QUEENS, THE NEW EXHIBITION INSPIRED BY SIX THE MUSICAL BEGINS ITS REIGN AT THE LOWRY

SATURDAY 20^TH JULY TO SUNDAY 3^rd NOVEMBER 2024

FREE ENTRY

Queens, the major new exhibition inspired by SIX the Musical, will begin its reign at The Lowry this weekend.

Queens: The Exhibition will run in the Galleries of the Salford arts venue from Saturday 20^th July to Sunday 3^rd November 2024.

The free exhibition – curated by The Lowry – is the first of its kind and is produced with the support of SIX and its creators Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss.

The word ‘Queen’ has become a positive term of self-reference, and this exhibition asks the question ‘What kind of Queen are you?’ and celebrates ‘everyday’ queens of every description.

The exhibition will start with a celebration of the hit musical SIX and taking centre stage will be two of Gabriella Slade’s iconic costumes from the show: those of Catherine of Aragon and Katherine Howard – a first for the North West.

The costumes will be displayed alongside a newly-commissioned model of the SIX stage set, designed by Emma Bailey, as well as scripts, film and memorabilia from Toby and Lucy.

It will feature new commissions from local legend, The Mancorialist, Instagram cartoonist Lily O’Farrell and from Manchester-based artist, Johnny Humes, whose remarkable new painting throws a spotlight on Fanny and Stella, two young men who shocked Victorian England. 

A Tudor-esque house inside the exhibition will be filled with UV light for some magical opportunities for visitors to draw their own pictures.  There’s the chance to sing your heart out, and even a huge oversized gothic throne for that essential regal selfie. And there are mini-Queens hidden throughout the galleries to find.

There will also be venue-wide free learning and engagement activities based around the Queens theme for the duration of the exhibition’s run, including arts & crafts, silent discos and dance workshops. For full details of what’s on offer during Queens, including live music performances and Queens-themed food and drink offerings in ‘The Queens Head’ pub, please check the website.

Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the creators of SIX, said: “We are so, so excited that this SIX-inspired exhibition is being curated by The Lowry! It has been such a wonderful home for our show for so many years, and it’s just so cool that it will be inviting the Queendom to engage with it, its history, and theatre in a different way. We can’t wait for everyone to come along and experience the magic the team have been cooking up – we hope it’ll be super inspiring!”

Michael Simpson, The Lowry’s Director of Visual Arts, said: “SIX first came to The Lowry at Christmas 2018, at the end of the show’s first ever UK tour, and the production has returned regularly ever since, with sold-out audiences every time.

“With Queens we want to celebrate not only SIX and its huge personality and sense of fun, but also its glorious inclusivity, attitude and creativity.  We know it’s going to be an exhibition like no other and is for everyone who loves SIX, but also for everyone who likes to have a good time.”

SIX follows the six wives of Henry VIII as they take to the mic to tell their own personal tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power.

Since its early days as a student production in a 100-seat room at the 2017 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the show has fast become a global musical phenomenon.

The exhibition’s run coincides with a visit by SIX to The Lowry’s Lyric Theatre from Tuesday 13^th August to Sunday 1^st September – tickets on sale now.

Entry to Queens: The Exhibition is free but timeslots are required, which can be booked in advance on The Lowry website. Entry may also be available on arrival at The Lowry – however these will be subject to demand on the day and availability may vary so booking in advance is recommended to ensure entry.

The Lowry’s Galleries are open Tuesday to Friday 11am-5pm and Saturday & Sunday 10am-5pm. The Lowry is closed on Mondays.

During the run of SIX, the Galleries will be open from 5pm-7.30pm on selected dates – check website for details.

The Lowry is a charity and while entry to The Galleries is free, donations are gratefully received and can be made online when booking a timeslot or in the venue.

QUEENS: The Exhibition

The Lowry, Salford

Saturday 20^th July to Sunday 3^rd November 2024.

Free Entry, donations welcome

https://thelowry.com/whats-on/queens-the-exhibition

SIX the Musical

The Lowry, Salford

Tuesday 13^th August to Sunday 1^st September.

Tickets from £28.50

https://thelowry.com/whats-on/six-2024

SEVEN EXTRA PERFORMANCES ADDED TO

SELL-OUT MISCHIEF MOVIE NIGHT

SUMMER SEASON

AT THE OTHER PALACE

Monday 29 July – Sunday 1 September 2024

The Other Palace, London  

Friday 19 July – Seven extra performances have been added to the Mischief Movie Night season at The Other Palace this summer.  The season has proved so popular that the original scheduled performances have already sold out.

The first performance is now on Monday 29 July at 8pm (originally it was on 30 July 2024) with the season running until Sunday 1 September 2024.

The other six extra performances are:  Monday 5 August at 7pm & 8.45pm, Monday 12 August at 7pm & 8.45pm and Monday 26 August at 7pm & 8.45pm.

Tickets for these extra performances are available at 12pm on Friday 19 July 2024 from www.MischiefMovieNight.co.uk.

The original Mischief gang, creators of Mischief’s flagship comedy The Play That Goes Wrong, return to London and to their comedy roots to present their hilarious improvised Mischief Movie Night.

