AL MURRAY, MEL GIEDROYC,

CARRIE HOPE FLETCHER,

NEIL MORRISSEY & JOE THOMAS

TO STAR IN THE ROYAL EVENT OF THE

YEAR

WEST END PREMIERE BEFORE TOURING

CAST ALSO INCLUDES AIDAN MCARDLE AND TANVI VIRMANI

Garrick Theatre

Friday 7 July – Saturday 16 September 2023

Simon Friend Entertainment is delighted to today announce a 24-carat cast for this summer’s must-see West End comic caper, The Crown Jewels which plays at the Garrick Theatre from Friday 7  July – Saturday 16 September 2023 ahead of regional autumn engagements.

Based on the true story of one of British history’s most audacious heist attempts, a super-star cast is confirmed to appear in this raucous royal affair including; Al Murray (The Pub Landlord) as Charles II;  Mel Giedroyc (BBC 1’s The Great British Bake Off, Channel 4’s Light Lunch); Carrie Hope Fletcher (Bad Cinderella, Les Misérables, Heathers in the West End); Aidan McArdle (Leopoldstadt, West End, Ridley, ITV); Neil Morrissey (BBC 1’s Men Behaving Badly, Line of Duty); Joe Thomas (Channel 4’sThe Inbetweeners, Fresh Meat, BBC 2’s White Gold) and Tanvi Virmani (Life of Pi, West End).

Written by BAFTA-nominated creator of ITV’s The Durrells and BBC 1’s Men Behaving Badly, Simon Nye, and directed by multi-Olivier Award winner Sean Foley (Upstart Crow, The Ladykillers) it would be criminal to miss it.

Following its West End premiere The Crown Jewels then tours to

The Lowry, Salford (Tuesday 19 – Saturday 23 September), 

Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury* (Monday 25 – Saturday 30 September)

and the New Theatre, Cardiff* (Monday 2 – Saturday 7 October 2023).

* Additional casting to be announced.

The Crown Jewels is a riotous new comedy based on the most unbelievable royal caper in British history. Charismatic and unpredictable Colonel Blood is planning the greatest heist of all time: stealing the Crown Jewels in plain sight. With a gang of misfits by his side, what could possibly go wrong? But Charles II can’t afford a royal scandal, and no King likes people handling their Crown Jewels…

Writer Simon Nye says: “I hope audiences will be as titillated and thrilled as I am at the prospect of a riotous comedy-drama about a crown jewels heist that really happened. True crime comes to the West End, 350 years after the event. The cast is an amazing array of comedy talent, and the subject matter absurdly topical. Satire, sword-fighting, love, violence, an examination of the monarchy and Anglo-Irish relations – could you ask for anything more?”

Director Sean Foley continues:“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to direct Simon Nye’s hilarious new play. An entirely modern take on the Restoration Comedy, it transports us to a completely different time – a time when England had a new king…whose name was Charles. I’m excited to be working with our brilliant cast, and we all hope to thoroughly entertain audiences in one of my favourite theatres – the Garrick – over this Coronation summer.”

Producer Simon Friend adds: “The Crown Jewels came out of a mad idea that Simon Nye and I cooked up during lockdown, fantasising about shows we could make if theatres were to ever reopen. We’re incredibly lucky that such a talented cast, with Sean as director, have gathered around for this hilarious play about a famous heist that went awry, and we look forward to bringing some laughter to the West End this summer.”

The creative team is Director, Sean Foley; Writer, Simon Nye; Set and Costume Designer, Michael Taylor; Lighting Designer, Natasha Chivers and Andy Graham,Sound Designer.

The Crown Jewels is produced by Simon Friend in association with Adam Kenwright, Trafalgar Theatre Productions, Jenny King, Gavin Kalin, David Adkin and JAS Productions.

For more information visit www.crownjewelsplay.com or follow FACEBOOK | TWITTER  | INSTAGRAM @CrownJewelsPlay

