Posts with the label News
Showing posts with label News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label News. Show all posts

Monday 12 February 2024

Initial Casting Announced for Spring Awakening Reunion Concert


Producers Jack Maple and Evelyn Hoskins are thrilled to unveil the initial cast for the 15th Anniversary concert of the groundbreaking West End production of Spring Awakening, the acclaimed musical by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, based on Frank Wedekind’s iconic play.

This special event, marking the 15th year since the original London production, will reunite many of the beloved original cast members for a one-night-only celebration on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the Victoria Palace Theatre. Tickets are available for purchase now.

Returning to the stage from the original West End production are Lucy May Barker as Ilse, Natasha Barnes as Anna, Harry McEntire as Ernst, Hayley Gallivan as Martha, Evelyn Hoskins as Thea, Edward Judge as Otto, Jamie Muscato as Melchior, Jos Slovick as Georg, and Charlotte Wakefield as Wendla. Additionally, Chris Barton, Natalie Garner, Mona Goodwin, Gemma O’Duffy, and Richard Southgate will reprise their roles.

The original London band, including Huw Davies, Don Richardson, Matthew Senior, Vicky Matthews, Charlie Brown, and Rachel Robson under the musical direction of Nigel Lilley, will accompany the cast.

Spring Awakening chronicles the tale of adolescent rebellion against societal constraints, set to a captivating score that has enthralled audiences worldwide.

Originally premiering on Broadway in 2006 and subsequently transferring to London in 2009, Spring Awakening has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including Tony and Olivier accolades.

Duncan Sheik expressed his excitement about the anniversary concert, reminiscing about the joyous memories of the original London production. Steven Sater shared his gratitude for the opportunity to bring back the beloved show for this special occasion.

In addition to celebrating the musical's legacy, this concert will serve as a fundraiser for Imogen Kinchin, a pivotal figure in the original production, who is battling Stage IV Bowel Cancer. The company of Spring Awakening has generously decided to donate the proceeds from the concert to Imogen's Fund.

Directed by Jamie Armitage and featuring musical direction by Nigel Lilley, Spring Awakening promises to be a poignant and unforgettable event, honouring both the musical's impact and the resilience of its community.

Initial Casting Announced for Spring Awakening Reunion Concert

Monday 12 February 2024

Thursday 8 February 2024

Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder! transfers to the West End



Francesca Moody Productions, Kater Gordon, Wessex Grove and Fiery Angel are delighted to announce that award-winning smash-hit murder mystery musical Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder! will transfer to the Ambassadors Theatre in the West End for a strictly limited season from 25 May - 14 September after thrilling audiences in Edinburgh, Bristol and Manchester. Tickets are now on-sale at www.kathyandstella.com with 5000 under £25 and a ticket lottery to be announced. 

Bronté Barbé and Rebekah Hinds will reprise their roles as Kathy and Stella alongside Imelda Warren-Green who will once again play Erica. Further casting is to be announced.

Originally brought to the stage by Francesca Moody Productions and Kater Gordon Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder! won Musical Theatre Review’s Best Musical Award at the Edinburgh Festival 2022. The production reunites the writing and musical talents of Jon Brittain - Book and Lyrics / Co-Director and Matthew Floyd Jones - Music and Lyrics who previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed, Fringe First award-winning A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad). Fabian Aloise Co-Directs and Choreographs.

BFFs Kathy and Stella host Hull's least successful true crime podcast. When their favourite author is killed they are thrust into a thrilling whodunnit of their own!

This big-hearted, laugh out loud musical follows the unlikely crime-fighting duo as they put their friendship on the line to become part of the story. Can they crack the case, (and become global podcast superstars) before the killer strikes again…?

Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder! transfers to the West End

Thursday 8 February 2024

Todrick Hall to play Sean and Michael Mather will play Jackson in Burlesque The Musical


Todrick and Michael join the already announced Jess Folley as Ali Rose, Olivier Award-winning George Maguire as Vince, Billie-Kay as Sophia,  B Terry as Georgie, West End favourite and TikTok and social media sensation Jess Qualter as Daphne, Yasmin Harrison as Brenda/Dance Captain, Lily Wang as Fifi, Hollie-Ann Lowe as Summer and Alessia McDermott in the Ensemble.  
 
Other cast members announced today are: Ope Sowande as Trey, Lewis Easter in the Ensemble, with Callum AylottLucy Campbell and Amber Pierson as Swings.

Steven Antin said: 

"Todrick Hall’s kinda genius is singular. The kind you rarely see. His work is prolific and masterfully entertaining.  The songs he wrote for the show are in a word…iconic.  The role of Sean is an anchor/entertainer who has poetry and is wickedly funny. So it was abundantly clear we had to get Todrick to play Sean. And sometimes I dunno if I wanna kiss him or slap him. ❤️  But I DO know I’m a very lucky guy to have him in our show. Very."
 