Every show is different with audience members suggesting a genre, location and title.  Mischief hilariously brings the show to life, complete with rewinds, fast forwards, directors cuts and a thrilling live score to laugh along to. 

Mischief Movie Night features Mischief original cast members and regulars including:  Ruth Bratt as Look Who’s Talking, Matt Cavendish as Time, Gentlemen Please, Bryony Corrigan as TBC, Rhyanna Alexander Davies as Don’t Know Yet, Josh Elliott as No Idea, Susan Harrison as I Suppose We’ll Find Out, Henry Lewis as Not Sure, Ellie Morris as Surely Not Now, Niall Ransome as Guess Who?,  Charlie Russell as Couldn’t Tell You, Jonathan Sayer as Wait and See, Lauren Shearing as We’ll Never Know, Henry Shields as Need to Check and Nancy Zamit as It’s a Slam Dunk. They will be joined by musicians Richard Baker, Ed Zanders and Yshani Perinpanayagam.

Originally created by Mischief for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the show has transferred to the West End for a limited season, and during the pandemic was streamed globally and watched in over 50 countries, bringing laughter directly into families living rooms.  

Mischief Movie Night is created by Mischief with lighting by David Howe. 

Mischief’s production of The Play that Goes Wrong is currently running at the Duchess Theatre and celebrates 10 years in the West End in September 2024.

Listings Information

Mischief Present

MISCHIEF MOVIE NIGHT

The Improvised Movie, Live On Stage

www.MischiefMovieNight.co.uk

The Other Palace

12 Palace Street

London

SW1E 5JA

29 July – 1 September 2024

Box Office:

Telephone: 020 7592 0302

Home

Performance Times

Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri & Sun at 8pm

Monday 5 August at 7pm & 8.45pm, Monday 12 August at 7pm & 8.45pm and Monday 26 August at 7pm & 8.45pm

Tickets

£25, £30, £5 and £40

All tickets include a £1.50 Theatre Restoration and Development Levy

Age Recommendation:

12+

Please note children under 15 years of age must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years of age.

Running Time:  1 hour (no interval)

Social Media:

Facebook:          @MischiefTheatre

X:                            @MischiefComedy

Instagram:         @MischiefComedy

TikTok:                  @MischiefComedy

Royal & Derngate Theatre, Northampton – until 21st July 2024

Reviewed by Amanda Allen

4****

What a wonderful thing it is to see families of all ages out enjoying the theatre together, and that’s exactly what Madagascar The Musical, delivered last night. If this was your child’s first visit to the Theatre, then you chose well. From the start this was just good wholesome fun. Telling a story about friendship between “different” characters

Touring since 2018 this is a slick well performed show, with excellent puppetry, singing, dancing and costumes that kept you entertained throughout. The outstanding performance for me was King Julien played by Karim Zeroual, how he danced whist on his knees the whole time is amazing. The way he portrayed the character of the ring tailed lemur in charge of the island of Madagascar was inspired. Helped by a inspirational, well designed costume he captivated the audience from his first appearance. Alex, the Lion played by Joseph Hewlett, was great, he knew he was the king of New York, well central Park Zoo at least, and made sure everyone else knew it too. His best pal Marty, the Zebra, played by Fransisco Gomes, had the best comic lines and made the audience laugh throughout the show, especially when he realised, he was being looked at as dinner by his best friend!

The story is basically one of friendship across the divide, demonstrating that we can all live happily alongside each other if we want too badly enough. Although the story is a bit sparce it managed to portray the central themes of appreciating what we have, friendship crossing all barriers and the grass is not always greener on the other side!

My main disappointment with this show was the gaps in the story, how did they go from being in Grand Central Station New York into crates on a boat heading for the Arctic? I understand that the live musical can’t show all the detailed story telling of an animated film which is much more involved, but some elements needed more explanation. Having never seen the animated movie I needed more information. The cheeky penguins were another highlight, excellent puppeteering skills from Laura Marie Benson as Kowalski, Ella Howlett as Rico, Brogan McFarlane as Private and Connor Keetley as Skipper. Gloria the Hippo (Jarneia Richard-Noel) dancing to king Juliens song “I like to Move it, move it” was brilliant, the whole audience was on their feet joining in and laughing along. Joshua Oakes-Rogers gave us a wonderful demonstration of his puppeteering skills, and his performance of
Hypochondriac Giraffe, Marty was terrific

In conclusion this is a great introduction for young families to live theatre, although it has an uninspiring soundtrack, the only song we all knew was Move it move it, and a very simplistic story, the small cast of only 10 gave us an excellent night out, simple family fun for all, buy a
ticket now before they all go!

Underbelly Boulevard – until 18th August 2024

Reviewer Alec Legge

5*****

Into the wilds of Soho to the Underbelly Boulevard, which is a a new venue situated in Walkers Court, Soho. It also contains Cafe Kitty where you can eat and drink in the evening 1700 and 2145hrs with differing hours on show days. There is as well a cocktail bar all this making it a complete venue for dining and a show

The theatre itself consists of a semi circular auditorium with stalls situated on two levels with a balcony above. There is good clear sight of the stage from all seats and has an intimate feel due to its relative small size. A lovely little theatre.