FULL CAST AND CREATIVE TEAM ANNOUNCED FOR

WORLD PREMIERE STAGE ADAPTATION OF

ANNIE PROULX’S

BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN

A NEW PLAY WITH MUSIC

BY ASHLEY ROBINSON, SONGS BY DAN GILLESPIE SELLS

DIRECTED BY JONATHAN BUTTERELL

@SOHOPLACE

• Full cast announced for the world premiere stage adaptation of Annie Proulx’s story, Brokeback Mountain. Emily Fairn makes her stage debut as Ennis’ wife Alma,having recently received acclaim for her role in the BBC series The Responder, Paul Hickey as Older Ennis and Martin Marquez as Joe/Bill/Jack’s Father.
• They join the previously announced Tony and BAFTA Award nominated Mike Faist (Dear Evan Hansen on Broadway, West Side Story film) as Jack, Academy Award nominated Lucas Hedges (Manchester By The Sea, Boy Erased) as Ennis and Eddi Reader (Fairground Attraction) as the Balladeer with her band: Sean Green, Meelie Traill, Julian Jackson and BJ Cole.
• A new play with music, by Ashley Robinson making his playwriting debut, with songs by Dan Gillespie Sells and directed by Jonathan Butterell who reunite with Producer Nica Burns, the team behind the hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie.
• Shaheen Baig: Casting Director; Tommy Ross-Williams: Intimacy Director; Kevin McCurdy: Fight Director; Phil Wilding: Production Manager; Zeb Lalljee: Costume Supervisor; Sam Cox: Wigs Maker / Supervisor; Lily Mollgaard: Props Supervisor; and Mary Irwin and Ben Furey: Vocal / Dialect Coach join Tom Pye: Set & Costume Designer; David Finn: Lighting Designer; Christopher Shutt: Sound Designer to complete the creative team.
• The first performance is on 10 May, with press night on 18 May. Running for a limited season @sohoplace until 12 August 2023.
• Brokeback Mountain is the first world premiere play to be originated @sohoplace and the fourth production to open at the new venue, following Marvellous, As You Like It and Medea. 
• Brokeback Mountain is produced by Nica Burns with Adam Blanshay Productions, Lambert Jackson Productions, and Katy Lipson for Aria Entertainment.
• Tickets are on sale now.

Nica Burns today announces the full cast and creative team for world premiere of Brokeback Mountain, a new play with music, written by Ashley Robinson with songs by Dan Gillespie Sells, based on Annie Proulx’s short story, and directed by Jonathan Butterell. Introducing Emily Fairn (The Responder) making her stage debut as Alma, Paul Hickey (Older Ennis) and Martin Marquez (Joe/Bill/Jack’s Father) joining the previously announced Mike Faist (Jack), Lucas Hedges (Ennis), and Eddi Reader as the Balladeer with her onstage band Sean Green, Meelie Traill, Julian Jackson and BJ Cole.

Completing the creative team alongsidethe previously announced Tom Pye (Set & Costume Design), David Finn (Lighting Design), Christopher Shutt (Sound Design) are Shaheen Baig (Casting Director), Tommy Ross-Williams (Intimacy Director), Kevin McCurdy (Fight Director), Phil Wilding (Production Manager), Zeb Lalljee (Costume Supervisor), Sam Cox (Wigs Maker/Supervisor), Lily Mollgaard (Props Supervisor), and Mary Irwin and Ben Furey (Vocal/Dialect Coach).

Brokeback Mountain @sohoplace opens on 10 May, with press night on 18 May, and runs for a limited season until 12 August 2023.

Wyoming 1963:  a wild landscape where people live in extreme rural poverty in tight, insular and conservative communities. When Ennis and Jack take jobs on the isolated Brokeback Mountain, all their certainties of life change forever as they flounder in unexpected emotional waters of increasing depth. Dan Gillespie-Sells beautiful Country and Western songs weave heartbreakingly through this intense tale of an unresistible and hidden love spanning twenty years and its tragic consequences.

This is a play with original music by Dan Gillespie Sells, performed by the extraordinary singer, Eddi Reader, joined by her onstage Country and Western band: Sean Green (piano/MD), Meelie Traill (upright bass), Julian Jackson (chromatic harmonica), BJ Cole (pedal steel guitar).

ENDS

CAST

(in alphabetical order)

Emily Fairn makes her stage debut as Alma. Her television credits include Rain Dogs and The Responder; and is appearing in the forthcoming film, Chuck Chuck Baby. She trained at Guildhall School of Music & Drama

Mike Faist plays Jack and was most recently seen as Riff in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, for which he received a BAFTA award nomination.  He will next be seen in Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers for MGM and Jeff Nichols’ The Bikeriders for New Regency.  Mike originated the role of ‘Connor Murphy’ in the international megahit Dear Evan Hansen, which earned him a Tony Award Nomination, Grammy Award and Emmy Award.  Additional New York theatre credits include Steven Levenson’s Days of Rage (Second Stage), A Month in the Country (Classic Stage Co.) and Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ Appropriate (Signature).  Additional films include Fritz Böhm’s Wildling, The Grief of Others (both premiered at SXSW), The Atlantic City Story and upcoming indie Pinball: The Man Who Saved The Game.