Todrick Hall, who has also written brand new songs for this new production of Burlesque the Musical added:  

“The movie of Burlesque was so iconic to so many of us — to now be working with both Steven Antin and Christina Aguilera who are reuniting for this new musical is a dream come true.
 
I am beyond excited to be returning to my first love, musical theatre, in such a special way. My first original role and my theatrical composing debut. To be able to bring music that I wrote to life, to share the stage and the writing credit with the star that is Jess Folley is a dream come true! I'm blessed, honoured, flattered and ready to dust off the old heels and let the kids have it 8 shows a week!”

 

Todrick Hall to play Sean and Michael Mather will play Jackson in Burlesque The Musical

War House to Embark on New UK Tour


The acclaimed War Horse production, adapted from Michael Morpurgo's beloved novel and originally directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, is set to embark on an extensive 18-month UK Tour starting from September 5, 2024, and continuing until 2026.
 
Opening at the New Wimbledon Theatre from September 5 to 14, the tour will then move to various venues including The Lowry in Salford (September 18 to 28), Mayflower Theatre in Southampton (October 8 to 19), The Marlowe in Canterbury (October 22 to November 2), Sunderland Empire (November 5 to 16), Theatre Royal Plymouth (November 26 to December 7), and New Theatre Oxford (December 10, 2024, to January 4, 2025), with additional dates and locations to be announced.

This captivating story follows young Albert and his horse Joey against the backdrop of World War I. War Horse, celebrated for its innovative puppetry by South Africa's Handspring Puppet Company, has garnered more than 25 major awards and has been witnessed by over 8.3 million people globally. Co-produced by Michael Harrison, Fiery Angel, and Playing Field, this new tour promises to deliver the same awe-inspiring experience.

Led by Tom Morris and revival director Katie Henry, with redesigned sets by Rae Smith and additional music by Adrian Sutton, the production features puppetry by Basil Jones and Adrian Kohler, lighting design by Rob Casey, and movement choreography by Toby Sedgwick. Animation and projection design are by Nicol Scott, while John Tams provides musical contributions and Christopher Shutt manages sound design. Casting details are yet to be announced.

Having premiered at the National Theatre in 2007, War Horse has since captivated audiences worldwide, with productions spanning across continents. For more information and ticket bookings, visit WarHorseOnStage.com. The tour will also include visits to Theatre Nation Partner venues, such as The Lowry in Salford and Sunderland Empire, with assisted performances available throughout the run at each venue.

War House to Embark on New UK Tour

Tuesday 6 February 2024

Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical extends its season at The Other Palace


Bill Kenwright Ltd is delighted to announce that the London premiere of Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical (“Sexy, smirky... a fast, funny guilty pleasure” - Evening Standard) will extend its acclaimed season at The Other Palace by 5 weeks to Sunday May 19th.

The cast of  Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical is led by Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky and Daniel Bravo as manipulative step-siblings Kathryn and Sebastian.It also features  Abbie Budden as Annette and Rose Galbraith as Cecile, Josh Barnett as Blaine, Jess Buckby as Ms Bunny Caldwell/Dr Greenbaum, Nickcolia King-N’Da as Ronald and Barney Wilkinson as Greg, with an ensemble of Craig Watson, Nathan Lorainey-Dineen, Charlotte O’Rourke and Verity Thompson.
Step-siblings Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil, manipulative monsters flushed with their own sexual prowess, engage in a cruel bet: Kathryn goads Sebastian into attempting to seduce Annette Hargrove, the headmaster’s virtuous daughter.  Weaving a web of secrets and temptation, as the two set out to destroy an innocent girl - and anyone who gets in their way - their vengeful crusade wreaks havoc on the students at their exclusive Manhattan high school and the diabolical duo become entangled in their own mesh of deception and unexpected romance, with explosive results...

Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical extends its season at The Other Palace

Tuesday 6 February 2024

Tom Holland to Play Romeo in Jamie Lloyd's Romeo and Juliet


The Jamie Lloyd Company today announces its new West End production of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, starring Tom Holland as Romeo, and directed by Jamie LloydRomeo & Juliet runs at the Duke of York’s Theatre, Saturday 11 May – Saturday 3 August 2024.
 
Further casting to be announced. Tickets go on sale to those signed up for priority booking and ATG+ members on Tuesday 13 February at 8am; general booking opens on Tuesday 13 February at 12pm.
 
Sign up for priority booking here: www.romeoandjulietLDN.com
 
The Jamie Lloyd Company also continues its commitment to accessibility, offering 10,000 tickets priced at £25 and under, with 5,000 of these exclusively for under 30s, key workers and those receiving government benefits. Further information to be announced. 
 

