Showing posts sorted by date for query national theatre. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query national theatre. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Wednesday, 11 February 2026
Dear England UK Tour Review: A Powerful, Timely Portrait of Modern Britain
Dear England (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
When I saw Dear England in 2023, I was struck by just how urgently relevant it felt and seeing it again in 2026 inspired that same emotion. Written by James Graham and originally staged at the National Theatre, this sweeping, emotionally intelligent production captures the intricate fabric of contemporary Britain through the lens of football, and somehow makes it feel deeply personal.
At its heart, Dear England charts the journey of Gareth Southgate as manager of the England men’s national team, but this is far more than a sports story. Instead, it’s a thoughtful, layered exploration of British identity, national trauma, history, hope, and the complicated relationship between patriotism and progress.
"A Story That Seamlessly Blends Football and British Identity"
One of the production’s greatest strengths is its ability to move fluidly between past and present. Graham’s storytelling transports audiences across decades, linking Southgate’s own history- including that infamous missed penalty- with England’s broader national narrative. The result is a theatrical experience that feels modern, necessary, and culturally significant.
This isn’t just a play about football; it’s about immigration, activism, history, politics, and generational change. The ensemble cast bring these threads together beautifully, creating a vibrant tapestry of contemporary Britain. Each character feels authentic and grounded, representing different corners of the nation with nuance and care.
Leading the charge is David Sturzaker, whose portrayal of Southgate is both commanding and vulnerable. He anchors the production with emotional depth, drawing the audience into the psyche of a man carrying the expectations of an entire country. His performance elevates the ensemble, forging a genuine and often moving connection between stage and audience.
The production’s visual storytelling is equally compelling. Designed by Es Devlin, the set is unmistakably National Theatre in scale and ambition. Seamless transitions shift us across time and space with cinematic fluidity, while multimedia elements add interest and emotional weight.
Each transformation of the stage subtly alters the mood, reinforcing the play’s themes of change, reflection, and national reinvention. The design never overwhelms the story; instead, it enhances it, grounding big ideas in human experience.
James Graham’s writing is as sharp and insightful as ever. There’s a poetic quality to the dialogue, but it remains accessible and emotionally honest. Clever flashes of humour punctuate the heavier themes, preventing the production from becoming overly solemn.
That said, there are moments where the play feels a little bit on the cringe side. A handful of scenes don’t land with quite the impact they’re aiming for. But this is a minor quibble in a production that ambitiously attempts to encapsulate the essence of a nation.
Ultimately, Dear England succeeds because it dares to ask: what does it truly mean to be British today? And it does so in a way that feels inclusive, thoughtful, and surprisingly hopeful.
Dear England on its UK tour proves itself to be more than a hit play about football, it’s a cultural moment. With compelling storytelling, exceptional performances, and innovative staging, it stands as a testament to the power of theatre to mirror, challenge, and celebrate our shared story.
Whether you’re a football fan or not, this production resonates on a human level. It’s a touching, timely exploration of national identity that leaves you reflecting long after the final whistle.
★★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 10th February 2026 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Marc Brenner
{AD PR Invite – tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Friday, 7 November 2025
David Tennant and Caissie Levy Lead New National Theatre at Home Season
A Powerful Lineup Streaming Worldwide
The National Theatre at Home platform welcomes a stellar new winter lineup featuring David Tennant, Caissie Levy, and Juliet Stevenson in a trio of acclaimed productions.
From 25 November 2025, Tennant stars in GOOD, a gripping revival exploring morality and complicity in wartime Germany. The production, filmed at the Harold Pinter Theatre, also features Elliot Levey and Sharon Small, directed by Dominic Cooke.
From 2 December, Next to Normal joins the platform, starring Caissie Levy as Diana Goodman in Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey’s Pulitzer Prize-winning rock musical, filmed at Wyndham’s Theatre.
Soon after, The Land of the Living, starring Juliet Stevenson, premieres online — a haunting new play by David Lan, directed by Stephen Daldry, exploring trauma, memory, and moral reckoning.
Bringing Theatre Home
Launched in 2020, National Theatre at Home now features over 100 productions, offering access to world-class theatre for global audiences. Subscriptions are £9.99 per month or £99.99 annually, with all titles available with captions and most with Audio Description.
For lovers of London theatre, musical theatre, and bold new drama, this season is an unmissable celebration of creativity on screen.
Tuesday, 28 October 2025
Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu Announce 2026 REBORN UK Tour Celebrating Dance and Renewal
Strictly Stars Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu Return to UK Stages
Strictly Come Dancing favourites Amy Dowden MBE and Carlos Gu are back on stage with their hit live show Reborn, set to tour the UK from May 2026. Following sold-out performances earlier this year, the dazzling dance production will once again bring passion, storytelling, and world-class choreography to audiences across the country.
The show celebrates transformation through movement, a theme close to both dancers’ hearts. For Amy, the production marks her triumphant return to dance after her cancer diagnosis, while Carlos’s journey of self-discovery since moving to the UK adds depth and authenticity to their performance. Together, they embody resilience and renewal through the art of dance.
A Celebration of Life and the Power of Dance
Reborn will feature an electrifying company of dancers and vocalists performing spectacular routines that capture the joy, emotion and vitality of dance. Audiences can expect everything from powerful Latin numbers to moving contemporary sequences.
