Category: West End

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NEWS: ‘WHY AM I SO SINGLE?’ Toby Marlow & Lucy Moss’ new big fancy musical is heading to the West End.

From the multi-award-winning writers of SIX, Toby Marlow & Lucy Moss, comes their all-new,  highly anticipated second musical, WHY AM I SO SINGLE? This Big Fancy Musical follows two besties through the ups, and mostly downs, of their dating lives in the era of Tinder (and Bumble  and Grindr and Hinge and Feeld). This musical extravaganza about love, dating, friendship – and bees – explores the weird and wonderful hilariousness of being single.  

A celebration of friendship and love, WHY AM I SO SINGLE? asks how two super interesting,  super cool, super fun pals could possibly still be single?!? This extraordinary and totally unexplainable situation faced by our fabulous duo is made even more complicated by the fact that, on a completely unrelated note, they also need to find a really great topic for their next musical.  

Lead casting has been announced.  

Jo Foster (& Juliet; Just For One Day, West End;) will return from the show’s early workshop to  co-star in this epic musical for the ages. They will be seen alongside the newly cast Leesa Tulley

(SIX, UK Tour; Kin, Theatro Technis) as their bff. Together they will navigate the difficult modern  dating world and how to flirt with your Deliveroo driver, all with their best friend firmly by their  side. They are joined on stage by Noah Thomas (Everything Now, Netflix; Everybody’s Talking  About Jamie, West End). The ensemble casting is to be announced.  

Featuring epic pop and musical-inspired songs by the dynamic writing team of Marlow & Moss  (described by British Vogue as the ‘future of musical theatre’), and high-energy choreography by  Ellen Kane (Matilda the Musical, Working Title Films; Dear England, National Theatre/West  End), WHY AM I SO SINGLE? is set to dazzle the dating world this autumn.  

Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss comment, This is ultimately a musical about two friends, their  desire for love, and how they deal with loneliness. We hope people come away feeling super  uplifted. And we hope they text someone the second they leave the theatre saying ‘omigosh just  fyi i love you soooo much!!!!’ 

Box Office Tickets are available from £20 at www.whyamisosingle.com

Running Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including an interval)
Age Guidance: 14+, contains adult themes and language Access https://thegarricktheatre.co.uk/your-visit/#tab-access 

Accessible Performances:
Saturday 21st September 2024 (Audio Described)
Friday 18th October 2024 (BSL interpreted) 
Saturday 25th January 2025 (Captioned)

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NEWS: New Cast of ‘For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy’ announced.

Today, the Royal Court Theatre and Nimax Theatres welcomes six new cast members to the For Black Boys family. Starring in the iconic roles of Onyx, Pitch, Jet, Sable, Obsidian and Midnight are a powerful new blend of talented actors including Tobi King Bakare, Shakeel Haakim making his professional debut, Fela Lufadeju, Albert Magashi, Mohammed Mansaray and Posi Morakinyo respectively.

The brand-new ensemble will be directed by Ryan Calais Cameron. The six will bring their own interpretation and lived experiences to their respective roles, infusing a fresh dynamic and energy to this transformative theatrical experience which uniquely mixes music, movement, storytelling and verse.

Writer Ryan Calais Cameron was inspired by Ntozake Shange’s seminal work For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf. For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy is located on the threshold of joyful fantasy and brutal reality where six men clash and connect in a desperate bid for survival.

About the new cast Ryan Calais Cameron, writer and Nouveau Riche Artistic Director, said:
“The themes explored in the play are timeless, and I am genuinely thrilled about the prospect of witnessing the new cast infuse their own unique energy and brilliance into the production. Each member brings a wealth of talent and dedication to their roles, and I am confident that their interpretation will breathe new life into the narrative.”

You can book tickets to For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy here.

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NEWS: Sister Act The Musical Wins 2023 London Lifestyle Awards for Theatre Show of the Year!

Running for the 13th year, the London Lifestyle Awards celebrates one of the greatest cities in the world, and the businesses that contribute to it. The ceremony took place on Monday, October 30th, 2023 at the glamorous Grosvenor House on Park Lane.

 The annual awards span various categories, including restaurants, bars, hotels, hair and beauty,  and, of course, theatre. Sister Act The Musical won the Theatre Show of the Year Award at the London Lifestyle Awards 2023.

The competition was fierce, with a closely contested shortlist featuring some of the most remarkable shows from the past year! 

The Theatre Show of the Year TOPTEN shortlist included the following popular theatre shows:  2:22 A Ghost Story, A Streetcar Named Desire, Dirty Dancing, Guys & Dolls, Legally Blonde, My Neighbour Totoro, My Son’s a Queer, SIX the Musical, and The Drifters Girl. 

