WORLD TOUR ANNOUNCED

OF

THE ORIGINAL JAPANESE STAGE PRODUCTION OF

STUDIO GHIBLI’S OSCAR-WINNING CLASSIC

SPIRITED AWAY

INCLUDING A RETURN TO THE LONDON COLISEUM

IN SPRING 2028

FOLLOWING A RECORD-BREAKING RUN IN 2024

TOHO Co., Ltd. are delighted to announce a major 2026-2028 world tour of the highly acclaimed stage adaptation of SPIRITED AWAY. The production will open at the National Theater, Taipei (December 2026 – January 2027), before embarking on a national  tour of Japan beginning in Tokyo (March – August 2027), then playing the Princess of Wales Theatre, Toronto (May – August 2027), the Ahmanson Theatre, Los Angeles (September –October 2027) and finally, returning to the London Coliseum (March – July 2028) where it had its European premiere in 2024. The London production will be co-produced by PW Productions. Casting and on sale dates for the world tour to be announced.

Sign up for priority booking and be the first to access tickets at spiritedawayonstage.com

TOHO Co., Ltd said today “Toho is deeply grateful for the opportunity to be welcomed back to London. This production made its world premiere in Tokyo in 2022, followed by sold-out success from London and Shanghai to Seoul. Through this journey, it has proven that the masterpiece by Hayao Miyazaki and Toshio Suzuki from Studio Ghibli, brought to life through John Caird’s masterful direction, resonates universally. As we embark on a grand world tour from December 2026 through 2028, it is our greatest joy to further share the excellence of Japanese performing arts with audiences worldwide.”

PW Productions said today “We’re thrilled to be bringing this extraordinary production of Spirited Away back to London after its sell-out run in 2024. The overwhelming response from audiences during its European premiere made it clear that there is a huge appetite for the production, and we’re delighted to be returning to the magnificent London Coliseum, where the production’s majestic scale can be fully realised.”

Bob Holland, Executive Producer at the London Coliseum, said today “We’re delighted that Spirited Away returns to the London Coliseum in Spring 2028 following the extraordinary and sell-out success of their first run. This production was a huge hit with audiences of all ages and captures the magic of such a beloved Studio Ghibli classic. We look forward to welcoming audiences back for what promises to be the return of a breathtaking adaptation.”

Following a sell-out tour of Japan in 2022, the original Japanese cast performed this spectacular production for a limited season at the London Coliseum in 2024, where it played to sold-out audiences of over 300,000 people across 17 weeks. Opening to both critical and audience acclaim, it won Best New Play at the 2025 WhatsOnStage Awards and was nominated for four Olivier Awards including Best Set Design (Jon Bausor, Toby Olié, Daisy Beattie, Satoshi Kuriyama), Best Costume Design (Sachiko Nakahara), Best Sound Design (Koichi Yamamoto), and Best New Entertainment or Comedy Play. Critical acclaim included:

★★★★★

The Independent

“constant, unpredictable spectacle”

★★★★★

The Express

“utterly enchanting”

★★★★

Financial Times

“boundless invention”

Following these milestone achievements, the production further expanded its global footprint across Asia, continuing its international success with an overwhelming 42-performance run at the Shanghai Culture Square in China in July and August 2025. This was immediately followed by a triumphant three-month, 94-performance long-run at the Seoul Arts Center Opera House in South Korea starting in January 2026. With every single performance entirely sold out across both international runs, this Japanese-born masterpiece has firmly established its powerful presence on the global stage, paving the way for its highly anticipated 2026–2028 world tour.

Studio Ghibli’s SPIRITED AWAY, created by legendary animator and director Hayao Miyazaki, wasre-imagined for the stage by Toho Theatrical Department and Olivier and Tony Award-winning director John Caird (Les Misérables). The production is presented in the original Japanese, with English captions. Miyazaki’s masterpiece is brought beautifully to life with a live orchestra playing the magnificent film score by Joe Hisaishi arranged by Brad Haak (Mary  Poppins), dazzling set design by Jon Bausor (Bat Out of Hell), wildly imaginative puppets designed by Toby Olié (Pinocchio: National Theatre), choreography by Shigehiro Ide (NODA MAP Series), and lavish costumes by Sachiko Nakahara.

Director Hayao Miyazaki’s timeless masterpiece SPIRITED AWAY became an explosive blockbuster after its 2001 release and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film in 2003. A masterpiece of storytelling and stunning visuals SPIRITED AWAY tells the enchanting tale of Chihiro who while traveling to a new home with her family, stumbles into a world of fantastic spirits ruled over by the sorceress Yubaba. When her parents are turned into pigs and she is put to work in a magical bathhouse, Chihiro must use her wits to
survive in this strange new place, find a way to free her parents, and return to the normal world.

TOHO Co., Ltd., has been one of the premiere Japanese entertainment companies for theatre and film since its foundation in 1932, best known internationally for Godzilla movies as well as the Akira Kurosawa masterpieces. TOHO also plays a leading role in the Japanese theatre community, producing the highest quality shows for the past 85 years. TOHO’s production of My Fair Lady premiered in 1963 and was the first-ever production of a Broadway musical performed fully in Japanese. Since then, TOHO has been a pioneer of musical theater throughout Japan introducing musical masterpieces from Broadway, the West End and locations around the world, including: Les Misérables, Miss Saigon, Fiddler on the Roof, Man of La Mancha, RENT, Jersey Boys, Elisabeth, Newsies, Moulin Rouge! The Musical and Tootsie. TOHO also produces its own original shows which include: Roman Holiday, Marie Antoinette, Lady Bess, Knights’ Tale, KINGDOM, SPY x FAMILY, Your Lie in April, JOJO’s Bizarre Adventure, Spirited Away, Kane and Abel, Itaewon Class, The Twelve Kingdoms and many others.