Amy Dowden, a professional on Strictly Come Dancing since 2017, has become one of the show’s most beloved stars. Her career highlights include reaching the 2019 final with Karim Zeroual and earning multiple national dance titles. Beyond the ballroom, Amy’s inspiring advocacy for Crohn’s & Colitis UK and breast cancer awareness led to her being awarded an MBE in 2024.
Carlos Gu, three-time Chinese National Champion and 2022 Strictly finalist, continues to charm fans with his dynamic performances and charisma. His story of courage and cultural transition has made him a favourite both on and off the dance floor.
With its emotional storytelling and world-class choreography, Reborn promises to be one of the most uplifting theatre tours of 2026- a celebration of life, passion, and the power of dance.
Royal Court Theatre Unveils Landmark 70th Anniversary Season Celebrating the Future of London Theatre
A bumper season full of theatrical delights!
The Royal Court Theatre has unveiled a spectacular year-long programme to mark its 70th anniversary in 2026- a milestone season celebrating seven decades of groundbreaking new writing in London theatre.
Spanning 12 productions across its iconic stages, the Jerwood Theatre Downstairs and Upstairs, the anniversary season blends world premieres, European debuts, legendary revivals, and bold national initiatives. The Royal Court continues its legacy as the beating heart of contemporary British theatre, nurturing emerging playwrights while honouring its trailblazing past.
Artistic Director David Byrne said:
“Everybody back to ours. The Royal Court is turning 70 with the most thrilling season we could imagine. On our stages and far beyond, we’re throwing a legendary, year-long party and you’re all invited.”
Highlights include Luke Norris’ romantic drama Guess How Much I Love You?, starring Robert Aramayo and Rosie Sheehy, and Ryan Calais Cameron’s The Afronauts, inspired by Zambia’s space race. Tilda Swinton makes a long-awaited stage return in Man to Man, while Gary Oldman stars in Krapp’s Last Tape — both paying homage to the Court’s extraordinary history.
The Upstairs Theatre will champion fresh voices discovered through open submissions, including The Shitheads by Jack Nicholls and Are You Watching? by Georgie Dettmer. A new collaboration with BBC Radio 4 will bring Royal Court classics to the airwaves, while the Jerwood Royal Court Commissioning Scheme will fund new writing nationwide.
Executive Director Will Young said:
“Our 70th anniversary isn't just about the past – it's a moment to direct every bit of new thinking and resource into the pipeline for the next 70 years.”
With its bold mix of premieres, partnerships, and a renewed commitment to discovering the next generation of playwrights, the Royal Court’s 70th anniversary season reaffirms its place at the centre of the UK’s cultural stage.
photo credit: Guy J Sanders
Friday, 24 October 2025
Japanese Cast Joins SIX The Musical for London West End Performances
Six The Musical has welcomed its Japanese cast to London ahead of a special week of performances at the Vaudeville Theatre from 4 to 9 November. The production will be performed entirely in Japanese with English captions, marking a first for the West End.
The Japanese Queens, following successful seasons in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, were introduced on the Vaudeville stage by producer Kenny Wax and Hiroko Murata of Umeda Arts Theater, alongside writers Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. Later, they visited the National Portrait Gallery for an engaging her-story lesson, exploring the portraits of the original Tudor queens.
Hiroko Murata said,
“To see our Japanese Queens stand on a London stage, in the heart of the West End, was an unforgettable experience. This collaboration between Umeda Arts Theater and Kenny Wax Productions has been a bridge between our two cultures.”
Fans will have the chance to take part in Japanese language and manga workshops inspired by the show, adding an immersive cultural experience to the already electrifying musical theatre event.
photo credit: Elliot Franks
Thursday, 23 October 2025
West End Musical Theatre Stars Join Maury Yeston 80th Birthday Concert in London
To mark the 80th birthday of Tony Award-winning composer and lyricist Maury Yeston, producer Danielle Tarento will present a spectacular one-night-only concert in London celebrating his extraordinary musical theatre legacy. The evening will be directed by Thom Southerland and will feature some of Yeston’s most beloved works performed by a cast of leading West End and Broadway stars.
Tarento and Southerland have long been champions of Yeston’s music, having collaborated on several of his acclaimed musicals in the UK, including the London premieres of Titanic the Musical and Death Takes a Holiday, as well as a celebrated revival of Grand Hotel. These productions helped introduce Yeston’s emotionally rich scores to new audiences across London’s theatre scene, and now, this concert will showcase highlights from those shows alongside songs from Nine and Phantom, Yeston’s 1991 version of The Phantom of the Opera which has been performed in over 1,000 productions worldwide.
The concert will also include never-before-heard songs and a brand-new overture composed specially for this milestone event. Leading the cast is internationally renowned performer Ramin Karimloo, who has a long-standing connection with Yeston’s work. Karimloo recently starred as Barrett in Titanic the Musical at NYCityCenter’s Encores! and as Guido Contini in Nine in Concert for Hope Mill Theatre at The Lowry. Further star casting will be announced in due course.
The performance will feature the London Musical Theatre Orchestra (LMTO), conducted by Mark Aspinall, bringing Yeston’s lush orchestrations to life.
Producer Danielle Tarento said:
“My working relationship and friendship with Maury is one of the great joys of my life. His musicals resonate so deeply with me and have framed so much of the past 15 years of my career. To be able to celebrate his 80th birthday in such a significant way is a privilege and an honour.”