Then to the reason for our visit, QUEENZ, Live in London. I can truthfully say that what followed far exceeded my expectations! What a marvellous entertaining, funny and musical show followed. These entertainers gave there all in a spectacular amazing, resounding and funny show, in fact I loved every part of the show the singing both as a group and individually was superb, no lip-synch, all live, the songs being belted out with so much gusto as to raise the roof! The choreography was more than first class and impeccably performed.

At various stages in the performance they inveigled the audience to stand up from the seats and join in and the whole place erupted with song and dance the audience wholly participating.

The part of Bella Du Ball was played by Grant Jackson, Billie Eyelash by Craig Colley, Dior Montay By Mark McCredie, Candy caned by Joshua Pearson, Zeze Van Cartier by Jonathan Hands, Summer Storm by Matthew Westrope. I’m not going to single out any one of them for particular praise as I truly consider them to be equally amazing performers and all of them were fantastic singers.

All in all this was a more than first class show well deserving of all the superlatives I have used. If you want to enjoy a fantastically glamorous, outstanding, enjoyable musical then this is the one for you. If you miss their season at the Underbelly, Queenz are performing all over the country during the autumn in a new show, Queens, Drag me to the Disco. I certainly encourage anyone who likes a rip roaring, superbly entertaining musical evening of song,
dance and comedy with some sexual innuendo to see this show.

NIKITA KUZMIN

TO TOUR HIS FIRST EVER SOLO SHOW

MIDNIGHT DANCER

IN THE UK

FROM 8 MARCH 2025

International champion and Strictly Come Dancing star NIKITA KUZMIN is thrilled to be presenting his first ever UK solo tour MIDNIGHT DANCER. The tour will open on 8 March 2025 and run through to 24 May, performing across the UK and will play a special performance at Peacock Theatre in London from 21 – 22 March 2025. All venues go on sale on Friday 26 July apart from those specified in the listings section.

Rising Star of Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother Nikita Kuzmin brings his brand-new show, MIDNIGHT DANCER to the stage on his first ever solo UK and Ireland Tour.

Nikita is joined by a sharp and chic cast of talented dancers and vocalists in a show like no other, jam-packed with the hits we all know and love in an evening bursting with happiness, euphoria and of course, world-class dance.

Joining forces with the team behind Oti Mabuse: I Am Here and Johannes Radebe’s trilogy of sell out shows, MIDNIGHT DANCER promises to be an unforgettable night of entertainment. Get ready to see Nikita as you’ve never seen him before.

Nikita Kuzmin is a six-time Italian Champion in Latin and Ballroom dance and choreographer. He is best-known as a professional dancer on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing. In Strictly’s 21st and most recent series, Nikita placed runner-up with dance partner, Layton Williams. The duo redeemed their runner-up status on the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour in February 2024, when they were crowned as glitter ball winners. Nikita entered the Celebrity Big Brother House when the series aired on ITV in March 2024. His presence resonated with housemates and viewers alike, securing him a place in the final and a second-place finish.

Born in Ukraine, Nikita lived there for nine years until his family relocated to Italy to support his sister’s dancing career. It was during his nine years in Italy that Nikita became a six-time Italian Champion in Latin and Ballroom dance. Nikita moved to Germany aged eighteen, where he started working at fellow Strictly alumni Motsi Mabuse’s dance studio before landing a spot as a professional dancer on Let’s Dance – Germany’s version of Strictly Come Dancing – in 2020.

Since his diagnosis with Type One diabetes at age thirteen, Nikita has become a passionate and active campaigner, inspiring those affected to not let it restrict them and raising a wider awareness around the condition.

NIKITA KUZMIN MIDNIGHT DANCER is presented by ROYO, Cuffe & Taylor and Live Nation.

Website: www.nikitalive.co.uk

Instagram:  @nikita_kuzmin
Twitter: @kuzmin_nikita

2025 TOUR SCHEDULE

8 March                    Bromley Churchill Theatre

                                 churchilltheatre.co.uk

9 March                    Cardiff Wales Millennium Centre                                                                      

                                        www.wmc.org.uk                                                                        On sale 9 August

12 March                  Bridlington Spa                                                                        01262 678258

                                 www.bridspa.com

15 March                  Basingstoke The Anvil                                                             01256 844244

                                 www.anvilarts.org.uk/

16 March                  Nottingham Royal Concert Hall                                               0115 989 5555

                                 www.trch.co.uk

22 March                  London Peacock Theatre

(mat & eve)              sadlerswells.com

23 March                  Leicester Curve                                                                        0116 242 3595

                                 www.curveonline.co.uk                                                             On sale 30 July

26 March                  Edinburgh Playhouse

                                 www.atgtickets.com/edinburgh                                     

27 March                  Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall Theatre

                                 www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

28 March                  Northampton Royal & Derngate

                                 royalandderngate.co.uk                                                             On sale soon

30 March                  Bristol Hippodrome                                                      

                                 www.atgtickets.com/bristol

2 April                       Aberdeen Music Hall

                                 aberdeenperformingarts.com

3 April                       Glasgow SEC Armadillo

                                 www.sec.co.uk

4 April                       Blackpool Opera House                                                           0844 770 0593*