PW Productions is one of the West End’s most prolific and significant theatre producers, responsible for some of the most successful productions in British theatre since it was founded in 1983 by Peter Wilson MBE. As well as Spirited Away at the London Coliseum, productions have included Susan Hill’s The Woman in Black, Stephen Daldry’s production of J.B. Priestley’s classic thriller An Inspector Calls, De La Guarda at the Roundhouse, Nigel Slater’s Toast, Ross Willis’ Wonder Boy and many more. The company has acted as General Manager and Production Accountant for more than 500 productions throughout the world. PW Productions has also presented work in Japan, Singapore, Canada, USA, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Austria, Australia and Hong Kong.

The original Japanese Stage Production of SPIRITED AWAY is based on the Oscar-winning animated feature film by Hayao Miyazaki, adapted by John Caird, co-adapted by Maoko Imai and featuring the original score by Joe Hisaishi.

Autumn, amplified: Wiltshire Creative launches an exciting season of performance and participation

Tickets for the full autumn season on general sale from 2 July

Get ready for a bold, brilliant line-up of music, theatre, conversation and comedy at Salisbury Playhouse and Salisbury Arts Centre this autumn. Enjoy three months packed with live performance and explore your own creativity with new participatory opportunities.

Some of the folk scene’s most exciting artists bring virtuoso musicianship and infectious energy to the season. Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman celebrate 30 years of making music together, The Haar share poetic interpretations of traditional songs and Awake Arise unites five rising English folk stars.

Wiltshire Creative are proudly providing a stage for local legends following Salisbury Arts Centre’s best venue award at The Salisbury Music Awards, including False Futures and Carsick, while future stars can show off their skills at Band Night Halloween Party – created for young people, by young people.

It’s also a season of musical reminiscence, from swinging to the 60s with The Zoots, transporting to the 20s with Pasadena Roof Orchestra or enjoying easy listening from Tenors Un Limited. And there are big tributes to great names from Genesis to Bowie.

The theatre programme is already booking fast after its launch in April. From best-selling novel to major hit Netflix series, The Haunting of Hill House now takes to the stage with a chilling theatrical adaptation produced by Wiltshire Creative in association with Theatr Clwyd. Don’t miss this world premiere. Other autumn highlights on the main stage include a major revival of the modern classic East is East,co-produced by Wiltshire Creative, Octagon Theatre Bolton, Citizens Theatre & Derby Theatre, and two visiting productions, The Anastasia File and Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of). And, of course, audiences will be treated to Wiltshire Creative’s award-winning pantomime for the festive season, with a new version of Beauty and the Beast.

The reopening of the Salberg Studio as Salisbury Playhouse celebrates its 50th anniversary has been received positively by the local community. This intimate stage welcomes Up Down Big Man, produced by Myrtle Theatre Company and Wiltshire Creative, alongside visiting productions Two Halves of Guinness and A Christmas Carol.

Families will enjoy the return of the home-produced Salberg Christmas offer, too, with Beatrix Potter’s The Tailor of Gloucester, directed by Wiltshire Creative’s Artistic Director Gareth Machin. Another season highlight for younger audiences is funny, family-friendly adventure Rabbit & Rey and the Lost Things from Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company, staged at Salisbury Arts Centre.

Autumn also sees the biggest ever line-up of fascinating talks outside the Festival season. Join author and former war reporter Damien Lewis to discover the never-before-told story of SAS Captain Lewis ‘Archie’ Gibson. And broadcaster Matthew Stadlen presents four nights of compelling conversation with famous names: entrepreneur Deborah Meaden, poet, novelist and essayist Sir Ben Okri, journalist Matt Frei and actor Trevor Eve.

There are big names from the world of comedy, too, with stand-up shows from Daniel Kitson, Mark Simmons, Michael Spicer and Lucy Porter. Take a trip into silliness and surrealism with improv a-plenty, from Paul Merton & Suki Webster’s Improv Show to The Noise Next Door, and five-star Fringe favourites Pinch Punch welcome you aboard Locomotive for Murder: The Improvised Whodunnit. Or, for fast-paced, funny theatre full of 90s pop-culture references, try Buffy ReVamped, from comedian Brendan Murphy.

Wiltshire Creative’s participatory programme offers new ways to get creative for all ages. There are plenty of opportunities for young people to get involved, whether as trainee technicians, ambassadors, or dropping in for a jam session. For younger children and their families, there are Friday Under 5 sessions and a CrAfter School Club, plus an imaginative stay-and-play day for October half term. Adults can explore dance, theatre arts and much more.

Gareth Machin, Artistic Director, Wiltshire Creative, said: “We’re delighted to share this vibrant programme for the autumn season. We’re excited to reopen the Salberg Studio as we celebrate the Playhouse’s 50th anniversary, and we’re revitalising the Arts Centre with new participatory activities alongside live performances. We look forward to seeing you at an event very soon.”

The full autumn season opens for booking to Wiltshire Creative Supporters on Tuesday 30 June and on general sale Thursday 2 July. For more information and to book tickets, visit wiltshirecreative.co.uk/whats-on or pick up a season brochure.

THE VICTORIA WOOD ESTATE

ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF

BELOVED SITCOM DINNERLADIES

AFTER MORE THAN 25 YEARS, THE ORIGINAL

TV CHARACTERS WILL REUNITE FOR A BRAND NEW

STAGE ADAPTATION COMMISSIONED FOR

2027 UK TOUR – LES DENNIS TO STAR

22 JANUARY – 7 AUGUST 2027

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM DINNERLADIESTHEPLAY.COM

The Victoria Wood Estate, in association with Phil McIntyre Live and Sustainable Entertainment, announces the return of the iconic Victoria Wood sitcom dinnerladies. More than a quarter of a century after it was first screened on BBC One, a brand-new stage adaptation for 2027 in the first piece of Victoria’s work to be commissioned by the Estate. Adapted by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and directed by double Olivier-award winner Sean Foley.

