Showing posts sorted by relevance for query My Fair Lady. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query My Fair Lady. Sort by date Show all posts

Friday, 19 November 2021

My Fair Lady to Open at the London Coliseum


New York’s Lincoln Center Theater’s critically acclaimed and multi award-winning production of Lerner & Loewe’s much loved MY FAIR LADY will transfer to the London Coliseum for a limited summer engagement in what will be the first major West End revival of the show for 21 years. The season comes as part of the ongoing celebrated tradition of summer musicals at the London Coliseum. The perfect way to celebrate London’s theatre scene as it blossoms once more after the pandemic. Performances begin on 7 May 2022 with an opening night on 18 May 2022.

Tickets will go on sale to the general public on 23 November 2021 at 10am. For the latest news and to be amongst the first to access tickets please sign up to the mailing list at www.myfairladymusical.co.uk 

Directed by Bartlett Sher, this sublime production, which premiered in the spring of 2018 at Lincoln Center’s Vivian Beaumont Theater, was the winner of the Tony Award for Best Costume Design,  5 Outer Critics’ Circle Awards including Best Musical Revival, the Drama League Award for Outstanding Musical Revival, and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Musical Revival and Costume Design. The London production will feature the English National Opera’s award-winning Orchestra playing Frederick Loewe’s ravishing score.

Bartlett Sher said: “Getting a chance to revisit Shaw's extraordinary story of class and privilege in a new age, and especially for London audiences, is a rare and special event.  And I am also thrilled to be back at the ENO and the Coliseum, a perfect space for this epic musical.”

“Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady has returned to Broadway in a smashing new production from Bartlett Sher (The Sound of Music, The King and I).”
The Guardian

“Lavish revival of Lerner and Loewe’s 1956 masterwork…”
The Washington Post

My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady”. But who is really being transformed?

With a book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe, MY FAIR LADY boasts a score including the classic songs “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Get Me to the Church on Time,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” “On the Street Where You Live,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face.” 

“Thrilling! Glorious and better than it ever was! A marvellous and transformative revival.”
New York Times

Adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play and Gabriel Pascal’s motion picture Pygmalion, Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY premiered on Broadway in March 1956, winning 6 Tony Awards including Best Musical, and becoming the longest-running musical in Broadway history at the time. Following this success, the production transferred to London in 1958, where it played in the West End for five and a half years. 

MY FAIR LADY has seen many notable revivals and adaptations, including the acclaimed 1964 film starring Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison, which won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Most recently on the London stage, Cameron Mackintosh’s 2001 revival at Theatre Royal Drury Lane won three Olivier Awards, and later toured across the UK and Ireland in 2005.

James L. Nederlander, Jamie Wilson, Hunter Arnold, Playful Productions and the English National Opera present the Lincoln Center Theater production of Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY at the London Coliseum, with sets by Michael Yeargan, costumes by Catherine Zuber, lighting by Donald Holder, sound by Marc Salzberg, original musical arrangements by Robert Russell Bennett and Phil Lang, and dance arrangements by Trude Rittmann. 

Full casting for the London production will be announced in due course.

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Friday, 20 May 2022

My Fair Lady, London Coliseum | Review


My Fair Lady
London Coliseum
Reviewed on Thursday 19th May 2022 by Olivia Mitchell 
★★★★

On the eve of Eliza Doolittle day, the London Coliseum was packed to the rafters and buzzing to see the long awaited West End transfer of Lerner and Lowe's My Fair Lady. Bartlett Sher's joyous production had a highly acclaimed run on Broadway and has now opened here, with the glorious Amara Okereke in the leading role. A role that seems made for her.

As Eliza, Amara is astounding in her versatility. From loud, brash and boisterous, she can flip to a calmer, softer side in an instant and is a joy to watch, whatever side she is showing. Taking on the role of Henry Higgins, the phonetics professor who bets that he can transform a cockney flower girl into a Duchess, is Harry Hadden-Paton who is engaging, witty and kind of manic. His relationship with Eliza is interesting and feisty. They are combative throughout but there's also a simmering slow-burn relationship happening that is so enjoyable to watch.