Lucas Hedges plays Ennis. His credits include Manchester by the Sea (Academy Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actor), Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, Lady Bird, Mid 90s, Boy Erased (Golden Globe Nomination for Best Actor), Ben is Back, Honey Boy, Waves, Let Them All Talk, and French Exit. Hedges can next be seen in John Ridley’s upcoming Shirley. He also appeared in BJ Novak’s Anthology Series The Premise in the episode entitled The Ballad Of Jesse Wheeler. Stage credits include Yen (Lucille Lortel Nomination for Best Actor) at MCC, And Kenneth Lonergan’s The Waverly Gallery at the Golden Theater with Elaine May, Michael Cera and Joan Allen. 

Paul Hickey plays Older Ennis. Theatre includes Waste, Our Class, Children of the Sun, The Playboy of the Western World, Romeo and Juliet, Peer Gynt (National Theatre), Fewer Emergencies, Bang Bang Bang, Crazyblackmuthafukinself, O Go My Man, Who Cares (Royal Court Theatre), Macbeth, The Deep Blue Sea (Royal Exchange, Manchester), The Merchant of Venice (RSC, World Tour), Incognito and Drink Dance Laugh Lie (Bush Theatre), Little Light (Orange Tree Theatre), In The Next Room (Or The Vibrator Play) (The Ustinov), Fred’s Diner, Wallenstein (Chichester Festival Theatre), Ghosts (Arcola Theatre), Pentecost, In a Little World of Our Own (Donmar Warehouse), Helen and I (Druid), Red Roses and Petrol, Lady Windermere’s Fan and The Ash Fire (Tricycle Theatre), Dealer’s Choice and My Night With Reg (Birmingham Rep), The Last Yankee (The Print Room), The Silver Tassie, The Plough, The Stars (Abbey Theatre). Television includes Red Rock, House of the Dragon, and plays Gary in Apple TV’s New 7-Part thriller, Hijack with Idris Elba, to be released This Summer. Other television includes Catherine The Great, The Last Tsars, Three Girls, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, Doctor Who, Father Ted, Nuremberg , Whitechapel, Sunshine, The American, Critical, Doctors, Friends and Crocodiles, The Governor, Murder Squad, Rebel Heart and The Informant. Film includes 100 Streets, Bitter Harvest, Saving Private Ryan, War Machine, Noble, The Matchmaker, Though The Sky Falls, Nora, Spin The Bottle, Moll Flanders, The General, On The Edge and Ordinary Decent Criminal.

Martin Marquez plays Joe/ Bill/ Jack’s Father. Theatre credits include Othello, Husbands & Sons, Love’s Labours Lost, Mother Courage and Her Children (National Theatre), Leopard (Rose Theatre), Guys & Dolls, Blasted (Sheffield Theatres), Sweet Charity, Fool For Love, Front Page (Donmar Warehouse), Still Alice, The Crucible, Don Juan, Of Mice and Men (West Yorkshire Playhouse), Much Ado About Nothing, Imogen (Shakespeare’s Globe), This House, Boeing Boeing (UK tours), Before I Leave (National Theatre Wales), Ah, Wilderness (Young Vic), From Here to Eternity (Shaftesbury Theatre), 4 Knights In Knaresborough (Tricycle Theatre), Anything Goes (National Theatre/Theatre Royal Drury Lane), Brothers Maquez (Soho Theatre), Cleansed, Identical Twins (Royal Court Theatre), Flesh & Blood, Jude The Obscure, Private Lives (Method & Madness), Gondoliers, I Caught My Death in Venice, Insignificance, Pal Joey (Chichester Festival Theatres), Snowball (Hampstead Theatre). Television credits include Kate and Koji, The Chelsea Detective, Dead Pixels, Bounty Hunters, The Crown, Modus, Decline and Fall, Suntrap, The Javone Prince Show, The Job Lot, Woody, Vera, Knifeman, Benidorm, The Whale, Twenty Twelve, Falcon – Blind Man of Seville, Holy Flying Circus, New Tricks, Hotel Babylon, Lead Balloon, Elizabeth, Empire, Dirty Tricks, The Plastic Man, Murder Most Horrid, The Bill and In Suspicious Circumstances. Film credits include: 7 Hours on Earth, The Mercy, After Louise, Girl on a Bicycle, A Louder Silence, Les Miserables and The Business.

Eddi Reader performs as the Balladeer / Jack’s Mother. Celebrating over 40 years as a live performer, she was first brought into the limelight as front woman for Fairground Attraction, who’s #1 single, Perfect and parent album, First of a Million Kisses, both topped the U.K. charts and the charts in Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Japan,  it was Eddi’s subsequent solo albums that signaled her ability to assimilate different musical styles and make them very much her own. Notably, The Songs of Robert Burns (2003) is a timeless interpretation showcasing the poems of Scotland’s national bard and gained her Five honorary degrees from Strathclyde University, Caledonia University, Stirling university, Edinburgh university and Paisley University, plus an MBE for outstanding contributions to the Arts.

