Posts with the label musicals
Showing posts with label musicals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label musicals. Show all posts
Thursday, 7 November 2024
Capital Theatre to Open in London with 'Dirty Dancing - The Classic Story on Stage' as its Inaugural Show
A brand-new theatre venue, Capital Theatre, is set to open its doors in West London at Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush, in autumn 2025. Co-founded by Karl Sydow and Adam Kenwright, this state-of-the-art venue will launch with the record-breaking production Dirty Dancing- The Classic Story on Stage, bringing all the heart, passion, and classic soundtrack of the beloved film back to the London stage. Tickets for this iconic show go on sale November 8th at dirtydancingonstage.co.uk, so book early to experience “the time of your life” in this premium, purpose-built theatre.
Set in a 35,000-square-foot space, the Capital Theatre boasts a 620-seat auditorium designed to deliver an immersive experience from every seat- no one will be more than nine rows from the stage. Sydow, who has produced Dirty Dancing since 2004, shares his excitement for this new venture:
We’ve always had a mission to bring more people to the theatre, and by opening the Capital Theatre at Westfield London, we are bringing a theatre to where the people are!”
With an inviting foyer café, an on-site box office, and convenient transport links- including four Underground stations and over 5,000 nearby parking spaces- Capital Theatre is designed to be a destination for theatre lovers across the UK.
Dirty Dancing- The Classic Story on Stage has captivated audiences worldwide with its unforgettable scenes, signature lift, and classic soundtrack of 35 hit songs, including 'Hungry Eyes', 'Hey Baby', 'Do You Love Me?', and, of course, '(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life'. The story transports audiences back to the summer of ’63 at Kellerman’s resort, where Baby meets the charismatic dance instructor Johnny Castle and is drawn into his world. With thrilling choreography and heartwarming moments, this production is a treat for fans of the iconic film and theatre lovers alike. The show’s dynamic cast and live band, consisting of over 40 performers, will bring this legendary story to life in a new, intimate way.
Adam Kenwright, the founder of Kindred Partners, highlights Capital Theatre’s potential to add a fresh energy to London’s entertainment scene
Capital Theatre is a thrilling, state-of-the-art addition to London’s thriving entertainment scene... We have created a uniquely tailored and designed new space with the experience of audiences at its heart.”
Opening with Dirty Dancing, Capital Theatre is set to become a must-visit venue for Londoners and tourists alike, offering an immersive and accessible way to experience theatre like never before.
Nominations Now Open for the 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards- Celebrating Theatre's Best as Voted by You!
WhatsOnStage has officially opened nominations for the 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards, the only major theatre awards determined entirely by theatregoers. Theatre fans across the UK can now nominate their favourite performers and shows, making their voices heard in this prestigious celebration of theatre. Nominations close at midday on 21st November, and a shortlist will be announced on 5th December 2024, with public voting on the shortlist opening the same day and closing 9th January 2025.
This year’s ceremony will culminate in a glamorous event at the London Palladium on 9th February, 2025, where the winners will be announced. The event will feature live performances by top stage talent, backed by a 24-piece orchestra, and promises to be an unforgettable night for theatre lovers. Tickets for the event are on sale now, giving fans a chance to witness this celebration of talent live.
WhatsOnStage’s Darius Thompson and Alex Wood shared their excitement about the upcoming awards, saying:
Let the campaigning begin! We're thrilled to give audiences the opportunity to celebrate their favourite shows and talents. This year, we're adapting the awards to better reflect our theatre community, including expanding the ‘Best Off-West End Production Award’ to the newly named ‘Best Studio Production Award,’ recognising smaller-scale, captivating productions in intimate spaces. We’re also excited to introduce a Wigs, Hair, and Make-Up category to spotlight the innovative work in this area of theatre.”
Among the categories open for nomination are Best Performer in a Play (sponsored by SINE Digital), Best Performer in a Musical (sponsored by Ticketmaster), and Best West End Show (sponsored by Dewynters). Additional new and updated categories this year allow audiences to honor creativity from a wider range of productions, from regional theatre to new musicals and plays. This year’s awards also include the recently added Best Studio Production Award to support smaller venues and the Wigs, Hair, and Make-Up category.