All profits from the concert will be donated to Bowel Cancer UK, supporting the charity’s essential work in research and awareness.
Maury Yeston is widely regarded as one of Broadway’s most accomplished composer-lyricists. His numerous accolades include Tony Awards for Titanic the Musical and Nine, as well as Drama Desk Awards and international recognition for Grand Hotel and Phantom. Beyond the stage, Yeston’s music has been heard in the Oscar-nominated film adaptation of Nine, starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Penelope Cruz, Nicole Kidman and Dame Judi Dench. He also composed acclaimed concert works such as Goya – A Life in Song, December Songs, and An American Cantata – 2000 Voices, premiered by the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center.
This special London event promises to be a heartfelt tribute to one of musical theatre’s greatest living composers, honouring eight decades of creativity, storytelling, and unforgettable melodies.
The Karate Kid The Musical to Premiere in the UK with 2026 National Tour
The iconic story of courage, balance, and friendship is stepping into the spotlight as The Karate Kid- The Musical makes its UK premiere in 2026. Producers Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore, and Kenny Wax have announced a major UK tour that will launch next spring before heading to the West End and eventually Broadway.
Adapted by Robert Mark Kamen, the original screenwriter of the 1984 hit film, this stage musical promises to capture the heart and spirit of a story that has inspired generations. With an original score by Drew Gasparini, The Karate Kid- The Musical opens at the New Wimbledon Theatre on 28 April 2026 before visiting Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Oxford, Milton Keynes, Glasgow, Sheffield, Sunderland, Birmingham, and Cardiff through to 1 August 2026.
Beloved by fans worldwide, the original film starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita became a cultural milestone, earning Morita an Academy Award nomination and launching a global franchise that continues to thrive through the Netflix series Cobra Kai and the recent film Karate Kid: Legends.
On stage, the musical reimagines Daniel LaRusso’s coming-of-age journey through dynamic movement, powerful music, and emotional storytelling. At its core is the mentorship between Daniel and Mr. Miyagi, a bond that teaches audiences that karate is not about fighting, but about dignity, self-control, and respect.
Directed by Amon Miyamoto and choreographed by Keone and Mari Madrid, the show features scenic design by Derek McLane and costume design by Ayako Maeda. The Tony Award-winning creative team aims to transform cinematic nostalgia into a fresh, kinetic theatre experience that celebrates mentorship, resilience, and the timeless lesson to “wax on, wax off.”
Robert Mark Kamen reflected:
“Who knew that four decades after I wrote The Karate Kid, these characters would still be singing and inspiring audiences on stage? The story remains as relevant as ever.”
Tickets for The Karate Kid- The Musical go on sale today. Get ready to experience one of the most uplifting new productions in UK musical theatre as it kicks off a powerful 2026 tour.
Monday, 20 October 2025
Caroline: A New Musical to Rock UK Theatres in 2026
Get ready to turn up the volume as Caroline: A New Musical is bringing 1960s rock rebellion to UK theatres in 2026. Produced by the East Anglian Touring Consortium, this brand-new British musical celebrates the revolutionary spirit of Radio Caroline, the pirate radio station that changed music forever.
The world premiere opens at the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich on 17 April 2026, before touring to venues including Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, New Theatre Peterborough, Mercury Theatre Colchester and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds.
Written by Vikki Stone and directed by Douglas Rintoul and Alex Thorpe, Caroline tells the story of an ordinary young woman whose life is transformed when the pirate station broadcasts from a ship off the Essex coast. As her boyfriend Robbie joins the crew, Caroline finds herself swept into a whirlwind of love, music and rebellion.
Featuring iconic 60s hits performed by a cast of actor-musicians, the show captures the energy, humour and heart of a generation that refused to play by the rules. The musical pays homage not just to the birth of pop culture but also to East Anglia’s role in shaping it.
Producer Douglas Rintoul describes Caroline as:
“a loud, joyful celebration of local history and national identity,” while writer Vikki Stone calls it “a love letter to the rebels who rewrote the sound of Britain.”
Supported by Arts Council England, the East Anglian Touring Consortium brings together regional theatres to champion creativity, accessibility and community. With tickets starting at just £15, Caroline: A New Musical promises to be one of 2026’s brightest and boldest new musical theatre tours.
Rosamund Pike to Reprise Her Acclaimed Role in Inter Alia as it Transfers to the West End
After a triumphant run at the National Theatre, the critically acclaimed drama Inter Alia is officially heading to the West End in Spring 2026, with Rosamund Pike reprising her award-nominated role. Performances begin at Wyndham’s Theatre on 19 March 2026 for a limited season until 20 June.
Written by Suzie Miller, the Olivier Award-winning playwright behind Prima Facie, and directed by Justin Martin, Inter Alia explores the pressures of modern womanhood, motherhood, and the complexities of justice in today’s Britain.
Pike stars as Jessica Parks, a brilliant London Crown Court judge navigating the tensions between her demanding career, family life and a justice system she strives to reform. Her performance has been hailed as “transfixing and deeply human,” earning rave reviews from audiences and critics alike.
Also returning to the production is Jamie Glover as Michael Wheatley, Jessica’s husband, whose layered portrayal has been praised for its honesty and intensity.