In supporting roles, there are some gems. Malcolm Sinclair is hilarious as Colonel Pickering and Vanessa Redgrave is charming as Higgins' mum. Stephen K Amos also gives a comedic performance as Eliza's dad, Alfred. His vocals are quite as strong as you'd expect but his performance is spirited and exciting.

This really is a sumptuous production, with absolutely beautiful costumes by Catherine Zuber which reference the film nicely but aren't direct copies. The iconic Ascot scene is particularly impressive. In terms of the stage design there are peaks and troughs. Michael Yeargan has crafted a meticulously detailed Edwardian house, which spins on a revolve to to reveal the various rooms. However, the other sets aside from this are somewhat lacklustre and fail to provide the wow factor you'd expect with a production like this. Everything works and effectively tells the story but there's a final sparkle missing that keeps it from being a five star production. There's also the unavoidable issue that Higgins' patronising reaction to Eliza has not aged well at all and his flaws make it hard to really root for him. The open ended closing of the show does help to ease this uneasiness but there's still a lingering awkwardness.

Despite these faults, it really is a lovely production which is chockablock with humour. And whilst is does show its age at times, much of the show feels fresh and Amara gives a starring performance that is worth the ticket price alone. 
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Wednesday, 25 May 2022

Line-Up for West End LIVE is Unveiled


A packed line-up of 34 hit West End shows has been unveiled so far ahead of this year’s West End LIVE, a free and unticketed celebration of London’s world-leading theatre scene which comes to Trafalgar Square on the weekend of 25 and 26 June. More acts are due to be announced in the next few weeks, as London gears up for the biggest ever West End LIVE.
 
Tens of thousands of theatre fans are expected to flock to the capital for this year’s musical theatre spectacular, enjoying free performances from dozens of top shows - from long-running favourites Hamilton, Les Misérables, Wicked, Six, The Book Of Mormon, Disney’s The Lion King and Matilda The Musical, to new shows making their West End LIVE debut, such as Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Legally Blonde, My Fair Lady, Disney’s Beauty And The Beast, Back To The Future - The Musical and Get Up Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical.
 
This unique event, a joint production by Westminster City Council and the Society of London Theatre (SOLT), unites London’s theatre industry every year and brings people of all ages into central London to experience the best of the West End - from the city’s unparalleled culture scene to food, drink, fashion, nightlife, retail and more.
 
As excitement builds for West End LIVE, anyone visiting central London in the next couple of weeks - and who happens to look up - might catch one of a series of surprise, pop-up performances by West End shows on iconic London rooftops, an opportunity to get a feel for things to come from one of the world’s most spectacular outdoor theatre events. Details for these ‘Sing it from the Rooftops’ events will be teased before each appearance on the West End LIVE and Official London Theatre social channels, and anyone lucky enough to witness one will be in with a chance of winning a West End LIVE queue jump. The first pop-up performance will take place today (Wednesday 25 June) at 4pm, in Covent Garden’s famous piazza on the SUSHISAMBA balcony. 
 
Sky VIP are welcomed back as sponsor for West End LIVE 2022, having also supported last year’s event. Once again, they will be offering their customers the chance to watch from the exclusive Sky VIP viewing area onsite, plus win some fabulous prizes. 

They join returning partners The Northbank and Edwardian Hotels and sponsors Art of London, Capco Covent Garden, The Crown Estate, Derwent London, Great Western Railway, Heart of London Business Alliance, New West End Company, The Portman Estate, Regent Street & St James’s, Shaftesbury, Veolia, Victoria Business Improvement District, Victoria Westminster Business Improvement District and Whitehall Business Improvement District.

