of Martin Sherman’s sensational Bent and in premières of plays by Arnold Wesker, Peter Shaffer, Michael Frayn, Alan Ayckbourn, Mark Ravenhill and currently Ben Wetherill (Frank and Percy). Of late he has starred in Waiting for Godot and No Man’s Land (with Patrick Stewart) and as Mother Goose in Jonathan Harvey’s pantomime. As Salieri in Amadeus he won every available award on Broadway.

In Shakespeare he has triumphed as Richard II, Macbeth (with Judi Dench), Coriolanus, Iago, Richard III (also on film) and most recently as King Lear (twice) and as an 80 year old Hamlet in Sean Mathias’ upcoming film. For over a decade, he toured his one-man show, Acting Shakespeare, at home and abroad.

McKellen is recognised worldwide as Magneto in the X-Men films and as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. He received his first Academy Award® nomination, for Best Actor, as the gay film director James Whale, in Bill Condon’s 1998 classic Gods and Monsters. Since he has starred in The Da Vinci Code, Mr Holmes, Beauty and the Beast, All is True, The Good Liar and The Critic.

In 2019 McKellen became the first actor to top The Stage 100 list of most influential people in British theatre, following his triumphant UK Tour and West End run of Ian McKellen on Stage which raised £5 million to support regional theatres.

McKellen’s television work stretches from Rasputin (Golden Globe Award)  to Coronation Street, from Extras with Ricky Gervais to Vicious with Derek Jacobi and The Dresser with Anthony Hopkins. On the first ever Film On Four, he was Stephen Frears’ Walter.

Sir Ian was knighted in 1991. He is a co-founder of Stonewall UK, which lobbies for legal and social equality for gay people. In 2008,  he was appointed Companion of Honour, “for  services to drama and to equality’.

Robert Icke is an award-winning writer and director, working in theatre and on screen.

His recent productions include Judas, Children of Nora, and Oedipus at International Theater Amsterdam, where until 2023 he was Ibsen Artist in Residence. His adaptation of Animal Farm played an extensive national tour in 2022 and is slated for a London transfer. His monologue condensation of Enemy of the People starred Ann Dowd at Park Avenue Armory and was one of the first new pieces of theatre to play in New York post the shutdown.

In six years at the Almeida, five of his productions transferred to the West End, and four to New York. These included his adaptations of The Wild Duck, Mary Stuart (also West End and National tour), Uncle Vanya, Oresteia (also West End; Schauspiel Stuttgart; Park Avenue Armory), and 1984 (co-created with Duncan Macmillan, also Broadway; West End; national and international tours). As a director, his productions included Hamlet (also West End; Park Avenue Armory; and broadcast on BBC2); The Fever and Mr Burns. His final production at the Almeida was The Doctor, which played this summer at Park Avenue Armory, in the West End in 2022, and remains in repertoire at both the Burgtheater in Vienna and Internationaal Theater Amsterdam, as well as in numerous new productions across the globe.

His awards include two Evening Standard ‘Best Director’ Awards; the Critics’ Circle Award, the Kurt Hübner Award (for his debut production in Germany); and the Olivier Award for ‘Best Director’, of which he was the youngest ever winner. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.

www.playerkingstheplay.co.uk

Facebook | Instagram | X: @playerkingsplay

LISTINGS

PLAYER KINGS

Box Office: www.playerkingstheplay.co.uk

New Wimbledon Theatre

1 March – 9 March 2024

On sale to ATG+ members today at 12pm; general booking open from Thursday 16 November at 10am.

Manchester Opera House

14 – 23 March 2024

On sale to ATG+ members today at 12pm; general booking open from Thursday 16 November at 10am.

Noël Coward Theatre

1 April – 22 June 2024

On sale to DMT+ Priority on Monday 20 November at 10am, and those signed up for priority booking at 12pm; general booking opens Tuesday 21 November at 10am.

Yvonne Arnaud – until 18th November 2023

Reviewed By Rebecca Salveson

5*****

Everyone, needs to see this play. If it is the only theatre experience you have this year this must be it. Based on the film by Ken Loach of the same name the message that is portrayed is as relevant now as it was in 2016 if not even more so.

Set in the north east of England the story tells the tale of a carpenter, Daniel Blake played by David Nellist who having suffered a heart attack finds himself in the most impossible situation. His Dr deems that he is not fit to work however he doesn’t have the resources to simply ‘take it easy’ so for the first time in his life Daniel turns to the benefit system for support. However, the benefit system is not easily navigated, and he is met by unsympathetic staff and red tape which shows Daniel slowly moving further into poverty.

This story shows how life is when you find yourself at the bottom of the social pile. We see compassion and heroism and is an accurate reflection of how thousand of people living in poverty’s problems are made worse instead of eased by a bureaucratic benefits system.