                                 www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

6 April                       Sheffield City Hall                                                        

                                 www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk

10 April                     Southend Cliffs Pavilion                                                           0343 310 0030

                                 www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk

11 April                     Portsmouth Guildhall

                                 www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk

12 April                     Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre

                                 www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk/

13 April                     Leeds Grand Theatre0113 243 0808

                                 leedsheritagetheatres.com

17 April                     High Wycombe Swan Theatre                                                 03433100060

                                 wycombeswan.co.uk

18 April                     Peterborough New Theatre                                                     01733 852992

                                 newtheatre-peterborough.com

19 April                     Ipswich Regent Theatre

                                 ipswichtheatres.co.uk

20 April                     Norwich Theatre Royal                                                            01603 630 000

                                 norwichtheatre.org

23 April                     Swindon Wyvern Theatre                                                        0343 310 0040

                                 swindontheatres.co.uk

27 April                     Newcastle Theatre Royal                                                         0191 232 7010 

                                 www.theatreroyal.co.uk                                                             On sale 4 October

29 April                     Brighton Theatre Royal                                                           

                                         www.atgtickets.com/brighton

30 April                     Liverpool Empire Theatre                                                                              

                                         www.atgtickets.com/venues/liverpool-empire

1 May                       Dartford Orchard West                                                             01322 220000

                                 orchardtheatre.co.uk

2 May                       Stoke-on-Trent Regent Theatre

                                 www.atgtickets.com/venues/regent-theatre

4 May                       Dublin Bord Gais Energy Theatre                                            0818719377 (ROI)

                                 bordgaisenergytheatre.ie                                                          08442485101 (UK)

7 May                       Hull New Theatre                                                                      01482 300 306

                                 www.hulltheatres.co.uk

8 May                       Manchester Aviva Studios

                                 factoryinternational.org

9 May                       Bath Forum                                                                               0161 832 1111

                                 www.bathforum.co.uk

10 May                     Llandudno Venue Cymru                                                         01492 872000

                                 www.venuecymru.co.uk

11 May                     Wolverhampton Grand                                                            01902 42 92 12

                                 www.grandtheatre.co.uk                                               

13 May                     Milton Keynes Theatre

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

14 May                     Guildford G-Live                                                                      0343 310 0055

                                 glive.co.uk

15 May                     Folkstone Leas Cliff Hall

                                 www.atgtickets.com/venues/leas-cliff-hall/

17 May                     Birmingham Hippodrome

                                 www.birminghamhippodrome.com

18 May                     Truro Hall For Cornwall                                                            01872262466                                 

                                         www.hallforcornwall.co.uk

20 May                     York Grand Opera House

                                 www.atgtickets.com/York

21 May                     Canterbury Marlowe Theatre                                                   01227 787787

                                 www.marlowetheatre.com                                                        On sale 5 August

NANCY CARROLL’S NEW ADAPTATION OF

ARTHUR WING PINERO’S THE CABINET MINISTER

With Stephen Schwartz’s The Baker’s Wife currently running at the theatre, the Menier Chocolate Factory today announces a major revival of Arthur Wing Pinero’s The Cabinet Minister, in a brand-new adaptation by Nancy Carroll, who also stars as Lady Katherine Twombley. Paul Foster makes his Menier directing debut, with the full cast to be announced shortly. The production opens on 27 September, with previews from 21 September, and runs until 16 November.

Priority booking opens today, with public on sale on 24 July.

THE CABINET MINISTER

By Arthur Wing Pinero

Adapted by Nancy Carroll 

Director: Paul Foster; Set & Costume Designer: Janet Bird; Lighting Designer: Tim Mascall;

Sound Designer: George Dennis; Composer & Musical Supervisor: Sarah Travis;Movement: Joanna Goodwin

Sir Julian Twombley is in trouble: his wife and son have run up massive debts and his political reputation is in the balance. The House of Commons is far from a safe space for him and the newspapers are sniffing blood. Can he save face and hang on to his sanity?

Arthur Wing Pinero’s breathless farce is given a new life in Nancy Carroll’s adaptation. A crack cast tackles this sparkling story of marriage, blackmail and class where all bets are off!

Arthur Wing Pinero (1855 – 1934) was an English playwright and actor. His many plays include Trelawny of the “Wells”, The Magistrate, Dandy Dick, Sweet Lavendar, The Second Mrs Tanqueray, The Magistrate and The Notorious Mrs Ebbsmith.

Nancy Carroll adapts and plays Lady Katherine Twombley. This sees her returns to the Menier following her performance in Marjorie Prime. For theatre, her other credits include Rock ‘n’ Roll (Hampstead Theatre);  Manor, The Magistrate, After the Dance – Oliver Award and Evening Standard Award for Best Actress, Man of Mode (National Theatre); Betrayal (Theatre Royal Bath); The Deep Blue Sea (Chichester Festival Theatre); The Moderate Soprano (Hampstead Theatre, Duke of York’s Theatre); Young Marx (Bridge Theatre); Woyzeck (The Old Vic); Closer, The Recruiting Officer (Donmar Warehouse); House of Games, King Lear (Almeida Theatre); A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Sheffield Theatres); Arcadia (Duke of York’s); Henry IV, Parts 1 & 2 (RSC); and Mammals (Bush Theatre). For television, her work includes Father Brown, Murder in Provence, Stephen, The Crown, Agatha Raisin, Queens of Mystery, Will, Prime Suspect 1973, The Suspicions of Mr Whicher and Call the Midwife; and for film, The Gathering Storm, Iris, An Ideal Husband and Magic Mike’s Last Dance.

