Showing posts sorted by relevance for query Michael Harrison. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query Michael Harrison. Sort by date Show all posts
Friday, 7 November 2025
Sam Ryder to Lead Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium in 2026
A New Superstar Shines Over the West End
Music fans and theatre lovers are in for a treat as Sam Ryder is set to headline a spectacular new production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium next summer. The Olivier Award-winning creative team from the 2016 Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre revival will reunite for this major new staging, celebrating a decade since their acclaimed production first wowed audiences.
Produced by Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals, this limited 11-week season runs from 20 June to 5 September 2026, with a press night on 7 July 2026. Exclusive presale opens 25 November 2025, with general tickets on sale the following day.
Directed by Tim Sheader, choreographed by Drew McOnie, and designed by Tom Scutt, this fresh interpretation will feature a cast of 30 and promises a bold, high-energy experience that reimagines Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock opera for a new generation of audiences.
Sam Ryder’s West End Debut
The BRIT and Emmy-nominated singer-songwriter Sam Ryder, known for his viral success and Eurovision hit 'Space Man', is taking on the role of Jesus in his highly anticipated West End debut.
Sam said:
“I’m so excited to be part of one of the biggest institutions in musical theatre the world’s ever known, at The London Palladium in the West End! I'm honoured to take on this responsibility as I follow in the footsteps of rock vocal titans like Ian Gillan and John Farnham. I can't wait to immerse myself in the world of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2026.”
Michael Harrison added:
“It is thrilling to be bringing this astounding creative team from the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre production back together, and I am excited to see them create Jesus Christ Superstar specially for The London Palladium. In Sam we have a true superstar to play the iconic title role.”
A Legendary Musical Reborn
First released as a concept album in 1970, Jesus Christ Superstar opened on Broadway the following year, earning five Tony nominations and redefining musical theatre with its rock-driven score. Songs like 'I Don’t Know How to Love Him', 'Gethsemane' and 'Superstar' remain some of the most iconic numbers in stage history.
The Palladium production will bring together world-class talent, including musical supervisor Tom Deering, lighting designer Lee Curran, sound designer Adam Fisher, fight director Kate Waters, and casting director David Grindrod CDG.
Following the huge success of Evita, Sunset Boulevard, and Starlight Express, this revival continues Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals’ streak of hit London productions.
For lovers of musical theatre and London theatre, this limited season promises one of the most powerful and unmissable events of 2026.
Friday, 8 November 2024
Miss Saigon Returns to the Stage: A Legendary Musical Reborn in a New UK Tour
The powerful love story of Miss Saigon returns as Michael Harrison, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, brings Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary musical back to the UK in a brand-new, contemporary touring production. Opening at Newcastle Theatre Royal on October 4, 2025, this reimagined Miss Saigon commemorates the 35th anniversary of its West End debut with fresh creative energy, captivating a new generation of audiences.
Following Newcastle, the production will tour to renowned venues including the Playhouse Theatre in Edinburgh, Palace Theatre in Manchester, The Alexandra in Birmingham, Grand Theatre in Leeds, and New Theatre in Oxford, running until early January 2026. Additional dates, full casting, and production team details are set to be announced soon, with priority booking available at miss-saigon.com.
In this epic musical set during the final days of the Vietnam War, 17-year-old Kim finds herself working in a bar run by a complex character known as The Engineer. There, she meets and falls in love with Chris, an American GI, but the fall of Saigon tears them apart. Unbeknownst to Chris, Kim bears his child and embarks on a powerful journey of survival, determined to reunite her family. Miss Saigon is filled with themes of love, resilience, and sacrifice, and features a score that has resonated with audiences worldwide.
Reflecting on this milestone, Cameron Mackintosh remarks:
Thirty-five years after Miss Saigon first opened to international success, I am delighted that this powerful, heart-wrenching love story has remained timeless around the world. This tale of two young people, an American soldier and a Vietnamese girl, who fall in love amid the devastation of war, has touched hearts and sparked connection worldwide.”
Inspired by a recent, critically acclaimed Sheffield Crucible production, this tour brings new life to the show’s intimate moments and grandeur alike, expanding to theatres beyond the reach of the original. Michael Harrison shares the excitement:
It is thrilling to be collaborating with Cameron on a brand-new production of Miss Saigon. Millions have been moved by its messages of family, love, and resilience, and now we have the opportunity to share it with audiences across the UK in a contemporary new form.”