The creative team, including designer Miriam Buether and music directors Erin LeCount and James Jacob, bring a refined, cinematic edge to the production. The play’s West End transfer follows a sold-out National Theatre run and a hugely successful National Theatre Live broadcast that reached more than 50,000 viewers.
A compelling blend of intellect and emotion, Inter Alia stands as one of the most anticipated London theatre transfers of 2026.
photo credit: Mads Perch
Saturday, 18 October 2025
Women’s Prize for Playwriting 2025 Announces Record-Breaking Longlist and Launches New Development Programme
The Women’s Prize for Playwriting 2025 has unveiled its longlist of 41 outstanding new scripts, chosen from a record-breaking 1,275 submissions. Produced by Ellie Keel Productions and Paines Plough, the prize continues to champion exceptional female and non-binary playwrights across the UK and Ireland.
Alongside the longlist announcement, organisers have introduced Future Light, a new talent development initiative designed to nurture longlisted writers. Supported by Arts Council England, Future Light offers one-on-one dramaturgical guidance, writing workshops led by some of the UK’s most acclaimed playwrights, and an industry-focused Futures Day in Spring 2026.
Now in its sixth year, the Women’s Prize for Playwriting has become one of the UK’s most important literary awards for theatre. It aims to elevate underrepresented voices and ensure their stories reach national stages. The winner, selected by a judging panel chaired by Indhu Rubasingham, Director of the National Theatre, will receive £20,000 and the option for a full co-production with Ellie Keel Productions, Paines Plough, and Sheffield Theatres.
Founder Director Ellie Keel and Literary Manager Charlie Coulthard praised this year’s entries, calling them “extraordinary in range and ambition,” while Paines Plough’s Joint Artistic Director Katie Posner described reading the submissions as “a joy” that showcased “a breathtaking range of human experience.”
Previous winners, including Amy Trigg (Reasons You Should(n’t) Love Me), Ahlam (You Bury Me), and Karis Kelly (Consumed), have gone on to critically acclaimed national runs. The most recent winner, Sarah Grochala (Intelligence), is currently in development with Paines Plough.
The prize’s 2025 longlist reflects the creativity, diversity, and dynamism of British playwriting- and its future looks brighter than ever with initiatives like Future Light helping to pave the way for new voices in London theatre and beyond.
The longlist in full is:
- Wold Meteor by Kate Attwell
- Weeping Woman by Ellen Bannerman
- The Fingerprint Bureau by Sonali Bhattacharyya
- while we burn by Olga Braga
- An Effigy Burning in the Arctic by Mareth Burns
- HIDE AND SEEK WITH JIMMY LING by Naomi Sumner Chan
- Ordinary Time by Evie Chandler
- I LOVE STRANGERS by Nurit Chinn
- Hefted by Eireann Devlin
- Sapling by Georgina Duncan
- THE (YELLOW) WALLPAPER by Phoebe Eclair-Powell
- Fucking Jane Austen by Billie Esplen
- Froggy by Sasha Frost
- A Patent Lie by Sarah Jane Gordon
- Exceptional by Afsaneh Gray
- First Gravedigger by Kayleigh Mai Hinsley
- THREE BOYS by Danielle James
- Unbirth by Christy Ku
- Down Side Up by Mei Leng Yew
- Northern Folk by Natalia Lewis
- Witch Play by Cordelia Lynn
- A Straw House by Jane McCarthy
- Car Crash by Sarah Ann McCay
- Am I Next? by Rachel McKay
- We’re Gonna Kill Billy by Alex Medland
- To The Earth You Shall Return by Hannah Mirsky
- A to B by Tia-Renee Mullings
- Yes Chef by Laurie Ogden
- If The Sea Should Part by Chloe Palmer
- VENUS: The Body by Sadie Pearson
- A Bit Salty by Mwansa Phiri
- CROSSINGS by Hannah Salt
- Przewalski’s Horses by Silva Semerciyan
- A Search for the End by Stef Smith
- WHAT I THINK OF MY HUSBAND by Amy Tobias
- Slime by Rachel Tookey
- Belongings by Jane Upton
- Up in the Mango Trees by Britny Virginia
- THE ROOM by Manjinder Virk
- Wide Open Spaces by Jane Wainwright
- The Children of Glyndwr by Emily White
Friday, 17 October 2025
Roam: New West End Musical to Premiere in Concert at Shaftesbury Theatre
A thrilling new musical is set to light up the West End. Roam will make its debut at London’s Shaftesbury Theatre in a special one-night-only concert performance. Directed by Rupert Hands (Evita, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels) with choreography by Olivier Award winner James Cousins (Guys and Dolls), this ambitious production promises a night of emotion, power and musical innovation.
Featuring a genre-blending rock-pop-Romani score by Alexander Sage Oyen and a book by Michael Dovid, Roam tells the story of a nomadic family forced to confront the ghosts of their past when their caravan breaks down in hostile territory. Themes of love, family and legacy intertwine as the family wrestles with grief, identity and belonging.
The cast features some of musical theatre’s brightest stars, including Ramin Karimloo (Les Misérables), Frances Mayli McCann (Bonnie & Clyde), Diego Rodriguez (Evita, Sunset Blvd), Jordan Luke Gage (&Juliet, Bonnie & Clyde), Melanie La Barrie (Hadestown, &Juliet), Hope Lavelle (The Phantom of the Opera) and Olivier Award winner David Thaxton.