As we follow Daniels story we are also introduced to Katie played by Bryony Corrigan and her daughter Daisy (Jodie Wild). Katie is a single mum who has been relocated to the area from London. Previous to this ‘managed move’ Katie and Daisy have been living in hostels. As the story unfolds, we learn more about how Katie finds herself in difficult circumstances, reliant on foodbanks and even turning to prostitution to put food on the table. From the moment the pair arrive they are at an immediate disadvantage, Not knowing the area or bus routes they turn up late to the job centre where they are immediately hit with a sanction for being late preventing Kate from accessing any funds for a month! Kate is desperate with only £10 in her purse begs for support but is knocked back. Daniel too has been at the job centre meeting equally frustrating obstacles and the three form an alliance. Bonded by their situations, shared experiences and determination to try and make the best of things the unlikely trio provide each other with care, support and a sense of comradely against a system that seems to want them to fail.

Throughout the play we hear and see statements from leading politicians Each statement is a direct quote and each one clearly states that the welfare state works for people ‘like these’ and that their policies are making a difference. We realise that in fact more people rely on foodbanks than ever before, we have lost trade unions and inequality is worse with thousands living in poverty.

The play engages the audience from the start, although the subject is dark and thought provoking it is relevant and relatable. The relationship between Daniel, Katie and Daisy is authentic and believable. We see their relationship change over time as Daniel is desperate to help and Katie pushes back not wanting to accept charity and having never been able to rely on anyone but herself in the past. The three main characters are supported by a trio of excellent actors who play various other characters throughout the play. Kema Sikazwe (China), Janine Leigh (Sheila) and Nicky Cocharane (Harry Edwards/ floor manager) each one brings authenticity, emotion and depth to what proves to be a superb theatrical experience.

The audience was left with a sense of shock and dismay with the whole audience giving a standing ovation. There was hardly a dry eye in the house!

“The Brits have made the year’s funniest musical…a hit in London’s West End and may head across the Atlantic…rewriting the playbook for originality.…Against the odds, the “Operation Mincemeat” gang has found its way to the big time.”

Peter Marks, The Washington Post

“irrepressible wartime musical is a West End triumph”
Emma John, The Guardian

“Hilarious tale makes Mincemeat out of its rivals…Before curtain I talked to a fan seeing this for the seventh time. I wondered why anyone would see the same show seven times. Now I know”

Neil Armstrong, The Mail On Sunday

“LAUGHING so hard I could barely breathe is not what I expected for a musical about a World War II top-secret plan.…the perfect invasion of the West End. Long may they occupy it.”
Thea Jacobs, The Sun

“the feel-good West End musical of the summer…The reviews for the show have been ecstatic… the overwhelming impression is of hopefulness, expansiveness, possibility and joy.”

Alexis Soloski, The New York Times

65 ★★★★★ reviews and counting

From aspiring West End performers to those who want to gain more confidence in performing, Operation Mincemeat have partnered with ATG’s West End Creative Learning department to offer pre-show workshops to schools and community organisations who are booked to see the West End phenomenon. These workshops will help students unpick the show ahead of their visit whilst putting their performance skills front and centre.

Led by West End practitioners, join those who were Born To Lead in this practical pre-show workshop, where participants will use key moments from the show to unlock students potential in this perfect pre-show workshop.

After a professional warm up, students will work towards honing in their skills, building characters, presence and performance techniques. From slapstick routines to devising techniques, character work to comedy, this workshop is designed to ignite participant’s imaginations using Operation Mincemeat. These workshops are offered to groups before their visit either at the Fortune Theatre where the show currently runs, or as part of a wider engagement programme in partnership with Imperial War Museums where students can explore World War 2 and their upcoming their Spies, Lies and Deception exhibition alongside their workshop.

A range of further Creative Learning opportunities to be announced on Operation Mincemeat’s official channels.

From the writers and composers of Operation Mincemeat, SpitLip: “We are delighted to be able to offer workshops as part of a wider Operation Mincemeat experience. We hope they help educate and inspire students and wider communities to go on to create their own innovative work that may one day become the future hits of our stages”

From ATG Creative Learning Producer, Conor Hunt: “Operation Mincemeat really celebrates the ingenuity and talent that exists with artists developing their own work, and the show’s success is testament to that. Using workshops and the wider creative learning opportunities we hope that we can support the next generation of theatre makers and goers to see themselves on West End stages in the future!”

Presented by Avalon in partnership with ATG Creative Learning and Imperial War Museums.

Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale and Gavin Kalin present

• SHREK THE MUSICAL WILL TRANSFER TO THE ICONIC EVENTIM APOLLO FOR SIX WEEKS ONLY FROM 19 JULY 2024
• THE SHREK-TACULAR EVENT OF THE SUMMER WILL STAR ANTONY LAWRENCE AS SHREK, STRICTLY’S JOANNE CLIFTON AS PRINCESS FIONA, JAMES GILLAN AS LORD FARQUAAD, BRANDON LEE SEARS AS DONKEY, CHERECE RICHARDS AS THE DRAGON AND ALL THE ICONIC FAIRYTALE CHARACTERS
• TICKETS GO ON SALE TO THE PUBLIC AT 10AM TODAY, 14TH NOVEMBER
• THE NATIONAL TOUR CONTINUES TO PLAY TO PACKED HOUSES ACROSS THE COUNTRY UNTIL MAY 2024

The award-winning Broadway and West End hit show Shrek the Musical, currently thrilling audiences on tour, will transfer to the iconic Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith for six weeks only from 19 July 2024. Antony Lawrence (Shrek), Joanne Clifton (Princess Fiona), James Gillan (Lord Farquaad), Brandon Lee Sears (Donkey), and Cherece Richards (Dragon) will continue to play to packed houses across the UK and Ireland until May 2024 before heading to the Eventim Apollo in London from 19 July – 31 August 2024.  