Since its debut, Miss Saigon has won 75 major awards, including Olivier and Tony Awards, and has been performed in 378 cities, translated into 15 languages, and seen by over 38 million people globally. This extraordinary revival directed by Jean-Pierre van der Spuy promises to carry forward its legacy with modernised staging, fresh direction, and the enduring, iconic score by Claude-Michel Schönberg with lyrics by Richard Maltby Jr. and Alain Boublil.
As Miss Saigon prepares to soar once more, this tour promises audiences the chance to experience one of the world’s most acclaimed musicals in a whole new light, bringing the sweeping story of love and sacrifice to life for theatergoers across the UK.
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
Friday, 24 October 2025
Evita West End Cast Album Released Worldwide Featuring Rachel Zegler’s Iconic Performance
The world can now relive one of London’s most talked-about theatre moments, as the official album of Jamie Lloyd’s electrifying West End production of Evita is released worldwide on all major streaming platforms. Fans of musical theatre can also pre-order the highly anticipated album on vinyl and CD.
The 10-track album showcases standout performances from the acclaimed 2025 production at The London Palladium, including Rachel Zegler’s spine-tingling rendition of “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina,” performed live from the theatre’s famous balcony. The recording also includes beloved numbers such as “Rainbow High,” “A New Argentina,” and “Another Suitcase in Another Hall”. With mixers including Andrew Lloyd Webber, Lee McCutcheon and Mike Crossey (Arctic Monkeys, The 1975, Wolf Alice).
Recorded live at the Palladium in July, this new interpretation of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita was directed by multiple Olivier and Tony Award winner Jamie Lloyd. The production captivated audiences and critics alike, becoming one of the most celebrated events in London’s musical theatre calendar.
Rachel Zegler said:
“I'm so honoured to share a piece of what our 12 weeks at the Palladium sounded like to our audiences each night, and couldn’t be prouder of this amazingly talented company.”
Andrew Lloyd Webber added:
“I am excited to be releasing this album. Rainbow High is an aria I am very proud of and I was thrilled to see Rachel Zegler get a standing ovation every night for the wonderful performance she gave. I can't wait to hear her sing it again soon.”
Running from June to September 2025, Evita was the biggest show of the summer, drawing huge crowds outside The London Palladium each evening to witness Zegler’s now-legendary balcony performance. The production starred Zegler in her West End debut as Eva Perón, alongside Diego Andres Rodriguez as Che, James Olivas as Juan Perón, Aaron Lee Lambert as Agustín Magaldi, and Bella Brown as The Mistress.
Produced by Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals and Jamie Lloyd for The Jamie Lloyd Company, the sold-out season solidified Evita as one of the West End’s most powerful revivals. The album, released through The Other Songs label, is produced by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Adam Fisher, Alan Williams, Jamie Lloyd and Lee McCutcheon.
Evita the album is available to stream now, with physical editions on vinyl and CD available for pre-order, allowing fans to experience once more the passion, politics, and power of one of musical theatre’s greatest works.
Thursday, 8 February 2024
War House to Embark on New UK Tour
The acclaimed War Horse production, adapted from Michael Morpurgo's beloved novel and originally directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, is set to embark on an extensive 18-month UK Tour starting from September 5, 2024, and continuing until 2026.
Opening at the New Wimbledon Theatre from September 5 to 14, the tour will then move to various venues including The Lowry in Salford (September 18 to 28), Mayflower Theatre in Southampton (October 8 to 19), The Marlowe in Canterbury (October 22 to November 2), Sunderland Empire (November 5 to 16), Theatre Royal Plymouth (November 26 to December 7), and New Theatre Oxford (December 10, 2024, to January 4, 2025), with additional dates and locations to be announced.
Led by Tom Morris and revival director Katie Henry, with redesigned sets by Rae Smith and additional music by Adrian Sutton, the production features puppetry by Basil Jones and Adrian Kohler, lighting design by Rob Casey, and movement choreography by Toby Sedgwick. Animation and projection design are by Nicol Scott, while John Tams provides musical contributions and Christopher Shutt manages sound design. Casting details are yet to be announced.