Director Rupert Hands said,
“We’re so excited to be premiering this brand-new musical in the West End with this extraordinary cast and team. Roam is the journey of a lifetime, full of soaring songs… It’s a story of love, family, and legacy in a totally original, funny, timely, and powerful script by Michael Dovid. We can’t wait to share it with London audiences.”
Developed with Romani theatre company Giuvlipen and the National University of Theatre and Film in Bucharest, Roam combines cultural authenticity with powerful theatrical storytelling.
Thursday, 16 October 2025
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 CaitrÃona 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
Tuesday, 14 October 2025
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.
Thursday, 9 October 2025
National Theatre Announces Exciting 2026 Season with New Productions in London and New York
The National Theatre has unveiled further details about its 2026 season, marking a bold next chapter in the vision of Co-Chief Executives Indhu Rubasingham and Kate Varah to make world-class theatre accessible to audiences everywhere.
Deputy Artistic Director Robert Hastie will lead two major productions in spring 2026. In London, he directs Nina Raine and Moses Raine’s new adaptation of Maxim Gorky’s Summerfolk in the Olivier Theatre, a sharp, satirical look at class and complacency. Across the Atlantic, Hastie’s acclaimed production of Hamlet will transfer to BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music), the first show in a new partnership that will see National Theatre productions transfer to BAM’s Harvey Theater and National Theatre Live screenings hosted at BAM’s Rose Cinemas.
Alongside performances, the National Theatre’s Learning team will collaborate with BAM on its (Re) Centering Theater) programme, giving Brooklyn students the opportunity to create, develop, and perform new work inspired by Hamlet. A free exhibition at BAM’s Rudin Family Gallery will also explore the legacy of Hamlet at both BAM and the National Theatre.
This collaboration with BAM and The Shed strengthens the National Theatre’s long-standing relationship with the US, celebrating 60 years of international productions. Further details about upcoming projects with The Shed will be announced soon.
“It feels deeply fitting to bring Hamlet to BAM next spring, especially as we mark 60 years of staging productions in the US”
said Indhu Rubasingham, Director and Co-Chief Executive of the National Theatre.
Kate Varah, Executive Director and Co-Chief Executive, added:
“Our goal is simple yet bold- to make world-class theatre accessible to everyone, everywhere. Through new partnerships with BAM, The Shed, and the Educational Theatre Association, we’re reaching thousands of schools and streaming our productions into homes across the US. This is theatre without borders.”
National Theatre 2026 Productions
Olivier Theatre: Summerfolk
From 6 March to 29 April 2026, Robert Hastie directs a fresh adaptation of Maxim Gorky’s Summerfolk by Nina Raine (Consent) and Moses Raine (Donkey Heart). Set in 1905 Russia, it follows a group of privileged friends whose summer of indulgence masks a looming storm of social change. The creative team includes Peter McKintosh (set and costume), Paul Pyant (lighting), and Nicola T. Chang (composer).
Lyttelton Theatre: Les Liaisons Dangereuses
From 21 March to 6 June 2026, Marianne Elliott (Angels in America) returns to direct a powerful new revival of Christopher Hampton’s adaptation of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ classic novel. The cast includes Lesley Manville, Aidan Turner, Monica Barbaro, and Gabrielle Drake, in a dazzling exploration of love, manipulation, and power.
Dorfman Theatre: Man and Boy
From 30 January to 14 March 2026, Anthony Lau (The Crucible) makes his National Theatre debut with Terence Rattigan’s Man and Boy, starring Ben Daniels and Laurie Kynaston. Set in 1930s New York, this gripping tale of ambition and betrayal follows a financier facing ruin during the Great Depression.
Dorfman Theatre: The Authenticator
From 26 March to 9 May 2026, award-winning writer Winsome Pinnock (Leave Taking) reunites with director Miranda Cromwell (Death of a Salesman) for The Authenticator, a gothic psychological thriller starring Rakie Ayola, Sylvestra Le Touzel, and Cherrelle Skeete. Set in a mysterious country estate, it explores buried secrets, artistic legacy, and truth’s dark corners.
Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), New York: Hamlet
From 19 April to 17 May 2026, Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) reprises his role as Hamlet in Robert Hastie’s acclaimed production at BAM’s Harvey Theater. This bold interpretation of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy launches the National Theatre’s new partnership with BAM, bringing British theatre excellence to New York audiences.
Tickets for all 2026 National Theatre productions go on general sale from 23 October 2025.
National Theatre 2026 season, National Theatre productions, National Theatre London, National Theatre New York, BAM Hamlet, Robert Hastie Hamlet, Nina Raine Summerfolk, Les Liaisons Dangereuses National Theatre, Marianne Elliott, Winsome Pinnock The Authenticator, Ben Daniels Man and Boy, Hiran Abeysekera Hamlet, Indhu Rubasingham, Kate Varah, National Theatre BAM partnership, British theatre in New York, National Theatre tickets, Olivier Theatre, Lyttelton Theatre, Dorfman Theatre, London theatre 2026
Thursday, 12 December 2024
Everything You Could Ask For in a Panto: Sleeping Beauty at the New Victoria Theatre REVIEW
Sleeping Beauty (Pantomime)
New Victoria Theatre
The New Victoria Theatre’s Sleeping Beauty was a beautifully crafted production with amazing scenery, atmospheric lighting and flamboyant costumes; it was everything you want a panto to be. From the playful delightful Royal magician (Richard Cadell), Spirit of Dreams Dame played by the national treasure himself Christopher Biggins, to the wicked Evil Sorceress Carabosse delivered by the talented Faye Tozer, everything was wonderful.