Produced by Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale, and Gavin Kalin, this bright and beautiful fairy-tale world of Shrek has been reimagined by a new creative team and features all the classic characters from the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks animated film, accompanied by the iconic songs and story from David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori’s original musical.

The creative team includes acclaimed director and choreographer Nick Winston (Bonnie and Clyde, Arts Theatre; Beauty and the Beast, UK tour), co-director Sam Holmes (Club Tropicana the Musical), who returned to the swamp having played Lord Farquaad in the previous UK tour, set and costume designer Philip Witcomb (Bonnie & Clyde, Garrick Theatre; Jack & The Beanstalk, Everyman Theatre Cheltenham). Further creative team includes Ben Cracknel (lighting), Jim Arnold (casting), Ben Harrison (sound) and Nina Dunn (projection design).

Shrek the Musical continues to tour through to May 2024 where it will finish in Canterbury, visiting a total of 31 venues. 

Antony Lawrence plays Shrek. His previous credits include Scar in The Lion King, (International Tour) Mary Poppins (National Tour), Matilda the Musical (Cambridge Theatre/RSC) and We Will Rock You (International Arena Tour).

Joanne Clifton, best known for her time as a professional dancer on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, plays Fiona.  She joined the iconic TV show after winning the World Professional Showdance Champion and the European Professional Ballroom Championship. During her time on the show, she won the Christmas Special with McFly’s Harry Judd and went on to win the glitterball trophy as the 2016 champion with her partner Ore Oduba. On stage Joanne Clifton was most recently seen in Windfall (Southwark Playhouse) and The Addams Family (UK Tour). 

Olivier Award-nominee James Gillan (Lord Farquaad) most recently created the role of Tray in Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue) – a role he stayed with through the show’s entire West End run. He has also performed in productions of Wicked, Starlight Express and Taboo!

Brandon Lee Sears (Donkey) most recently played the role of Jimmy Early in Dreamgirls (UK tour).  His previous theatre credits include the original West End productions of Be More Chill (Shaftesbury Theatre), Come From Away (Phoenix theatre); Heathers (Theatre Royal Haymarket); Motown the Musical (Shaftesbury Theatre); and On The Town (Regents Park Open Air Theatre).

The ensemble cast of Shrek the Musical will be announced in due course.  

Next summer you don’t have to go Far Far Away to find an unforgettable experience. Join Shrek and his loveable side-kick Donkey at the iconic Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith as they embark on an action-packed adventure to rescue the beautiful, but cursed, Princess Fiona from a castle protected by a fearsome fire-breathing dragon.

Retaining all the impact of the blockbuster film, this Shrek-tacular stage adaptation is packed full of ogre-sized fun with an exceptionally talented cast, infectious numbers performed by a live band including the anthemic ‘I’m a Believer’. With laugh-out-loud comedy, magnificent sets, vibrant costumes, and a heart-warming message of acceptance and friendship proving that ‘beautiful ain’t always pretty’, this is an unmissable night out for the whole family.

The Oscar®-winning DreamWorks animated film Shrek celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. Shrek the Musical was first performed on Broadway in 2008, receiving 8 Tony nominations, and the award for Best Costume Design. The original West End production was nominated for 4 Olivier awards, including Best New Musical, at the 2012 Olivier awards. Nigel Harman received the award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Lord Farquaad.

FINAL CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR THE WIZARD OF OZ UK AND IRELAND TOUR

DIRECT FROM A SUMMER SEASON AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM

THE TOUR STARS AT SELECT DATES

ASTON MERRYGOLD as THE TIN MAN (LIVERPOOL ONLY)

CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD and THE VIVIENNE as THE WICKED WITCH OF THE WEST

GARY WILMOT, ALLAN STEWART and ALEX BOURNE as THE WIZARD

with

JASON MANFORD who reprises his London Palladium role as

THE COWARDLY LION for TWO WEEKS only in MANCHESTER

ALONGSIDE

AVIVA TULLEY as DOROTHY

BENJAMIN YATES as THE SCARECROW

NIC GREENSHIELDS as THE COWARDLY LION

EMILY BULL as GLINDA THE GOOD WITCH

With ABIGAIL MATTHEWS as TOTO

WHO ALL PERFORM ACROSS THE TOUR

Michael Harrison and the Really Useful Group are thrilled to announce final casting for the UK and Ireland Tour of The Wizard of Oz which begins rehearsals today. The new musical, based on the iconic story by L. Frank Baum, opens its UK and Ireland tour following a celebrated run at the world-famous London Palladium. The tour begins at the Liverpool Empire where it plays an extended festive season from Wednesday 13^th December – Sunday 7^th January 2024.

Joining previously announced JLS star Aston Merrygold as The Tin Man (Liverpool only), Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner and Dancing on Ice finalist, The Vivienne as The Wicked Witch of the West and Gary Wilmot as The Wizard, additional principal casting is confirmed as: Jason Manford who will reprise his role as The Cowardly Lion (Manchester only) with Allan Stewart (Stones in His Pockets, West End, UK Tour, Toronto; STV Hello, Good Evening, Welcome) and Alex Bourne (Annie, West End, UK Tour, Toronto; Hairspray, UK Tour) as The Wizard. All perform at select dates across the tour.