Paul Foster directs. For theatre, his work includes White Christmas, Talent, Annie Get Your Gun (Sheffield Theatres); Fascinating Aida (UK tour); Gypsy (Alexandra Palace); Curtains (Wyndham’s Theatre and UK tour); The Deep Blue Sea (Chichester Festival Theatre); The Light Princess, Sweet Charity (Cadogan Hall), A Little Night Music, Laurel and Hardy (Watermill Theatre), Tell Me on a Sunday (Watermill Theatre and UK tour); Bette Midler and Me, Flora the Red Menace (Edinburgh Festival); The Confession Room (St James’ Theatre); Darling of the Day, Bells are Ringing, Crimes of the Heart (Union Theatre);  Cowardy Custard (Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and UK tour); Little One (Royal Court Young Writers Festival); Katherine Jakeways (Soho Theatre) and The Vagina Monologues (UK tour).

LISTINGS INFORMATION

MENIER CHOCOLATE FACTORY

THE BAKER’S WIFE

Until 14 September

THE CABINET MINISTER

21^st September – 16^th November

Box Office:                         020 7378 1713 (£2.50 transaction fee per booking)

Website:                             www.menierchocolatefactory.com (£1.50 transaction fee per booking)

Tickets:                               Prices vary, as below from discounted preview tickets to premier seats. With the emphasis on ‘the sooner you book, the better the price’:

Please note at this time the restaurant is unable to open due to circumstances beyond the company’s control.

www.menierchocolatefactory.com

Twitter: @MenChocFactory

Instagram: @menierchocolatefactory

JAMES GRAHAM’S PUNCH TRANSFERS TO LONDON’S YOUNG VIC THEATRE IN MARCH 2025

• Olivier Award-winning playwright James Graham’s (Best of Enemies, Dear England, Sherwood) latest five-star show arrives at the Young Vic Theatre following a critically acclaimed, sell-out run at Nottingham Playhouse.

• Julie Hesmondhalgh (Coronation Street, Mr Bates vs The Post Office), Tony Hirst (Coronation Street, Hollyoaks) and David Shields (Masters of the Air, Black Mirror) reprise their roles in the powerhouse production, running in the Young Vic Main House from 1 March to 12 April with press night on 6 March 2025.

• Priority booking opens for members today, with general onsale on 22 July at www.youngvic.org

The Young Vic Theatre today announces the London transfer of Punch, the latest five-star sell-out show from Olivier Award-winning playwright James Graham (Best of Enemies, Dear England, This House, Sherwood) and Nottingham Playhouse, which brings Jacob Dunne’s powerful and moving memoir to the stage. Based on the book Right From Wrong, Punch tells an extraordinary true story of tragedy, forgiveness, redemption and reform, and has ignited discussions across the country from theatres to courthouses to the House of Commons. Punch is directed by Nottingham Playhouse Artistic Director Adam Penford with production design by Anna Fleischle, andwill run in the Young Vic Main House from 1 March to 12 April 

Post-show talks will be held to discuss the themes of the show with Jacob Dunne and guests following the performance on 11 March, 7.30pm, and on 19 March, 2.30pm with a panel of guests, with further details to be announced.

Jacob Dunne, a teenager from Nottingham, spends his Saturday nights seeking thrills with his friends. One fateful evening, an impulsive punch leads to fatal consequences. After serving prison time, Jacob finds himself lost and directionless. Searching for answers, Joan and David – the parents of his victim James – ask to meet, sparking a profound transformation in Jacob’s life.

Original cast members Julie Hesmondhalgh (Coronation Street, Mr Bates vs The Post Office), Tony Hirst (Coronation Street, Hollyoaks) and David Shields (Masters of the Air, Black Mirror) reprise their roles as Joan, David and Jacob, respectively. The cast is completed by Alec Boaden (Masters of the Air, Random Acts) as Raf, DS Villiers and Sam; Shalisha James-Davis (Mary Queen of Scots, Romeo and Juliet) as Clare and Nicola; and Emma Pallant (Cowbois, Queenie)as Wendy, Sandra and Jacob’s Mum.

James Graham, Playwright, said: “This play and the incredible story it tells could not mean more to me. It feels like one of the most moving and urgent real-life dramas I’ve had the honour of translating to the stage. But despite its important themes of justice, forgiveness, and the human cost of a decade of neglect in these communities, I’m so proud of the surprisingly funny and oddly hopeful show that Adam Penford and the cast have built. I’ve never not watched without ugly crying and can’t wait to share it with a wider audience.”