Understudies: Rob Alexander-Adams (Understudy Joe Aguirre/Bill/Jack’s Father/Older Ennis), Tom Mahy (Understudy Jack/Ennis) and Sophie Reid (Lureen and Waitress/Understudy Alma/Understudy Balladeer & Jack’s Mother).

Olivier Awards 2023 with Mastercard announces stellar line-up of presenters and list of confirmed attendees

●        Star-studded presenting line-up includes Milly Alcock, Sheila Atim, Darcey Bussell, Luke Evans, Eddie Izzard, Tim Minchin, Lea Salonga, Sheridan Smith, Mark Strong, Dita Von Teese and Aimee Lou Wood

●        Nominees attending the ceremony include Rose Ayling-Ellis, Jodie Comer, Arthur Darvill, Jean Paul Gaultier, Beverley Knight, Janet McTeer, Paul Mescal, Caroline Quentin, Rafe Spall, David Tennant

Ahead of the ceremony this Sunday (2 April), the Olivier Awards 2023 with Mastercard today announces its line-up of presenters for the event taking place at the Royal Albert Hall, hosted by Hannah Waddingham.

Hannah will begin the ceremony with an opening number, written by Pippa Cleary (The Great British Bake Off Musical, My Son’s A Queer, (But What Can You Do?)), featuring many performers from current long-running West End shows.

Among those taking part in the evening are 2023 BAFTA Rising Star nominee Aimee Lou Wood who is currently starring as Sally Bowles in Cabaret, Liz Carr who won the award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role at last year’s ceremony and multi Olivier Award Winner Matthew Bourne. 

Stage stars including Callum Scott Howells, Divina De Campo, Eddie Izzard, Milly Alcock and Sheridan Smith who are currently all performing in or preparing for London and touring shows will also be presenting awards.

Further presenters on the star-studded line-up include Sheila Atim, Darcey Bussell, Es Devlin, Luke Evans, Helen George, Cush Jumbo, Ronan Keating, Tim Minchin, Anne Reid, Golda Rosheuvel, Lea Salonga, Harriet Scott, Mark Strong, Meera Syal, Sindhu Vee and Dita Von Teese.

Nominees on the sustainable ‘Green Carpet’ will include Rose Ayling-Ellis, Jodie Comer, Arthur Darvill, Jean Paul Gaultier, Beverley Knight, Elliot Levey, Janet McTeer, Paul Mescal, Caroline Quentin, Clive Rowe, Sharon Small, Rafe Spall, Marisha Wallace, David Tennant and Giles Terera.

AWFC football icon and Mastercard ambassador Alex Scott will also be in attendance to enjoy the show. Other VIP guests include Louise Redknapp, Charlotte Tilbury and Amber Davies.

The Olivier Awards 2023 with Mastercardare also delighted to announce a new partnership with makeup brand, ICONIC London.

Nominations were announced on 28 February and celebrated during a special Nominees event at The Londoner, a super boutique hotel in the heart of London’s theatre district from Olivier Awards partners Edwardian Hotels London. The full list of nominations is available to view on the Olivier Awards website.

officiallondontheatre.com/olivier-awards

THE EPIC MONGOLIAN PRODUCTION THE MONGOL KHAN TO RUN AT THE LONDON COLISEUM THIS NOVEMBER FOR A STRICTLY LIMITED SEASON

• WITH A COMPANY OF OVER 70 ACTORS, DANCERS & MUSICIANS, THIS PRODUCTION HAS PLAYED TO SOLD OUT HOUSES IN ULAANBAATAR FOR OVER A YEAR
   
• INSPIRED BY HISTORICAL EVENTS, THIS PLAY FUSES A HAUNTING ORIGINAL SCORE WITH DRAMATIC STORYTELLING, DANCE AND PUPPETRY
   
• THE PRODUCTION’S ARRIVAL IN THE UK MARKS THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF ANGLO- MONGOLIAN DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS
   
• PERFORMANCES RUN FROM THE 17 NOVEMBER – 2 DECEMBER & ARE ON SALE NOW

Website  www.themongolkhan.com

Mongolia. 2000 years ago. A brutal succession battle threatens the very heart of the Empire. As the great Khan struggles to maintain his supremacy, a plot unfurls that will forever alter the balance of power.

The Mongol Khan is a lavish, large-scale production, with an ensemble of over 70 performers, that has played to packed houses in Mongolia for over a year. Based on historical events, the show explores the evolution of Mongolian culture through a gripping story, brought to life with a stunning original score, dance, puppetry, and elaborate sets and costumes inspired by traditional nomadic culture. 