The new show features a storyline inspired by the beloved original TV sitcom episodes and characters. Premiering at the Manchester Opera House in January, the production will then tour major theatres across the UK until August and star Les Dennis (Coronation Street, Only Fools and Horses The Musical) as maintenance man Stan. Further star casting will be announced soon, and tickets will go on sale from 29th June for select theatres at dinnerladiestheplay.com.

Originally created, written and starring comedy legend Victoria Wood, dinnerladies ran for two acclaimed series and 16 episodes between 1998 and 2000, winning widespread critical plaudits and a devoted audience for its warmth, wit and brilliantly observed characters. Winning a British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy in 2000, the sitcom was set in the canteen of fictional Manchester factory HWD Components, and followed the lives, friendships and workplace dramas of the staff and regulars who gathered there every day.

Now, audiences will once again be reunited with the unforgettable world of dinnerladies, and the affectionate portrayal of everyday working British life. This new adaptation will feature all the much-loved characters that made the show a huge British classic with a lasting place in comedy history, including Bren, Tony, Dolly, Anita, Jean, Twinkle, Philippa and Stan. Whether you’re revisiting an old favourite or discovering it for the first time, dinnerladies serves up a hilarious night out packed with heart, nostalgia and plenty of surprises.

The Victoria Wood Estate, said: “We are delighted to be bringing the joy of Victoria Wood’s much-loved classic dinnerladies back to the nation after more than 25 years. We hope that this new stage adaptation by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne and directed by Sean Foley – featuring a story inspired by the original TV series – will take theatre goers across the UK straight back to the delights of the canteen and characters they grew to love.”

Speaking about joining the production, Les Dennis added: “I’m so thrilled to be on board with this new production of Victoria Wood’s dinnerladies. I’m lucky enough to say I knew Victoria – she and I performed on the comedy circuit in the 1970s and were both finalists on New Faces. I was always such a fan of her – both as a person, and as a comedic voice. Being part of this tour and seeing these beloved northern working-class characters brought to the stage is a perfect way to keep her legacy alive. I’m the first cast member to be announced as Stan, and I can’t wait to see which fantastic actresses will be bringing these amazing dinnerladies characters to life – they’re all such fantastic roles. I think fans of Victoria will be in for a real treat after hearing director Sean Foley’s plans for this tour!”

DINNERLADIES – UK TOUR DATES 2027

22nd – 23rd January Churchill Theatre, Bromley ON SALE 3 JULY

26th Jan – 6th February Opera House, Manchester ON SALE 3 JULY

9th – 13th February Venue Cymru, Llandudno ON SALE 2 JULY

16th – 20th February Theatre Royal, Bath ON SALE 29 JUNE

23rd – 27th February Grand Opera House, York ON SALE 3 JULY

2nd – 6th March Birmingham Hippodrome ON SALE 1 JULY

9th – 13th March Stockton Globe ON SALE 3 JULY

16th – 20th March Milton Keynes Theatre ON SALE 3 JULY

23rd – 27th March Congress Theatre, Eastbourne ON SALE 3 JULY

31st March – 3rd April Blackpool Opera House ON SALE 29 JUNE

6th – 10th April New Theatre, Cardiff ON SALE 3 JULY

13th – 17th April New Theatre, Hull ON SALE 3 JULY

20th – 24th April Theatre Royal, Nottingham ON SALE 3 JULY

27th April – 1st May New Theatre, Wimbledon ON SALE 3 JULY

4th – 8th May Regent Theatre, Ipswich ON SALE 29 JUNE

11th – 15th May Princess Theatre, Torquay ON SALE 3 JULY

18th – 22nd May Hall for Cornwall, Truro ON SALE 20 JULY

25th – 29th May Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth ON SALE 29 JUNE

1st – 5th June Royal & Derngate, Northampton ON SALE 1 JULY

8th – 12th June Regent Theatre, Stoke ON SALE 3 JULY

15th – 19th June G Live, Guildford ON SALE 3 JULY

22st – 26th June Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury ON SALE SOON

29th June –3rd July Grand Theatre, Leeds ON SALE 3 JULY

5th July Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton ON SALE 1 JULY

13th – 17th July Empire, Liverpool ON SALE 3 JULY

20th– 24th July Hexagon, Reading ON SALE 3 JULY

27th – 31st July City Hall, Sheffield ON SALE 3 JULY

3rd – 7th August Cliffs Pavilion, Southend ON SALE 3 JULY

Indigo Productions and Crossroads Live in association with Curve

present

 FINAL CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR THE WORLD STAGE PLAY PREMIERE OF

MOLLIE GALLAGHER (Coronation Street) makes her theatrical debut as ‘Clarice Starling’ in this spine-tingling new production

OLIVER FARNWORTH (Emmerdale) and SAM JACKSON (Skins) also star as ‘Jack Crawford’ and ‘Buffalo Bill’ alongside previously announced JOHN PARTRIDGE (EastEnders) as ‘Dr Hannibal Lecter’

Multi Olivier & Tony Award-Winning Creative Team Also Confirmed

www.silenceofthelambsplay.com

Seminal psychological thriller adapted for the stage by

Pulitzer finalist and Tony-nominated playwright Gina Gionfriddo

from the modern classic novel by Thomas Harris

Directed by acclaimed Curve Artistic Director, Nikolai Foster

Indigo Productions and Crossroads Live, in association with Curve, are delighted to announce full casting for the upcoming UK and Ireland tour of The Silence of the Lambs, as the global cultural phenomenon prepares to make its world stage play premiere. Mollie Gallagher (Coronation Street) will make her professional theatre debut as ‘Clarice Starling’, Oliver Farnworth (Emmerdale) will star as ‘Jack Crawford’ alongside Sam Jackson (Skins) as ‘Buffalo Bill’, when the electrifying new production opens at Leicester’s Curve theatre on Saturday 01 August 2026, ahead of a major UK and Ireland tour.

Also joining the ensemble are Minal Patel as ‘Frederick Chilton’; Jo Mousley as ‘Senator Ruth Martin’; Lottie Amor as ‘Catherine Martin’; Mark Peachey as ‘Pilcher’; Andrew Joshi as ‘Peterson’; Jonny Magnanti as ‘Wertimer’, with Mary Timbrell Hill completing the company, all taking on a variety of roles.