Adam Penford, Nottingham Playhouse Artistic Director and Director of Punch, said: “I’m thrilled to be bringing Punch to the Young Vic, a venue that has its community at its heart, and to give more people the opportunity to experience this unforgettable story. Punch had a profound impact on our audiences in Nottingham because the story is so moving, and asks important questions about what it means to be human and what kind of society we want to live in. It’s particularly pertinent as we enter a new political chapter in the UK. James Graham’s expert writing, with its trademark wit, humanity and storytelling skill, is a joy to stage. And working with the real-life people who feature in the play has been an unforgettably humbling experience for all of us.”

Kwame Kwei-Armah, Young Vic Artistic Director, said: “Punch is an incredibly moving, heartwarming, gut-wrenching play by one our finest writers. It’s an extraordinary story both on and off the page and like the very best theatre, it reflects humanity and transcends the stage. It has captured hearts and minds across the country, resonating not only with local communities but in national politics with recommendations by MPs in the House of Commons. We are proud to be staging this production from the brilliant Nottingham Playhouse. This is vital viewing, I urge you to see it.”

Lighting Design is by Robbie Butler, Sound Design and Composition by Alexandra Faye Braithwaite, Movement Direction by Leanne Pinder, Movement Consultation by Lynne Page, Casting by Christopher Worrall CDG, Voice and Dialect Coaching by Sally Hague, Fight Direction by Kev McCurdy, Production Consultation by Jacob Dunne.

The Young Vic presents the Nottingham Playhouse production of Punch in association with KPPL Productions and Mark Gordon Pictures.

This production is dedicated to James Hodgkinson and all victims of one-punch.

Punch goes on sale to Soul Mates today, and Friends on 19 July

Public booking opens 22 July

Post-show talks: Tue 11 March, 7.30pm, Wed 19 March, 2.30pm

Audio Described Performances: Fri 14 March, 7.30pm & Sat 22 March, 2.30pm

Captioned Performances: Mon 17 March, 7.30pm & Wed 26 March, 2.30pm 

Relaxed Performances: Mon 17 March, 7.30pm & Sat 29 March, 2.30pm 

BSL Performance:  Tue 18 March, 7.30pm 

Sensory Adapted Performance: Fri 28 March, 7.30pm

SANDI TOKSVIG & THE QI ELVES PRESENT

“ONE NIGHT ONLY”*

(*Multiple Dates Available)

AT THE THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE, LONDON

13 AND 14 NOVEMBER 2024

TICKETS ON SALE FROM 10.00AM, WEDNESDAY 17 JULY

Sandi Toksvig, the internationally renowned and much-loved comedian, broadcaster, writer and campaigner, announces One Night Only, a new live theatrical comedy extravaganza, for two nights only on Wednesday 13 and and Thursday 14 November 2024 at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London’s West End.  The QI Elves, the researchers from the hit BBC2 show, will be delving into the theatrical archives to help Sandi unearth some fun facts and anecdotes to entertain the live audiences.

Tickets go on sale at 10am on Wednesday 17 July via www.lwtheatres.co.uk.

Inspired by her hosting of the successful television franchise QI, One Night Only is a theatre-themed evening of comedy and curiosity in which Sandi shares little-known facts about the world of theatre from actors to performances, stories and songs – giving the audience a sneak peak at what really goes on behind the scenes!

Sandi Toksvig said, “I’ve been hosting QI for nearly 10 years and the best thing about doing it is performing for the audience in the room – people still queue for hours to be in the studio because it’s so much fun.  So I’m thrilled to be bringing the facts and the Elves to the West End for a proper live extravaganza.  We’re calling it One Night Only because each night is going to be different and unique – and, unlike television, it can only be watched once!”

In 2015 Sandi Toksvig took over from Stephen Fry as host of BBC2’s hugely popular comedy panel show QI and, in 2014, she replaced William G. Stewart as the host of Fifteen to One, which made its comeback after 11 years.  In 2017, she and Noel Fielding became the new co-hosts of The Great British Bake Off in its move to Channel 4, which she continued to co-present until 2020.  Sandi also presents Channel 4’s travel series Extraordinary Escapes with Sandi Toksvig, which premiered in 2021.  For a decade Sandi was a familiar voice to BBC Radio 4 listeners as the chair of The News Quiz, which led to her induction into the Radio Hall of Fame. 

Sandi is passionate about live performance. She performed at the very first night of The Comedy Store in London and for many years was a member of The Comedy Store Players, an improvisational comedy team.

Much of Sandi’s time is devoted to writing and, in 2019, she became president of the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain. Sandi has written more than twenty fiction and nonfiction books for children and adults.  Her new novel, Friends of Dorothy, is being published by Virago in September. For the theatre, Sandi co-authored the musical Big Night Out at the Little Sands Picture Palace Theatre (with Dillie Keane),

The Pocket Dream (with Elly Brewer), Charity Begins for Playhouse Live, Bully Boy, Silver Lining, an adaptation of Treasure Island, her adaptation of Mamma Mia! The Party at London’s The 02 and  a family show, Christmas at the (Snow) Globe (with Jenifer Toksvig).

Sandi is an activist for gender equality.  In 2014, she co-founded the Women’s Equality Party.

