Posts with the label Theatre News
Showing posts with label Theatre News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Theatre News. Show all posts
Monday, 20 October 2025
The Producers Extends Smash-Hit Run at the Garrick Theatre Due to Phenomenal Demand
London’s theatre lovers can’t get enough of The Producers. The critically acclaimed revival of Mel Brooks’ legendary musical comedy has officially extended its run at the Garrick Theatre due to extraordinary public demand, with performances now booking through to 19 September 2026.
Having transferred from the Menier Chocolate Factory after a sold-out run, the West End production has been met with glowing reviews and packed audiences. Directed by Patrick Marber, this revival retains the razor-sharp satire and musical brilliance that made The Producers a Broadway phenomenon.
With a book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan and music and lyrics by Brooks himself, the show tells the uproarious story of struggling producer Max Bialystock and nervous accountant Leo Bloom, who set out to stage a guaranteed flop. Instead, their outrageous scheme delivers one of the funniest and most successful shows in London theatre today.
Artistic Director David Babani praised Marber’s revival for its sharp humour and contemporary resonance, noting that audiences still find themselves laughing at themes that feel as fresh as ever.
The cast includes Andy Nyman, Marc Antolin, Trevor Ashley, Raj Ghatak, Harry Morrison, Joanna Woodward and more, all bringing Brooks’ larger-than-life characters to dazzling life.
As one of the West End’s most in-demand musical theatre experiences, The Producers continues to delight both seasoned theatregoers and newcomers alike, cementing its place as a must-see in the London theatre calendar.
Tickets for the extended run are available now.
Sunday, 19 October 2025
Jordan Luke Gage’s New Musical Redcliffe to Open at Southwark Playhouse in 2026
After eight sold-out workshop performances at The Other Palace, Redcliffe a new original musical by and starring West End favourite Jordan Luke Gage will premiere in a fully staged production at Southwark Playhouse Borough in 2026.
Set in 18th-century Bristol, Redcliffe tells the powerful and tragic true story of William Critchard and Richard Arnold, two men whose forbidden love defied the social norms of their time. The musical explores the courage it took to love openly in an era when being oneself could mean risking everything.
Jordan Luke Gage, known for his acclaimed performances in Bonnie & Clyde, Heathers, and &Juliet, returns to the role of William, a man caught between fear and passion.
Reflecting on the show, Gage said:
“Creating Redcliffe has been my greatest fulfilment. To tell this story, one that has never been brought to the public stage, and to hopefully move and uplift audiences, means the world to me.”
With book, music, and lyrics by Gage, Redcliffe has been developed with support from MTFestUK, The Other Palace, and Bill Kenwright Limited. Further casting will be announced soon, but excitement is already high among musical theatre fans anticipating this heartfelt new production.
Bringing together haunting melodies, historical realism, and deeply human emotion, Redcliffe promises to be one of the most moving additions to the London theatre landscape next year. Southwark Playhouse, known for championing new British musicals, provides the setting for Gage’s story of love, bravery, and hope in the face of persecution.
Thursday, 16 October 2025
Matthew Harvey’s New Musical Unbound Releases Haunting Live Album for London Theatre Fans
British composer and West End performer Matthew Harvey is set to treat musical theatre fans this Halloween with the release of the Live Concert Cast Recording of his haunting new show, Unbound. Recorded during its acclaimed 2024 concert performances at London’s Hoxton Hall, the album arrives on 31 October 2025 across all major streaming platforms.
Unbound tells the darkly captivating story of Iris, a home-schooled teenager eager to experience normal school life. But when a prank at her new high school unleashes an ancient witch, Iris finds herself caught in a chilling supernatural battle that blends teenage rebellion with gothic legend.
The cast album features an impressive line-up of West End favourites including Courtney Stapleton, Lauren Byrne, Evelyn Hoskins, and Jodie Jacobs, among others. The production’s mix of fresh British talent and compelling storytelling cements Harvey’s growing reputation as one of musical theatre’s most exciting new voices.