Eleanor Lloyd, President of SOLT, said:
 
‘London’s theatres are the envy of the world, and West End LIVE is a highlight of the theatrical calendar for so many - not just the countless fans who converge on Trafalgar Square to enjoy a wealth of incredible live entertainment, but also the hundreds of performers and crew involved in putting on what is always an unforgettable weekend. We are delighted to continue to work so closely with Westminster to deliver West End LIVE, and hugely grateful for the support of Sky, who have a long history as champions of theatre and the arts.’

Cllr Tim Roca, Deputy Leader at Westminster City Council, said:

‘West End LIVE is a much-loved annual event that brings together the musical theatre community in celebration of the world-class theatre we have right on our doorstep. One of the main aims the new administration has for the council is to make culture, arts and leisure accessible to everyone living in Westminster, not just the few. We want to encourage all residents, especially those in disadvantaged communities, to participate and join in cultural opportunities and big, fun events such as West End LIVE so we can bring all our communities in Westminster together.’
 
Joel Keoghan, Head of Brand Partnerships at Sky said: 
Sky is delighted to be part of West End LIVE again. This annual celebration of London’s world class theatre is a fantastic event and a highlight in the arts calendar.  It’s a great opportunity for us to host and thank our customers, getting them closer to the entertainment they love through Sky VIP.

Official London Theatre will be backstage throughout the West End LIVE weekend sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes content across our social channels.

West End LIVE remains free and unticketed as in previous years. The event will be BSL interpreted by Sue MacLaine, Marco Nardi and Caroline Richardson.
 
List of shows appearing at West End LIVE 2022
More shows and acts will be announced in the lead-up to the event
 
& Juliet
Back To The Future - The Musical
Disney's Beauty And The Beast
Bonnie And Clyde The Musical
The Book Of Mormon
Chess, Kinky Boots and Treason at Drury Lane
The Choir Of Man
Come From Away
Dear Evan Hansen
The Drifters Girl
Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World The Musical
Disney's Frozen
Get Up Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical
Grease The Musical
The Great Gatsby
Hamilton
Heathers The Musical
Jersey Boys
Legally Blonde The Musical
Disney's The Lion King
Magic Mike Live
Mamma Mia!
Mary Poppins
The RSC’s Matilda The Musical
Les Misérables
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
My Fair Lady
Only Fools And Horses The Musical
The Phantom Of The Opera
Pretty Woman: The Musical
Six
South Pacific
Tina - The Tina Turner Musical
Wicked

photo credit: Pamela Raith

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Monday, 10 November 2025

Gravity UK Tour 2026: Kerry Ellis, Louise Dearman, and Rachel Tucker Live

Kerry Ellis, Louise Dearman, and Rachel Tucker performing live on stage for Gravity UK tourWest End Legends Kerry Ellis, Louise Dearman, and Rachel Tucker Bring Gravity to UK Stages


A Celebration of Iconic Musical Theatre Talent


Musical theatre fans across the UK are in for a treat as West End powerhouses Kerry Ellis, Louise Dearman, and Rachel Tucker announce the Gravity tour. After a sold-out, special performance earlier this year at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the trio is taking their celebrated show on the road, bringing the magic of London theatre to five major cities.

Gravity celebrates the unparalleled talent of three of musical theatre’s most beloved stars. Ellis, the first British Elphaba in Wicked, Dearman, the only performer to play both Elphaba and Glinda in Wicked, and Tucker, who has played Elphaba in both London and Broadway productions, are joined by a repertoire of hit songs spanning iconic shows such as We Will Rock You, Cats, Oliver!, My Fair Lady, Miss Saigon, Les Misérables, Guys and Dolls, Evita, Grease, Joseph, Sunset Boulevard, and Chicago.

Fans can expect powerhouse performances and special nods to each artist’s career highlights. Kerry Ellis will feature songs from her collaboration with Queen guitarist Brian May, Rachel Tucker will revisit highlights from her time on I’d Do Anything, and Louise Dearman will bring back her unforgettable Eva Perón numbers.