One Night Only is produced at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane by Idili Live Entertainment Ltd.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Catherine Street

London WC2

Ticket Prices: from £35

Performances: Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 November 7.30pm

For more information or to book tickets visit: lwtheatres.co.uk

ABOUT IDILI LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Since its inception, Idili Live Entertainment has produced a variety of theatrical and immersive musicals in the UK and internationally, promoted major operatic talents in classical music concerts and tours worldwide, and presented various exhibitions in London. Examples of Idili Live Entertainment’s work to date include the immersive theatrical and dining experience Mamma Mia! The Party in London and Stockholm; the 20th anniversary tour of Rent The Musical in London and on tour across the UK; mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli in the Salzburg Production of the opera Norma in the UK and across Europe; presenting Cecilia Bartoli’s St Petersburg baroque programme with orchestra in its namesake city; the soprano Anna Netrebko’s and tenor Yusif Eyvazov’s first ever Asia and Australia/New Zealand concert tour, as well as the official ABBA exhibition in London.

For more information visit: idili.com

ABOUT QI

QI (the letters stand for Quite Interesting) is the BAFTA-winning panel show, which has run for more than two decades and over 300 episodes on the BBC. Each encyclopaedic series tackles a different letter of the alphabet, with Series V due to air later in 2024. 

“There are few pleasures on TV to equal QI.” GUARDIAN

”It is easily the best show on television.” THE SUN

“It is a testament to the enduring format that 20 series and two decades later a show fuelled by a celebration of the obscure and quite interesting facts continues to feel fresh and able to experiment and adapt.” SUNDAY TIMES

The show’s writers, known as the QI Elves, have also authored 20 books, created the award-winning spin-off podcast No Such Thing As A Fish and, since 2019, have joined The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show each week on Radio 2 for Wednesday’s Why Workshop. 

Trafalgar Theatre Productions, Eilene Davidson Productions and Alan Howard, in association with
the Royal Shakespeare Company, present the Watford Palace Theatre & HOME Manchester
production

TRACY-ANN OBERMAN
REPRISES HER ROLE AS SHYLOCK
IN THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED
THE MERCHANT OF VENICE 1936
“The most important Shakespeare production of the year”
Daily Telegraph

DIRECTED BY BRIGID LARMOUR
LONDON’S TRAFALGAR THEATRE
28 DECEMBER – 25 JANUARY
UK TOUR 4 FEBRUARY – 5 APRIL

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM MERCHANTOFVENICE1936.CO.UK

★★★★★
“An astonishing, full-blooded performance.
For anyone who wonders how to produce Shakespeare in the 21st Century, this really is it”
METRO

Following a triumphant season at the Criterion Theatre and a sold-out UK tour, Tracy-Ann Oberman (EastEnders, Doctor Who, Friday Night Dinner), is back in the West End to reprise her starring role from asthe first British actressto play Shylock in the critically acclaimed production of The Merchant of Venice 1936 from December this year.

Opening at the Trafalgar Theatre on 28 December, the limited season runs until 25 January. This important, groundbreaking production will then embark on a second UK tour for eight weeks visiting: Liverpool, Bath, Southend, Salford, Fareham, Leeds and Cardiff, culminating in Birmingham on 5 April 2025 – allowing audiences all over the UK the opportunity to experience this “deeply relevant” (Daily Telegraph) play

Tracy-Ann Oberman said: “I am so delighted that, by popular demand, MOV1936 is coming back into the West End so soon after we finished. Demand has been so high that I feel bringing it back, and this time to the beautiful Trafalgar Theatre and then on a national tour, is essential. The message of my female Shylock – based on my Great Grandma, a widow in the East End standing up to Oswald Mosley and the British Union of Fascists, with all her neighbours and others horrified by the message of BUF – feels more pertinent than ever. The play is about unity, standing together against hatred and the play’s impact has been beyond my wildest hopes and ambitions for it.”

Ambition, power and political unrest explode onto the stage in this “striking and impactful” (The Guardian) production that “makes theatre history” (Daily Telegraph). This “fascinating and timely” (Daily Mail) reimagining sees Shakespeare’s classic transported to 1930s East London against the backdrop of the Battle of Cable Street. It is adapted by Brigid Larmour and Tracy-Ann Oberman.

With the city on the brink of political unrest, fascism sweeping across Europe and Oswald Mosley’s British Union of Fascists threatening a paramilitary march through the Jewish East End, strong-willed single mother Shylock runs a pawnbroking business from her house in Cable Street where Mosley will march. When charismatic, antisemitic aristocrat Antonio comes to her for a loan, a high-stakes deal is struck. Will Shylock take her revenge, and who will pay the ultimate price?