Having premiered at the National Theatre in 2007, War Horse has since captivated audiences worldwide, with productions spanning across continents. For more information and ticket bookings, visit WarHorseOnStage.com. The tour will also include visits to Theatre Nation Partner venues, such as The Lowry in Salford and Sunderland Empire, with assisted performances available throughout the run at each venue.
Thursday, 9 October 2025
Macbeth-Inspired Pop Musical Weird Unveils Creative Team Ahead of 2026 Premiere
A bold new British musical is on its way. Weird, a contemporary, pop-driven reimagining of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, will premiere at the Newcastle Theatre Royal from 28–31 January 2026.
Created by Nick Butcher, Kerri Watt, and Fraser Watt, Weird retells the classic tragedy through the eyes of the three witches, blending Shakespeare’s dark magic with a modern pop soundtrack.
Directed by Tim Jackson (Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York) and choreographed by Alexzandra Sarmiento (42 Balloons), the production boasts a powerhouse creative team including Andrew Exeter (set design), Gabriella Slade (Starlight Express, costume design), Howard Hudson (Great Comet of 1812, lighting), Paul Gatehouse (Mary Poppins, sound), and Joe Beighton (Six the Musical, orchestrations).
Tickets for Weird sold out months in advance, but due to overwhelming demand, a limited number of additional seats for the Friday 30 January matinee will be released today.
In an inspiring educational partnership, over 5,000 schoolchildren from across the North East will attend free weekday performances, thanks to producer Michael Harrison and Newcastle Theatre Royal.
Casting will be announced soon.
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.
Monday, 23 May 2022
Over 2000 Attend Mamma Mia! Open Auditions
With queues circling the Aldwych, over 2,000 young persons attended today’s open auditions for the global smash hit musical Mamma Mia! at London’s Novello Theatre. Video here.
Mamma Mia! recently celebrated its 23rd birthday in London and extended its booking period to Saturday 4 March 2023.
The London cast currently stars Mazz Murray as Donna, Josie Benson as Tanya, Gemma Goggin as Rosie, Richard Trinder as Sam, Neil Moors as Harry, Stephen Beckett as Bill, Emma Mullen as Sophie, Jack Danson as Sky, Tegan Bannister as Ali, Sophie Matthew as Lisa, Michael Nelson as Eddie and Alexandros Beshonges as Pepper, with Natalie Langston playing the role of Donna at certain performances.
Also in the cast are Natasha Agnew, Chloe Ames, Gemma Atkins, Chloe-Jo Byrnes, Nicole Carlisle, Angus Good, Natalie Jayne Hall, Lauren Hampton, James Humpleman, Morgan Jackson, Frankie Jones, Grace Moorhouse, Jodie Nolan, Dan O’Brien, George Olney, Michael Storrs, Kyle Turner, Michael Tyler, Simon Willmont and Alex Woodward.
Since premiering in London in 1999, the irresistible feelgood musical has captured the hearts of millions around the globe. The sunny, funny tale of a mother, a daughter and three possible dads on a Greek island idyll, all unfolding to the magic of ABBA’s timeless pop masterpieces, has now been seen live on stage by 65 million people across the world and turned into two record-breaking movies – MAMMA MIA! The Movie and MAMMA MIA! Here We Go Again.
Mamma Mia! recently celebrated its 23rd birthday in London and extended its booking period to Saturday 4 March 2023.
The London cast currently stars Mazz Murray as Donna, Josie Benson as Tanya, Gemma Goggin as Rosie, Richard Trinder as Sam, Neil Moors as Harry, Stephen Beckett as Bill, Emma Mullen as Sophie, Jack Danson as Sky, Tegan Bannister as Ali, Sophie Matthew as Lisa, Michael Nelson as Eddie and Alexandros Beshonges as Pepper, with Natalie Langston playing the role of Donna at certain performances.
Also in the cast are Natasha Agnew, Chloe Ames, Gemma Atkins, Chloe-Jo Byrnes, Nicole Carlisle, Angus Good, Natalie Jayne Hall, Lauren Hampton, James Humpleman, Morgan Jackson, Frankie Jones, Grace Moorhouse, Jodie Nolan, Dan O’Brien, George Olney, Michael Storrs, Kyle Turner, Michael Tyler, Simon Willmont and Alex Woodward.