Jamie Lloyd said today:

“Tom Holland is one of the greatest, most exciting young actors in the world. It is an honour to welcome him back to the West End.”


Text edited by Nima Taleghani; Set and Costume Design: Soutra Gilmour; Lighting Design: Jon Clark; Sound Design; Ben and Max Ringham; Video Design and Cinematography: Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom; Composer: Michael 'Mikey J’ AsanteCasting Director: Stuart Burt CDG; Movement Directors: Sarah Golding & Yukiko Masui (SAY); Intimacy Coordinator: Ingrid Mackinnon; Associate Director: Jonathan Glew; Associate Designer: Rachel Wingate
 
Violent delights have violent ends.

 

Photo Credit: Isaac Anthony / AUGUST

Tom Holland to Play Romeo in Jamie Lloyd's Romeo and Juliet

Monday 5 February 2024

Cara Delevingne and Luke Treadaway to join the cast of Cabaret | THEATRE NEWS


The award-winning West End production of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club is thrilled to announce that actress and model Cara Delevingne will play Sally Bowles, and Olivier Award-winning actor Luke Treadaway will take on the role of The Emcee from March 11 to June 1, 2024. Delevingne expressed her excitement about making her stage debut, while Treadaway is thrilled to join the Kit Kat Club production.

The show is booking until February 2025, and Cara Delevingne will have specific dates when she won't be performing*. They join Michael Ahomka-Lindsay as Clifford Bradshaw, Beverley Klein as Fraulein Schneider and Teddy Kempner as Herr Schultz. Nic Myers plays the role of Sally Bowles once a week.

Completing the company are Wilf Scolding as Ernst Ludwig, Jessica Kirton as Fraulein Kost/Fritzie, Liv Alexander as Texas, Natalie Chua as Frenchie, Taite-Elliot Drew as Hans, Damon Gould as Victor, El Haq Latief as Helga, and Travis Ross as Bobby, joining Laura Delany as Rosie, Grant Neal as Herman/Max and Hicaro Nicolai as Lulu. The cast is completed by Rebecca Lisewski, Ela Lisondra, Nic Myers, Andy Rees, Toby Turpin and Patrick Wilden.

The prologue company are Rachel Benson, Ami Benton, Onyemachi Ejimofor, Joseph Hardy, Liz Kamille, Andrew Linnie, Aine McLoughlin, Jack William Parry, Jazmyn Raikes, Oliver Stockley and Ena Yamaguchi.

Cabaret, praised as the ultimate theatrical experience, opened in December 2021 and won seven Olivier Awards in April 2022. The Broadway production featuring Eddie Redmayne and Gayle Rankin is set to open at the Kit Kat Club in April.

Transforming the theatre with an in-the-round auditorium and reimagined spaces, the Kit Kat Club invites guests to enjoy pre-show entertainment, drinks, and dining. The musical, featuring iconic songs like "Wilkommen" and "Don’t Tell Mama," is directed by Rebecca Frecknall, with set and costume design by Tom Scutt and choreography by Julia Cheng. The production promises a unique and immersive experience for audiences.

*Cara will not be performing on the following dates - Wednesday 13 March (matinee), Thursday 21 March (evening), Wednesday 27 March (matinee), Thursday 4 April (evening), Tuesday 9 April (evening) Wednesday 10 April (matinee and evening), Thursday 11 April (evening), Friday 12 April (evening), Thursday 18 April (evening), Wednesday 24 April (matinee), Thursday 2 May (evening), Monday 6 May (evening), Tuesday 7 May (evening), Wednesday 8 May (matinee and evening), Thursday 16 May (evening), Friday 17 May (evening), Saturday 18 May (matinee and evening), Wednesday 22 May (matinee) and Thursday 30 May (evening).

Photo credit: Jay Brooks and Emilio Madrid

Cara Delevingne and Luke Treadaway to join the cast of Cabaret | THEATRE NEWS

Monday 5 February 2024

Friday 26 January 2024

Here & Now a Musical by Steps to Debut This Year


UK pop sensation Steps is over the moon to reveal the world premiere of their fresh musical, Here & Now. Set to the beats of their iconic music and featuring an original storyline by Shaun Kitchener, the musical will debut at The Alexandra, Birmingham, running from November 9 to 24, 2024. Produced by Steps and ROYO with Pete Waterman, directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, and choreographed by Olivier Award winner Matt Cole, Here & Now promises a spectacular showcase of Steps' timeless hits.

Casting details are yet to be unveiled, but here's a sneak peek into the musical's plot: Step into the lively aisles of seaside superstore Better Best Bargains on a Friday night, where the atmosphere is electric, and everyone's dancing. However, when Caz discovers that the shelves are filled with deceit, the anticipated Summer of Love turns into a heartbreaking tale. Will they miss their shot at 'happy ever after,' or does love have another twist in store?