THE MERCHANT OF VENICE 1936
London: Trafalgar Theatre 28 December – 25 January ON SALE NOW
Liverpool: Playhouse Theatre 4 – 8 February ON SALE NOW
Bath: Theatre Royal 11 – 15 February ON SALE 1 AUGUST
Southend: Palace Theatre 18 – 22 February ON SALE SOON
Salford: Lowry 25 February – 1 March ON SALE 18 JULY
Fareham Live 4 – 8 March ON SALE 18 JULY
Leeds: Playhouse Theatre 11 – 15 March ON SALE SOON
Cardiff: New Theatre 18 – 22 March ON SALE NOW
Birmingham: Repertory Theatre 1 – 5 April ON SALE NOW

Creative Team:
Associate Producer – Tracy-Ann Oberman
Costume and Set Design – Liz Cooke
Lighting Design – Rory Beaton
Sound Design – Sarah Weltman
Composer – Erran Baron Cohen

LISTINGS INFORMATION
West End
28 December 2024 – 25 January 2025
Trafalgar Theatre, 14 Whitehall, London SW1A 2DY
2024
28 December at 4pm
29 December at 4pm
30 December at 7:30pm
1 January at 7:30pm
2025
Evening performances: 7:30pm Tuesday – Saturday
Matinee performances: 2:30pm Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday

UK Tour
4 February – 5 April 2025
Evening performances: 7:30pm Tuesday – Saturday
Matinee performances: 2:30pm Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday

Website: Merchantofvenice1936.co.uk
X / Twitter: @MOV1936
Facebook and Instagram: @merchantofvenice1936

KING’S HEAD THEATRE HOSTS ITS FIRST EVER FAMILY-FRIENDLY PANTOMIME IN ITS NEW THEATRE

30 NOVEMBER 2024 – 5 JANUARY 2025

King’s Head Theatre will present its first ever family pantomime in its new and flexible 250-seat auditorium this Christmas. Presented in this fantastic intimate setting, Cinderella will be fully immersive, with puppets from Little Angel Theatre, featuring sensational songs, hilarious slapstick comedy, romance and plenty of audience participation; firmly rooted in Islington, the panto will celebrate the borough’s rich history. Tickets are on sale now here. 

Once a week, there will be a naughtier, adults-only show , with some very special West End and Broadway guest stars (to be announced, alongside full casting, in September).

Produced by Elphin Productions, Daniel Schumann, King’s Head Theatre and Little Angel Theatre, Cinderella will play from 30 November to 5 January, with press performances on Friday 6 December at 7pm (all / family friendly) and Thursday 12 December at 7pm (adults only).  

Cinderella will be written and directed by Andrew Pollard (writer of CBeebies’ Robin Hood). During Andrew’s 15-year run as writer, director and Dame at Greenwich Theatre, he won two OFFIE awards, and was the winner of Best Ugly Sister at the 2023 British Panto Awards.  

The producers are also launching a Fairy Godmother / Godfather scheme, where individuals can donate money to help provide free tickets for local children from disadvantaged backgrounds. More information available here. 

The King’s Head brings you its first ever family pantomime!

Full of comedy, romance, slapstick and sing-a-longs!

In London, it’s hard to find romance these days. Everyone is so busy!

Will love and friendship find our two lost souls?

Cinderella needs help to leave her life of drudgery and explore a world full of adventures.

A shy Prince needs someone to help bring him out of his shell and find his mojo.

Could they help each other to find the courage to change their lives?

The Fairy Godmother thinks so! So, join her on this roller-coaster ride of romance and rock’n’roll!

Boo the selfish step-sisters, Peckham and Dalston.

Cheer on Cinderella and the Prince!

Boogie on down with Buttons and his daffy duck, Quackers!

You’re all invited to the big Disco Ball this Christmas! So wave your hands in the air, like you just don’t care – and have the time of your lives at the King’s Head’s intimate, immersive panto spectacular!

Producer Robert Rees said, “Pantomime is often a child’s first introduction to live theatre. I remember my first panto over 30 years ago, with Lulu in the title role of Peter Pan, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m delighted to be working with panto royalty, Andrew Pollard, developing this new show with the King’s Head Theatre, in their fantastic new venue, featuring superb puppets from Little Angel Theatre.”

Producer Daniel Schumann said, “I am thrilled to be part of this wonderful team bringing Pantomime to Islington. I have always felt passionately about Panto and that every theatre and every community should have one. King’s Head Theatre is such an exciting new venue, and the thought of filling it with the magic of pantomime and reaching so many families throughout Islington and North London and giving so many young people their first theatre experience was just irresistible! Let’s hope, just like Cinderella, we all have a ball!”

Executive Producer (and acting CEO) of King’s Head Theatre Sofi Berenger said, “King’s Head Theatre’s pantomimes at the pub were always such a highlight of the year and for the community, offering something unique from other pantomimes in London. We knew with the opening of our new venue we wanted to continue this, offering something unique and special but still fundamentally a pantomime we all know and love. Andy Pollard has so much incredible experience in pantomime and family work that he’s the absolute perfect fit to lead what we hope will mean King’s Head Theatre’s pantomimes again become a staple in North London. The collaboration between Daniel Schumann, Elphin Productions and bringing the incredible expertise in puppetry and family work from our neighbours at Little Angel Theatre is sure to make this something truly special.”

Samantha Lane and Peta Swindall of Little Angel Theatre said, “We are absolutely delighted to be co-producing and creating the puppets for Cinderella this Christmas. Panto is such a fantastic experience for the whole family – and we can’t wait to see the show come to life.