They join previously announced British actor, singer, presenter, writer and director, John Partridge. Best known for his long-running role as Christian Clarke in BBC 1’s Eastenders and extensive range of West End credits from CATS to Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, John will don the iconic mask as the refined and sadistic Dr Hannibal Lecter.

Mollie Gallagher makes her professional theatrical debut as Clarice Starling. Mollie is an award-winning actor (Serial drama performance, National Theatre Awards) best-known for her role as Nina Lucas on ITV long running soap, Coronation Street. Mollie joined Coronation Street straight out of drama school and has since been central to some of the show’s biggest storylines, including the powerful ‘Nina’ and ‘Seb’ hate crime storyline, based on the attack of Sophie Lanacaster. In 2023 Mollie took part in ITV’s Dancing On Ice in which she reached the semi-finals. The Silence of the Lambs is Mollie’s professional theatre debut.

Oliver Farnworth is Jack Crawford. His theatre credits include: 42^nd Street (Sadlers Wells); Fatal Attraction (Tour); The Girl on the Train (Tour); The Marilyn Conspiracy (Tour); Down The Dock Road (Theatre Royal Liverpool); Dobbo (Royal Court Liverpool); Inherit The Wind (New Vic Theatre); Beautiful Thing (Arts Theatre / UK Tour); Santa Claus The Musical (Grand Theatre Singapore); The Widowing of Mrs Holroyd (New Vic Theatre); A View From The Bridge (Theatre By The Lake); Holding The Man (Trafalgar Studios); Kes (Liverpool Playhouse & UK Tour); Merchant of Venice (Changeling Theatre); A Midsummer Night’s Dream (British Shakespeare Company); Saturday Night, Sunday Morning (Harrogate Theatre / Oldham Coliseum); London Plays: London Tongue (Old red Lion); Under Milk Wood (New Vic Studio); The Roaring Girl (New Vic Studio) and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (Redgrave Theatre). Television includes: Emmerdale, Endeavour VI, Coronation Street, Mr. Selfridge, Doctors XIV, The Royal and Hollyoaks. Films include Love Type D.

Sam Jackson is Jame Gumb (Buffalo Bill). His theatre includes: Ichabod Crane in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (UK Tour), Jamie in Beautiful Thing (UK Tour), Haemon in Antigone (Eagle’s Nest Theatre) and Billy in Kes (Derby Playhouse). Television includes: Sean Crimp in Father Brown (BBC), James in Drifters (E4), Cameron Pollins in Holby City (BBC), Ryan in Heartbeat (ITV), Jonathan in The Syndicate (BBC), Alex Henley in Skins (E4). Film includes: Adam in The Drowning of Arthur Braxton (Firefox)

When FBI trainee Clarice Starling is sent to interview the psychiatrist and infamous murderer Hannibal Lecter, it’s hoped his brilliant mind will help catch sadistic new serial killer, Buffalo Bill. Another girl is missing, and time is running out. But Dr Lecter has questions of his own, and now Clarice must decide: keep a safe distance, or let Hannibal ‘The Cannibal’ into her head?

Two-time Pulitzer finalist Gina Gionfriddo (Law & Order (NBC), House of Cards (Netflix), Becky Shaw, whose recent Broadway debut earned two Tony nominations and one win)brings Thomas Harris gripping literary masterpiece to the stage in a bold adaptation directed by the Curve’s Artistic Director, Nikolai Foster. Gionfriddo’s theatrical adaptation delves into the psychological tension of Thomas Harris’s landmark novel, drawing the audience deep into Clarice and Lecter’s intelligent, intricate, and bone-chilling game of cat-and-mouse, as the FBI scramble to catch Buffalo Bill, a serial killer still at large.

The tour’s award-winning creative team is completed by acclaimed theatre Designer, Michael Taylor (The Ladykillers (Olivier-nominated), Billy Elliot (Leicester Curve)); Sound Designer, Carolyn Downing (award-winning credits include her Olivier for Chimerica and Tony Award for Life of Pi); Projection Designer, George Reeve (2025 Tony Award recipient for Best Scenic Design of a Musical for Maybe Happy Ending, Disney’s Hercules and Oliver (West End and Chichester Festival Theatre); Tony nominated and Drama Desk Award-winning Composer, Grant Olding, whose theatrecredits include numerous collaborationswith Nicholas Hytner at both The Bridge and National Theatres, including One Man, Two Guvnors; Tony and Olivier-nominated Lighting Designer, Howard Hudson (Starlight Express,Troubadour Theatre,& Juliet,Broadway, West End, International and UK tours) and Casting by Harry Blumenau CDG CSA. Julia Thomas is Associate Director.

The Silence of the Lambs is produced by Indigo Productions and Crossroads Live in association with Curve.

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THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS

2026 / 2027 UK TOUR DATES

Leicester, Curve

Sat 01 Aug – Sat 15 Aug 2026

www.curveonline.co.uk

Newcastle, Theatre Royal

Tue 18 Aug – Sat 22 Aug 2026

www.theatreroyal.co.uk

Glasgow, Theatre Royal

Mon 24 Aug – Sat 29 Aug 2026

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

Aberdeen, His Majesty’s Theatre

Tue 01 Sep – Sat 05 Sep 2026

www.aberdeenperformingarts.com

Edinburgh, Festival Theatre

Tue 08 Sep – Sat 12 Sep 2026

www.capitaltheatres.com

Nottingham, Theatre Royal

Tue 15 – Sat 19 Sep 2026

www.trch.co.uk

Milton Keynes, Milton Keynes Theatre

Mon 28 Sep – Sat 03 Oct 2026

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

Salford, Lowry

Tue 06 Oct – Sat 10 Oct 2026

www.thelowry.com

Bradford, Alhambra Theatre

Mon 12 Oct – Sat 17 Oct 2026

www.bradford-theatres.co.uk/alhambra-theatre

Oxford, New Theatre

Mon 19 Oct – Sat 24 Oct 2026

www.atgtickets.com/venues/opera-house-manchester/

Peterborough, New Theatre

Tue 27 Oct – Sat 31 Oct 2026

www.newtheatre-peterborough.com

Hull, New Theatre

Mon 02 Nov – Sat 07 Nov 2026

www.hulltheatres.co.uk

Belfast, Grand Opera House

Tue 10 Nov – Sat 14 Nov 2026

www.goh.co.uk

Dublin, Bord Gáis Energy Theatre

Tue 24 Nov – Sat 28 Nov 2026

www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie

Birmingham, Alexandra Theatre

Tues 05 Jan – Sat 09 Jan 2027

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

Blackpool, The Grand Theatre

Mon 11 Jan – Sat 16 Jan 2027

www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Eastbourne, The Congress Theatre

Mon 18 Jan – Sat 23 Jan 2027

www.trafalgartickets.com/eastbourne-theatres-eastbourne

Malvern, Malvern Theatre

Tue 26 Jan – Sat 30 Jan 2027

www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

Swansea, Grand Theatre

Mon 15 Feb – Sat 20 Feb 2027

www.swanseagrand.co.uk

Chester, Storyhouse Theatre

Mon 22 Feb – Sat 27 Feb 2027

www.storyhouse.com

Brighton, Theatre Royal

Tue 02 Mar – Sat 06 Mar 2027

www.atgtickets.com/venues/theatre-royal-brighton

Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre

Mon 08 Mar – Sat 13 Mar 2027

www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

York, Grand Opera House

Mon 15 Mar – Sat 20 Mar 2027

www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-silence-of-the-lambs/grand-opera-house-york/

Coventry, Belgrade Theatre

Tue 30 Mar – Sat 3 Apr 2027 

www.belgrade.co.uk

Richmond, Richmond Theatre

Tue 06 Apr – Sat 10 Apr 2027

www.atgtickets.com/venues/richmond-theatre/

Cheltenham, Everyman Theatre

Mon 12 Apr – Sat 17 Apr 2027

www.everymantheatre.org.uk

Bournemouth, Pavillon Theatre 

Tue 20 April – Sat 24 Apr 2027

www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Wolverhampton, Grand Theatre

Mon 26 Apr – Sat 01 May 2027

www.grandtheatre.co.uk

Cardiff, New Theatre

Mon 10 May – Sat 15 May 2027

www.trafalgartickets.com/new-theatre-cardiff

Buxton, Opera House

Mon 17 May – Sat 22 May 2027

www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Woking, New Victoria Theatre

Mon 31 May – Sat 05 Jun 2027

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

Liverpool, Empire Theatre

Tue 15 Jun – Sat 19 Jun 2027

www.atgtickets.com/venues/liverpool-empire

Sunderland, Empire Theatre

Mon 21 Jun – Sat 26 Jun 2027

www.atgtickets.com/venues/sunderland-empire

Polka Theatre, Wimbledon – until 9th August 2026

Reviewed by Fozia Munshi-Nicholson

5*****

Polka Theatre’s Arthur delivers a bright, witty reimagining of the Sword in the Stone legend, blending sharp humour, clever writing, and a generous dose of heart.

Gurjot Dhaliwal’s Grace is lured into the past by Rose Wardlaw’s enigmatic Merlin, tasked with helping Giles Carden’s hesitant Arthur locate Excalibur and, more importantly, discover the courage and self-belief he’s been missing. Along the way, Grace learns a lesson every child (and quite a few adults) should take to heart, be kind to yourself… and never, under any circumstances, stick Lego up your nose.

The production is a lively and very funny romp. With minimal props and a single central set piece, it relies on lighting and performance to do much of the storytelling, creating a playful and imaginative staging. Adam Mirsky brings delightful comic flair as Sir Lancelot (Lottie to his mummy), and his turn as the spirit of the rock (or something very close to it) proved unexpectedly captivating, particularly for my partner, who was very taken with his rocky alter ego. Megan Vaughan-Thomas is excellent as both Sir Gawain and Vivian, the latter a former flame of Merlin with a grudge that refuses to die quietly.

As the cast debate through song whether the kingdom needs an honest, moral, respectful and brave leader or a handsome warmonger, the humour lands with a sharp, knowing edge. It’s a moment that feels both playful and pointed, and the adult audience responded with the kind of laughter that comes from recognising a truth wrapped in silliness.

The children in our group, aged seven and nine, loved every moment. The songs, particularly Quest and War, are irresistibly catchy and have already become favourites. It’s a charming, clever, and thoroughly enjoyable Saturday afternoon treat for families, anchored by a memorable moral: do not put Lego up your nose.

Crucible Theatre, Sheffield – until 18th July 2026

Reviewed by Alison Beaumont

3***

Summer Holiday is a 1960’s inspired musical adapted from the iconic Cliff Richard film of the same name. The story follows Don, a bus mechanic and his friends who convert a double-decker bus into a mobile home to embark on a European adventure. They bump into a musical trio called Do Re Mi and offer to help them by taking them to Athens. During the journey they come across a stow away who tries to disguise themselves as Bobby but really, they are a famous singer called Barbara. Barbara’s mum tracks Barbara down and tries to stop the bus on its travels.

Don played by George Jones had the biggest feet to fill stepping into the role played by Sir Cliff Richard himself. The best song for me from George was Batchelor Boy.

Fanta Barrie took on the role of Barbara and vocally did the job well. I would have like to have heard her sing something that she could have belted out to emphasize her singing capability.

The show itself had the audience laughing, although I’m not quite sure if this was down to the audience finding it funny or laughing at the daftness of the show from card board cut outs of landmarks to a little remote control bus whizzing round the stage.

The set itself was simple with bus seats being moved around by the cast members. A car did come up through the stage floor with the Do Re Mi trio in it but to me I think the bus should have been the main feature to wow the audience.