Steps members (Claire Richards, Faye Tozer, Ian ‘H’ Watkins, Lee Latchford-Evans, and Lisa Scott-Lee) expressed their excitement about the musical, sharing, “We’ve searched for the perfect story for our music, and we’ve found it in the aisle of a seaside superstore. It’s a story of friendship, romance, and community, packed with our biggest hits. We can’t wait to see you there!”

With 14 top five singles, 4 number one albums, 22 million record sales, 500 million streams, and 11 sold-out national arena tours, Steps is the UK’s most successful mixed-sex pop group. Their chart-toppers like Tragedy/Heartbeat, Stomp, One For Sorrow, Better Best Forgotten, 5,6,7,8, Last Thing On My Mind, Love’s Got A Hold Of My Heart, and Chain Reaction will be featured in the musical.

Steps' 2017 comeback tour was a massive success, selling out all 300,000 tickets, and the band has continued to make waves with new music. Their 25th-anniversary celebration included a headline summer tour and the release of the #1 album Platinum Collection, solidifying their status alongside ABBA, Rolling Stones, and Stereophonics as one of the few groups to score #1 albums in four consecutive decades.

Join Steps for a journey filled with laughter, tears, and dance in the aisles.

Here & Now a Musical by Steps to Debut This Year

Friday 26 January 2024

Saturday 18 November 2023

Jamie Muscato to Perform Solo Concert at Cadogan Hall


Fourth Wall Live, in collaboration with Westway Music, is thrilled to present West End sensation Jamie Muscato live at Cadogan Hall on Saturday, July 21, 2024, at 6:30 pm. Tickets for this exclusive event go on sale starting Monday, November 20, at www.fw-live.com and www.cadoganhall.com.

Renowned for his outstanding contributions to musical theatre, Jamie Muscato, known for his roles in Moulin Rouge and Heathers, will showcase a new solo concert at Cadogan Hall in 2024. Muscato has an impressive repertoire, including performances in Les Misérables, Once In Concert, and Sweeney Todd.

Jamie Muscato's versatile talent extends to TV and film, with notable credits such as Chemistry of Death, Darkness Rising, and The Trial of Christine Keeler.

Fourth Wall Live, recognised for its successful productions like Bonnie and Clyde The Musical In Concert, consistently brings top-tier entertainment to audiences. Their recent shows have featured Broadway favourites like Jeremy Jordan and Audra McDonald, emphasising their commitment to showcasing stars from both the West End and Broadway. Additionally, Fourth Wall Live proudly produced the What’sOnStage Award-winning Bonnie & Clyde The Musical, concluding a successful run at the Garrick Theatre in London’s West End.

Jamie Muscato to Perform Solo Concert at Cadogan Hall

Saturday 18 November 2023

Wednesday 15 November 2023

Give the Gift of Theatre with London Box Office | ad



*This post contains sponsored content*

With the holidays just around the corner and the frenzy of gift shopping kicking in, now's the perfect time to find some fantastic deals and savings. If you or someone you know loves the magic of theatre and entertainment, Black Friday is your chance to grab some awesome ticket deals for the best shows the West End has to offer.

This Black Friday, London Box Office have set the stage for remarkable savings, unveiling a treasure trove of discounted tickets spanning musicals, dramas, and comedies tailored to suit everyone on you present buying list.

What makes this year's Black Friday deals so great, is the incredible diversity of shows available at rates friendly to your pocket. Whether you're shopping for a seasoned theatre-goer or introducing someone to the wonders of live entertainment for the first time, London Box Office has curated a varied selection promising something enjoyable for everyone.

If you've got a musical theatre fan in your life, this is the perfect chance to snag tickets to some of the most sought-after musicals including Les Miserables and the magically immersive Guys and Dolls. Or, why not treat them to witnessing theatrical royalty on stage with Sondheim's Old Friends or look forward to upcoming productions like Bronco Billy which opens in April.

If a gripping drama is what you're after, you are in for a treat with discounts on an array of plays. Whether you're looking for intense contemporary pieces like Dear England or The Ocean at the End of the Lane, or the timeless allure of classics like Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap, London Box Office ensures there's a production to capture every niche.

For the comedy lovers in your life the Black Friday deals bring you hilarious performances that guarantee a night bursting with laughter. Including sidesplitting theatrical productions, from the hilariously chaotic Peter Pan Goes Wrong, which is perfect for family viewing, to the impeccably executed improv show Showstopper! that never fails to impress; the options to tickle your funny bone are boundless.

Thanks to London Box Office's Black Friday ticket deals, you not only get to experience these delights for yourself but also have the chance to treat your loved ones to a memorable night (or afternoon) at the theatre.