Kerry Ellis said,:
"This show is just epic. One of the first proper things I did in my career was the ensemble of The Wizard of Oz where I played so many different roles. I think that's where I realised how much I enjoy being part of a team and that's exactly what I love about Gravity."
Louise Dearman added:
"Being with Kerry and Rachel is honestly wonderful because there's no competition. We've always supported one another and we're constantly cheering each other on. I’ve never felt more comfortable on stage than I do when I’m with my friends."
Rachel Tucker concluded:
"Gravity is a collection of songs that have genuinely shaped us - past, present and hopefully future. We’ve chosen music that inspires us and that we truly love performing together."

 

Tour Dates:

Manchester Opera House – 10 April 2026
Birmingham Hippodrome – 12 April 2026
Glasgow King’s Theatre – 22 April 2026
Edinburgh Playhouse – 23 April 2026
Canterbury Marlowe Theatre – 28 April 2026

The show is co-created and produced by Simon Schofield and Scott Garnham for Sisco Entertainment, with musical direction by James Doughty and choreography by Chrissy Dahlen.
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Friday, 16 September 2016

Something Wonderful, Royal Festival Hall | Review


Something Wonderful
Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre
Reviewed on Thursday 15th September 2016 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★

Last night the Royal Festival Hall played host to a wonderful exploration and celebration of the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein in a fabulous one of concert featuring some of the West Ends best performers. Emma Kingston, Louise Dearman, Michael Xavier and Ryan O'Gorman fabulously performed songs from one of the best musical theatre partnerships of all time, treating us to some of their well known songs as well as some hidden gems.

Although I expected to know more songs I really enjoyed being introduced to the lesser known pieces. The show opened with a fantastic version of the always rousing Oh What A Beautiful Morning, performed by Michael Xavier who started the night on a superb note! The first half was mostly the lesser known pieces with a particular stand out being  Emma Kingston's beautiful rendition of It Might As Well Be Spring from State Fair as well as Ryan O'Gorman's epic opening performance which shamefully I didn't know the name of but it was stunning! There were also duets which added a nice flow to the concert, with a particularly sweet and romantic version of People Will Say We're in Love from Emma and Michael.

Both acts opened with a medley of pieces which the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra of course played wonderfully and really showcased the passion of Rodgers and Hammerstein's music. The second act featured the more well known tunes such as My Favourite Things which suited Louise Dearman so perfectly and had everyone smiling. Louise really showed off her versatility in this concert with some very contrasting pieces and a mix of vocal qualities. You can really tell why Ms Dearman has had the successful career she has. I particularly enjoyed her spirited performance of I'm in Love With a Wonderful Guy.

Michael Xavier was the ever dapper and charming man, performing each song to its fullest and really using the stage throughout whilst involving the audience. From a singers perspective I want to say that Michael truly gives me consonant envy, each word is so clear and he really is a technically skilled singer as well as a wonderful performer.

photo credits: https://twitter.com/emkingston/status/776538334847967232
Having seen Emma Kingston in both Les Miserables and In The Heights I knew she had singing skills but wow is this lady talented! Emma is the definition of clear, effortless singing; not only is her belting off the charts but her soprano voice is as crisp as anything. Each of her songs were astounding with her rendition of The Sound of Music being my number one moment of the night.

Ryan O'Gorman is another force to be reckoned with. His beautiful baritone voice had me captivated from  the get go as he effortlessly reached every note of the demanding pieces. Lonely Room from Oklahoma was a breathtaking performance which gave me chills, absolutely dazzling!

Overall this was a fabulous concert. I perhaps would have liked some more background information on each piece and a little more conversation with the audience but the performances were more than enough to stand on their own. The only proper negative I have is that there were not set lists or programmes of any sort provided and in the interval I found most people around me struggling to know what pieces were. However that's nothing to do with the performance and I thoroughly enjoyed the concert. Its made me want to delve further and further into the R&H vault! A truly great concert with truly great performers who definitely did create Something Wonderful!

*I received press tickets for this show but all views and opinions are my own*


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