Principal company members appearing at all venues are: Aviva Tulley (Book of Mormon, UK Tour) as Dorothy, Benjamin Yates (ITV’s Emmerdale; Jersey Boys, West End) as The Scarecrow, Nic Greenshields (Love Never Dies West End; Les Misérables West End, International Tour) as The Cowardly Lion, Emily Bull (9 to 5, UK Tour; Matilda UK Tour) as Glinda The Good Witch and Abigail Matthews as Toto (Bleak Expectations, West End; War Horse, West End).

The company is completed by: David Burrows, Adam Craig, Cole Dunn, Tyler Ephraim, Olivia Kate Holding, Thomas Kalek, Sadie Levett, Kelsie-Rae Marshall, Martin McCarthy, Rose Ouellette, Fanja Parent, Alexandra Regan, Nathan Routledge and Sydney Spencer.

To book tickets and for information about specific casting at all UK and Ireland tour venues, go to www.wizardofozmusical.com. Further casting to be announced for all dates.

Craig Revel Horwood will perform as The Wicked Witch of the West at Grand Opera House, Belfast; Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin; Milton Keynes Theatre;Wales Millenium Centre, Cardiff, where the role of The Wizard will be played by Alex Bourne. Craig is joined by Allan Stewart as The Wizard at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking; Hippodrome Theatre, Birmingham; King’s Theatre, Glasgowand His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen.

The Vivienne will appear at the Liverpool Empire as The Wicked Witch of the West alongside Alex Bourne as The Wizard, then touring to New Theatre, Oxford; Mayflower Theatre, Southampton; New Theatre, Hull; Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield; Theatre Royal, Plymouth; Bristol Hippodrome, Bristol; Theatre Royal, Nottingham; Grand Theatre, Wolverhamptonand the Empire Theatre, Sunderland.

The Vivienne will be joined by Gary Wilmot as The Wizard at the following dates: Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury;

Playhouse Theatre, Edinburgh; Cliffs Pavilion Southend; Theatre Royal, Norwich; Venue Cymru, Llandudno; Wimbledon New Theatre and the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford and by Allan Stewart as The Wizard at the Theatre Royal, Newcastle.

Jason Manford joins The Vivienne (The Wicked Witch of the West) and Allan Stewart (The Wizard) at the Manchester Palace for two-weeks only next spring where he will reprise his celebrated role as The Cowardly Lion. Across the rest of the tour, the role will be played by Nic Greenshields.

Aston Merrygold will perform as The Tin Man in Liverpool only.

Join Dorothy, Toto and friends on an unforgettable adventure down the yellow brick road to the merry old land of Oz.

Featuring the iconic original score from the Oscar-winning MGM film, including Over The Rainbow, Follow The Yellow Brick Road and We’re Off To See the Wizard – with additional songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice – this spectacular production will be a truly magical experience for all the family.

The Wizard of Oz on tour is presented Michael Harrison, Gavin Kalin Productions, David Mirvish, Crossroads Live, Tulchin Bartner Productions, Nick Thomas, Rupert Gavin and Mallory Factor, Jake Hine and Playing Field, by arrangement with the Really Useful Group Ltd.

AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP PRODUCTIONS AND NOTTINGHAM PLAYHOUSE
PRESENT

A NEW PRODUCTION OF THE

THE OLIVIER, TONY® & GRAMMY® AWARD-WINNING BEST MUSICAL

DEAR EVAN HANSEN

BOOK BY STEVEN LEVENSON

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY BENJ PASEK AND JUSTIN PAUL

OPENING AT

NOTTINGHAM PLAYHOUSE
ON 9 SEPTEMBER 2024

AHEAD OF A MAJOR UK TOUR

Ambassador Theatre Group Productions and Nottingham Playhouse are delighted to announce a new production of the Olivier, Tony and Grammy award-winning Best Musical DEAR EVAN HANSEN.

Directed by Nottingham Playhouse’s Artistic Director Adam Penford, the show will open at the Nottingham Playhouse on 9 September 2024, ahead of a UK tour. Tour schedule below. Casting to be announced.

Director Adam Penford said, “Dear Evan Hansen has thrilled audiences on both sides of the Atlantic since it first premiered in 2015. Evan’s powerful story grips and moves people, told through a captivating script and musical score. This first, major, new and exciting UK production offers the opportunity to reexamine some of its contemporary themes and present this brand-new version to Nottingham and around the UK. I’m excited to begin the search for our Evan very soon.”

Packed with some of the biggest musical theatre songs of the last decade, DEAR EVAN HANSEN has a score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Oscar-winning composers for The Greatest Showman) and a book by Steven Levenson. Its many awards include the Tony® Award for Best Musical, Olivier Award for Best New Musical and the Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theatre Album.

Today is going to be a good day. And here’s why…

Meet Evan: an anxious high school kid who wants nothing more than to fit in. The thing is, on his way to fitting in, he didn’t tell the whole truth. And now must give up on a life he never dreamt he’d have. As events spiral and the truth comes out, Evan faces a reckoning with himself and everyone around him.