To dive into these excellent deals, simply venture over to London Box Office's dedicated Black Friday page at https://www.londonboxoffice.co.uk/black-friday. There, you can see the brilliant lineup of discounted shows, choose your preferred date and time, and effortlessly secure your tickets with just a few clicks. 

This is a golden ticket perfect opportunity to give the gift of live performance, so don't miss out and get booking to find a new favourite show.

Give the Gift of Theatre with London Box Office | ad

Wednesday 15 November 2023

Friday 7 July 2023

New Cast Announced for The Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty's Theatre


Cameron Mackintosh is pleased to announce new cast members for Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty's Theatre from July 31, 2023. The show is currently scheduled until March 2, 2024.

Lily Kerhoas joins as Christine Daaé, Joe Griffiths-Brown as Raoul, David Kristopher-Brown as Ubaldo Piangi, and Maiya Hikasa as Meg Giry. Jon Robyns continues in the role of The Phantom, along with Kelly Glyptis as Carlotta Giudicelli, Adam Linstead as Monsieur AndréMatt Harrop as Monsieur Firmin and Francesca Ellis as Madame Giry.  At certain performances the role of Christine Daaé will be played by Paige Blankson.

 

The cast is completed by Hollie Aires, Federica Basile, Corina Clark, Michael Colbourne, Leonard Cook, Colleen Rose Curran, Lily De-La-Haye, Hywel Dowsell, Connor Ewing, Serina Faull, Florence Fowler, James Gant, Melanie Gowie, Eilish Harmon-Beglan, Yukina Hasebe, Samuel Haughton, Thomas Holdsworth, Jacob Hughes, Grace Hume, Tim Morgan, Eve Shanu-Wilson, Tim Southgate, Zoë Soleil Vallée, Jasmine Wallis, Victoria Ward, Ralph Watts, Simon Whitaker, and Andrew York.


Lily Kerhoas previously appeared in Les Misérables and trained at the Royal Academy of Music. Joe Griffiths-Brown was part of the West End company of Hamilton, while David Kristopher-Brown has past experience in The Phantom of the Opera and other productions. Maiya Hikasa's credits include Billy Elliot and the international Tour of Cats.

The Phantom of the Opera is produced by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Group Ltd. The music is by Andrew Lloyd Webber, with lyrics by Charles Hart and additional lyrics by Richard Stilgoe. The production is based on Gaston Leroux's novel 'Le Fantôme de l'Opera'. The show has been a global sensation, playing to millions of people worldwide.

The London production underwent a creative overhaul after the COVID-related shutdown and has received rave reviews. The legendary musical, celebrating its 37th birthday in October 2023, will continue its successful run at His Majesty's Theatre.

Beyond London, The Phantom of the Opera continues to captivate audiences globally, with productions in Japan, Korea, and on a world tour. Cameron Mackintosh's new production recently concluded a record-breaking run in Australia and will open in Vienna in March 2024. Other exciting productions are also underway in Greece, Italy, and Spain.

New Cast Announced for The Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty's Theatre

Friday 7 July 2023

Thursday 6 July 2023

Sam Bailey, Kevin Clifton and Giovanna Fletcher to Star in the UK Tour of Everybody's Talking About Jamie


Exciting news for the UK Tour of Everybody's Talking About Jamie! The musical has announced some new additions to the cast. Kevin Clifton, known for winning Strictly Come Dancing, will be playing Hugo/Loco Chanelle from March 25 to July 15, 2024. Giovanna Fletcher, an author, podcast host, and winner of I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, will portray Miss Hedge from January 8 to March 23, 2024. Then, X-Factor winner Sam Bailey will take over the role of Miss Hedge from March 25 to July 15, 2024.

Kevin Clifton expressed his excitement about joining the UK Tour after his involvement in the movie, praising the show's inspiring and uplifting nature. Giovanna Fletcher described Everybody's Talking About Jamie as a wonderful show with great music, dance, and humour, emphasising its universal tale of courage and acceptance. 

They join the previously announced cast members Ivano Turco as Jamie New, Rebecca McKinnis as Margaret New, Shobna Gulati as Ray, and Talia Palamathanan as Pritti.

The cast also includes John Partridge and Hayley Tamaddon during specific periods of the tour. The rest of the cast for the 2023-24 UK Tour includes KY Kelly, Garry Lee, David McNair, Akshay St Clair, Jordan Ricketts, Liv Ashman, Rhiannon Bacchus, Geoff Berrisford, Jessica Daugirda, Finton Flynn, Annabelle Laing, Luca Moscardini, Joshian Omana, Thomas Walton, Takayiah Bailey, and Georgina Hagen.