All the cast seemed to enjoy themselves and worked well together and had lots of energy. They sang really well together, often better than individually. They are talented and alongside singing they played multiple instruments.

The second half of the show was much better than the first half and the show did end on a high with everyone up and dancing to Do You Wanna Dance. I think this show could definitely divide the audience with some finding it brilliant and others feeling like it was missing something.

This Sunday (28 June 2026) marks 20-years since the multi-award-winning hit musical AVENUE Q first opened in the West End at the Noel Coward Theatre (28 June 2006).

Now, the critically acclaimed 20^th anniversary production, which recently opened at the Shaftesbury Theatre, is playing a strictly limited season until Sunday 3 January 2027, bringing the original Broadway puppets back to the block!

The production stars Emily Benjamin as Kate Monster and Lucy The Slut, Noah Harrison as Princeton and Rod, Meg Hateley as Mrs T and Bad Idea Bear, Oliver Jacobson as Brian, Charlie McCullagh as Nicky, Trekkie Monster and Bad Idea Bear, Amelia Kinu Muus as Christmas Eve and Dionne Ward-Anderson as Gary.

The company is completed by Jasmine Beel, Jonathan Carlton, Angelis Hunt, Lesley Lemon, Jessica Niles Kadi and Joshua Williams-Ward.

The anniversary production is directed by the original award-winning Broadway director Jason Moore, has music & lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx and book by Jeff Whitty, music orchestrations and arrangements by Stephen Oremus, original Broadway puppets, conceived and designed by Rick Lyon and set design by Anna Louizos. Alongside  choreography by Ebony Molina, costume design by Jean Chan, lighting design by Tim Lutkin, sound design by Paul Groothuis, video design by Nina Dunn for Pixellux, musical direction by Benjamin Holder, puppetry coaching by Iestyn Evans and Andy Heath forTalk to the Hand Puppet, hair & makeup design by Jackie Saundercock, casting by Pearson Casting CDG and original West End company member, Julie Atherton,  as Associate Director.

Theatre@41, York – until 4 July 2026

Reviewed by Lauren Fordham

5*****

‘25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ is an American musical conceived by Rebecca Feldman, with music and lyrics by William Finn. 

Directed at theatre@41 by Neil Wood and performed by York Light Opera Company, it follows six teens and as they vie for the ultimate spelling championship. They spell their way through a series of complex (and occasionally made-up) words whilst discussing their home lives, simultaneously hoping never to hear the ‘ding’ of the adjudicators’ bell that indicates that they made an error and will be disqualified.  

The set contains as a backdrop a huge American flag, and the characters sit on raised benches before being called up to the podium to spell their words. There is also a stall set out by the Bee’s sponsors, Putnam County Optometrists with accompanying glasses illustration – because in popular cuture bookworms/nerds often need vision correction. While that stereotype could have grated on another critic, it amused this reviewer  – if the shoe fits, as the saying goes, she will good-naturedly wear it. 

One of the adjudicators of the Bee, Rona Lisa Perretti, is a former Putnam County Spelling Bee victor herself, and Katie Brier, who plays her, perfectly captures her nostalgia as she reflects on her own performance as a ‘marvellous memory,’ but also her slightly subversive side, ‘when the favourite loses, that’s my favourite moment of the Bee.’ 

Neil Foster, who plays her fellow judge, Vice Principal Douglas Panch, gives a believable comic performance when he melts down at a contestant calling him Principal ‘they won’t let me be principal!’

Daniel Wood evokes sympathy as the melodramatic and self-deprecating Leaf Coneybear. Coneybear placed third in his district and only got to the final due to the winner and attending a bat mitzvah and the runner-up attending it. As a result, his siblings bully him into believing that, as he sings, ‘I’m Not That Smart’. Wood excels at evoking Coneybear’s clumsiness, both visually through his wearing a helmet and when he randomly yet slickly falls off his chair.

Also physically, Wood strongly resembles the actor Tyger Drew-Honey from the television series ‘Outnumbered’, and with his comic aptitude this reviewer believes he could be equally successful professionally.

Stephen Wright, who plays William Barfee evokes Hyacinth Bucket when he is introduced by Perretti and immediately corrects her pronunciation to make his surname more pretentious, ‘it’s Barfée.’ His strengths range from linguistics to being lithe and fleet of foot as he spells out each word on the floor with his shoe as he articulates it, particularly in the number ‘My Magic Foot.’ This reviewer thinks a role in \ (perhaps as a slim Mr Braithwaite) is definitely within his purview, should he desire it. 

Rosa Burns plays the highly successful but also highly pressured and neurotic Marcy Park.  ‘[her paperwork] says I speak 6 languages but does it also say I only sleep 3 hours a night and I hide in the medicine cabinet and I’m not allowed to cry?’ She has great comic range and rapport with James Dickinson, who plays Jesus, who tells her it’s ok to fail the contest, which she then throws with glee, ‘I don’t have to win!’

It was lovely for this reviewer to see Lim act for the first time, particularly in a comic role as she first came across him in May directing Inspired By Theatre’s ‘Spring Awakening,’ a show which, while equally engrossing, is far from light-hearted.

Lim is impressively versatile in his role of ‘Comfort Counsellor’ Mitch Mahoney going from gritty, slightly threatening ex-con who’s only doing it for his community service, ‘I just want to beat them up a little, so they understand that pain has degrees, and this is nothing, you little freaks’ to moral supporter,handing out juice boxes and hugs.‘Go with dignity, you’re a real smart dude, spell with patience and care, that, dude, is my prayer.’

Lottie Farmer plays Logainne Schwartzandgrubenniere. Like Parks, her character is highly-strung and highly-pressured, in her case to not let down her dads (played by Wood and Lim, to excellent effect, I could instantly see them smashing the Heathers the musical anthem, My Dead Gay Son, and Farmer herself perhaps as Martha.)