DEAR EVAN HANSEN is presented by ATG Productions and Nottingham Playhouse by arrangement with Music Theatre International.

DEAR EVAN HANSEN UK TOUR – 2024/2025 TOUR LISTINGS

evanontour.com

MONDAY 9 – SATURDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2024

Nottingham Playhouse

Homepage

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 1 – SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER 2024

Leicester Curve

www.curveonline.co.uk

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 15 – SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER 2024

Theatre Royal Brighton

www.atgtickets.com/theatre-royal-brighton

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 22 – SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER 2024

Birmingham Alexandra

www.atgtickets.com/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 29 OCTOBER – SATURDAY 2 NOVEMBER 2024

New Victoria Theatre, Woking

www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-victoria-theatre/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 5 – SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2024

Leeds Grand Theatre

www.leedsheritagetheatres.com

ON SALE SOON

TUESDAY 12 – SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2024

Liverpool Empire

www.atgtickets.com/venues/liverpool-empire/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 19 – SATURDAY 23 NOVEMBER 2024

Sunderland Empire

www.atgtickets.com/venues/sunderland-empire/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 26 – SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2024

Oxford New Theatre

www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-theatre-oxford/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

2025

TUESDAY 14 – SATURDAY 18 JANUARY 2025

Northampton Derngate

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

ON SALE SOON

TUESDAY 21 – SATURDAY 25 JANUARY 2025

Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

www.mayflower.org.uk

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 28 JANUARY – SATURDAY 1 FEBRUARY 2025

Milton Keynes Theatre

www.atgtickets.com/venues/milton-keynes-theatre/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 4 – SATURDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2025

Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

www.marlowetheatre.com

ON SALE 1 MARCH 2024

TUESDAY 11 – SATURDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2025

Bristol Hippodrome

www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 18 – SATURDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2025

Palace Theatre, Manchester

www.atgtickets.com/venues/palace-theatre-manchester/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 25 FEBRUARY – SATURDAY 1 MARCH 2025

King’s Theatre, Glasgow

www.atgtickets.com/venues/kings-theatre-glasgow/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 4 – SATURDAY 8 MARCH 2025

His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen

www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/

ON SALE 18 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 11 – SATURDAY 15 MARCH 2025

Grand Opera House, Belfast

www.goh.co.uk

ON SALE 3 DECEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 18 – SATURDAY 22 MARCH 2025

Storyhouse Theatre, Chester

www.storyhouse.com

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 25 – SATURDAY 29 MARCH 2025

New Wimbledon Theatre

www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 1 – SATURDAY 5 APRIL 2025

Wolverhampton Grand

www.grandtheatre.co.uk

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 8 – SATURDAY 12 APRIL 2025

Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

ON SALE SOON

TUESDAY 15 – SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2025

Theatre Royal, Plymouth

www.theatreroyal.com

ON SALE 29 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 22 – SATURDAY 26 APRIL 2025

Hull New Theatre

www.hulltheatres.co.uk/

ON SALE 17 NOVEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 29 APRIL – SATURDAY 3 MAY 2025

Wales Millenium Centre

www.wmc.org.uk

ON SALE 5 DECEMBER 2023

TUESDAY 13 – SATURDAY 17 MAY 2025

Theatre Royal Norwich

www.norwichtheatre.org

ON SALE 24 NOVEMBER 2023

CAST ANNOUNCED FOR THE OTHER PALACE’S
FILTHY AND FUN CHRISTMAS SHOW!

Brace yourselves for this extraordinary ensemble gracing our stage this Christmas! The cheeky Christmas musical parody, A Very Very Bad Cinderella, is thrilled to unveil its full cast and creative team.

The cast will feature Veronica Green (Seasons 2&3 of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK) as Fanny, Imelda Warren-Green (Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder) as Vajayjay, May Tether (Heathers The Musical) as Cinderella, and Keanna Bloomfield (making her professional debut) as Buttons / Prince Charming.

A Very Very Bad Cinderella is produced by The Other Palace, written by Neil Hurst and Jodie Prenger, and directed by Lizzy Connolly, with set and costume design from Reuben Speed, lighting design by Jack Weir, video design by Sam Diaz, sound design by Rob Atkinson, and musical direction by Lauren Hopkinson.

Tired of the same old Cinderella story? We’ve read the book and endured many a dodgy pantomime version. But who do we really go to see? You know who they are, those ‘Ugly B**ches who have us in stitches’. We love them, we hate them… the filthy tramps. This is the ‘Real’ Cinderella story direct from the mucky mouths of the “ladies” that were there.

So, lock up your Sons, and all of your Misters, Look out London, it’s the UGLY SISTERS.

Loaded with catchy musical theatre tunes and brimming with a dose of festive naughtiness, this saucy and sassy theatrical extravaganza runs from 1 December 2023 to 7 January 2024 at The Other Palace Studio. Beware, for it’s so naughty it might just turn even you into a Bad Cinderella.