Since premiering in London in 1999, the irresistible feelgood musical has captured the hearts of millions around the globe. The sunny, funny tale of a mother, a daughter and three possible dads on a Greek island idyll, all unfolding to the magic of ABBA’s timeless pop masterpieces, has now been seen live on stage by 65 million people across the world and turned into two record-breaking movies – MAMMA MIA! The Movie and MAMMA MIA! Here We Go Again.
To date, Mamma Mia! has been seen in 50 productions in 16 different languages grossing more than $4 billion at the box office. In 2011, it became the first Western musical ever to be staged in Mandarin in the People’s Republic of China.
Mamma Mia! originally opened in London at the Prince Edward Theatre on 6 April 1999, before transferring to the Prince of Wales Theatre in 2004, and then to the Novello Theatre in 2012. The London production of Mamma Mia! has been seen by over 10 million people, played over 9,000 performances and has broken box office records in all three of its London homes.
Produced by Judy Craymer, Mamma Mia! The Movie became the highest grossing live action musical film of all time upon its release in 2008. A second film, MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN, opened in July 2018 and is the most successful live musical movie sequel of all time.
With music & lyrics by Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus, Mamma Mia! is written by Catherine Johnson, directed by Phyllida Lloyd and choreographed by Anthony Van Laast. The production is designed by Mark Thompson, with lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Andrew Bruce & Bobby Aitken, and musical supervision, additional material & arrangements by Martin Koch.
Mamma Mia! is produced by Judy Craymer, Richard East & Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal.
Thursday, 17 October 2024
Full Cast Revealed for 2025 Tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat
Michael Harrison has announced additional casting for the highly anticipated second UK tour of the London Palladium production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. The show, which kicks off on December 3, 2024, at Edinburgh Playhouse, features two iconic Pharaohs- Donny Osmond and Joe McElderry- and introduces Christina Bianco as the Narrator and Adam Filipe as Joseph.
Tickets are on sale now at uktour.josephthemusical.com.
Global entertainment legend Donny Osmond will return to the stage in the UK for the first time in years, playing Pharaoh in this celebrated production. Having performed as Joseph in over 2,000 shows and starring in the 1999 filmed version with Joan Collins, Richard Attenborough, and Maria Friedman, Osmond brings his signature charisma to the role for a limited run. His UK dates will be exclusive to the Edinburgh Playhouse Christmas season.
Joining Osmond on tour is pop sensation and former Joseph star Joe McElderry, who takes over the role of Pharaoh across several UK locations. After his popular turn as Joseph in the 2017–2018 tour, McElderry is set to captivate audiences in venues like Sunderland’s Empire Theatre, Nottingham’s Theatre Royal, and Leicester’s Curve, among many others.
Christina Bianco, a two-time Drama Desk Award nominee and viral YouTube sensation known for her diva impressions and recent West End role as Glinda in The Wizard of Oz, will narrate the 2025 tour. She is joined by Adam Filipe as Joseph, whose credits include Titanic The Musical, The Prince of Egypt, and Les Misérables. Together, they will perform at all tour dates, promising show-stopping performances.
The ensemble features Hugh Cotton as Reuben and Will Haswell as Simeon. The full cast also includes Aaron Archer, Bella Baldock, Daniel Bowskill, Imogen Bowtell, Taylor Bridges, Joseph Browlie-Johnson, Joseph Craig, Davide Fienauri, Ellie Greenway, Oliver Hawes, Kiera Haynes, Siobhan James, Ben Lancaster, Nicole Lupino, Bradley Perret, Harvey Shulver, Jessica Sutton, Charley Warburton, Jenna Warne, and Alex Woodward. The children’s company will feature an array of talented young performers from across the UK.
The 2025 tour is directed by Laurence Connor, whose previous work includes School of Rock, Miss Saigon, and Les Misérables. Choreography is by JoAnn M Hunter, who has worked on 20 Broadway shows, including On A Clear Day You Can See Forever. Set and costume design is by Morgan Large, with lighting design by Ben Cracknell and sound design by Gareth Owen. The musical direction is led by John Rigby, with John Cameron as orchestrator.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat remains one of the world’s most beloved musicals, with its pop-infused score by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. The show has been performed globally since its 1969 debut and features timeless hits like "Any Dream Will Do" and "Close Every Door."
With an incredible cast and spectacular production values, the 2025 tour of Joseph promises to be a dazzling celebration of one of musical theatre’s greatest shows. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the musical, this tour is not to be missed!