Originally developed by British Youth Music Theatre, Unbound premiered as part of BYMT’s 20th anniversary season in Birmingham before its concert presentation in London, directed by creative visionary Ryan Carter.
Reflecting on the upcoming release, Harvey shared his excitement about revisiting the live energy of the show, calling the recording a “snapshot of one unforgettable night” that captures the spirit of the project.
With its contemporary sound, haunting harmonies and bold storytelling, Unbound stands out as a thrilling example of the strength of new British musical theatre. It’s the perfect Halloween soundtrack for anyone who loves drama, mystery and a dash of West End magic.
Priscilla Queen of the Desert Musical Returns with Kevin Clifton and Adèle Anderson in Dazzling London Theatre Revival
A sparkling new cast has been revealed for the upcoming UK and Ireland tour of Priscilla Queen of the Desert- The Musical, promising sequins, heart, and disco anthems galore. Kevin Clifton (Strictly Come Dancing) stars as Tick/Mitzi, alongside Adèle Anderson (Fascinating Aïda), Nick Hayes, and Peter Duncan in this joyous celebration of self-expression and friendship.
Directed by Olivier Award-nominated Ian Talbot OBE, with choreography by Olivier winner Matt Cole, the production features over 100 eye-catching costumes designed by Strictly favourite Vicky Gill. Expect dazzling feathers, glitter, and glamour in every scene.
Based on the Oscar-winning 1994 film, Priscilla follows three friends on a road trip across Australia in a battered bus, discovering love, acceptance, and the courage to be themselves along the way. With its iconic soundtrack featuring "It’s Raining Men", "I Will Survive" and "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun", it’s a feel-good party wrapped in heart and humour.
Kevin Clifton shared,
“This show is pure joy from start to finish, it’s bold, unapologetic, and full of love.”
A celebration of identity, friendship, and the power of being unapologetically you, Priscilla Queen of the Desert is set to dazzle audiences across the country.
photo credit: Matt Crockett
Nicola Coughlan Leads National Theatre’s New Production of The Playboy of the Western World
The National Theatre has revealed the full cast for its upcoming production of The Playboy of the Western World, directed by Caitríona McLaughlin, Artistic Director of Ireland’s National Theatre. This new staging of J.M. Synge’s iconic play promises a fresh, dynamic take on a timeless tale of youth, identity, and rebellion.
The star-studded cast includes Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton), Éanna Hardwicke, Siobhán McSweeney, Declan Conlon, Lorcan Cranitch, Megan Cusack, and Marty Rea, with a talented ensemble completing the lineup.
Set in a small rural pub, the story follows Pegeen Mike, whose world is turned upside down when Christy Mahon arrives claiming to have killed his father. Rather than facing condemnation, he becomes an unlikely local hero... until reality begins to unravel.
This new production combines McLaughlin’s bold direction with design by Katie Davenport and a haunting original score by Anna Mullarkey, creating an atmosphere that’s both rich in tradition and thrillingly modern.
With wit, darkness, and a touch of romance, The Playboy of the Western World captures the wild spirit of Ireland’s west coast while speaking to universal questions of truth and self-discovery.
photo credit: Josh Shinner
Wednesday, 15 October 2025
The Greatest Showman Musical Announces Star-Studded Cast for Spectacular UK Stage Premiere
The stage is set for one of the most anticipated musical theatre premieres in recent memory, The Greatest Showman is officially coming to the UK stage. The spectacular new adaptation of the 2017 hit film will debut at the Bristol Hippodrome, bringing the story of P.T. Barnum to life with all the energy, heart, and magic that made the movie a global phenomenon.
Leading the cast is acclaimed West End star Oliver Tompsett (& Juliet, We Will Rock You) as showman P.T. Barnum, alongside Samantha Barks (Frozen, Les Misérables) as Charity Barnum. Joining them are Lorna Courtney (& Juliet Broadway) as Anne Wheeler, Ben Joyce (Jersey Boys) as Phillip Carlyle, Vajèn van den Bosch as Jenny Lind, and Malinda Parris (Standing at the Sky’s Edge) as Lettie Lutz.