The technical categories- such as Costume Design, Lighting Design, and Video Design- will be judged by an independent panel of industry experts, with the public then voting on the shortlists. This brings the total award categories to 24, ensuring that every aspect of theatre, from performances to technical achievements, is recognised.
WhatsOnStage has extended special thanks to the sponsors for their support in making the 2025 awards possible, including SINE Digital, Ticketmaster, MTI, Concord, Disney’s Hercules, Dewynters, Travelzoo, and many others. Be sure to check the eligibility criteria before submitting nominations, and get ready to vote for your favourite stars and shows as the 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards celebrates a milestone year in the world of theatre!
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button at the Ambassadors Theatre: A Timeless Tale with Newfound Precision and Radiance
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Ambassadors Theatre
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button the musical at London’s Ambassadors Theatre isn’t just a production; it’s an unforgettable journey through life’s fragility and beauty, rendered with soul-stirring precision and depth. I previously reviewed the show at the Southwark Playhouse and I'm thrilled to say that in its current run, this show has transformed into an even sleeker, tighter production, gracefully weaving together heartfelt storytelling with mesmerising visuals and a flawless cast. Every element is fine-tuned and elevated, resulting in a masterpiece that celebrates light over darkness and resilience over despair. At a time when the world is rife with uncertainty, especially on a night as charged as tonight with the outcome of US election, Benjamin Button feels like an essential reminder of hope, love, and the good in humanity. If the title makes you expect a straightforward story about aging backward or something akin to the Brad Pitt film, think again- this adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story blossoms into a beautifully layered, vibrant musical that’s so much more than its name suggests.
From the outset, the cast, led by the astounding performances of John Dagleish (Benjamin) and Clare Foster (Elowen), grounds the fantastical tale with warmth, authenticity, and nuance. Dagleish’s transformation through Benjamin’s reverse aging is breathtaking; he deftly captures the innocence of youth and the weariness of age within a single character arc, making every step of Benjamin’s journey feel genuine and impactful. Foster’s portrayal of Elowen exudes strength, tenderness, and an unwavering belief in love that carries the entire production. Together, their chemistry illuminates the stage, bringing the highs and lows of Benjamin’s unconventional life to vivid reality.
The supporting cast, too, delivers standout performances, each role finely crafted and essential to the show’s tapestry. This ensemble excels in maintaining a delicate balance between humour and emotion, enriching the story and infusing moments of levity that accentuate the depth of the more profound themes. It’s rare to find a cast so collectively committed to a show’s vision, and here, every actor plays a vital role (and instrument) in amplifying the story’s emotional impact.
This really is a theatrical feast and the technical design elements elevate the show even further. The lighting, created by Zoe Spurr, is simply exquisite; it bathes the stage in soft, evocative hues that shift subtly as Benjamin’s life unfurls. From warm sunlight to muted twilight, Spurr’s design captures the moods of both time and place, visually narrating Benjamin's life in a way that feels poetic and hauntingly beautiful. The sound design, crafted by Luke Swaffield, adds another layer of immersion. It gently guides the audience through the ebb and flow of Benjamin’s experiences, using carefully timed soundscapes that accentuate the emotional resonance of each scene without ever overshadowing the actors, as well as keeping us in the world during the pre-show and interval.
From the carefully curated theming of the venue with period-inspired newspaper articles and gentle nods to the show scattered around, to the Cornish-sourced drinks and playful options like Miss Moncreif's teapot cocktails, every touch feels like an invitation to step deeper into Benjamin’s world. The merchandise is equally thoughtful, with unique items that perfectly echo the essence of the production, offering mementos as distinctive as the show itself. What’s truly remarkable, though, is the respect the show affords its audience; it trusts them to form their own interpretations and to find meaning in the visual and thematic patterns woven throughout. Symbolic imagery and clever symmetry appear again and again, enriching the storytelling and leaving subtle clues for the audience to uncover on their own. The love and care that have gone into crafting The Curious Case of Benjamin Button shine through in every detail, creating a rare and unforgettable experience. Shows like this are a rarity, and it feels like a privilege to witness the start of something so genuinely special.