To hear the adult’s laughter and the children’s screams of delight was a jubilant piece of escapism from a very grey world of doom and gloom. All the cast were fantastic in their differing roles and together, they transformed the theatre into a magical sanctuary of joy and fun for everyone. It was funny throughout with hilarious one liners that didn’t veer into political territory as is sometimes the case. Instead it focussed more on colloquialism of the local towns and surrounding areas of Woking and general life experiences, which were really effective and brought the audience to tears of laughter. Particular mention must go to the inventive stage design and special effects; the 3D scenes with the helicopter and the dragon were so effective, they had the front rows cowering!
Another real hit with the audience was Sooty accompanied by Sweep and SOO, it certainly transported me back to being a young child and loving that little puppet so much that you begin to believe that they are real, well aren't they? Special mention of course must go to Richard Cadell as Muddles and Faye Tozer as Carabosse. Muddles really galvanized the plot together with brilliant funny one liners, his magical illusions, excellent timing and great engagement with the audience. Tozer as Carabosse made an excellent villain and to be honest was not a role I had thought would naturally suit Faye, but how wrong was I. She delivered both excellent acting and singing- a perfect Panto villain. The rest of the cast equally delivered solid performances. Prince William made a great leading man with a Bridgerton air around his persona and a great singing voice, with both the King and Queen delivering a majestic and humorous performance, Princess Aurora, as the love sick princess being completely oblivious of Muddles’ crush on her and his feelings. With Christoper Biggins delivering a masterclass of being a Panto Dame, as the spirit of dreams whilst precariously hanging in the air above the stage.
I left the theatre in a much happier place after seeing the Pantomime, it made me vow to myself that I would make a promise to upkeep the British tradition of of going every year, after not going to for such a long time. I left the theatre with ringing in my ears of cries of delight "look behind you", "I feel good", "Oh no you don't "and "Goodbye Biggins " and with the whole audience dancing to ‘Tragedy’. In summary- I absolutely loved it!
If you want a feel good feeling, sprinkled with a festive fairy dusting of humour and fun, then Sleeping Beauty is the panto for you! A definite 10/10!
★★★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 10th December by Glenys Balchin
Photo Credit: Ian Osslon
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Sunday, 10 November 2024
THEATRE NEWS ROUNDUP 3rd November- 9th November 2024
Happy Sunday! Here's another week of arts news, including concert headliners, a Broadway transfer, contests and lots more. As always, you can find the full stories by clicking the headline...
Noah Kahan Headlines BST Hyde Park 2025 with Special Guest Gracie Abrams
The duo headline BST Hyde Park 2025 for an epic folk-pop experience on July 4th 2025.
Bradley Jaden’s ‘Recorded Live in London’ Album Set for Release
The album captures the magic of his June 2024 Cadogan Hall concert, featuring iconic musical theatre performances and star-studded duets.
Bradley Jaden’s ‘Recorded Live in London’ Album Set for Release
The album captures the magic of his June 2024 Cadogan Hall concert, featuring iconic musical theatre performances and star-studded duets.
Elektra, the electrifying West End revival of Sophokles’s timeless tragedy, directed by Tony-winning visionary Daniel Fish, features an all star cast.
The 2024 Best New Song Prize Concert will feature an incredible cast in a one-night showcase of emerging musical theatre talent at The Other Palace in London.
Experience the wit and charm of The Pirates of Penzance as the production returns to the ENO for a strictly limited season at the London Coliseum.
Experience the acclaimed adaptation of The Lonely Londoners at Kiln Theatre this January, where Selvon’s evocative story of the Windrush generation in 1950s London brings to life the challenges, dreams, and community spirit of Caribbean migrants
The ballet returns for its 30th anniversary tour, bringing an iconic revival to audiences across the UK and Ireland with 29 weeks of performances in 19 cities.
The smash-hit musical brings the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties to London’s West End in spring 2024 at the historic London Coliseum.
Nominations are now open for the WhatsOnStage Awards, where theatre fans can vote for their favourite shows and performers, culminating in a live event at the London Palladium on February 9, 2025.
London’s new Capital Theatre will open in autumn 2025, at Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush.
Boublil and Schönberg’s iconic musical is set for a fresh UK tour, opening October 2025 with a reimagined production led by Michael Harrison and Cameron Mackintosh.
Join Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas: A Festive Science Adventure in London’s West End
Experience a holiday science adventure full of fun, facts, and festive cheer, live this December.
That's it for another week! Come back next Sunday for your weekly dose of theatrical stories and in the mean time we'll see you on socials. Stay stagey!
Saturday, 9 November 2024
Join Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas: A Festive Science Adventure Live in London’s West End
Beloved children's presenter and science enthusiast Maddie Moate brings the holiday season to life with her brand-new stage show, Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas, arriving at London’s Apollo Theatre from 6th December, 2024, to 4th January, 2025. This interactive, science-themed Christmas adventure is filled with festive fun, magic, and plenty of audience participation. Featuring Maddie’s signature blend of science and storytelling, the show dives into the wonders of winter, exploring where snow comes from, why Christmas crackers bang, and yes- why Brussels sprouts might make you fart!