The musical will feature a powerhouse creative team, including Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Casey Nicholaw, whose dynamic work on The Book of Mormon and Aladdin has dazzled audiences worldwide. The beloved score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, La La Land) and a new book by Tim Federle promise to bring both familiarity and freshness to this dazzling stage spectacle.
In a statement, Nicholaw shared:
“It’s an absolute joy to finally share our incredible cast with the world — led by the brilliant Oliver Tompsett and Samantha Barks. Together with a world-class creative team, we are so excited to bring this story to life for the first time on stage.”
The full company features a remarkable ensemble of singers, dancers, and circus performers, including Mia Raggio, Angelica Pearl Scott, Harly Gill, Ellie McArdle, Eleanor Sebastian, Max Bispham, and Joel Tennant Clark Young. Josh St. Clair serves as the P.T. Barnum alternate, with Katie Tonkinson as the standby Anne Wheeler.
Behind the scenes, the creative lineup includes Alex Lacamoire (music supervision and orchestrations), David Korins (scenic design), Gregg Barnes and Sky Switser (costume design), Natasha Katz (lighting design), and Peter Hylenski (sound design), alongside a host of award-winning designers and choreographers ensuring every moment shines.
This world-premiere production of The Greatest Showman is poised to deliver everything audiences love about the original film- breathtaking visuals, heart-stirring music, and an inspiring story of courage and self-belief- now reimagined for the stage.
photo credit: Sebastian Nevols
Rachel Zegler to perform “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” on Strictly Come Dancing
Golden Globe-winning actress Rachel Zegler will make her UK television performance debut on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing later this month.
According to The Independent, The West Side Story and Hunger Games star will perform “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” during the Icons Week results show on 26 October, accompanied by two of Strictly’s professional dancers.
The performance follows her acclaimed turn as Eva Peron in Evita at The London Palladium, directed by Jamie Lloyd. Zegler will also appear on The Graham Norton Show and The One Show this month.
Her appearance continues Strictly’s star-studded guest lineup, which recently included Cynthia Erivo, who mentored contestants and performed live.
Photo credit: Sarah Krick
UK Premiere of Daniel’s Husband Brings Award-Winning Off-Broadway Play to London Theatre
The acclaimed cast includes three-time Olivier Award winner David Bedella (& Juliet), Luke Fetherston (Big Mood), Raiko Gohara (A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder), Joel Harper-Jackson (Cock), and Olivier winner Liza Sadovy (Cabaret). Together, they will bring to life McKeever’s powerful examination of relationships, choices, and the human heart.
At its core, Daniel’s Husband follows Daniel and Mitchell, a couple whose seemingly perfect life is shattered by an unexpected crisis. As their love is tested, the play delves into the meaning of commitment, the fragility of security, and what it truly means to be a family.
Originally debuting in the US to critical acclaim, Daniel’s Husband has won multiple awards and captivated audiences with its honesty and emotional impact.
Plastered Productions shared that they chose the play as their inaugural London production to “inspire reflection on love, morality, and connection.”
A moving addition to the London theatre landscape, Daniel’s Husband invites audiences to confront both the beauty and complexity of love.
Tuesday, 14 October 2025
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS returns in a brand-new outdoor production at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
One of the world’s most beloved musicals, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, is making a spectacular return in Summer 2026 at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie.
Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, this reimagined outdoor production will run from 25 July to 12 September 2026, before touring across the UK through 2027.
McOnie, a former cast member himself, said:
“CATS was transformative for me, directing this new version feels like coming full circle.”
Producer Michael Harrison added:
“This dazzling revival will breathe new life into a legendary musical for a new generation.”
Tickets go on sale 28 October at openairtheatre.com. Casting to be announced.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time returns for a bold new UK tour in 2026
The award-winning stage adaptation of Mark Haddon’s bestselling novel, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, returns in 2026 with a brand-new UK tour.