LISTINGS

A VERY VERY BAD CINDERELLA

THE OTHER PALACE STUDIO
1 DECEMBER 2023 – 7 JANUARY 2024
Written by Neil Hurst and Jodie Prenger

Directed by Lizzy Connolly

Performances Dates

1 December – 7 January
Tuesday – Friday	8.00pm
SaturdayPlus Friday 22 December, Thursday 28 December, Friday 29 December, Friday 5 January	5.00pm & 8.00pm
SundayNo 7.00pm performance on Sunday 24 December	4.00pm & 7.00pm
Tuesday 26 December, Wednesday 27 December and Tuesday 2 January	No Show

Tickets                         £25 Preview Tickets (1 Dec – 5 Dec)

                                    £32 Tickets (6 Dec – 7 Jan)

Age Guidance Suitable for audiences 16+

Address                       The Other Palace, 12 Palace Street, London, SW1E 5JA

Box office                    theotherpalace.co.uk/a-very-very-bad-cinderella 

020 7592 0302

ORANGE TREE THEATRE ANNOUNCES FULL CAST FOR

ZOE COOPER’S REIMAGINING OF JANE AUSTEN’S NORTHANGER ABBEY

Orange Tree Theatre (OT) with co-producers Octagon Theatre Bolton, Stephen Joseph Theatre Scarborough and Theatre by the Lake Keswick today announces the full cast for Zoe Cooper’s playful reimagining of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. Tessa Walker directs Rebecca Banatvala (Cath), AK Golding (Iz) and Sam Newton (Hen).

Zoe Cooper returns to the OT following the hit premières of Jess and Joe Forever and Out of Water with her new play Northanger Abbey, inspired by Jane Austen’s novel. Northanger Abbey opens at the OT on 24 January and runs until 24 February, with previews from 20 January. The production will then tour to Octagon Theatre Bolton from 1 – 23 March, Stephen Joseph Theatre from 27 March – 13 April and Theatre by the Lake from 27 April – 17 May 2024 and will be available on OT On Screen from 21 to 24 May 2024.

Playwright Zoe Cooper said today, “Northanger Abbey is a novel about friendship, love, romance and fantasy and how those things collide. What struck me on my first reading as a queer nineteen-year-old, was that the central romantic relationship, one filled with lust, anger and betrayal, is between the romantic heroine and her best friend, Isabella. It is that version of the book I wanted to explore in this reimagining.” 

Director Tessa Walker added, “I am delighted to be working on Zoe’s vivid, funny, and inventive re-imagining of Austen’s classic with this fantastic cast. It’s a wonderful, playful tale of romance, gothic adventures, growing up, and the importance of stories and who gets to tell them.”

Zoe Cooper’s

NORTHANGER ABBEY

From the novel by Jane Austen

An Orange Tree Theatre co-production with Octagon Theatre Bolton, the Stephen Joseph Theatre and Theatre by the Lake

Cast: Rebecca Banatvala (Cath), AK Golding (Iz), Sam Newton (Hen)

Directed by: Tessa Walker; Designer: Hannah Sibai; Lighting Designer: Matt Haskins; Sound Designer: Holly Khan; Movement Director: Jonnie Riordan, Assistant Director: Namoo Chae Lee

20 January – 24 February

OT On Screen: Tue 21 – Fri 24 May 2024

Friendship is certainly the finest balm for the pangs of any sort of … disappointed love

Catherine Morland knows little of the world, but who needs real-life experience when you have novels to guide you? Catherine seizes her chance to escape her claustrophobic family and join the smart set in Bath. Between balls and parties, she meets worldly, sophisticated Isabella Thorpe – Iz, to her friends – and so Cath’s very own adventure begins.

Zoe Cooper’s latest play The Kiss was performed as part of the OT’s Inside/Outside Series in April 2021. Her previous play Out of Water also played at the OT in 2019. It was produced in association with the RSC. Out of Water was named as a finalist in the 2020 Susan Smith Blackburn Prize, shortlisted for the Charles Wintour Award for Most Promising Playwright at the Evening Standard Awards 2019, and nominated for the Best New Production of a Play Award in the Broadway World UK Awards.

Rebecca Banatvala plays Cath. Her theatre credits include I F*cked You In My Spaceship (VAULT Festival), Sap (Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Soho Theatre / UK Tour), Much Ado About Nothing (RSC), Mrs Puntila and her Man Matti (Royal Lyceum Theatre), Rotterdam (UK Tour), The Three Musketeers (The Dukes), and Trident Moon (Finborough Theatre). Rebecca can be seen in Series 2 of BBC Drama Vigil as guest character, Alia Ghazali. Other television credits include The Syndicate, and Love, Death & Robots;and for film, The Princess Switch 3.

AK Golding plays Iz. AK’s theatre credits include Twelfth Night (Nottingham Playhouse), The Messiah Complex (VAULT Festival), Tapped (UK tour), Hot in Here: An Energy Generating Dance Party (Gate Theatre), Move Fast and Break Things (FRIEGHT THEATRE), Extra Time (Derby Theatre) and Hamlet (National Theatre). For television credits include Urban Myths: Handel and Hendrix;and for film, The Colour Room and Mantis.

Sam Newton plays Hen. His theatre credits include A Woman Walks into a Bank (Theatre503), Good Day (VAULT Festival), Jack and the Beanstalk (Jacksons Lane), Big Big Sky (Hampstead Theatre), Sometimes Thinking (Frantic Assembly), The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (Piccadilly Theatre, UK and international tour) and Nigel Slater’s Toast (The Lowry, Edinburgh Festival Fringe). His television credits include The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself and Newark, Newark.