After successful runs in the West End, a sold-out UK & Ireland Tour, and an award-winning film, the show will kick off at The Lowry on September 7, 2023, and visit various cities across the UK, including Sunderland, Nottingham, Bromley, Birmingham, Cardiff, Brighton, Leeds, Blackpool, Llandudno, Oxford, Southampton, Newcastle, Wolverhampton, Woking, London, Bristol, Plymouth, Sheffield, Liverpool, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Northampton, Bradford, Milton Keynes, Hull, and Leicester.

Everybody's Talking About Jamie tells the story of Jamie New, a sixteen-year-old from a council estate in Sheffield who doesn't quite fit in and is fearful of the future. With the support of his loving mother and friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice and bullying to step into the spotlight and become a sensation.

This musical sensation, described as funny, outrageous, and touching, is suitable for the whole family and shouldn't be missed. With an original score of catchy pop tunes by Dan Gillespie Sells, lead singer-songwriter of The Feeling, and a script by Tom MacRae, the show is choreographed by Kate Prince and is set to become a sparkling coming-of-age musical that will have everyone talking about Jamie for years to come.

Sixteen: the edge of possibility. Time to make your dreams come true.

photo credit: Matt Crockett

Sam Bailey, Kevin Clifton and Giovanna Fletcher to Star in the UK Tour of Everybody's Talking About Jamie

Thursday 6 July 2023

Initial Cast Announced for Elf the Musical at the Dominion Theatre this Winter


Celebrating its 20th anniversary since the original release of the motion picture featuring the talented Will Ferrell, the worldwide sensation and holiday classic, Elf, is set to grace London's Dominion Theatre once again. Following its overwhelming success last year, the smash-hit musical adaptation returns for a second consecutive year, delighting audiences from 15 November 2023 until 6 January 2024.

Returning to reprise their memorable roles are the talented Georgina Castle, known for her performances in Dirty Dancing and Mamma Mia, as Jovie, and Rebecca Lock, renowned for her roles in The Phantom of the Opera and Avenue Q, as Emily Hobbs. Nicholas Pound, recognised for his appearances in Cats and The Rocky Horror Show, brings Santa to life once again, while the multi-talented Kim Ismay, known for her roles in Wicked and Saturday Night Fever, takes on the character of Debs. Dermot Canavan, celebrated for his performances in Hairspray and Oklahoma!, embodies the Store Manager. Stay tuned for further casting announcements, including new actors who will portray the roles of Buddy and Walter Hobbs.

Based on the beloved 2003 New Line Cinema hit, Elf features a captivating book by Tony Award-winners Thomas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Hairspray) and Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone), accompanied by enchanting songs composed by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer).

This production will once again be brought to life under the expert direction of Philip Wm. McKinley, with choreography by Liam Steel. The original set and costume designs by Tim Goodchild, along with lighting design by Patrick Woodroffe, immersive sound by Gareth Owen, and video design by Ian William Galloway, will transport the audience into Buddy's world. The casting process will be overseen by Grindrod Burton Casting.

Elf tells the heartwarming and humorous tale of Buddy, a baby who accidentally finds himself in Santa's gift bag and is whisked away to the North Pole. Raised as an elf, Buddy remains unaware of his human origins, but his size and toy-making struggles eventually lead him to discover the truth—he's not an elf and will never truly fit in at the North Pole. With Santa's blessing, Buddy embarks on an extraordinary journey to New York, in search of his birth father, to uncover his true identity, and to remind the city of the genuine spirit of Christmas.

photo credit: Mark Senior

Initial Cast Announced for Elf the Musical at the Dominion Theatre this Winter

Friday 31 March 2023

Cast Announced for 42nd Street Tour


David Ian for Crossroads Live and Jonathan Church Theatre Productions are thrilled to announce that Samantha Womack will star as Dorothy Brock, alongside Michael Praed as Julian Marsh, Faye Tozer as Maggie Jones, Les Dennis as Bert Barry and Nicole-Lily Baisden as Peggy Sawyer in the UK tour of 42nd Street.

The cast will be completed by Sam Lips as Billy Lawlor, with Erica-Jayne Alden, George Beet, Charlie Bishop, Kevin Brewis, Olly Christopher, Briana Craig, Jordan Crouch, Rhianna Dorris, Ashleigh Graham, Alyn Hawke, Aimee Hodnett, Connor Hughes, Deja Linton, Sarah-Marie Maxwell, Greta McKinnon, Ben Middleton, Benjamin Mundy, Anthony Ofoegbu and Jessica Wright.