Opening at the Birmingham Rep in September before visiting major theatres nationwide, the production is directed by Ned Bennett and adapted by Simon Stephens, whose original National Theatre version won seven Olivier Awards and five Tonys.
This fresh staging, co-produced by Melting Pot and Birmingham Rep, reimagines the story for a new generation. It follows Christopher Boone, a brilliant but misunderstood teenager who investigates a mystery that unravels deeper family secrets.
Playwright Simon Stephens said:
“Christopher’s courage and determination are timeless. I’m thrilled to see his story return to the stage.”
Tour venues include Woking, Leicester, Nottingham, Liverpool, Bath, and more.
Monday, 13 October 2025
Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana Returns with Full Cast for Vibrant UK Tour
The magic of Christmas is set to return with Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana, as Norwich Theatre and Valid Productions announce the full cast for the acclaimed production. Directed and choreographed by the legendary Carlos Acosta CBE, this vibrant Cuban reimagining of the festive classic is preparing to enchant audiences once again.
Featuring the world-class dancers of Acosta Danza, the cast includes Amisaday Naara, Daniela Urgelles, Adria Diaz, and many more celebrated Cuban performers. The production also welcomes a group of talented guest artists and junior dancers from the Acosta Dance Centre, ensuring a dazzling showcase of energy and artistry.
This Nutcracker takes audiences on a journey where ballet meets the rhythm of Havana, with a newly commissioned Cuban arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score by composer Pepe Gavilondo. With colourful visuals, Nina Dunn’s spectacular projection design, and Angelo Alberto’s vibrant costumes, it’s a feast for the senses and a true celebration of Cuban culture.
Carlos Acosta said:
“Watching my dancers blend classical ballet with Cuban folk and contemporary dance has been a dream come true. This show embodies the joy and warmth of Cuba at Christmas.”
Produced by Norwich Theatre and Valid Productions, Nutcracker in Havana is set to be one of the most exciting theatre events of the season. The ballet embarks on its second UK tour from Fri 31 Oct 2025 opening at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre for three performances.
Read more London theatre stories and dance features here.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical and Broadwick Soho launch luxury theatre partnership in London
London’s most flamboyant hotel, Broadwick Soho, has joined forces with the Tony Award-winning Moulin Rouge! The Musical for an exclusive collaboration celebrating truth, beauty, freedom and love.
The vibrant partnership launches this November, transforming the hotel into a Bohemian paradise complete with bespoke room packages, themed cocktails, and an extravagant festive façade inspired by Baz Luhrmann’s iconic film.
Guests can enjoy premium tickets to the West End show, exclusive Moulin Rouge! merchandise, and a glittering seasonal light display featuring the famous red windmill.
Broadwick Soho’s Bar Jackie and Flute rooftop will also serve limited-edition cocktails inspired by the show’s four guiding principles—Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and Love, with a portion of proceeds supporting Breathe Arts Health Research.
To complete the experience, Dear Jackie restaurant will offer a themed pre-theatre menu, making this one of London’s most luxurious cultural pairings of the year.
Hugh Bonneville to star in Shadowlands at London’s Aldwych Theatre
BAFTA, Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor Hugh Bonneville will return to the West End in 2026 to star in William Nicholson’s acclaimed play Shadowlands. The heartfelt drama, based on the life of The Chronicles of Narnia author C.S. Lewis, tells a deeply human story of love and grief when the Oxford scholar meets spirited American poet Joy Davidman.
Originally staged at Chichester Festival Theatre in 2019 and directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, the play will now take up residence at London’s Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026.
Bonneville shared:
“I’m thrilled to revisit this beautiful play about love and loss and bring it to London audiences at The Aldwych where my own love of theatre began.”
Known worldwide for Downton Abbey and Paddington, Bonneville’s stage career spans the Royal Shakespeare Company, Donmar Warehouse, and Old Vic. Shadowlands, adapted from Nicholson’s BAFTA-winning TV movie, went on to win the Evening Standard Award for Best Play and later inspired the 1993 film starring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger.