This immersive holiday event introduces audiences to Santa’s bustling workshop, led by Maddie herself with a cast of quirky characters. Joining her on stage are West End newcomers Kira MacCarter as Tinker and Zain Abrahams as Goggles, bringing new talent to the magic of Christmas. CBeebies star Jennie Dale, known for her role as Captain Captain on Swashbuckle, will appear virtually as Mrs. Claus, adding a familiar face for young fans. Maddie shares her excitement about the production, saying:
I’m thrilled to combine my love for science with the magic of theatre. Maddie’s Very Curious Christmas isn’t just science experiments- it’s a heartwarming story with quirky characters, musical moments, and a touch of holiday magic!”
This latest production highlights Maddie’s journey from a BAFTA-winning presenter to a digital science sensation. Known for her curiosity-driven content on her YouTube channel (which was awarded Kidscreen’s Best Kids Channel in 2022), Maddie has shared her passion for science through multiple digital series and has produced and hosted live events across the UK, including The Wonder Games and a CBeebies adaptation of Twelfth Night at Shakespeare’s Globe. She has also been a staple of CBeebies’ Christmas Show since 2017 and appeared at the Royal Albert Hall for the CBeebies Prom in 2024.
In addition to her work on screen and stage, Maddie is a dedicated author, with her latest book, A Very Curious Christmas, now available in paperback. Her work continues to inspire a love for science and nature in children and families across the world, supported by her roles as a patron for the Youth STEM Awards and an ambassador for both The Wildlife Trust and Eureka: The National Children’s Museum.
Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas promises to be a fun, educational, and memorable holiday experience for all ages. Tickets are on sale now, and families can expect a festive show that combines science with holiday spirit in the heart of London’s West End. Don't miss your chance to enjoy this unforgettable journey through the science and magic of Christmas!
Tuesday, 22 October 2024
Matthew Bourne's Award-Winning The Midnight Bell Returns for a Nationwide Tour in 2025
New Adventures is thrilled to announce the return of Matthew Bourne's critically acclaimed The Midnight Bell in 2025. The production will open at the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham on Thursday, May 15, before embarking on a 17-week tour across the UK, reaching new audiences at many venues for the first time.
Set in 1930s London, The Midnight Bell follows a group of ordinary people whose lives intersect in the pubs and foggy streets of Soho and Fitzrovia. The story unfolds within a tavern where a lonely-hearts club gathers to navigate the emotional complexities of love, longing, and heartbreak. The piece is inspired by the works of English novelist Patrick Hamilton, who captured the lives and struggles of the working-class man and woman in London's pubs, particularly in his novels Twenty Thousand Streets Under The Sky and Hangover Square.
Premiering in 2021 to widespread acclaim, The Midnight Bell received five nominations at the 2022 National Dance Awards, including wins for Matthew Bourne's Best Modern Choreography and Michela Meazza's Outstanding Female Modern Performance. Bourne reflects on the significance of this piece, which marked New Adventures' return to touring post-pandemic. He expressed his excitement about revisiting the show in 2025 and introducing it to new audiences, describing it as a collaborative masterpiece that explores the fundamental need for human connection.
For this revival, Bourne will reunite with his award-winning creative team, including Terry Davies (music), Lez Brotherston (set and costume design), Paule Constable (lighting design), and Paul Groothuis (sound design). The 2025 tour will feature a cast of fourteen of New Adventures' finest actor-dancers, with full casting to be announced soon. Audiences are invited to step inside The Midnight Bell once more to experience its bittersweet stories of human emotion and connection.
Sunday, 20 October 2024
UK Theatre Awards 2024: Winners Announced in Celebration of British Theatre
The winners of the UK Theatre Awards 2024 were unveiled at a celebratory ceremony hosted by Faye Tozer at 8 Northumberland Avenue. These prestigious awards honour the very best of theatre from across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, recognising creative excellence and outstanding work both on and off stage.
With winners representing all four nations, the event highlighted the diversity and strength of the UK theatre industry. Leeds Playhouse’s production of Oliver! led the way with two major wins, including Best Musical Production and Best Performance in a Musical for Jenny Fitzpatrick.
In the On Stage categories, Best Director went to Drew McOnie for The Artist at Theatre Royal Plymouth, while Best Play Revival was awarded to Rhino at Lyric Theatre Belfast. Best New Play went to Swim, Aunty, Swim! from the Belgrade Theatre. The Stephen Joseph Theatre’s production of Beauty And The Beast took home Best Show for Children & Young People, and Achievement in Dance was awarded to Mehek, a co-production by Aakash Odedra Company and Aditi Mangaldas Dance Company. Achievement in Opera went to Welsh National Opera for Death In Venice.
In the acting categories, Best Performance in a Play was awarded to David Shields for Punch at Nottingham Playhouse, and Best Supporting Performance was given to Chumisa Dornford-May for her role in Evita at the Curve Theatre.
Polka Theatre was crowned the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre, beating out strong competition. Off-stage recognition included Chichester Festival Theatre winning the Excellence in Sustainability Award, and the Excellence in Inclusivity Award going to Antony & Cleopatra at Shakespeare’s Globe.