Following its run at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury, the production will visit Leeds, Bristol, Plymouth, Cardiff, Glasgow, Milton Keynes, Liverpool, Manchester, Southampton, Newcastle, Woking and Belfast. Current tour schedule below, with further dates to be announced. 42ndstreettour.com

Samantha Womack most recently starred as the White Witch in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Her other credits include the role of Rachel in The Girl on the Train both in the West End and on tour, Morticia Addams in The Addams Family UK tour, Nellie Forbush in the Lincoln Center’s production of South Pacific at the Barbican and on tour, and Miss Adelaide in Michael Grandage’s production of Guys and Dolls alongside Patrick Swayze. Her screen credits include Ronni Mitchell in EastEnders, Mandy in Game On, the titular role in Imogen’s Face and The Kingsman franchise.

Michael Praed’s theatre credits include Tom Beauregard in Darker Shores at Theatre Royal Windsor and on tour, George in War of the Worlds at the Dominion Theatre, Alex in Aspects of Love at the Prince of Wales Theatre, Lawrence Jameson in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Dexter Haven in High Society and Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music all on UK tours. His television credits include the role of Frank Clayton in Emmerdale, Prince Michael in Dynasty and the titular role in Robin of Sherwood.

Faye Tozer is best known as a member of BRIT Award winning pop band Steps. Her theatrical credits include Singin’ In The Rain at Sadler’s Wells and on tour in the UK and Canada, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie at the Apollo Theatre, and touring productions of In The Spotlight, Over The Rainbow, Me And My Girl, Love Shack and Tell Me On A Sunday. Faye was also a runner-up in BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2018.

Les Dennis most recently starred as Grandad Trotter in Only Fools and Horses The Musical. His other West End credits include Wilbur in Hairspray opposite Michael Ball at the London Coliseum, Amos Hart in Chicago and Bill in Me and My Girl. His touring theatre credits include Art, Legally Blonde, High School Musical 2 and Uncle Fester in the musical comedy The Addams Family. His many TV credits include Michael Rodwell in Coronation Street and a fictional version of himself in Extras.

Nicole-Lily Baisden’s theatre credits include the role of Nabulungi in The Book of Mormon, both in the West End and on tour, and Hope Harcourt in Anything Goes at the Barbican Theatre and on tour.

Sam Lips’ theatre credits include the role of Don Lockwood in Singin’ In The Rain and Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom, both in the UK and Canada. His Broadway credits Cats, Chicago, Pippin, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella and The Cher Show.

This new production will be directed by Jonathan Church (Singin’ in the Rain, The Drifters Girl) with choreography and design by Olivier Award winners Bill Deamer and Rob Jones, lighting design by Ben Cracknell, sound design by Ian Dickinson and Gareth Tucker, video design by Jon Driscoll, musical supervision by Jennifer Whyte and orchestrations by Larry Blank.

This iconic song-and-dance spectacular features a hit parade of toe-tapping songs, including the title number, “We’re In The Money”, “Lullaby of Broadway”, “Shuffle Off To Buffalo” and “I Only Have Eyes For You”. 42nd Street is a timeless and inspiring showbiz fairy tale that combines breath-taking tap dance routines, backstage intrigue, classic romance and delightful comedy to dazzling effect.

Fresh off the bus from small-town America, young and beautiful Peggy Sawyer arrives in New York City dreaming of her name in lights. She quickly catches the eye of a big-time director and lands a spot in the chorus line of Broadway’s newest show…and when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy gets her shot at stardom.

42nd Street is a larger-than-life, massively entertaining celebration of musicals and the irrepressible spirit of Broadway that’s guaranteed to lift anyone’s spirits.

42nd Street has music by Harry Warren, lyrics by Al Dubin, and book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, based on the novel by Bradford Ropes. Original direction and dances were by Gower Champion. The show was originally produced on Broadway by David Merrick.

The use of all songs is by arrangement with Warner Bros. and EMI Publishing Ltd.

Cast Announced for 42nd Street Tour

Friday 31 March 2023

Thursday 2 February 2023

Full Tour Cast of Annie Revealed with Craig Revel Horwood, Paul O'Grady and Jodie Prenger and More



Michael Harrison and David Ian are delighted to announce full casting for the forthcoming UK and Ireland tour of their smash hit production of the musical ANNIE opening at Curve, Leicester on Saturday 25 February 2023. Joining the previously announced Craig Revel Horwood and Paul O’Grady, will be Scottish BAFTA winner Elaine C Smith and Jodie Prenger, all starring as ‘Miss Hannigan’ at various venues. Alongside them will be Alex Bourne as Oliver Warbucks, Paul French as Rooster, Amelia Adams as Grace Farrell, and Billie-Kay as Lily St. Regis. The title role of Annie is shared by Zoe Akinyosade, Harlie Barthram and Poppy Cunningham. They are joined by three teams of young performers who play the residents of Miss Hannigan’s orphanage.
 
Completing the cast will be Emily Barnett-Salter, Alistair Beattie, David BurrowsSergi Ibanez, Rosalind James, Belle Kizzy Green, Ellie May-Wilson, Martin McCarthy, Phoebe Roberts, Lukin Simmonds, Matthew Sweet, Dawn Williams, and Tommy Wade-Smith.
 