Thursday, 2 February 2023
Full Tour Cast of Annie Revealed with Craig Revel Horwood, Paul O'Grady and Jodie Prenger and More
Michael Harrison and David Ian are delighted to announce full casting for the forthcoming UK and Ireland tour of their smash hit production of the musical ANNIE opening at Curve, Leicester on Saturday 25 February 2023. Joining the previously announced Craig Revel Horwood and Paul O’Grady, will be Scottish BAFTA winner Elaine C Smith and Jodie Prenger, all starring as ‘Miss Hannigan’ at various venues. Alongside them will be Alex Bourne as Oliver Warbucks, Paul French as Rooster, Amelia Adams as Grace Farrell, and Billie-Kay as Lily St. Regis. The title role of Annie is shared by Zoe Akinyosade, Harlie Barthram and Poppy Cunningham. They are joined by three teams of young performers who play the residents of Miss Hannigan’s orphanage.
Completing the cast will be Emily Barnett-Salter, Alistair Beattie, David Burrows, Sergi Ibanez, Rosalind James, Belle Kizzy Green, Ellie May-Wilson, Martin McCarthy, Phoebe Roberts, Lukin Simmonds, Matthew Sweet, Dawn Williams, and Tommy Wade-Smith.
*Full tour dates, including details of at which venues Craig Revel Horwood, Paul O’Grady, Elaine C Smith and Jodie Prenger star, are in the listings below. www.anniethemusicaltour.uk
Craig Revel Horwood is probably best known as a judge on all 20 series of BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing. He returns to the part of Miss Hannigan having played the role to critical acclaim in this production in both the West End and on tour. His other West End Theatre credits include Munkustrap in Cats, Miss Saigon at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and Harry in Crazy for You at the Prince Edward Theatre. Craig directed and choreographed Strictly Ballroom the Musical which is currently touring the UK and Ireland, and the 2016/17 tour of Sister Act the Musical, as well as the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour. He also choreographed the film Paddington 2.
BAFTA Award winning television, radio and stage star Paul O’Grady returns to Annie having first played the role of Miss Hannigan at the Victoria Palace Theatre in 1998. His other theatre credits include playing the Child Catcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the London Palladium and many pantomimes including Cinderella and Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the London Palladium. On television he is best known as the host of ITV’s Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs, Paul O’Grady’s Great British Escape, The Paul O’Grady Show, Channel 4’s Blind Date and BBC One’s Blankety Blank. He is also a highly celebrated writer, having written both autobiographical and fictional books and recently completed a 14 year run as a presenter on BBC Radio 2.
Elaine C Smith is perhaps best known for playing Mary Doll in the BBC comedy Rab C Nesbitt, as well as her role as Christine in the BBC sitcom Two Doors Down, for which she won a Scottish BAFTA for Best Actress in 2018. On stage she consistently headlines major pantomimes, having just finished her 13th year at Glasgow King’s Theatre. She played Cora in the original UK Tour and West End run of Calendar Girls as well as playing Susan Boyle in the UK tour of I Dreamed A Dream which she co-write with Alan McHugh.
Jodie Prenger recently joined ITV’s Coronation Street as Glenda Shuttleworth. Her West End credits include A Taste of Honey at the Trafalgar Studios. Oliver! at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, One Man Two Guvnors at Theatre Royal Haymarket and Spamalot at the Playhouse Theatre. On tour she has appeared in Abigail’s Party, Shirley Valentine, Annie, Fat Friends, Tell Me on A Sunday and Calamity Jane. On television she has appeared in the BBC’s Shakespeare & Hathaway, Years and Years, Casualty and Waterloo Road.
Alex Bourne returns to Annie as Oliver Warbucks, having played the role both in the West End, Toronto and the UK Tour. His other theatre credits include Edna Turnblad in the UK Tour of Hairspray, Sam Carmichael in the UK Tour of Mamma Mia!, Khashoggi in We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre, Billy Flynn in Chicago at the Adelphi Theatre and Lex Hogan in Eugenius! at The Other Palace. On film he can be seen in Sony Pictures’ Cinderella.
Paul French was most recently seen as TinMan/Hickory in The Wizard of Oz at Curve, Leicester. His other theatre credits include Kenickie in Grease at the Dominion Theatre and in the production’s UK Tour and Double J in Saturday Night Fever at the Peacock Theatre. On film he can be seen in Visualize Films’ Tomorrow Morning.