What makes The Curious Case of Benjamin Button particularly profound is its unwavering commitment to showcasing the best of humanity. In a story that could easily become mired in the tragic aspects of aging backward, this adaptation instead emphasises joy, connection, and the resilience of the human spirit. Every moment, whether tinged with sorrow or elation, reflects a radiant optimism that’s both disarming and inspiring. By centring the narrative on life’s beauty, fleeting as it may be, the musical leaves audiences with a renewed sense of appreciation and awe for the world we inhabit.
The score, written by Darren Clark and Jethro Compton, is both folk-inspired and timeless, perfectly complementing the story’s unique narrative. The music serves as an emotional anchor, moving with ease from soul-stirring solos to harmonious ensemble numbers that stay with you long after the final curtain call. Each song feels intricately woven into the fabric of the story, enhancing the unfolding of Benjamin's life and carrying the audience through his journey with grace and sincerity.
Reflecting on this evening's performance- especially set against the tense backdrop of the US election results- I can’t help but feel that Benjamin Button offers something the world desperately needs. It’s a beacon of light, a testament to the resilience of love and the enduring power of human connection. It urges us to look beyond divisions and differences and find solace in the beauty of a shared journey. I left the theatre not only deeply moved but also with an undeniable urge to spread the word about this remarkable production. Theatre this beautiful, this uplifting, deserves to be seen, discussed, and cherished.
In a world that sometimes seems obsessed with darkness, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button chooses to shine, offering a precious reminder of all that is good, kind, and beautiful. It’s a production that demands to be witnessed, not just for its artistic brilliance but for its resounding message: that even in a life bound by time, there’s so much to savour, celebrate, and remember. Don’t miss your chance to experience this exceptional production- it will touch your heart, challenge your perspective, and leave you with a warmth that lingers long after the lights dim.
Reviewed on 6th November 2024 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Marc Brenner
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday, 6 November 2024
The Great Gatsby Musical to Dazzle London’s West End in Spring 2025!
Step into the Roaring Twenties as The Great Gatsby musical makes its highly anticipated West End debut at The London Coliseum next spring, bringing F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic story of love, luxury, and longing to the UK stage. Following a record-breaking, sold-out premiere at New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse and a triumphant Broadway run in 2024, The Great Gatsby will start previews on April 11th 2025, with the official press night on April 24th, and performances running until September 7th, 2025. Tickets go on sale on November 27 via londongatsby.com, with priority booking available for early sign-ups.
This glittering adaptation of Fitzgerald’s timeless novel captures the glamour and extravagance of the Jazz Age.
I am thrilled to bring this timeless, glamorous, and resplendent production to the UK’s West End,” says lead producer Chunsoo Shin. "The London Coliseum, with its grand architecture and historic charm, is a spectacular venue that perfectly complements the show’s lavish aesthetic and vibrant energy, transporting audiences back to the opulence of the 1920s.”
The show’s creative team features Tony Award nominees Jason Howland and Nathan Tysen, who bring the story to life with dazzling new music and lyrics, alongside a book by Jonathan Larson Grant winner Kait Kerrigan. Directed by Marc Bruni and choreographed by Dominique Kelley, with stunning costume design by Tony-winner Linda Cho and immersive scenic and projection work by Paul Tate de Poo III, this production promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Casting announcements are forthcoming, but with the production’s acclaimed design team and energetic direction, Gatsby’s world of riotous parties and mysterious romance is sure to captivate London audiences. Don’t miss this chance to experience “the party of the century”- get ready to immerse yourself in one of the greatest stories ever told.