Tickets go on sale 15 October 2025 at 10am via shadowlandsplay.com
Photo credit: Manuel Harlan / ArenaPAL
Saturday, 11 October 2025
Be More Chill Reunion Concert Returns to London with Original West End Cast
London audiences are in for a treat as Be More Chill returns for a one-night-only reunion concert at the Arts Theatre on 10 November 2025.
The cult-favourite musical, featuring a Tony-nominated score by Joe Iconis and a book by Joe Tracz, follows a socially awkward teen who takes a mysterious pill that promises instant popularity with chaotic results.
The concert marks the debut production from Teal Moon Productions and features much of the original West End cast, including Scott Folan, Miracle Chance, Blake Patrick Anderson, and Grace Mouat. They’ll be joined by Brandon Lee Sears, Eve Norris, Gabrielle Hinchcliffe, Jessica Lim, Christopher Fry, and Miles Paloma.
Musical direction comes from Louisa Green, with Christopher D. Clegg directing. The event is co-produced by Jeff Neuman (JJN Solutions) and Chance, with all profits donated to Young Minds, supporting youth mental health.
This special concert promises a night of infectious energy, hilarious storytelling, and the heartfelt message that made Be More Chill a phenomenon on both sides of the Atlantic.
Helen Flanagan to Make Stage Debut in Mrs Dalloway
Two landmark British stage productions are set to light up spring 2026, bringing classic and contemporary stories to northern stages, featuring Coronation Street's Helen Flanagan in her stage debut.
At Storyhouse Chester, Virginia Woolf’s Mrs Dalloway will be reimagined in a bold new adaptation by Kit Green and director Jen Heyes, running from 29 May to 6 June 2026 before a UK tour. Produced in collaboration with Harlow Playhouse and CutToTheChase Productions, this version blends Woolf’s poetic brilliance with striking visual design and modern resonance.
Meanwhile, Liverpool Everyman and Octagon Theatre Bolton unite for a 30th anniversary revival of Shelagh Stephenson’s The Memory of Water, a sharp, funny, and heartfelt exploration of sisterhood and memory. Directed by Lotte Wakeham, the production runs in Bolton (29 Jan–21 Feb 2026) before transferring to Liverpool (25 Feb–14 Mar).
The cast includes Vicky Binns, Victoria Brazier, Helen Flanagan, and Polly Lister, with more names to come. Set against the nostalgic backdrop of the 1990s, the play fuses laughter, tension, and emotion.
Friday, 10 October 2025
Cynthia Erivo Leads Animated Musical Bad Fairies with Songs by Six the Musical Creators
Academy Award nominee and Tony winner Cynthia Erivo is lending her voice to Bad Fairies, a brand-new animated musical film set for release on 21 May 2027.
Directed by Megan Nicole Dong (Centaurworld) and co-directed by Olivier Staphylas (Puss in Boots), the film features original songs by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the award-winning creators of Six The Musical.
The story follows a rebellious fairy, Jayne Staplegun (voiced by Erivo), who sparks chaos in her magical world. The film blends sharp humour, fantasy, and contemporary pop-inspired music.
The creative team includes Isabella “Machine” Summers of Florence + The Machine (score), Deborah Frances-White (screenplay), and producers Carolyn Soper and DNEG Animation.
Erivo, who stars as Elphaba in Wicked: For Good later this year and the upcoming 2026 production of Dracula, continues her rise as one of today’s most dynamic performers.
ROYO Group Expands into Asia with Peaky Blinders and Rambert 100-Year Celebration
Global theatre producer ROYO Group has announced major new investment plans in Asia, led by its regional subsidiary RTS Entertainment.
The company will bring Rambert’s acclaimed production of Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby to China in spring 2026, celebrating Rambert’s 100th anniversary. Created by Peaky Blinders writer Steven Knight and choreographed by Benoit Swan Pouffer, the show follows the Shelby family from the battlefields of WWI to post-war Birmingham, set to a live band performing music by Nick Cave, Radiohead, and Anna Calvi.