Amelia Adams has most recently been seen in the UK Tour of Friends! The Musical Parody. Her previous theatre credits include Lois Lane/Bianca in Kiss Me, Kate for Welsh National Opera, Mary Delgado in Jersey Boys at the Piccadilly Theatre and on tour, Martha Burelli in The Rat Pack at the Haymarket Theatre and on tour. She has also appeared in the UK Tour of Hairspray and Spamalot both in the West End and on tour.
Billie-Kay recently appeared as Angel in Anything Goes at the Barbican and its UK and Ireland tour. She has also appeared as Dale Tremont in Top Hat at The Mill at Sonning and in 42nd Street at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. On film she has appeared in Disney’s Dis-Enchanted and Beauty and the Beast, and Sony Pictures’ Cinderella.
Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search…
With its award-winning book and score, this stunning production includes the unforgettable songs ‘It’s the Hard Knock Life’, ‘Easy Street’, ‘I Don’t Need Anything But You’ and ‘Tomorrow’.
ANNIE has Music by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin and a Book by Thomas Meehan. It is directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster with set and costume design by Colin Richmond, choreography by Nick Winston, lighting by Ben Cracknell and sound design by Richard Brooker.
The producers of Annie cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
Completing the cast will be Emily Barnett-Salter, Alistair Beattie, David Burrows, Sergi Ibanez, Rosalind James, Belle Kizzy Green, Ellie May-Wilson, Martin McCarthy, Phoebe Roberts, Lukin Simmonds, Matthew Sweet, Dawn Williams, and Tommy Wade-Smith.
*Full tour dates, including details of at which venues Craig Revel Horwood, Paul O’Grady, Elaine C Smith and Jodie Prenger star, are in the listings below. www.anniethemusicaltour.uk
Craig Revel Horwood is probably best known as a judge on all 20 series of BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing. He returns to the part of Miss Hannigan having played the role to critical acclaim in this production in both the West End and on tour. His other West End Theatre credits include Munkustrap in Cats, Miss Saigon at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and Harry in Crazy for You at the Prince Edward Theatre. Craig directed and choreographed Strictly Ballroom the Musical which is currently touring the UK and Ireland, and the 2016/17 tour of Sister Act the Musical, as well as the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour. He also choreographed the film Paddington 2.
BAFTA Award winning television, radio and stage star Paul O’Grady returns to Annie having first played the role of Miss Hannigan at the Victoria Palace Theatre in 1998. His other theatre credits include playing the Child Catcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the London Palladium and many pantomimes including Cinderella and Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the London Palladium. On television he is best known as the host of ITV’s Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs, Paul O’Grady’s Great British Escape, The Paul O’Grady Show, Channel 4’s Blind Date and BBC One’s Blankety Blank. He is also a highly celebrated writer, having written both autobiographical and fictional books and recently completed a 14 year run as a presenter on BBC Radio 2.
Elaine C Smith is perhaps best known for playing Mary Doll in the BBC comedy Rab C Nesbitt, as well as her role as Christine in the BBC sitcom Two Doors Down, for which she won a Scottish BAFTA for Best Actress in 2018. On stage she consistently headlines major pantomimes, having just finished her 13th year at Glasgow King’s Theatre. She played Cora in the original UK Tour and West End run of Calendar Girls as well as playing Susan Boyle in the UK tour of I Dreamed A Dream which she co-write with Alan McHugh.
Jodie Prenger recently joined ITV’s Coronation Street as Glenda Shuttleworth. Her West End credits include A Taste of Honey at the Trafalgar Studios. Oliver! at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, One Man Two Guvnors at Theatre Royal Haymarket and Spamalot at the Playhouse Theatre. On tour she has appeared in Abigail’s Party, Shirley Valentine, Annie, Fat Friends, Tell Me on A Sunday and Calamity Jane. On television she has appeared in the BBC’s Shakespeare & Hathaway, Years and Years, Casualty and Waterloo Road.
Alex Bourne returns to Annie as Oliver Warbucks, having played the role both in the West End, Toronto and the UK Tour. His other theatre credits include Edna Turnblad in the UK Tour of Hairspray, Sam Carmichael in the UK Tour of Mamma Mia!, Khashoggi in We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre, Billy Flynn in Chicago at the Adelphi Theatre and Lex Hogan in Eugenius! at The Other Palace. On film he can be seen in Sony Pictures’ Cinderella.