Full List of Winners at the UK Theatre Awards 2024:
On Stage Awards: Best Design: Kenneth MacLeod for Dracula: Mina’s Reckoning (National Theatre of Scotland & Aberdeen Performing Arts co-production with Belgrade Theatre)
Best Director: Drew McOnie for The Artist (Theatre Royal Plymouth, McOnie Company, Playful Productions & Bill Damaschke)
Best Musical Production: Oliver! (Leeds Playhouse, in association with Cameron Mackintosh)
Best New Play: Swim, Aunty, Swim! (Belgrade Theatre, in association with tiata fahodzi)
Best Play Revival: Rhino (Tinderbox Theatre Company at Lyric Theatre Belfast)
Achievement in Dance: Mehek (Aakash Odedra Company & Aditi Mangaldas Dance Company)
Achievement in Opera: Death In Venice (Welsh National Opera, in association with NoFit State)
Best Supporting Performance (in a Musical or Play): Chumisa Dornford-May for Evita (Curve Theatre)
Best Performance in a Musical: Jenny Fitzpatrick for Oliver! (Leeds Playhouse)
Best Performance in a Play: David Shields for Punch (Nottingham Playhouse)
Best Show for Children & Young People: Beauty And The Beast (Stephen Joseph Theatre)
Off Stage Awards:Excellence in Arts Education: Royal Shakespeare Company
Excellence in Touring: Parti Priodas (Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru)
Excellence in Inclusivity: Antony & Cleopatra (Shakespeare’s Globe)
Excellence in Sustainability: Chichester Festival Theatre
Workforce Award: Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre
UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre: Polka Theatre
Special Recognition: Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre: Jenny Sealey OBE (Artistic Director of Graeae)
Claire Walker and Hannah Essex, Co-CEOs of Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, praised the winners, saying:
This year’s UK Theatre Awards ceremony has been a truly joyful celebration and a real testament to the quality and diversity of the work that our members do both on and off the stage and in their local communities. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees."
The UK Theatre Awards 2024 were sponsored by Encore, with support from AKT, Cunard, Harbottle & Lewis, John Good Ltd, MTI Europe, Theatre Tokens, Tysers in association with Ecclesiastical, Unusual Rigging, and White Light.
photo credit: Pamela Raith
THEATRE NEWS ROUNDUP 13th-19th October 2024
It's been another week of exciting theatre announcements! Here’s a quick recap of the highlights, with links to the full stories:
Craig Wright’s gripping play, The Unseen will open at Riverside Studios next month.
The Lord of the Rings- A Musical Tale to Premiere at Theatre Royal Plymouth in October 2025
The musical is set for an exclusive UK run before embarking on a European tour, following its critically acclaimed performances in Chicago, Auckland, and Australia
Orange Tree Theatre's 2025 season brings an exciting mix of world premieres, classic revivals, and the launch of OT Under 30 Nights, making theatre more accessible to younger audiences with discounted tickets and engaging post-show events.
The auction aims to raise funds to support the charity’s mission of making theatre accessible to young people and their families, especially those facing financial, social, or physical barriers.
Jack and the Beanstalk: What a Whopper! promises to be a wildly entertaining adult pantomime, packed with cheeky humour, outrageous performances, and a fabulously queer twist on the classic tale.
A pop-up costume exhibition in Covent Garden celebrates Tina- The Tina Turner Musical, showcasing iconic looks from the production and honouring Tina Turner’s legacy with a special partnership supporting Women’s Aid.
The 2025 UK tour of Bat Out of Hell- The Musical brings Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf's iconic rock hits to life with a newly announced full cast, kicking off in January and running through September.
A new cast debuted in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre this week, as the production continues its acclaimed run through June 2025.
Deafinitely Theatre has been awarded £273,675 by The National Lottery to fund its Deafinitely Youth Theatre programme for the next five years, continuing its mission to provide free, accessible theatre training for deaf and hard of hearing young people aged 14-21.
This winter, La Clique is celebrating 20 years of thrilling cabaret with a star-studded cast, jaw-dropping performances, and exclusive shows in Leicester Square.
Grammy-nominated NSYNC star JC Chasez teams up with Golden Globe-winning songwriter Jimmy Harry for an exciting new musical theatre concept album, Playing With Fire, inspired by Frankenstein and set to release October 25, 2024.
The UK premiere of Dave Malloy’s Tony-nominated musical Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 is set to debut at Donmar Warehouse from December 9, 2024, featuring a stellar cast led by Declan Bennett and Chumisa Dornford-May.
The 2025 UK tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat is set to return with an all-star cast, including Donny Osmond as Pharaoh and Christina Bianco as Narrator, starting its magical Christmas run in Edinburgh this December.
Bradley Riches, Amber Davies, and Claudia Kariuki Join Scott Alan in Concert at Cadogan Hall
Renowned songwriter Scott Alan will perform live at Cadogan Hall on Sunday, November 10, 2024, joined by a star-studded lineup including Bradley Riches, Amber Davies, and Claudia Kariuki, along with Amy di Bartolemeo, Oliver Tompsett, and Stuart Matthew Price. Tickets are available now.
101 Dalmatians Cast Teams Up with Guide Dogs UK for a Pawsome Charity Event at Woking's New Victoria Theatre
The cast of 101 Dalmatians the Musical, led by Kym Marsh as Cruella de Vil, met real-life guide dogs and puppies in training during a special charity event at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking. The event raised £2,115 for Guide Dogs UK.
Have a brilliant, stagey week and we'll see you next Sunday for another theatre news roundup! In the meantime, keep an eye out on our socials for live theatre updates.
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