Tessa Walker is a theatre director and dramaturg. Upcoming productions include Biscuits for Breakfast (Hampstead Theatre). She was Associate Director at Hampstead Theatre from 2021 – 2023 where she directed Ravenscourt and Big, Big, Sky. Other recent productions include Run, Rebel (Pilot Theatre, tour), Symphony of Us (Coventry Cathedral, Coventry City of Culture) and The Glad Game (Nottingham Playhouse and tour). As Associate Director at Birmingham Repertory Theatre she directed Bright Places, Jekyll and Hyde, 101 Dalmatians, The Whip Hand, Looking for John, Folk, The Quiet House, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, A Christmas Carol, The Mother, Circles, Back Down, 366 Days of Kindness and How to be a Hero. Other directing includes The Snow Queen (The Sherman Theatre, Cardiff), The Gatekeeper (Royal Exchange Theatre), The Glee Club (Hull Truck), The Company Will Overlook a Moment of Madness, (The National Theatre of Scotland), Dream Pill, Dancing Bears (Soho Theatre), The Red Helicopter (Almeida Theatre), She From the Sea (LIFT), Harm’s Way (The Lowry, Manchester), Black Crows (Arcola Theatre), Orange (Script Cymru), Debris (Theatre503, BAC Critics’ Choice Season, Traverse Edinburgh and Staatstheater Biennale, Germany).

ORANGE TREE THEATRE

LISTINGS

1 Clarence Street, Richmond, TW9 2SA

Box Office: 020 8940 3633 (Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm)

orangetreetheatre.co.uk

Ticket prices (NO BOOKING FEES)

In person tickets: from £15, prices increase with demand

Under 30s: £15

OT On Screen: From £15

Access: £15

Recipients of Universal Credit / London Ticket Bank Scheme: limited £1 tickets

SEASON AT A GLANCE

MEETINGS

OT On Screen: Tue 14 – Fri 17 Nov

SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER

18 November 2023 – 13 January 2024

Mon – Sat 7.30pm

Thu & Sat 2.30pm (from Thu 23 Nov)

Captioned Performance: Tue 12 Dec 7.30pm

Audio Described Performance: Mon 11 Dec 7.30pm

OT On Screen: Tue 16 – Fri 19 Jan

SHAKESPEARE UP CLOSE: MACBETH and ROMEO AND JULIET

5 – 10 December 2023

Schools tour: 20 – 30 Nov
Schools performances at the OT: 5 – 8 Dec
Public performances at the OT: 9 – 10 Dec

TINY TIM’S CHRISTMAS CAROL

18 December – 6 January 2024

Mon – Sat 11am

Mon, Wed, Fri 2.30pm (no performances Mon 25 Dec, Mon 1 Jan)

NORTHANGER ABBEY

20 January– 24 February 2024

Mon – Sat 7.30pm

Thu & Sat 2.30pm (from Thu 25 Jan)

Captioned Performance: Wed 14 Feb 7.30pm

Audio Described Performance: Tue 13 Feb 7.30pm

OT On Screen:  Tue 21 – Fri 24 May 2024

Octagon Theatre Bolton

1 – 23 March 2024

Stephen Joseph Theatre

27 March – 13 April 2024

Theatre by the Lake

27 April – 17 May 2024

FLUTE THEATRE: TWELFTH NIGHT

29 January – 20 February 2024

Mon – Sat: 10.30am

Further summer programming includes:

UNCLE VANYA

2 March – 13 April

TESTMATCH

20 April – 18 May 2024

SUITE IN THREE KEYS

24 May – 6 Jul 2024

Primary Shakespeare: HAMLET
3 June – 5 July 2024 (workshops and performances)
Mon, Tue & Fri

RED SPEEDO

13 Jul – 10 Aug 2024

ABOUT THE ORANGE TREE THEATRE 

The Orange Tree (OT) is an award-winning, independent theatre. Recognised as a powerhouse that creates high-quality productions of new and rediscovered plays, it entertains 70,000 people across the UK every year.  

The OT’s home in Richmond, South West London, is an intimate theatre with the audience seated all around the stage: watching a performance here is truly a unique experience. We believe in the power of dramatic stories to entertain, thrill and challenge us; plays that enrich our lives by enhancing our understanding of ourselves and each other. 

As a registered charity (266128) sitting at the heart of its community, we work with 10,000 people in Richmond and beyond through participatory theatre projects for people of all ages and abilities. Our mission is to enable audiences to experience the next generation of theatre talent, experiment with ground-breaking new drama and explore the plays from the past that inspire the theatre-makers of the present. Operating without regular support from Arts Council England, the OT relies on the support of its audiences and funders to raise £500k a year to create this outstanding work on stage and in the community.  