Paul French was most recently seen as TinMan/Hickory in The Wizard of Oz at Curve, Leicester. His other theatre credits include Kenickie in Grease at the Dominion Theatre and in the production’s UK Tour and Double J in Saturday Night Fever at the Peacock Theatre. On film he can be seen in Visualize Films’ Tomorrow Morning.
Amelia Adams has most recently been seen in the UK Tour of Friends! The Musical Parody. Her previous theatre credits include Lois Lane/Bianca in Kiss Me, Kate for Welsh National Opera, Mary Delgado in Jersey Boys at the Piccadilly Theatre and on tour, Martha Burelli in The Rat Pack at the Haymarket Theatre and on tour. She has also appeared in the UK Tour of Hairspray and Spamalot both in the West End and on tour.
Billie-Kay recently appeared as Angel in Anything Goes at the Barbican and its UK and Ireland tour. She has also appeared as Dale Tremont in Top Hat at The Mill at Sonning and in 42nd Street at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. On film she has appeared in Disney’s Dis-Enchanted and Beauty and the Beast, and Sony Pictures’ Cinderella.
Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search…
With its award-winning book and score, this stunning production includes the unforgettable songs ‘It’s the Hard Knock Life’, ‘Easy Street’, ‘I Don’t Need Anything But You’ and ‘Tomorrow’.
ANNIE has Music by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin and a Book by Thomas Meehan. It is directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster with set and costume design by Colin Richmond, choreography by Nick Winston, lighting by Ben Cracknell and sound design by Richard Brooker.
The producers of Annie cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
photo credit: Matt Crockett
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!
Tuesday, 18 June 2019
Waitress, Adelphi Theatre | Review
Waitress
Adelphi Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 17th June 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Sara Bareilles' cherry sweet musical follows Jenna as she bakes her feelings into pies. In an abusive relationship and expecting a child she is not excited about, we follow Jenna as she journeys through life and has some unexpected experiences.
Three new cast members have joined the diner to form the second West End cast. They are Lucie Jones as Jenna, Ashley Roberts as Dawn and Blake Harrison as Ogie. Despite lacking vocal strength, breath control and diction at times, Ashley Roberts grew into the role of Dawn throughout the performance and as her limited run continues, she will surely relax more and bring the quirky character to life in a genuine, witty and entertaining way. Currently she feels somewhat as if she's overacting and is often flat or reaching for the notes in both her solo and group numbers and certainly lacks the finesse expected in the West End, but hopefully this will be rectified and she will prove a good star cast choice. Her partner, played by fellow newcomer Blake Harrison is supremely funny one hundred percent of the time. Again his vocals are ever so slightly lacking, but as the nerves fade, so will the faults. Harrison is a hugely entertaining performer and a pleasant surprise in this sweet show.
As leading lady Jenna, Lucie Jones is second to none. Her impeccable interpretation of the character is charming, sincere, humourous and heartbreaking at once. Each small facial expression and movement is filled with a thousand words; and alongside Lucie's phenomenal, clear-as-glass voice, the performance is mesmerising. The vulnerability of Jenna is brought to life in a nuanced but completely effective way by Jones, with her rendition of She Used To Be Mine not only breaking hearts, but bringing the audience to their feet mid show.
Michael Hamway (swing) embodies the erratic but charming Dr Pomatter admirably, as well as bringing some stellar vocals to the stage. You Matter To Me was performed with heartbreaking sincerity by Jones and Hamway. Marisha Wallace continues to bring sass, sass and more sass to the stage, as well as powerhouse vocals, lively one-liners and delicate moments with Jenna. Take it From an Old Man is a welcome moment of calm and simplicity performed by diner regular, Old Joe, played by Shaun Prendergast.
The villain of the show, and highly flawed character Earl is played with menace by Peter Hannah. Whilst the moments of physical anger are jarring, it's the brief moments of emotional blackmail which really strike the audience. Hannah manages to capture both tormenting sides of Earl, in a spectacularly well-constructed and controlled way. The character is vile but Peter must be applauded for performing him so well and truthfully.