Emerging West End star, Tobias Turley, represented by BBA Management, dazzled the audience with his rendition of ABBA’s “Does Your Mother Know.” Turley is currently competing on ITV’s Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream and was one of the many talented performers who graced the stage. Guests also enjoyed captivating musical performances by opera superstar Lucy Kay and Ben Haenow and his band.

Jason Gale, founder of London Lifestyle Awards®, expressed his enthusiasm for Sister Act The Musical’s well-deserved win, describing it as a “feel-good gospel hit” brimming with heart. He highlighted the exceptional quality of theatre available to London audiences and extended a warm welcome to Sister Act for its return to the capital city in Spring 2024.

Congratulations to all the shortlisted nominees and the winners! 

For more, please visit www.britishlifestyleawards.com/London 

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The Stage Debut Awards 2023

On Sunday 1st October 2023, I attended The Stage Debut Awards. The Debut Awards highlight breakthrough actors, writers, directors, designers, composers/lyricists across 8 categories.

I had the amazing opportunity to meet the award nominees, guest performers, and hosts. I loved speaking with them, learning about their journey & their excitement to be part of this joyous ceremony! 

Here are my interviews from the evening:

Emily Benjamin – Guest performer, Alternate Sally Bowles in Cabaret

How does it feel to be at The Stage Debut Awards?
Emily: It’s really fun! I keep looking around, recognising all the people I’ve been fans of for years of my life – because I’m stagey. I’m performing at the same event that Rachel Wooden is performing at! I used to listen to her when I was a teen – I think she’s incredible! 

How does it feel to be a part of Cabaret?
Emily: It’s hugely important! I’m so thankful to get to tell a story, that’s scarily relevant in today’s world. The director, Rebecca Frecknall, said very early on, that to make dangerous work, we had to create a safe environment. Building this show is both dangerous and incredibly beautiful. I couldn’t be more thankful to be part of it!

What are you looking forward to in 2024?
Emily: I’m starring in a new musical called Bronco Billy at Charing Cross Theatre, that opens in January! I’m looking forward to telling a new story and reaching a new group of people.

Last question – what’s your favourite ever musical?
Emily: The Last 5 Years – Jason Robert Brown!

Bukky Bakray – Nominee for Best Performer in a Play for Sleepova at Bush Theatre

How does it feel to be nominated?
Bukky: It’s nice, I feel humbled. It was mad to be in the theatre, as I’m not training, so to be nominated with so many incredible people – I just feel really humbled!

How was the whole experience working on ‘Sleepova’? 
Bukky: It was everything I would have hoped it to be. I feel like that was because it was at the Bush [Theatre]. I’m really grateful to have a debut at that theatre. Everyone was really cool, beautiful environment!

What are you looking forward to this evening?
Bukky: I’m with Kosar Ali. We started all of this together and she also had a debut play this year. It’s nice to share this experience with her.

Elan Davies – Nominee for Best Performer in a Play in Imrie at Sherman Theatre

How does it feel to be at The Stage Debut Awards?
Elan: It’s been so cool. It’s nice to be recognised. I’m at the beginning of my career. It’s cool to be in a room with people I look up to.

Can you tell us more about ‘Imrie’? 
Elan: It’s a fully Welsh language play in Cardiff, then it toured Wales. It’s about two teenagers growing up during that transitional period where you go from teenagers to adults. Both characters feel othered in two different senses; my co-star, Rebecca Wilson, figuring out her queer identity, and my character figuring out her mixed-race roots. It was all performed in the Welsh language, which was really cool.

I wanted to go on to this project as I’d never read anything like this in the Welsh language. It platformed voices that aren’t necessarily platformed at the moment in Welsh. 

Elan Davies went on to win the Best Performer in a Play award!

Congratulations! How were you feeling, in the moment, when your name was announced?
Elan: I was crying with no tears! (laughs) It was a heave of exasperation, joy, gratitude, and a lot of emotions! I was surrounded by my family, which was the best thing about it.

I had an unconventional entrance into the industry. I left school at 17 and started working and getting into the room as much as I could. I’m still at the beginning, but it’s a massive thing to be recognised at this stage!

Emily Ling Williams – Director of A Playlist for the Revolution at Bush Theatre

What did it mean to be part of ‘A Playlist for the Revolution’?
Emily: It was incredible – one of the best experiences of my life. I worked with AJ Yi from the start. The creative team, and the actors, all coming together and making the show was really exciting! And telling a story with an all-Asian cast, about something political and also something beautiful, fun, a human story. It embraced music, love and happiness – it was such a joyful experience from beginning to end.