The partnership marks ROYO’s fifth major Chinese presentation in 18 months, following productions like Life of Pi and Murder on the Orient Express.
ROYO CEO Tom De Keyser confirmed the expansion of RTS’s Shanghai office, saying the group is committed to helping British producers reach global audiences.
Aqua The Musical: Barbie Girl Hitmakers Bring Their Story to the Stage in 2028
The iconic Danish pop group Aqua who are known worldwide for infectious hits like "Barbie Girl" and "Doctor Jones" are heading to the stage in spectacular fashion. A brand-new jukebox musical, Aqua The Musical, will make its world premiere at Copenhagen’s Royal Opera House in 2028, bringing the band’s colourful story and unforgettable pop anthems to life.
Produced by AHA Creations, the show has been officially approved by the band, who are actively involved in shaping its creative journey. The production company holds global rights to the musical for at least 25 years and aims to transfer it to international stages, including London’s West End, Broadway, and major cities like Hamburg and Toronto.
Martin Palme Skriver, Executive Director of AHA Creations says:
“Aqua is one of Denmark’s greatest musical success stories... Their vibrant sound and larger-than-life universe are made for the stage, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to launch a Danish musical on the global map.”
Band members shared their excitement, saying, “We’ve had a wild ride filled with unforgettable experiences. Reliving it all through a musical is both surreal and emotional— a celebration of everything Aqua has been and still is.”
The production is being developed with Fredericia Musicalteater and will be directed by Thomas Agerholm, with a creative team including Claus Reenberg, Mads Æbeløe, and Nikolaj Tarp, and set design by Benjamin La Cour.
Fans can expect an energetic celebration of Aqua’s chart-topping legacy in a musical spectacle filled with nostalgia, fun, and heart.
Photo credit: Gudmund Thai
Thursday, 9 October 2025
RSC Announces Full Cast for The BFG Stage Adaptation Ahead of 2025 Premiere
The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) has revealed the full cast for its new stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The BFG, created in collaboration with Chichester Festival Theatre and the Roald Dahl Story Company.
John Leader stars as the Big Friendly Giant, alongside Helena Lymbery as The Queen. The role of Sophie will be shared between Elsie Laslett, Ellemie Shivers, and Martha Bailey Vine, while Maisy Lee, Charlotte Jones, and Uma Patel will alternate as Sophie’s friend Kimberley.
The production also features Richard Riddell, Sargon Yelda, Philip Labey, Luke Sumner, and an ensemble of talented performers.
Adapted by Tom Wells, the magical new version of The BFG opens at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon from 25 November 2025 to 31 January 2026, before transferring to Chichester Festival Theatre and then to Singapore’s Esplanade Theatre from 22 April 2026.
The creative team includes Toby Olié (puppetry director), Vicki Mortimer (set design), Kinnetia Isidore (costumes), Zoe Spurr (lighting), and Oleta Haffner (composer).
Tickets start at £16 and are on sale now.
RSC Announces Full Cast for The BFG Stage Adaptation Ahead of 2025 Premiere
Thursday, 9 October 2025
Cats: The Jellicle Ball Returns to Broadway in 2026 with André De Shields
Broadway’s about to get feline again. The acclaimed revival Cats: The Jellicle Ball will arrive at the Broadhurst Theatre in March 2026, with previews from 18 March and an opening night on 7 April.
After wowing audiences at PAC NYC, directors Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch return with their vibrant reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, inspired by New York’s Ballroom culture.
Tony, Grammy, and Emmy winner André De Shields reprises his celebrated role as Old Deuteronomy, joined by returning cast members Jonathan Burke, Sydney James Harcourt, Tempress Chasity Moore, Robert “Silk” Mason, and many others.
The creative team features Rachel Hauck (scenic design), Qween Jean (costumes), Adam Honoré (lighting), Kai Harada (sound), and Nikiya Mathis (hair and wig design). The show is produced by Michael Harrison and Mike Bosner for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals.
Tickets go on general sale 16 October 2025.
Photo credit: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman
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