Tuesday, 5 November 2024
Cast Announced for Stiles + Drewe’s Best New Song Prize Concert 2024: A Star-Studded Celebration of New Musical Theatre Talent
Prepare for an unforgettable night of new musical theatre as Mercury Musical Developments and Stiles + Drewe, in partnership with Broadway Licensing Global, present the 2024 Best New Song Prize Concert. Hosted by Olivier Award-winning actor Jenna Russell, this one-night-only gala will take place at The Other Palace on Monday, December 2 at 7:30 pm, showcasing the incredible talent of both emerging and established musical theatre creators.
This unique concert features a glittering cast, including stage icons like Charlie McCullagh (42 Balloons, Jesus Christ Superstar), Desmonda Cathabel (Aladdin, Miss Saigon), Lauryn Redding (Standing at the Sky’s Edge), Natalie Paris (Pretty Woman, SIX), Obioma Ugoala (Frozen, Hamilton), Samuel Barnett (Rock Follies), and Tim Howar (Rock of Ages, The Phantom of the Opera). Also performing are Allyson Ava Brown (Hamilton, Les Misérables), Cassius Hackforth (Something Rotten), Dan Partridge (Grease), Jodie Jacobs (Hello Dolly!), and Liv Andrusier (Fiddler on the Roof).
Alongside performances from these incredible artists, the event will feature songs from recent British musical successes like Becoming Nancy, Cable Street, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York), and 42 Balloons. The evening celebrates the vitality of new writing with a special showcase of 12 finalist songs, which include:
- 'The Temptation of Me' from Proud by Mark Anderson & Lee Freeman
- 'I’m Going to Stay With You' from The Tale of the Gifted Prince by Lezlie Wade & Dan Green
- 'It Starts Small' from Unfolding by Emma Vieceli
- 'Ideal Robot Assistant' from A.I. Will Solve All Your Problems by Leo Mercer
- 'Someday My Prince Will Come' from Queering the Canon by Cheeyang Ng & Eric Sorrels
- 'Viareggio' from Lifeboats by Gus Gowland
- 'Die Like Trees' from Girl Goes to the Underworld by Sam Norman & Bela Kawalec
- 'Hero' from Man Vs Snake the Epic Musical by Stuart Matthew Price & Daniel Fletcher
- 'Spread a Little Joy Around the Place' from Retail Therapy by Hilmi Jaidin
- 'Locked Away' from The Queen is Mad by Amy Clare Tasker & Tom McGrath
- 'Drek!' from Otto's Weidt's Brush and Broom Workshop for the Blind by Amir Shoenfeld & Caitlyn Burt
- 'Invisible' from Hatched! by Lydia Shaw & Edward Court
A distinguished panel of judges, including Chris Bush, George Stiles, Anthony Drewe, and Joanne Benjamin, will select the winning song, awarding £1,000 toward the winner’s development. An additional award recognising Voice, Vision & Potential will also be presented. Sponsored by Broadway Licensing Global, Dorico, Tarento Productions, and Kenny Wax Productions, the Best New Song Prize Concert celebrates the vibrant future of British musical theatre and its outstanding creative talent.
Sunday, 3 November 2024
THEATRE NEWS ROUNDUP 27th October- 2nd November 2024
What a week for theatrical news! Lots of casting and show announcements, plus exciting concerts to look forward to next summer. Click the links below for the full stories!
The musical extends its UK tour due to high demand, adding extra dates in four cities and bringing its powerful, award-winning story to new audiences.
Celebrating 20 years, 13 Going on 30 comes to the stage with a musical adaptation premiering in Manchester, bringing Jenna Rink’s unforgettable journey to life for a new audience.
BBC Children in Need’s Challenge Squad brings an inspiring new story to life as Ethan prepares to take the stage in COME ALIVE! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular for the 2024 appeal.
Virginia Gay’s award-winning Cyrano brings a bold, gender-flipped spin on Cyrano de Bergerac to London’s Park Theatre, combining modern humour, romance, and a fresh perspective on classic storytelling.