Nurse Norma is a highly amusing character who pops up throughout the show to deliver brilliant one-liners. Brought to life by Kelly Agbowu she is an especially memorable character and manages to gain numerous laughs in the stage time she has. Charlotte Riby also puts a smaller character in the forefront of our minds with her honest performance as Jenna's mum who faced many similar struggles as well as teaching her daughter all she knows about baking. Jones and Riby have a chemistry which is visible even from their brief moments together and it's lovely to see.
Scott Pask's set and Lorin Latarro's choreography are particularly effective with the sets and ensemble often moving as one to create a fluidity throughout. Equally as impressive is the way the stage transforms to mirror the moods of leading lady Jenna. The home shared by Jenna and her abusive husband is surrounded by darkness and is much smaller than each of the other settings so physically emphasises how trapped Jenna feels, and is. When she begins to rediscover her spark, the space expands in a moment of relief and theatrical wonder.
Whilst a lot of the morals and motivations in this musical are morally ambiguous and there is a lack of resolution, there's no denying that it's a sweet treat filled with musical delights and sugary performances. Sara Bareilles' score is a delightful listen and the mostly strong cast do a wonderful job of bringing it to life and showing that there is always light and support at the end of the tunnel.
Waitress is currently booking at the Adelphi Theatre until December 7th 2018, tickets can be booked at www.londonboxoffice.co.uk
photo credit: Johan Persson
Tuesday, 8 October 2024
Full Company Announced for West End Premiere of Titanique
Titanique has announced its full cast for the highly anticipated West End run at the Criterion Theatre, starting on December 9, 2024, with a press night scheduled for January 9, 2025. This musical combines the music of Celine Dion with the beloved film Titanic, featuring iconic songs like “My Heart Will Go On,” “All by Myself,” and “To Love You More.”
Originally premiering off-Broadway in June 2022, Titanique has garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards, including seven major accolades in the 2022/23 theatre season, such as three Lucille Lortel Awards and the Off-Broadway Alliance Award for Best New Musical. Co-written by Tye Blue, Marla Mindelle, and Constantine Rousouli, the show has seen a successful run in New York before making its way to London.
The cast includes Darren Bennett (as Victor Garber / Luigi), Lauren Drew (as Céline), Jordan Luke Gage (as Cal), and Rob Houchen (as Jack), among others. The ensemble is filled with talented performers, including Daytime Emmy nominee Stephen Guarino and WhatsOnStage Award nominees Charlotte Wakefield and Kat Ronney.
Producers Eva Price and Michael Harrison expressed their excitement about bringing this production to the UK and highlighted the blend of humour, heart, and talent in the cast. Directed by Tye Blue, with choreography by Ellenore Scott, Titanique promises to deliver a unique theatrical experience that celebrates both the music of Celine Dion and the story of Titanic.
Thursday, 8 February 2024
Todrick Hall to play Sean and Michael Mather will play Jackson in Burlesque The Musical
Todrick and Michael join the already announced Jess Folley as Ali Rose, Olivier Award-winning George Maguire as Vince, Billie-Kay as Sophia, B Terry as Georgie, West End favourite and TikTok and social media sensation Jess Qualter as Daphne, Yasmin Harrison as Brenda/Dance Captain, Lily Wang as Fifi, Hollie-Ann Lowe as Summer and Alessia McDermott in the Ensemble.
Other cast members announced today are: Ope Sowande as Trey, Lewis Easter in the Ensemble, with Callum Aylott, Lucy Campbell and Amber Pierson as Swings.
Steven Antin said:
"Todrick Hall’s kinda genius is singular. The kind you rarely see. His work is prolific and masterfully entertaining. The songs he wrote for the show are in a word…iconic. The role of Sean is an anchor/entertainer who has poetry and is wickedly funny. So it was abundantly clear we had to get Todrick to play Sean. And sometimes I dunno if I wanna kiss him or slap him. ❤️ But I DO know I’m a very lucky guy to have him in our show. Very."
Todrick Hall, who has also written brand new songs for this new production of Burlesque the Musical added:
“The movie of Burlesque was so iconic to so many of us — to now be working with both Steven Antin and Christina Aguilera who are reuniting for this new musical is a dream come true.I am beyond excited to be returning to my first love, musical theatre, in such a special way. My first original role and my theatrical composing debut. To be able to bring music that I wrote to life, to share the stage and the writing credit with the star that is Jess Folley is a dream come true! I'm blessed, honoured, flattered and ready to dust off the old heels and let the kids have it 8 shows a week!”
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