Posts with the label theatre
Showing posts with label theatre. Show all posts
Showing posts with label theatre. Show all posts

Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Wicked Movie Review: Everything we Hoped For and More


Like so many, I’ve been enchanted by Wicked since I was young. The musical shaped my childhood, inspired my imagination, and stayed with me through every stage of life (my dog is literally called Elphie!) When news of a film adaptation first surfaced all those years ago, my heart soared, though tempered with the hope that they would do justice to something so pivotal to me and countless others. It’s been a long yellow brick road, with years of speculation, rumours and anticipation, but now that it’s here, Wicked: The Movie exceeds every expectation and delivers a spectacle that was worth every moment of the wait.

Director Jon M. Chu has not only brought the world of Oz to life- he has redefined what a movie musical can be. This film doesn’t just enchant; it moves, it stirs, and it utterly inthralls. From the first soaring notes of 'No One Mourns the Wicked' to the breathtaking final moments, it’s clear that this team poured their hearts into every frame.

The cast, led by the luminous Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and the effervescent Ariana Grande as Glinda, is extraordinary. Erivo’s performance is as brilliant as we all expected- her Elphaba is fierce, vulnerable, and heartbreakingly human. Of course, she also imbues every note with raw emotion, making every song a transcendent experience. Grande, meanwhile, brings a sparkling charm and necessary depth to Glinda, perfectly balancing her bubbly exterior with a poignant sincerity. The chemistry between the two is electric, capturing the complexities of friendship and rivalry that lie at the heart of the story, I am already buzzing with anticipation of how the pair are going to develop in Wicked: Part Two. Like with every aspect of this film, you can tell how much love has gone into it, Ariana and Cynthia's performances feel so incredibly lived in, you can tell how much they adore the roles and how they planned and turned every stone in finding their own versions. They feel true enough to the originals but also bring newness and fresh energy. The Winkie Prince doesn't have as developed of a role in Part One but Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero is still masterful. His smooth charisma is utterly swoon-worthy but more than that, his sincerity and depth is enchanting to watch. In my opinion, 'Dancing Through Life' is one of the most edited songs from the original, but it works so SO well. The new musical arrangement is very cool, with a more funkified feel that complements the show, while feeling totally relevant for a 2024 Wicked release; the whole scene is a joy to watch. Supporting performances by Ethan Slater as Boq, Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard and Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible round out the ensemble, each actor bringing something fresh to the beloved characters and paving the way for Part 2.

The music, brought to life with lush orchestration and gorgeous vocals, feels both reverent to Stephen Schwartz’s original score and fresh for this new medium. Familiar songs like 'Popular' and 'What is This Feeling' shine anew, while the staging and cinematography elevate them into true cinematic moments.

One of the greatest triumphs of this adaptation is its fidelity to the source material. Despite its aspirations of massive commercial success- evident from the ambitious marketing campaign- it never sacrifices the heart of the story or the integrity of the musical’s themes. This feels like a love letter to the fans who’ve cherished Wicked for years. Seeing the iconic Time Dragon Clock, the enigmatic blobby men (yes, the technical term!), guest star appearances, and subtle musical motifs scattered throughout feels like being reunited with an old friend. I also love how the cast were allowed to play around with riffs throughout the movie, something that's a big part of the Wicked fandom. There are whole YouTube compilations of the best 'Defying Gravity Riffs' and I have no doubt that the movie one will be added alongside all the others that perfectly fit and bring a freshness to the score that delivers on every level.

The world-building is nothing short of spectacular. Every corner of Oz is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail, from the verdant forests of Shiz and the university to the glittering, imposing Emerald City. Each setting feels wonderfully alive, creating a fully realised world that you can’t help but get lost in. It’s a treasure trove of visual and thematic delights, packed with details that will have fans poring over every frame on their fourth, fifth, or tenth viewing.

This is the kind of film that makes you want to shout about it, to grab everyone you know and say, “You have to see this!” Jon M. Chu and the entire team behind this masterpiece have created a work that will fill the hearts of longtime fans while dazzling new audiences with its brilliance.

For those of us who grew up with Wicked, this is more than just a movie- it’s a moment, a celebration, and a dream brought to live. I could go on for hours and I'm honestly still tearing up the morning after seeing this film, but in summary- it's perfect! Congratulotions to the cast, crew, and creators for giving us something so magical, so heartfelt, and so, so Wonderful. 💚

Sincerely, Olivia
Wicked Lover since Age 8

★★★★




{movie tickets were gifted}

Wicked Movie Review: Everything we Hoped For and More

Wednesday, 20 November 2024

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.


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 groundbreaking digital-first venue in Cardiff Bay, is designed to revolutionise Welsh arts by focusing on immersive, tech-driven storytelling and creative training for thousands of participants over the next five years.


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! 

THEATRE NEWS ROUNDUP 3rd November- 9th November 2024

Sunday, 10 November 2024

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!

Join Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas: A Festive Science Adventure Live in London’s West End

Saturday, 9 November 2024

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.

Miss Saigon Returns to the Stage: A Legendary Musical Reborn in a New UK Tour

Friday, 8 November 2024

Thursday, 7 November 2024

Capital Theatre to Open in London with 'Dirty Dancing - The Classic Story on Stage' as its Inaugural Show


A brand-new theatre venue, Capital Theatre, is set to open its doors in West London at Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush, in autumn 2025. Co-founded by Karl Sydow and Adam Kenwright, this state-of-the-art venue will launch with the record-breaking production Dirty Dancing- The Classic Story on Stage, bringing all the heart, passion, and classic soundtrack of the beloved film back to the London stage. Tickets for this iconic show go on sale November 8th at dirtydancingonstage.co.uk, so book early to experience “the time of your life” in this premium, purpose-built theatre.

Set in a 35,000-square-foot space, the Capital Theatre boasts a 620-seat auditorium designed to deliver an immersive experience from every seat- no one will be more than nine rows from the stage. Sydow, who has produced Dirty Dancing since 2004, shares his excitement for this new venture: 
We’ve always had a mission to bring more people to the theatre, and by opening the Capital Theatre at Westfield London, we are bringing a theatre to where the people are!” 

With an inviting foyer café, an on-site box office, and convenient transport links- including four Underground stations and over 5,000 nearby parking spaces- Capital Theatre is designed to be a destination for theatre lovers across the UK.

Dirty Dancing- The Classic Story on Stage has captivated audiences worldwide with its unforgettable scenes, signature lift, and classic soundtrack of 35 hit songs, including 'Hungry Eyes', 'Hey Baby', 'Do You Love Me?', and, of course, '(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life'. The story transports audiences back to the summer of ’63 at Kellerman’s resort, where Baby meets the charismatic dance instructor Johnny Castle and is drawn into his world. With thrilling choreography and heartwarming moments, this production is a treat for fans of the iconic film and theatre lovers alike. The show’s dynamic cast and live band, consisting of over 40 performers, will bring this legendary story to life in a new, intimate way.

Adam Kenwright, the founder of Kindred Partners, highlights Capital Theatre’s potential to add a fresh energy to London’s entertainment scene

Capital Theatre is a thrilling, state-of-the-art addition to London’s thriving entertainment scene... We have created a uniquely tailored and designed new space with the experience of audiences at its heart.”

Opening with Dirty Dancing, Capital Theatre is set to become a must-visit venue for Londoners and tourists alike, offering an immersive and accessible way to experience theatre like never before.

Capital Theatre to Open in London with 'Dirty Dancing - The Classic Story on Stage' as its Inaugural Show

Thursday, 7 November 2024

Nominations Now Open for the 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards- Celebrating Theatre's Best as Voted by You!


WhatsOnStage has officially opened nominations for the 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards, the only major theatre awards determined entirely by theatregoers. Theatre fans across the UK can now nominate their favourite performers and shows, making their voices heard in this prestigious celebration of theatre. Nominations close at midday on 21st November, and a shortlist will be announced on 5th December 2024, with public voting on the shortlist opening the same day and closing 9th January 2025.

This year’s ceremony will culminate in a glamorous event at the London Palladium on 9th February, 2025, where the winners will be announced. The event will feature live performances by top stage talent, backed by a 24-piece orchestra, and promises to be an unforgettable night for theatre lovers. Tickets for the event are on sale now, giving fans a chance to witness this celebration of talent live.

WhatsOnStage’s Darius Thompson and Alex Wood shared their excitement about the upcoming awards, saying:

Let the campaigning begin! We're thrilled to give audiences the opportunity to celebrate their favourite shows and talents. This year, we're adapting the awards to better reflect our theatre community, including expanding the ‘Best Off-West End Production Award’ to the newly named ‘Best Studio Production Award,’ recognising smaller-scale, captivating productions in intimate spaces. We’re also excited to introduce a Wigs, Hair, and Make-Up category to spotlight the innovative work in this area of theatre.”

Among the categories open for nomination are Best Performer in a Play (sponsored by SINE Digital), Best Performer in a Musical (sponsored by Ticketmaster), and Best West End Show (sponsored by Dewynters). Additional new and updated categories this year allow audiences to honor creativity from a wider range of productions, from regional theatre to new musicals and plays. This year’s awards also include the recently added Best Studio Production Award to support smaller venues and the Wigs, Hair, and Make-Up category.

The technical categories- such as Costume Design, Lighting Design, and Video Design- will be judged by an independent panel of industry experts, with the public then voting on the shortlists. This brings the total award categories to 24, ensuring that every aspect of theatre, from performances to technical achievements, is recognised.

WhatsOnStage has extended special thanks to the sponsors for their support in making the 2025 awards possible, including SINE Digital, Ticketmaster, MTI, Concord, Disney’s Hercules, Dewynters, Travelzoo, and many others. Be sure to check the eligibility criteria before submitting nominations, and get ready to vote for your favourite stars and shows as the 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards celebrates a milestone year in the world of theatre!

Nominations Now Open for the 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards- Celebrating Theatre's Best as Voted by You!

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button at the Ambassadors Theatre: A Timeless Tale with Newfound Precision and Radiance


The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Ambassadors Theatre

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button the musical at London’s Ambassadors Theatre isn’t just a production; it’s an unforgettable journey through life’s fragility and beauty, rendered with soul-stirring precision and depth. I previously reviewed the show at the Southwark Playhouse and I'm thrilled to say that in its current run, this show has transformed into an even sleeker, tighter production, gracefully weaving together heartfelt storytelling with mesmerising visuals and a flawless cast. Every element is fine-tuned and elevated, resulting in a masterpiece that celebrates light over darkness and resilience over despair. At a time when the world is rife with uncertainty, especially on a night as charged as tonight with the outcome of US election, Benjamin Button feels like an essential reminder of hope, love, and the good in humanity. If the title makes you expect a straightforward story about aging backward or something akin to the Brad Pitt film, think again- this adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story blossoms into a beautifully layered, vibrant musical that’s so much more than its name suggests.

From the outset, the cast, led by the astounding performances of John Dagleish (Benjamin) and Clare Foster (Elowen), grounds the fantastical tale with warmth, authenticity, and nuance. Dagleish’s transformation through Benjamin’s reverse aging is breathtaking; he deftly captures the innocence of youth and the weariness of age within a single character arc, making every step of Benjamin’s journey feel genuine and impactful. Foster’s portrayal of Elowen exudes strength, tenderness, and an unwavering belief in love that carries the entire production. Together, their chemistry illuminates the stage, bringing the highs and lows of Benjamin’s unconventional life to vivid reality.

The supporting cast, too, delivers standout performances, each role finely crafted and essential to the show’s tapestry. This ensemble excels in maintaining a delicate balance between humour and emotion, enriching the story and infusing moments of levity that accentuate the depth of the more profound themes. It’s rare to find a cast so collectively committed to a show’s vision, and here, every actor plays a vital role (and instrument) in amplifying the story’s emotional impact.

This really is a theatrical feast and the technical design elements elevate the show even further. The lighting, created by Zoe Spurr, is simply exquisite; it bathes the stage in soft, evocative hues that shift subtly as Benjamin’s life unfurls. From warm sunlight to muted twilight, Spurr’s design captures the moods of both time and place, visually narrating Benjamin's life in a way that feels poetic and hauntingly beautiful. The sound design, crafted by Luke Swaffield, adds another layer of immersion. It gently guides the audience through the ebb and flow of Benjamin’s experiences, using carefully timed soundscapes that accentuate the emotional resonance of each scene without ever overshadowing the actors, as well as keeping us in the world during the pre-show and interval.

From the carefully curated theming of the venue with period-inspired newspaper articles and gentle nods to the show scattered around, to the Cornish-sourced drinks and playful options like Miss Moncreif's teapot cocktails, every touch feels like an invitation to step deeper into Benjamin’s world. The merchandise is equally thoughtful, with unique items that perfectly echo the essence of the production, offering mementos as distinctive as the show itself. What’s truly remarkable, though, is the respect the show affords its audience; it trusts them to form their own interpretations and to find meaning in the visual and thematic patterns woven throughout. Symbolic imagery and clever symmetry appear again and again, enriching the storytelling and leaving subtle clues for the audience to uncover on their own. The love and care that have gone into crafting The Curious Case of Benjamin Button shine through in every detail, creating a rare and unforgettable experience. Shows like this are a rarity, and it feels like a privilege to witness the start of something so genuinely special.

What makes The Curious Case of Benjamin Button particularly profound is its unwavering commitment to showcasing the best of humanity. In a story that could easily become mired in the tragic aspects of aging backward, this adaptation instead emphasises joy, connection, and the resilience of the human spirit. Every moment, whether tinged with sorrow or elation, reflects a radiant optimism that’s both disarming and inspiring. By centring the narrative on life’s beauty, fleeting as it may be, the musical leaves audiences with a renewed sense of appreciation and awe for the world we inhabit.

The score, written by Darren Clark and Jethro Compton, is both folk-inspired and timeless, perfectly complementing the story’s unique narrative. The music serves as an emotional anchor, moving with ease from soul-stirring solos to harmonious ensemble numbers that stay with you long after the final curtain call. Each song feels intricately woven into the fabric of the story, enhancing the unfolding of Benjamin's life and carrying the audience through his journey with grace and sincerity.

Reflecting on this evening's performance- especially set against the tense backdrop of the US election results- I can’t help but feel that Benjamin Button offers something the world desperately needs. It’s a beacon of light, a testament to the resilience of love and the enduring power of human connection. It urges us to look beyond divisions and differences and find solace in the beauty of a shared journey. I left the theatre not only deeply moved but also with an undeniable urge to spread the word about this remarkable production. Theatre this beautiful, this uplifting, deserves to be seen, discussed, and cherished.

In a world that sometimes seems obsessed with darkness, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button chooses to shine, offering a precious reminder of all that is good, kind, and beautiful. It’s a production that demands to be witnessed, not just for its artistic brilliance but for its resounding message: that even in a life bound by time, there’s so much to savour, celebrate, and remember. Don’t miss your chance to experience this exceptional production- it will touch your heart, challenge your perspective, and leave you with a warmth that lingers long after the lights dim.