*Full tour dates, including details of at which venues Craig Revel Horwood, Paul O’Grady, Elaine C Smith and Jodie Prenger star, are in the listings below. www.anniethemusicaltour.uk
 
Craig Revel Horwood is probably best known as a judge on all 20 series of BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing. He returns to the part of Miss Hannigan having played the role to critical acclaim in this production in both the West End and on tour. His other West End Theatre credits include Munkustrap in Cats, Miss Saigon at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and Harry in Crazy for You at the Prince Edward Theatre. Craig directed and choreographed Strictly Ballroom the Musical which is currently touring the UK and Ireland, and the 2016/17 tour of Sister Act the Musical, as well as the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour. He also choreographed the film Paddington 2.
 
BAFTA Award winning television, radio and stage star Paul O’Grady returns to Annie having first played the role of Miss Hannigan at the Victoria Palace Theatre in 1998. His other theatre credits include playing the Child Catcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the London Palladium and many pantomimes including Cinderella and Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the London Palladium. On television he is best known as the host of ITV’s Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs, Paul O’Grady’s Great British Escape, The Paul O’Grady Show, Channel 4’s Blind Date and BBC One’s Blankety Blank. He is also a highly celebrated writer, having written both autobiographical and fictional books and recently completed a 14 year run as a presenter on BBC Radio 2.
 
Elaine C Smith is perhaps best known for playing Mary Doll in the BBC comedy Rab C Nesbitt, as well as her role as Christine in the BBC sitcom Two Doors Down, for which she won a Scottish BAFTA for Best Actress in 2018. On stage she consistently headlines major pantomimes, having just finished her 13th year at Glasgow King’s Theatre. She played Cora in the original UK Tour and West End run of Calendar Girls as well as playing Susan Boyle in the UK tour of I Dreamed A Dream which she co-write with Alan McHugh.
 
Jodie Prenger recently joined ITV’s Coronation Street as Glenda Shuttleworth. Her West End credits include A Taste of Honey at the Trafalgar Studios. Oliver! at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, One Man Two Guvnors at Theatre Royal Haymarket and Spamalot at the Playhouse Theatre. On tour she has appeared in Abigail’s Party, Shirley Valentine, Annie, Fat Friends, Tell Me on A Sunday and Calamity Jane. On television she has appeared in the BBC’s Shakespeare & Hathaway, Years and Years, Casualty and Waterloo Road.
 
Alex Bourne returns to Annie as Oliver Warbucks, having played the role both in the West End, Toronto and the UK Tour. His other theatre credits include Edna Turnblad in the UK Tour of Hairspray, Sam Carmichael in the UK Tour of Mamma Mia!, Khashoggi in We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre, Billy Flynn in Chicago at the Adelphi Theatre and Lex Hogan in Eugenius! at The Other Palace. On film he can be seen in Sony Pictures’ Cinderella.
 
Paul French was most recently seen as TinMan/Hickory in The Wizard of Oz at Curve, Leicester. His other theatre credits include Kenickie in Grease at the Dominion Theatre and in the production’s UK Tour and Double J in Saturday Night Fever at the Peacock Theatre. On film he can be seen in Visualize Films’ Tomorrow Morning.
 
Amelia Adams has most recently been seen in the UK Tour of Friends! The Musical Parody. Her previous theatre credits include Lois Lane/Bianca in Kiss Me, Kate for Welsh National Opera, Mary Delgado in Jersey Boys at the Piccadilly Theatre and on tour, Martha Burelli in The Rat Pack at the Haymarket Theatre and on tour. She has also appeared in the UK Tour of Hairspray and Spamalot both in the West End and on tour.
 
Billie-Kay recently appeared as Angel in Anything Goes at the Barbican and its UK and Ireland tour. She has also appeared as Dale Tremont in Top Hat at The Mill at Sonning and in 42nd Street at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. On film she has appeared in Disney’s Dis-Enchanted and Beauty and the Beast, and Sony Pictures’ Cinderella.
 
Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search…
 
With its award-winning book and score, this stunning production includes the unforgettable songs ‘It’s the Hard Knock Life’, ‘Easy Street’, ‘I Don’t Need Anything But You’ and ‘Tomorrow’.
 
ANNIE has Music by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin and a Book by Thomas Meehan. It is directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster with set and costume design by Colin Richmond, choreography by Nick Winston, lighting by Ben Cracknell and sound design by Richard Brooker.
 
The producers of Annie cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.

photo credit: Matt Crockett

Full Tour Cast of Annie Revealed with Craig Revel Horwood, Paul O'Grady and Jodie Prenger and More

Thursday 2 February 2023