Hannah Shaw, who plays Olive Ostrovsky, deserves credit before she even opens her mouth, simply for surviving the show while wearing a pink, fluffy, and very thick-looking jumper in 30 degree heat in a theatre with no air conditioning! I hope Carly Price from Wardrobe had plenty of fans and ice for her backstage. When Shaw does sing, however, she endears herself entirely to the audience as she relates how the words in her beloved dictionary have become forever friends compared to the (few) real ones she may have in school, a sentiment this bookish reviewer can well remember sharing.

But the stand-up performance of the night (if you’ll excuse the pun) came from James Dickinson who plays Chip Tolentino. Tolentino’s ‘Unfortunate Erection’ didn’t need to be spelled out at all and evicted him from the Bee. His bemoaning of it (forgive the pun again!) while throwing candy at the audience had us all in stitches. Magic Mike The Musical surely awaits his audition.

The only error the show made, in my opinion was having too few of the cast wear their glasses in the show, especially since the Bee is sponsored by Putnam Optometrists! There may have been practical reasons for these choices such as a preference for contact lenses onstage, perhaps due to lighting effects but should she have directed, this bespectacled reviewer would have said nerds/glasses-wearers unite and be proud!

Geeks and freaks and those who love us, and American cultural traditions, I cannot spell it out more clearly if I was writing it in flames across the sky, this show is F A B U L O U S. Get your head out of your latest book and GO SEE IT NOW!

Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 27th June 2026

Reviewed by Jacqui Radford

4****

If you’re after a night out that blends nostalgia, razor-sharp wit, and the kind of political chaos that feels both timeless and painfully current, I’m Sorry, Prime Minister absolutely delivers. Written by Jonathan Lynn, co-creator of the iconic series Yes, Minister and Yes, Prime Minister, this production is peppered with the dry humour and bureaucratic bedlam that made those series so loved.

The play drops us back into the world of ex-Prime Minister, Jim Hacker (Robert Kitson). Now older and supposedly wiser, he is dreaming of a peaceful retirement at the tranquil Hacker College, Oxford. Naturally, that peace lasts all of five minutes. When the college committee decides to “cancel” him, Hacker finds himself embroiled in academic politics, public opinion storms, and the sort of administrative absurdity that would make his old Permanent Secretary, Sir Humphrey Appleby, giddy.

Sir Humphrey (Clive Francis) is back. Still verbose, still devious, still capable of turning a simple question into complicated debate and long-winded logic. The chemistry between the pair is wickedly funny. Fans of the original shows will feel instantly at home, but newcomers will not be left behind.

The script has been written to adapt the 1980s humour and attitudes that would not land in the same way today. Sophie (Princess Donnough), a Care Worker and Oxford graduate, calls out any outdated attitudes. Crucially, these touches don’t smother the satirical spirit of the original, they sharpen it.

The comedy is characterised by sly digs that feel especially pointed considering recent political events. It is political satire that makes you laugh at the madness rather than despair over it. Every exasperated sigh and every animated exchange land with the same timing as the original sitcom, often rousing the laughter before the punchline even arrives.

This show is an uplifting mix of wit, nostalgia, and political mischief. From start to finish, it is brimming with verbal sparring and the comedy of a world where nothing is ever simple — especially when Sir Humphrey is involved.

FOLLOWING AN EXTENSIVE GLOBAL SEARCH

THE FOUR BOYS ANNOUNCED TO PLAY THE TITLE ROLE IN THE NATIONAL TOUR AND LIMITED WEST END SEASON

OF THE ORIGINAL AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTION OF

ARE

NOAH MANNION, RAFFERTY SMALE

SPENCER COLLINS AND WILLIAM GURNEY

ORIGINAL OLIVIER AWARD-WINNING ‘BILLY’

LIAM MOWER TO PLAY ‘OLDER BILLY’

Following an extensive global search, Universal Theatrical Group and Working Title Filmsare delighted to announce that the four boys who will play the title role in the national tour and limited West End season of the original award-winning production of BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL are Noah Mannion (12 years old from Stockport), Rafferty Smale (12 years old from Leigh-on-Sea), Spencer Collins (13 years old from California) and William Gurney (12 years old from Berkshire).

It was also announced today that original Billy Elliot, Liam Mower, will return to the show to play ‘Older Billy’. Liam was one of three boys who created the role when the musical first opened in 2005, winning an Olivier Award for his performance.

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL will open at Sunderland Empire on 4 November 2026 where it will run until 28 November 2026. It will then visit Palace Theatre Manchester (2 December 2026 – 9 January 2027) and Edinburgh Playhouse (19 January – 6 February 2027) ahead of its first return to the West End in over 10 years, playing a limited West End season at the Adelphi Theatre from 12 February – 31 July 2027. Further touring dates and full casting to be announced soon. billyelliotthemusical.com

Noah Mannion (12 years old) has loved singing and dancing from an early age, whether performing for fun or entertaining family at home. After trying a variety of activities, including gymnastics and tennis, he began his dance journey at a local dance school. Soon after the school held open auditions for its competition team, Noah decided to give it a go. Despite arriving in his bare feet with no expectations, his natural talent, stage presence and flair were quickly recognised, earning him a place on the team. At just nine years old, Noah began training in ballet, tap, modern, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, acro and singing. He has since enjoyed great success at regional competitions in both solo and group performances. In 2025, after only two years of competitive dancing, Noah proudly represented England at both the Dance World Cup and the Global Dance Open, where he won multiple medals and earned the title of Global World Champion. Noah’s favourite singers are Sienna Spiro, Olivia Dean and Bruno Mars. He is very creative and good at drawing. In his spare time he loves to take the family’s pet dog Rafa on walks in the countryside. 