The Mongolian creators are now collaborating with an international team of world-renowned artists and practitioners on the show’s development, including prolific historian and travel writer John Man, an expert in Mongolian history and culture.

This spectacular production celebrates 60 years of Anglo-Mongolian relations and cultural exchange. Bordered by China and Russia, Mongolia is one of the world’s best kept secrets as a travel destination for adventure-fuelled people and lovers of luxury alike. Captivating, rugged expanses, stunningly beautiful landscapes, a vast unspoilt wilderness, extremely welcoming people and nomadic tribes with rich traditions, Mongolia has it all. The Mongol Khan serves as an introduction to the country and its history, giving audiences and would-be travellers a taste of the rich culture of this remarkable nation.

The Mongol Khan has all the ingredients of a classic tragedy: jealousy, mistaken identity, adultery, rivalry, sacrifice, succession and the struggle for power. With the stability of an empire at stake, the story culminates in an epic battle for the future of the Hunnic Empire. It’s a multi-sensory feast, the like of which audiences will have never experienced before.

Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai, The Prime Minister of Mongolia said: ‘Welcome to Mongolia! 2023-2025 are ‘The Years to Visit Mongolia’. We are landlocked, but not mind-locked so come and see what we have to offer and enjoy a holiday of a lifetime. 

‘To celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Mongolia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the classic play The Mongol Khan will play at the London Coliseum. The very first time a Mongolian play has been presented to a European audience, The Mongol Khan offers audiences a unique insight into the mentality and philosophy of early eastern civilisations.’

The Mongol Khan was written in 1998 by renowned Mongolian writer and poet Lkhagvasuren Bavuu and was revived in April 2022 at the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Drama. The production takes inspiration from historical events, archaeological findings, traditional nomadic dances, and the music of the ancient Hun culture of Central Asia from the period of the Hunnic Empire.

Festival Theatre, Malvern – until 1st April 2023

Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau

5*****

The Time Machine: A Comedy comes to Malvern! Or is that returns to Malvern? Or is it yet to come to Malvern? No, luckily for all of us close to Malvern, I can confirm it is indeed here and was well worth the wait.

The show is very loosely based on H.G. Wells famous novel but this is just the launching off point for a roller coaster ride of epic proportions encompassing stage and rehearsal space and time as the actors attempt to mount a production given a most peculiar set of circumstances and tribulations.

The cast is small but perfectly formed. Unfortunately, it’s hard to say too much without spoiling the tortuously convoluted plot but I’ll just mention that (amongst their other attributes) Dave Hearn was every inch the comic genius you know and love from the Goes Wrong franchise, here in a meatier role than usual, with a surprising family connection… Amy Revelle is the accident prone love interest with a penchant for song and Michael Dylan the romantic, perpetual victim with all the right moves. Individually all master comedians; together a finely honed comic ensemble! Also present is Noah Marullo who has a couple of important supporting functions, which he played to perfection.

If you’re a fan of astonished glances breaking the fourth wall, this show will have your boat floated. There’s some pseudo science that I thoroughly enjoyed – testament to the quality of writing, making the driest of material positively drip with hilarity. Pay attention – there may be questions later. There’s even a surprise guest appearance. This clever show throws in locally flavoured jokes, has slapstick and showtunes… In fact, there’s very little this show doesn’t have – it even weaves in a cliffhanger! The second half is way funnier than the first – and that’s some feat! There literally isn’t a moment where the laughter eases up.

Audience participation features heavily and it’s without doubt the funniest I’ve ever seen. I’m guessing that this part of the show is very ad-libbed, with the actors reacting to the audience members “helpful” input. They certainly seemed to be enjoying themselves and I know we were. So be prepared to join in (or take a show-off friend along you can duck behind).

I had astronomically high hopes when I saw that Dave Hearn was in this because I have loved his previous work. My hopes were more than exceeded. I could happily watch this show time and again and I’m certain it would get funnier and funnier.

A thoroughly enjoyable romp through the sands of time, casting inopportune footprints in the literary shoreline of a revered classic whilst dropping its comedy choc ices into the sandcastles of science fact (or something). An absolute classic making its live debut before transferring (I’m sure) to the small screen. A must see show. Every inch the play that goes right and one I have no hesitation in recommending you rush out and see asap!

Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 1st April 2023

Reviewed by Jacqui Radford

4****

From the very beginning of this production, the scene is set to discover the complications of a 1950s fantasy lifestyle. As soon as the lights come up and nostalgia music plays, you are drawn into the home of a modern-day couple living out a 1950s ‘arrangement’, also referred to as a marriage.

For three years, Judy (played by Jessica Ransom) and her husband Johnny (Neil McDermott) have been living the dream that Judy constructed for herself as a child. Dressed in full skirts, bright colours and perfectly styled hair, Jessica Ransom portrays Judy initially as a perfectionist; dancing around the house with duster in hand, decanting food into 50s style containers and tending to every whim and fancy that she perceives her husband to have. Only a few modern touches are allowed into the house, quietly introducing the convenience and benefits of change.

As we move through the play, we discover that Judy is also a victim of her own perfectionism. Judy’s desire to stay in the 50s and live it to perfection soon unveils some cracks in their plan and their marriage. Johnny begins to discover that he can’t expect his world of work to adjust to his ‘50s style expectations of promotion and simultaneously discovers joy in eating pizza. Faced with mounting debts and growing tension between them, Judy and Johnny have to decide whether sticking with the ‘50s life should win over their love for each other. Judy struggles most with the idea that having lived so long in a bygone era she may not be able to adjust, likening the experience to returning to school after an illness.

Other cast members add extra dimension to the thread of the play, nimbly contributing to scenery changes and dance routines. Friends Fran (Cassie Bradley) and Marcus (Matthew Douglas) enjoy 1950s themed activities and still enjoy the benefits of the modern day, including a ready meal or two. Judy’s mother, Sylvia and Johnny’s manager, Alex are both firmly fixed in the 21st Century and both are clear on the pitfalls of the 1950s; discrimination and fewer rights as a starting point.

This production did have me questioning the role we all play in setting out norms and the judgements we make about people, lifestyle choices and assets but it was certainly not a gloomy comment on any of that. All in all it was a perfect combination of vintage style, jive and humour.

MY NEIGHBOUR TOTORO RETURNS TO THE BARBICAN THIS AUTUMN

Today (Thursday 30 March), Executive Producer Joe Hisaishi and the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), in collaboration with Improbable and Nippon TV, announce that the record-breaking production of Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbour Totoro will return to the Barbican Theatre for a strictly limited run in Autumn 2023.

The global stage premiere of Hayao Miyazaki’s celebrated 1988 animated feature film, adapted by Tom Morton-Smith (Oppenheimer), was first announced in April 2022 and broke the Barbican’s Box Office record for most tickets sold in a single day. The production opened at the Barbican in October last year, where it received both critical and audience acclaim, winning five What’s on Stage Awards, and being nominated for nine Olivier Awards, the most nominations for any production this year.  My Neighbour Totoro will return to the Barbican from Tuesday 21 November to Saturday 23 March 2024,with priority booking opening on Tuesday 11 April and public booking open on Friday 21 April 2023.

Griselda Yorke, RSC Executive Producer, said:

‘The most extraordinary group of artists have come together from all over the world to adapt this iconic film for the stage, and I am delighted that the production will return to the Barbican in 2023.

My Neighbour Totoro is a story of imagination and courage which asks us to trust the youngest amongst us to see further than most of us dare to dream. With our return to the Barbican, many more audiences will be able to experience the joy of Totoro and we can’t wait to welcome them.’

Directed by Improbable’s Phelim McDermott with production design by Tom Pye, costume design by Kimie Nakano, lighting design by Jessica Hung Han Yun, and movement by You-Ri Yamanaka. Puppetry design and direction is by Basil Twist, created with puppetry associate Mervyn Millar’s Significant Object and Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. The production features music from Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score in a new orchestration by Will Stuart, performed live with sound design by Tony Gayle. Video design is by Finn Ross and Andrea Scott. Associate Director is Ailin Conant.

Artwork for the stage adaptation of My Neighbour Totoro includes a hand drawn title by Toshio Suzuki, Producer for Studio Ghibli, who was involved in the planning and production of the original animated film.

Casting for the 2023/24 run of My Neighbour Totoro will be announced soon.

This enchanting coming-of-age story explores the magical fantasy world of childhood and the transformative power of imagination, as it follows one extraordinary summer in the lives of sisters Satsuki and Mei.

In order to be closer to their mother while she recovers from an illness in a rural convalescent hospital, their father moves the family to the countryside. As the girls explore their beautiful new surroundings, Mei encounters magical creatures and the ancient protector of the forest she calls Totoro.

Although Satsuki doesn’t believe her little sister at first, they are soon both swept up in exciting adventures with their new neighbours – transported to a long-forgotten realm of spirits, sprites, and natural wonder.

Theatr Clwyd, Yr Wyddgrug – until Saturday 1st April 2023

Reviewed by Julie Noller

4****

Heathers originally a 1989 black satirical comedy film that unfortunately flopped but retains a following of those who didn’t want to watch the sickly sweet teen movies that began with the Brat Pack.

I admit I was more than curious, just how would it appeal not just as a theatre production but as a musical. Firstly I was struck by the age of the audience not just those of my age who were teenagers back in 1980s but lots of younger Generation Zs. Not only that but I was impressed by the costumes donned by many who dressed as the Heathers, in brightly coloured suits. I immediately became aware of the buzz; the anticipation of what was to come. It is set in the 1980s – 1989 to be exact yet it doesn’t feel dated or weighed down by the yuppie era. There is a deliberate unpolitical correctness that should be attached to the 80’s, words that are no longer accepted are used to add to the teenage angst. It takes a long deep look at the politics of high school.

What struck me after my initial confusion of trying to settle into the story, is that it’s a musical; this isn’t another teenage movie much as the original film broke the mould then the award winning writing team of Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy have followed suit.

Forget the story just listen to the brilliant songs let yourself get carried away. It is a teenage school musical much akin to High School Musical, yet it isn’t saccharine sweet more like it’s hit the steroids. As I said I watched the audience around me, I witnessed the singing, cheering, whooping; without a doubt Heathers has gained a cult following and is truly set to become a modern classic.

So much is similar to the film, the characters, personalities, setting. Westerberg High School the home of the rottweilers, very apt considering it’s a dog eat dog battle of survival. There’s Veronica Sawyer (Jenna Innes) great singing voice, lost within herself. Facing the battle of wills her good self happy to be supporting her friend Martha Dunnstock (Kingsley Morton) or the other side hitting the popularity highs, the sliding down into the murderous encouragement of boyfriend and new boy the sadistic JD (Tom Dickerson who stepped into the role). Together Jenna and Tom are a power couple he never misses a beat and they gel so well especially with ‘Our Love is God’. Then there are three Heathers, queens of bitches, rulers of Westerberg kingdom. Verity Thompson, Elsie Zavou and Billie Bowman play them to perfection. Verity Thompson as the leader and total dominant Queen Bee shines as a ghost communicating to an extremely guilty Veronica telling her that the highschool system they as the masses and lesser people knew and even hated was breaking down after her death and things would get worse.

I loved the costumes the fact that every student group from punk to emo was represented. The Heathers are dressed in suits of prime colours aiming to stand out as leaders, the only blip being when green changes to red (to some green is not a true prime but a mix of shades) Everyones favourite jocks Kurt (Alex Woodward) and Ram (Morgan Jackson) bring much needed laughs, poking fun at the whole beef before brains, you can’t help but love them. The fact that the homophobic scenes are played down with additions of having a song titled ‘I Love my Dead Gay Son’ brings it smack upto date with today.

Heathers should be added to everyones tick list, a future cult classic that stands out apart from the pack as quirky, fun and comical.

JASON DONOVAN & PETER ANDRE 

RETURN TO

GREASE

AT THE DOMINION THEATRE

FULL CAST ANNOUNCED

Lead Producer Colin Ingram is delighted to announce Australian stars Jason Donovan and Peter Andre will return to Jim Jacobs & Warren Casey’s iconic musical GREASE at the Dominion Theatre following their highly acclaimed performances last year. Jason will play the role of Teen Angel at certain performances from 14 August to 28 October. Peter will play the roles of Vince Fontaine and Teen Angel at certain performances from 29 August to 19 October. As previously announced, Louise Redknapp will play Teen Angel from 2 June to 29 July, excluding Mondays. Patrons are advised to check the website for specific dates.

Colin Ingram is also happy to announce the full cast joining previously announced 2022 returning cast members Dan Partridge as Danny, Olivia Moore as Sandy and Jocasta Almgill as Rizzo. Soloman Davy will play Kenickie, Callum Henderson will play Roger, Katie Brace will play Jan, 2022 returning cast members Jake Reynolds and Ellie Kingdon will play Doody and Marty respectively, George Michaelides will play Sonny, Olivia Foster-Browne will play Frenchy, Jayd’n Tyrone will play Eugene, Chloe Saunders will play Patty Simcox, Katie Dunsden will play Cha Cha, Liam McHugh will play Johnny Casino, Darren Bennett will play Vince Fontaine and Teen Angel at certain performances and Rachel Stanley will play Miss Lynch. Also in the cast are Michael Anderson, Alicia Belgrade, Kirsty Ingram, Jordan Isaac, D’Mia Lindsay-Walker, Carly Miles, Luke Redmore, Samuel Routley, Darcey Simmons, Sario Solomon, Joshua Steel and Allana Taylor.

GREASE is directed by Nikolai Foster and choreographed by Dame Arlene Phillips.

Jason Donovan first appeared as Scott Robinson in the hit Australian series Neighbours in the 1980s. He then followed on as a recording artist and had several hit songs in the late 1980s. His album Ten Good Reasons was the best-selling album of 1989.  His hit songs included Too Many Broken Hearts, Especially For You (with Kylie Minogue), Any Dream Will Do, Sealed With A Kiss, and many more.  On stage, he had a record-breaking run in Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat and subsequently starred in The Rocky Horror Show, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, The Sound of Music, Annie Get Your Gun, The King’s Speech, Million Dollar Quartet, Jeff Wayne’s The War Of The Worlds and Chicago. In autumn 2021, Jason undertook his first solo music concert in five years with his ‘Even More Good Reasons’ Tour which he performed whilst also filming the BBC hit show Not Going Out. Jason’s recent TV credits also include ITV’s Dial M for Middlesbrough and Dave’s Meet the Richardsons. In 2019 and 2021, Jason spent the summer months at The London Palladium as Pharaoh in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and in 2022 starred in the nationwide tour taking the show to venues throughout the UK. He can currently be seen playing Dr Frank-N-Furter in cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Theatre Royal Sydney in Australia.

Peter Andre has achieved immense success over the years with many No1 hit singles and international awards.

Now a global media star, Peter has diversified into film, theatre and television, as well as continuing to tour all over the world.  2023 sees Peter celebrating an incredible 30 years in show business and he is currently on a UK tour: Peter Andre 30.

In 2022, GREASE was seen by over 500,000 people in the West End, making it the Dominion Theatre’s most successful summer run since We Will Rock You. GREASE recently received 4 WhatsOnStage Award nominations for Best Musical Revival, Best Choreography for Arlene Phillips and Best Supporting Performer in a Musical for original cast members Jocasta Almgill and Paul French.

This production of GREASE is dedicated to the memory of Olivia Newton-John, who sadly passed away in August 2022.

GREASE originally opened in Chicago in 1971, followed by a move to Broadway in 1972, where it received seven Tony Award nominations, including one for Best Musical. During the show’s eight-year run at the time, little known actors including Peter Gallagher, Patrick Swayze and John Travolta all appeared in the production, with Richard Gere understudying many roles before going on to star as Danny Zuko in the 1973 London premiere. GREASE was first performed at the Dominion Theatre in 1993 before transferring to the Cambridge Theatre in 1996. It returned to the West End, opening at the Piccadilly Theatre in 2007.

The 1978 film adaptation starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John is the fourth highest-grossing live action musical of all time. The musical features beloved songs, including Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, Hopelessly Devoted To You and You’re The One That I Want.

GREASE has designs by Colin Richmond, orchestrations and musical supervision by Sarah Travis, lighting design by Ben Cracknell, sound design by Tom Marshall and Richard Brooker, video and projection design by Douglas O’Connell and casting by David Grindrod CDG.

This production of GREASE is produced by Colin Ingram for InTheatre Productions, Donovan Mannato, Playing Field, Gavin Kalin, and Curve.

Website: www.greasemusical.co.uk

Facebook: @GreaseWestEnd

Twitter: @GreaseWestEnd

Instagram: @GreaseWestEnd

TikTok: @GreaseWestEnd     

LISTINGS INFORMATION

2 June – 28 October 2023

Dominion Theatre

268-269 Tottenham Court Road

London

W1T 7AQ

Performances: Monday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Thursday & Saturday at 2.30pm

Please note, there will be an additional matinee at 2.30pm on Tuesday 24 October

Tickets from: £17.50

Box Office: 0345 200 7982

Southampton Mayflower – until 1st April 2023

Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock

3***

Roddy Doyle’s well loved book has been transformed into a stage production, directed by Andrew Linnie and brings a taste of Dublin to Southampton.

The story starts in Dublin, with Jimmy Rabitte (James Killeen) wanting to start up a band and so enlists a group of misfits-ending up with a superstar band that becomes successful in their own right. This is a great cast, with some incredible vocal talents. The driving force of the show is undoubtedly Ian McIntosh as Deco, the short tempered lead singer of the band who blows a fuse at almost any given moment! His incredibly infectious energy was radiating and he got the audience on their feet, dancing and singing away. As a natural entertainer, it was a real joy to watch him navigate through his character – ultimately creating one of the greatest encores around! We see Deco spat with almost every member of the band and ends up with some members leaving, causing Jimmy to need to rethink his ensemble.

Tim Blazdell’s set design was great, effortlessly transporting you to a backstreet in Dublin and creates some interesting and smooth transitions through the performance. Along with Emma Stillman’s costuming, it was easy to define who was who, with signature pieces for the 3 girls-Imelda, Natalie and Bernie. This helped aid the understanding of the audience and navigation of the story.

With some great music including hits like ‘Proud Mary’, ‘Papa was a Rolling Stone’ and ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours’, make sure that once you have ‘Heard it Through the Grapevine’, you book a ticket to this rousing success.