Artistic Director Tom Littler 

Executive Director Hanna Streeter 

Website orangetreetheatre.co.uk | Email box.office@orangetreetheatre.co.uk 

Twitter @OrangeTreeThtr | Facebook/Instagram OrangeTreeTheatre 

ABOUT OCTAGON THEATRE

Octagon Theatre Bolton is a regional producing theatre that makes bold, adventurous and popular theatre of the highest quality that is seen locally and nationally. We believe theatre matters because everyone’s story matters. The Octagon inspires engages and entertains thousands every year through theatre and creative activities, contributing to a healthier and happier community. The Octagon reopened in May 2021, following a major redevelopment funded by Bolton Council and Arts Council England and many others. The Octagon receives public funding through Arts Council England, Bolton Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and Principal Sponsorship from the University of Bolton. The Octagon was shortlisted for Theatre of the Year at the 2023 The Stage Awards.

Website: https://www.octagon-theatre.co.uk/

ABOUT THE STEPHEN JOSEPH THEATRE

Scarborough’s Stephen Joseph Theatre has provided world-class accessible theatre for audiences on the Yorkshire coast since 1955. It’s produced over 700 plays, many of them new – developing new writers and writing was the primary aim of the company’s founder, Stephen Joseph, and it remains one of our core aims. The SJT was the first professional theatre-in-the round in the UK, and is widely known for presenting the world premieres of most of Alan Ayckbourn’s 89 full-length plays. It also has an extensive community programme.

Website: https://sjt.uk.com/

ABOUT THEATRE BY THE LAKE 

Theatre by the Lake, described by the New Statesman as “artistically sharp and stunningly situated”, opened in 1999. Born out of Century Theatre’s travelling Blue Box, it was willed into existence by passionate theatre lovers who wanted a permanent home for theatre in Keswick. Theatre by the Lake is idyllically situated a short stroll from Derwentwater amid the magnificent western fells of the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The theatre has two stages, a 400-seat Main House and 100-seat Studio and presents an annual programme of homemade shows throughout the year, as well as hosting a variety of festivals, visiting companies and community performances, playing to over 120,000 people per year. As Cumbria’s producing theatre, our purpose is to enrich the lives of our local communities. We create and share great theatre, develop and champion talent, and celebrate our place and culture in the work we do across our county and our nation.

Website: https://www.theatrebythelake.com/

NEWCASTLE THEATRE ROYAL ANNOUNCE A BRAND-NEW PANTO TITLE FOR 2024/25 – THE LITTLE MERMAID

With excitement building ahead of this year’s pantomime Pinocchio opening its doors, Newcastle Theatre Royal and Crossroads Pantomimes are thrilled to announce that another show is to premiere at the Theatre in 2024/25 for the festive season.

The Little Mermaid (Tue 26 Nov 2024 – Sun 12 Jan 2025) is a brand-new title from Crossroads Pantomimes – the world’s biggest pantomime producer and is set to be a spectacular adventure under the sea for audiences of all ages!

Panto superstars Danny Adams and Clive Webb will return to the iconic Grey Street venue for their 19th season and will once again be sharing the stage with celebrated local singer songwriter Joe McElderry as well as legendary panto dame Chris Hayward.

The Little Mermaid will see Newcastle Theatre Royal pantomime favourite Danny play Danny Crabstix, best friend to Ariel, the bravest mermaid in King Triton’s kingdom, who must fight-off the evil Sea Witch after she steals her voice in return for the ability to live amongst the humans, way above the ocean.

With a brand-new script, sets and costumes, The Little Mermaid will again be a first for Newcastle Theatre Royal with Pinocchio making its pantomime debut at the end of the month. Pinocchio has smashed box office records and is one of the fastest selling pantomimes in the country.

Michael Harrison, Producer and creator of Theatre Royal pantomimes for the past 18 years said: “Here in the rehearsal room at Newcastle Theatre Royal we are incredibly excited to be in the throes of creating our new production of Pinocchio to premiere in the city later this month. This promises to be our most magical show yet!

“Newcastle Theatre Royal is a venue which is incredibly important to me personally, having grown-up watching pantos here as a child. With phenomenal advance sales already secured for Pinocchio, I’m excited that we’re announcing yet another new show for the Theatre in 2024. With Danny, Clive, Chris and Joe already signed-up for next Christmas we know the show will be in very safe hands.”

Chief Executive of Newcastle Theatre Royal, Marianne Locatori added: “It’s a joy for us to welcome back Danny, Clive, Chris and Joe to Newcastle Theatre Royal once again for The Little Mermaid, and we’re delighted to premiere another brand-new pantomime! From the moment the curtain rises until the cast take their final bows at the end of the show, I know audiences will be in for a fun-filled festive treat.

“Rehearsals for this years’ pantomime Pinocchio are now well underway; the cast are all spectacular, the costumes, set, and special effects are dazzling, and we can’t wait to open the doors and share this brand-new show with our audiences. Pantomime really is for everyone, and we’re sure that every year ours just keep getting better!”

The Little Mermaid plays Newcastle Theatre Royal Tue 26 Nov 2024 – Sun 12 Jan 2025. This year’s pantomime – Pinocchio – plays Tue 28 Nov 2023 until Sun 14 Jan 2024.

Tickets for The Little Mermaid are on sale from Wed 15 Nov 2023 to Friends of the Theatre Royal; Advantage Members, Groups and Schools can book from Wed 22 Nov 2023 and public booking opens on Tue 28 Nov 2023. Tickets for both shows can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.