Rafferty Smale (12 years old) started ballet lessons aged 4 and joined Junior Masters Performing Arts learning tap and modern too. He joined Tring Park Performing Arts Classical Ballet Academy programme in 2021 and became a Royal Ballet Junior Associate in 2022. Rafferty has performed in Royal Ballet’s productions of Cinderella, Don Quixote and The Winter’s Tale as Mamillius. Rafferty became a full-time student at Royal Ballet’s White Lodge in September 2025. He was cast as the first Year 7 Fritz in The Nutcracker in 2025, followed by Wayne McGregor’s Woolf Works in 2026. Rafferty won gold for his ballet solo at the Dance World Cup 2023, aged 9. He won silver at the Dance World Cup 2024 in the age 10-15 category aged 10. Rafferty is a huge fan of Bruno Mars and Harry Styles. He loves going to concerts and to the theatre to watch ballets and musicals. He loves theme parks and rollercoasters, fashion and singing in the shower. His hobbies are dancing, dancing and more dancing!

Spencer Collins (13 years old) started dancing at the Los Angeles Ballet School at age 5. He joined Westside School of Ballet at age 9 and has trained there since under the guidance of Adrian Blake Mitchell. Spencer has competed on the YAGP (Youth America Grand Prix) circuit, notably winning the prestigious Hope Award at YAGP Finals in 2025, recognising the top classical and contemporary performances among all dancers worldwide in his age category. Spencer is an International Scholar of The Royal Ballet School and has received scholarships and trained with renowned dance academies around the world, including the Princess Grace Academy of Dance in Monaco, the John Cranko School, Joffrey Ballet, Elite Classical Coaching, The Royal Ballet School and Ellison Ballet School. He hopes to one day become a principal dancer with a premier ballet company. In addition to all things dance, Spencer loves sushi, iced matcha lattes, listening to Sienna Spiro and his rescue pup Betty.

William Gurney (12 years old) is a student at Sylvia Young Theatre School. He has appeared in The Nutcracker (Royal Ballet) and more recently has played Tommy in Matilda the Musical. William has appeared in various television programmes including Strike, Call the Midwife, Midsummer Murders, Breeders, Motherland and Silent Witness. In 2024 William appeared in Sophie Ellis Bextor’s music video Freedom Of The Night. William has competed in the Dance World Cup in Portugal and Czechia and was an All England Dance Finalist. William enjoys musical theatre at SSG Academy. He loves to teach himself routines from some of his favourite choreographers and choreographing routines for his friends is a favourite! When he is not dancing, he is chatting, laughing and playing games. 

Liam Mower created the role of Billy Elliot when the musical first opened in 2005, winning an Olivier Award for his performance. Since 2011 he has been dancing with Matthew Bourne’s company, New Adventures. Roles and productions with New Adventures include Nutcracker! (2011–12), Play Without Words (2012), Count Lilac, Carabosse/Caradoc in Sleeping Beauty (2012–13, 2015-16 and 2022-23, The Prince in Swan Lake (2013–14 and 2018-19), Edward in Edward Scissorhands (2014–15 and 2023-24), Angelo in The Car Man (2015), Ivan and Grischa in The Red Shoes (2016–17 and 2019-20), Angel in Cinderella (2017–18) and Albert in The Midnight Bell (2021 and 2025). He recently performed the role of Mr Mistoffelees in the international tour of the musical Cats (2023/24 and 2024/5). He was also nominated for a Critics’ Circle National Dance Award for Outstanding Male Dancer (Modern).   Other career highlights include Elton John’s music video Electricity (2004), Electricity at Vogue’s The Met Ball (2005), Mikey Adams in Wire in the Blood (ITV), A Linha Curva by Itzik Galili  for Rambert Dance Company, Older Billy in Billy Elliot the Musical (Cinemas Worldwide), Disenchanted (Disney, 2022), The Greatest Days (2023) Matthew Bourne’s Christmas (More4/Leopard Films), Sleeping Beauty (BBC2), Cinderella (BBC), Swan Lake (Sky Arts), The Red Shoes (BBC2 and Sky Arts), Spitfire (BBC iPlayer).

Based on the highly successful multi BAFTA award-winning and Academy Award nominated film, the show is set in a northern mining town against the background of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike and follows Billy’s journey from the boxing ring to the ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family and whole community and changes his life forever.

Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL has been seen by just over 12 million people across five continents and is the recipient of over 80 awards internationally, including ten Tony Awards and five Olivier Awards. In 2006, Liam Mower, James Lomas and George Maguire, the first three boys to play the title role, became the youngest performers ever to have won the Olivier Award for Best Actor with the show also picking up the Best Musical prize. In total, over 125 boys have now played the iconic title role on stage worldwide.

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL is brought to life by the multiple award-winning creative team behind the film including writer Lee Hall (book and lyrics), director Stephen Daldry and choreographer, Peter Darling, joined by Elton John who composed the show’s score. The production features scenic design by Ian MacNeil, costume design is by Nicky Gillibrand, lighting design by Rick Fisher, sound design by Paul Arditti and hair, wig and make up design by Campbell Young. Musical supervision and orchestrations are by Martin Koch. The tour director is Simon Pollard and the associate choreographer is Jeroen Luiten. Adult casting is by Pippa Ailion CDG and Natalie Gallacher CDG and children’s casting is by Nick Hockaday CDG for Jessica Ronane Casting.

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL is presented by Universal Theatrical Group and Working Title Films and is based on the Universal Pictures/Studio Canal film. The show is produced by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Jon Finn and Sally Greene. David Furnish and Angela Morrison are executive producers.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL

billyelliotthemusical.com

Instagram – billyelliotuk

TikTok – billyelliotuk

Facebook – Billy Elliot the Musical

YouTube – BillyElliotMusicalUK

4 – 28 NOVEMBER 2026

SUNDERLAND EMPIRE

atgtickets.com/sunderland

2 DECEMBER 2026 – 9 JANUARY 2027

PALACE THEATRE MANCHESTER

atgtickets.com/manchester

19 JANUARY – 6 FEBRUARY 2027

EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE

atgtickets.com/edinburgh

12 FEBRUARY – 31 JULY 2027

ADELPHI THEATRE, LONDON
lwtickets.co.uk

FURTHER DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON