Tuesday, 12 November 2024
The UK Tour of The Rocky Horror Show Delivers Electrifying Fun
Rocky Horror (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
The current UK tour of The Rocky Horror Show is a dazzling celebration of camp, comedy, and timeless rock ‘n’ roll rebellion. Richard O’Brien’s cult classic continues to delight audiences, and this production pulls out all the stops, blending sensational performances with impressive choreography and vivid lighting design that heightens the show’s electrifying atmosphere.
This 2024-25 tour boasts a stellar ensemble led by the charismatic Stephen Webb as Frank-N-Furter, whose magnetic stage presence and powerful vocals breathe new life into the iconic 'Sweet Transvestite'. Erica Wild (at this performance) shines as Janet, combining comedic timing with vocals that soar in numbers like 'Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch Me'. Opposite her, Connor Carson brings humour and vulnerability to Brad, nailing his transformation from buttoned-up to liberated, as well as providing spectacular vocals.
A special shoutout goes to Edward Bullingham as Eddie/Dr. Scott, whose versatility and energy light up the stage, and Joe Greuter as Riff Raff, whose performance captures both menace and mischief, and brings some of the most amazing vocals to the show. Meanwhile, Natasha Hoeberigs delivers a spellbinding portrayal of Magenta, and Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli infuses Columbia with relentless charm. Together, the cast creates a perfect harmony of chaos, comedy, and glamor.
As always, The Rocky Horror Show thrives on audience interaction, and the current tour embraces this with gusto. The Narrator, played by Nathan Canton, deserves particular praise for his impeccable wit and quick-thinking, delivering ad-libbed responses to audience callouts that kept the theatre roaring with laughter. His dry humour perfectly balances the wild, unrestrained energy of the rest of the production and brought a modern twist to the show that works really well.
The technical brilliance of this production enhances the experience. The lighting design uses bold, neon hues and dramatic contrasts to amplify the show’s gothic and sci-fi aesthetic, especially during key numbers like 'Over at the Frankenstein Place'. The choreography, spearheaded by Nathan M. Wright, is a standout, with each dance number exuding energy and precision while maintaining the delightful chaos that defines Rocky Horror.
What makes this tour particularly noteworthy is how it embraces the timeless themes of liberation, self-expression, and community while subtly nodding to modern sensibilities. The chemistry between the cast and the audience creates a shared experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
Whether you’re a longtime “Transylvanian” or a first-time viewer, this tour of The Rocky Horror Show promises a night of unapologetic fun, unforgettable music, and stellar performances. From the iconic 'Time Warp' to the heartfelt 'I’m Going Home', every moment brims with energy and passion.
Book your tickets now to catch this phenomenal production on its UK tour- it’s a thrilling night out that’s guaranteed to leave you grinning and singing along. With its flawless cast, stunning visuals, and classic rock ‘n’ roll charm, The Rocky Horror Show continues to be a cult masterpiece that’s impossible to resist.
★★★★
Reviewed on Monday 11th November 2024 by Olivia
Photo Credit: David Freeman{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Monday, 11 November 2024
Olivia Rodrigo to Headline BST Hyde Park 2025 with a Stellar Lineup of Guest Performers
BST Hyde Park just announced an exciting 2025 lineup, with Olivia Rodrigo taking the spotlight on June 27 for her biggest UK show yet. With three GRAMMYs and a string of hits since her debut single "drivers license," Rodrigo has swiftly become a defining voice of her generation. Her most recent album GUTS topped global charts and set the tone for her critically acclaimed world tour, which recently drew rave reviews for its authentic, edgy performances. Now, her headline slot at Hyde Park promises to be a major highlight, giving UK fans a chance to see her perform new hits live.
Rodrigo won’t be taking the stage alone. Joining her is The Last Dinner Party, the BRIT Rising Star and BBC Sound of 2024 winners whose recent album Prelude to Ecstasy reached No. 1 on the UK charts, and girl in red, whose indie-pop style and deeply relatable lyrics have established her as an international favorite and “queer icon.” More acts are still to be announced, ensuring an unforgettable night of diverse musical talent and powerhouse performances.
BST Hyde Park 2025 is already shaping up to be one of the year’s must-attend events, with other headliners including Jeff Lynne’s ELO, Zach Bryan, Hugh Jackman, and Noah Kahan. Tickets for Rodrigo’s show go on general sale at 9am GMT on November 15. Whether you’re a fan of pop, indie, or rock, this summer festival promises a lineup full of exciting, world-class artists. Don’t miss your chance to see Olivia Rodrigo and other top performers at one of London’s biggest music events!
Sunday, 10 November 2024
THEATRE NEWS ROUNDUP 3rd November- 9th November 2024
Happy Sunday! Here's another week of arts news, including concert headliners, a Broadway transfer, contests and lots more. As always, you can find the full stories by clicking the headline...
Noah Kahan Headlines BST Hyde Park 2025 with Special Guest Gracie Abrams
The duo headline BST Hyde Park 2025 for an epic folk-pop experience on July 4th 2025.
Bradley Jaden’s ‘Recorded Live in London’ Album Set for Release
The album captures the magic of his June 2024 Cadogan Hall concert, featuring iconic musical theatre performances and star-studded duets.
Bradley Jaden’s ‘Recorded Live in London’ Album Set for Release
The album captures the magic of his June 2024 Cadogan Hall concert, featuring iconic musical theatre performances and star-studded duets.
Elektra, the electrifying West End revival of Sophokles’s timeless tragedy, directed by Tony-winning visionary Daniel Fish, features an all star cast.
The 2024 Best New Song Prize Concert will feature an incredible cast in a one-night showcase of emerging musical theatre talent at The Other Palace in London.
Experience the wit and charm of The Pirates of Penzance as the production returns to the ENO for a strictly limited season at the London Coliseum.
Experience the acclaimed adaptation of The Lonely Londoners at Kiln Theatre this January, where Selvon’s evocative story of the Windrush generation in 1950s London brings to life the challenges, dreams, and community spirit of Caribbean migrants
The ballet returns for its 30th anniversary tour, bringing an iconic revival to audiences across the UK and Ireland with 29 weeks of performances in 19 cities.
The smash-hit musical brings the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties to London’s West End in spring 2024 at the historic London Coliseum.
Nominations are now open for the WhatsOnStage Awards, where theatre fans can vote for their favourite shows and performers, culminating in a live event at the London Palladium on February 9, 2025.
London’s new Capital Theatre will open in autumn 2025, at Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush.
Boublil and Schönberg’s iconic musical is set for a fresh UK tour, opening October 2025 with a reimagined production led by Michael Harrison and Cameron Mackintosh.
Join Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas: A Festive Science Adventure in London’s West End
Experience a holiday science adventure full of fun, facts, and festive cheer, live this December.
That's it for another week! Come back next Sunday for your weekly dose of theatrical stories and in the mean time we'll see you on socials. Stay stagey!
Saturday, 9 November 2024
Join Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas: A Festive Science Adventure Live in London’s West End
Beloved children's presenter and science enthusiast Maddie Moate brings the holiday season to life with her brand-new stage show, Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas, arriving at London’s Apollo Theatre from 6th December, 2024, to 4th January, 2025. This interactive, science-themed Christmas adventure is filled with festive fun, magic, and plenty of audience participation. Featuring Maddie’s signature blend of science and storytelling, the show dives into the wonders of winter, exploring where snow comes from, why Christmas crackers bang, and yes- why Brussels sprouts might make you fart!
This immersive holiday event introduces audiences to Santa’s bustling workshop, led by Maddie herself with a cast of quirky characters. Joining her on stage are West End newcomers Kira MacCarter as Tinker and Zain Abrahams as Goggles, bringing new talent to the magic of Christmas. CBeebies star Jennie Dale, known for her role as Captain Captain on Swashbuckle, will appear virtually as Mrs. Claus, adding a familiar face for young fans. Maddie shares her excitement about the production, saying:
I’m thrilled to combine my love for science with the magic of theatre. Maddie’s Very Curious Christmas isn’t just science experiments- it’s a heartwarming story with quirky characters, musical moments, and a touch of holiday magic!”
This latest production highlights Maddie’s journey from a BAFTA-winning presenter to a digital science sensation. Known for her curiosity-driven content on her YouTube channel (which was awarded Kidscreen’s Best Kids Channel in 2022), Maddie has shared her passion for science through multiple digital series and has produced and hosted live events across the UK, including The Wonder Games and a CBeebies adaptation of Twelfth Night at Shakespeare’s Globe. She has also been a staple of CBeebies’ Christmas Show since 2017 and appeared at the Royal Albert Hall for the CBeebies Prom in 2024.
In addition to her work on screen and stage, Maddie is a dedicated author, with her latest book, A Very Curious Christmas, now available in paperback. Her work continues to inspire a love for science and nature in children and families across the world, supported by her roles as a patron for the Youth STEM Awards and an ambassador for both The Wildlife Trust and Eureka: The National Children’s Museum.
Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas promises to be a fun, educational, and memorable holiday experience for all ages. Tickets are on sale now, and families can expect a festive show that combines science with holiday spirit in the heart of London’s West End. Don't miss your chance to enjoy this unforgettable journey through the science and magic of Christmas!
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, 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.
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