Clueless The Musical is set to make a stylish West End debut, capturing the wit, charm, and ’90s nostalgia of the beloved film with a fresh score by KT Tunstall and Glenn Slater.
Star-Studded Gala A Marvellous Party Celebrates Noël Coward with a Glittering Lineup
A Marvellous Party will honour Noël Coward with an all-star charity gala featuring performances from some of the UK’s brightest talents.
The sell-out production directed by Eline Arbo and based on Annie Ernaux’s Les Années, comes to London’s Harold Pinter Theatre for a limited run, offering an evocative portrayal of one woman’s life amid societal change.
The musical's original Australian cast album is now streaming in the UK, ahead of the musical’s highly anticipated UK stage premiere at Leicester’s Curve Theatre in April 2025.
Les Miserables West End and World Tour Casting News
Lucie Jones rejoins Les Misérables in the West End for a limited eight-week run as Fantine, while Katie Hall steps into the role for select cities on the Arena Spectacular World Tour before returning to London.
Co-produced by Lance Bass and Michelle Visage, the musical brings a fresh take on Edward Scissorhands to London’s Southwark Playhouse, celebrating individuality through music and heart.
The season brings new voices and powerful stories to the stage with world premieres and inclusive performances featuring top-tier talent.
The play brings Britain’s iconic comedy legends back to life in a nostalgic and hilarious new play set to run in London’s West End.
The highly anticipated Jo- The Little Women Musical concept album will be recorded at Abbey Road Studios
The musical celebrating Houdini’s life and legacy will launch with exclusive previews on Lake Como, Italy, in Spring 2025
The musical returns in 2024 with a star-studded UK & Ireland tour celebrating its 20th anniversary and iconic performances across major cities.
The gripping supernatural thriller, returns for an extensive UK tour in 2025, inviting audiences nationwide to experience its suspenseful, paranormal intrigue live on stage.
The Tony winner is set to headline BST Hyde Park 2025 with a thrilling performance of musical theatre classics and more on July 6.
See you next Sunday for another week of news!
Friday, 1 November 2024
Mary Poppins Musical Returns for a Spectacular 2024 UK & Ireland Tour with Fresh Cast and Dazzling Magic
The beloved musical Mary Poppins is set to soar again as it embarks on a new UK and Ireland tour in 2024, marking the 20th anniversary since its world premiere. Opening on November 4, 2024, at the Bristol Hippodrome- where the magic began two decades ago- the production will bring familiar faces and new talent to audiences across the UK and Ireland. Sharon Wattis joins the cast as Mrs. Corry and Miss Smythe, alongside Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert, both praised for their portrayals in Australia.
Audiences will also be captivated by seasoned West End actors like Michael D. Xavier as George Banks, Lucie-Mae Sumner as Winifred Banks, and Rosemary Ashe, a key cast member from the original West End production, returning as Mrs. Brill. Other favourites include Patti Boulaye as Bird Woman, Wendy Ferguson as Miss Andrew, and Ruairidh McDonald as Robertson Ay, with David Burrows taking on the role of Admiral Boom. A rotation of talented young actors will portray Jane and Michael Banks, ensuring each performance remains fresh and engaging.
This upcoming tour celebrates Mary Poppins’ enduring legacy with breathtaking choreography, effects, and music that audiences cherish, featuring unforgettable Sherman Brothers classics like 'Jolly Holiday', 'Step in Time', and 'Feed the Birds'. New songs and music by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe add depth to this magical production, showcasing the beloved P.L. Travers character with fresh vibrancy. The show will travel to prestigious venues including Dublin’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre, and Manchester’s Palace Theatre, bringing the joy and wonder of Cherry Tree Lane to life for fans of all ages.
From its award-winning orchestrations by William David Brohn to the visionary direction of Richard Eyre, the Mary Poppins musical brings Broadway and West End mastery to the UK & Ireland stage. With a unique blend of classic storytelling, iconic songs, and a phenomenal creative team led by Cameron Mackintosh and Disney Theatrical Group, this production continues to enchant audiences worldwide.