Reviewed on 6th November 2024 by Olivia

Photo Credit: Marc Brenner
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button at the Ambassadors Theatre: A Timeless Tale with Newfound Precision and Radiance

Wednesday, 6 November 2024

Matthew Bourne’s Iconic Swan Lake Celebrates 30 Years with Extensive UK and Ireland Tour


Dance lovers, prepare to experience the power and artistry of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, as it embarks on an extraordinary UK and Ireland tour to celebrate its 30th anniversary. With 29 weeks of breathtaking performances across 19 venues, New Adventures once again brings Tchaikovsky’s classic to audiences with a thrilling revival that pushes dance theatre boundaries. Starting at Theatre Royal Plymouth on November 11, 2024, and leading into an 8-week holiday season at Sadler’s Wells, this tour marks New Adventures’ 22nd consecutive Christmas season at the iconic venue.

In 2025, the tour extends to Aberdeen, Sheffield, and Dublin, alongside previously announced cities including Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, ensuring audiences nationwide will have a chance to experience the groundbreaking production that forever changed dance theatre. Since premiering at Sadler’s Wells in 1995, Swan Lake has won over 30 international awards and become the most successful dance production of all time, celebrated for replacing the traditional female swan ensemble with a bold, male corps-de-ballet. The production’s success has reverberated globally, holding records for the longest-running full-length dance piece in both the West End and on Broadway, with Olivier and Tony Awards in categories from Best New Dance Production to Best Choreography.

This tour also welcomes a new generation of New Adventures talent making their debut in lead roles: Harrison Dowzell, Jackson Fisch, and Rory Macleod as The Swan/The Stranger; James Lovell, Leonardo McCorkindale, and Stephen Murray as The Prince; Nicole Kabera and Ashley Shaw as The Queen; Katrina Lyndon and Bryony Wood in double roles. The company’s stellar ensemble will elevate Lez Brotherston’s set and costume design and Paule Constable’s dynamic lighting, with video and projection by Duncan McLean. The dark, witty, and emotionally charged choreography, directed by Matthew Bourne, remains central to this genre-defining experience, blending wit and menace in equal parts.

As Official Partners, Fortnum & Mason and Edwardian Hotels bring their support to the tour, underscoring the cultural importance of this masterpiece. Join the excitement as Swan Lake embarks on its 30th-anniversary journey, celebrating dance theatre history with every performance.

photo credit: Johan Persson

Matthew Bourne’s Iconic Swan Lake Celebrates 30 Years with Extensive UK and Ireland Tour

Wednesday, 6 November 2024

The Great Gatsby Musical to Dazzle London’s West End in Spring 2025!


Step into the Roaring Twenties as The Great Gatsby musical makes its highly anticipated West End debut at The London Coliseum next spring, bringing F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic story of love, luxury, and longing to the UK stage. Following a record-breaking, sold-out premiere at New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse and a triumphant Broadway run in 2024, The Great Gatsby will start previews on April 11th 2025, with the official press night on April 24th, and performances running until September 7th, 2025. Tickets go on sale on November 27 via londongatsby.com, with priority booking available for early sign-ups.

This glittering adaptation of Fitzgerald’s timeless novel captures the glamour and extravagance of the Jazz Age. 

I am thrilled to bring this timeless, glamorous, and resplendent production to the UK’s West End,”  says lead producer Chunsoo Shin. "The London Coliseum, with its grand architecture and historic charm, is a spectacular venue that perfectly complements the show’s lavish aesthetic and vibrant energy, transporting audiences back to the opulence of the 1920s.”

The show’s creative team features Tony Award nominees Jason Howland and Nathan Tysen, who bring the story to life with dazzling new music and lyrics, alongside a book by Jonathan Larson Grant winner Kait Kerrigan. Directed by Marc Bruni and choreographed by Dominique Kelley, with stunning costume design by Tony-winner Linda Cho and immersive scenic and projection work by Paul Tate de Poo III, this production promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Casting announcements are forthcoming, but with the production’s acclaimed design team and energetic direction, Gatsby’s world of riotous parties and mysterious romance is sure to captivate London audiences. Don’t miss this chance to experience “the party of the century”- get ready to immerse yourself in one of the greatest stories ever told.

The Great Gatsby Musical to Dazzle London’s West End in Spring 2025!