Get ready for a magical journey with Mary Poppins, touring across the UK and Ireland in 2024, and experience the spellbinding choreography, set design, and unforgettable characters that have won hearts for two decades. Tickets are available now, so don’t miss the chance to see Mary Poppins back where she belongs- onstage, bringing joy to millions.
Hugh Jackman Set to Headline 2025 BST Hyde Park with Spectacular Live Show!
Get ready, London- BST Hyde Park 2025 is about to make this summer unforgettable as Tony-winning, Oscar-nominated actor Hugh Jackman is set to bring his incredible stage presence and musical talent to the UK stage on Sunday, July 6, 2025. With his upcoming live show, Hugh Jackman Live, fans can expect a dazzling performance of beloved musical theatre hits, backed by a full live orchestra. Songs will include fan-favourite numbers from The Greatest Showman, Les Misérables, The Music Man, and The Boy From Oz, plus some surprises just for his Hyde Park audience.
Tickets are expected to sell fast. For American Express cardholders, presale tickets go live today, Friday, November 1, at 2:30 pm GMT, with general ticket sales starting on Wednesday, November 6 at 10 am GMT via BST Hyde Park.
This summer's show will mark Jackman’s long-awaited return to the UK stage after five years and follows his record-breaking run in The Music Man on Broadway, which ran from 2021 to 2023. Jackman’s career in musical theatre launched with roles such as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast in Australia, his Olivier-nominated performance in Oklahoma! in the West End, and the Tony-winning role in The Boy from Oz. Now a global star, he continues to captivate audiences both on-screen as Wolverine and on stage. This tour is sure to delight audiences with his signature energy, charisma, and vocal talent.
Jackman’s Hyde Park performance is one of the biggest highlights for the 2025 BST Hyde Park series, joining previously announced headliners Jeff Lynne’s ELO and Zach Bryan. Each year, BST Hyde Park transforms London’s historic royal park into an incredible music destination, with past lineups including superstars like Andrea Bocelli, Shania Twain, Stevie Nicks, Morgan Wallen, and many more.
Don’t miss out on the chance to see Hugh Jackman live at BST Hyde Park this summer- get ready for a night of musical magic that fans will remember for years to come.
The Impossible Man Musical Honouring Houdini to Debut with Exclusive Previews on Lake Como in Spring 2025
In an enchanting new musical tribute to Harry Houdini, The Impossible Man will bring the legendary illusionist to life with special previews on Lake Como, Italy, in Spring 2025. Portrayed by Broadway star and Drama Desk nominee Ryan Silverman, Houdini’s story will unfold with over 20 dazzling stage illusions, including some that have never before been seen onstage. This exciting announcement coincides with October 31, 2024, marking 98 years since Houdini's passing.
Silverman, known for his performances in Broadway hits like The Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, and Side Show, will capture Houdini’s world-renowned charisma and stage mastery. Reflecting on his role, Silverman shared:
Playing Houdini will be a challenge I’m thrilled to take on, and with such a respected creative team, I’m beyond excited to jump into the world of The Impossible Man!”
Under the direction of Federico Bellone, who recently helmed Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, The Impossible Man promises a bold narrative style inspired by modern television, shifting between Houdini’s final day in 1926 and pivotal moments from his past. This unique approach invites audiences to explore both Houdini’s fame and personal trials, all set against a Broadway-inspired score composed by Giovanni Maria Lori, who has drawn influence from Houdini's Hungarian roots.
Magic designer Paolo Carta (known for Mary Poppins, Ghost, and Charlie and The Chocolate Factory in Europe) will be creating a range of awe-inspiring illusions, including a reimagining of Houdini's Chinese Water Torture Cell and the stage appearance of an elephant. The impressive choreography, led by Gillian Bruce, will add another layer to the production’s dynamic performances.
With its prestigious Lake Como setting for previews at Sociale Theatre and a full international debut to be announced later in the year, The Impossible Man promises to be a memorable tribute to Houdini, celebrating his life and magic like never before.
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