Myself, AJ and the designer were all working collaboratively – AJ and I were raised on rom-coms so we wanted to make it as romantic as possible! Bush Theatre was incredible. The team were amazing. I don’t think you could have a better debut show experience. They were kind and supportive from the get-go – it was a dream!

Emily Ling Williams went on to win the Best Director award!

Congratulations! How did it feel when your name was announced?
Emily: Unbelievable! I was so shocked! When they said “Hong Kong”, I was like ‘what?!’.

How are you going to celebrate?
Emily: Champagne, enjoy my dessert, tell my mum! 

I’m so happy for you! Do you have any advice for aspiring directors?
Emily: I came up through the Young Vic. I applied for an Introduction to Directing course at Young Vic. It was a free 2-week course. They supported me and helped with my first and second jobs in theatre. They’ve been amazing! Find those courses and theatres that are helping Directors – just apply and see!

And shout to the Bush Theatre!
Emily: Shout out to Bush Theatre – they take a chance on people. Lynette and Dan, the whole team are incredible. They give you the opportunity to make a great show!

The Winners in Full:

Best Performer in a Play (Sponsored by Cabbells):

● Elan Davies for Imrie at Sherman Theatre, Cardiff

● Isobel Thom for I, Joan at Shakespeare’s Globe, London

Best Performer in a Musical (Sponsored by Carnival Cruise Line):

● Jessica Lee for Miss Saigon at Crucible Theatre, Sheffield

Best Director: (Sponsored by Arts Council England)

● Emily Ling Williams for A Playlist for the Revolution at Bush Theatre, London

Best Designer (Sponsored by Wimbledon College of Arts, UAL):

● Andrea Scott (video) for My Neighbour Totoro at Barbican Theatre, London

Best Writer (Sponsored by Sonia Friedman Productions):

● Anoushka Lucas for Elephant at Bush Theatre, London

Best Composer, Lyricist or Book Writer (Sponsored by Crossroads Live):

● Michael R Jackson for A Strange Loop at Barbican Theatre, London

Best West End Debut Performer (Sponsored by TodayTix)

● Rose Ayling-Ellis for As You Like It at @sohoplace

Best Creative West End Debut: (Sponsored by Trafalgar Entertainment)

● Tingying Dong (sound designer) for The Crucible at National Theatre and Gielgud Theatre

● Rob Madge (writer) for My Son’s a Queer, (But What Can You Do?) at Garrick Theatre and Ambassadors Theatre

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Theater Camp – Film Review

🎬 Theater Camp
📍Picturehouse Central
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐

If there’s a camp I want to go to, it’s AdirondACTS!

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of attending a special screening of the film, Theater Camp.

Written and directed by Molly Gordon, Nick Lieberman, Ben Platt and Noah Galvin, Theater Camp, is a satirical comedy film following the drama at a theatre camp in upstate New York. It’s laugh-out-loud funny, nostalgic, and amazingly wholesome.

As summer comes around, children begin preparing for their annual visit to AdirondACTS, the theatre camp for aspiring performers. When Joan, the beloved founder of the camp, falls into a coma, it’s down to her ‘entrepreneurial’ son, Troy (Jimmy Tatro), to help keep the camp afloat. A dilemma arises when Troy discovers the camp is facing bankruptcy. Clueless about the theatrical world, Troy works together with the eccentric teachers and campers to find a way to save the camp.

The film follows a ‘mockumentary’ style, capturing all the events across the camp as they all prepare for the original musical. I loved this format as it made the scenes more relatable and suited the style of humour. It’s incredibly satirical, reminding me of hit TV shows, The Office and Abbott Elementary. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of the scenes were improvisation too! The cast shone throughout with their sharp wit and comedic timing.  The younger members of the cast were also impressive, and I loved seeing their over-dramatic characterisation of ‘theatre kids’.

My favourite scene was the montage of the lessons taking place across the camp. Costume, drama, stage management – and whatever class the unqualified teacher would attempt. Notable mention to Ayo Edebiri, for the deadpan humour in the role of a teacher who lied on their CV.

Ben Platt and Molly Gordon star as Amos and Rebecca-Diane, Head of Drama and Music teachers at the camp. Described as ‘artistically linked’ best friends, I enjoyed how the film explored their quirky friendship and the changing dynamic. Platt and Gordon were fantastic and displayed great (and funny) chemistry.

The script is packed with jokes, and while the storyline felt a bit predictable, the message conveyed was wholesome. All throughout, we witness how accepting the theatre camp is. The safe and welcoming hub it provides for the campers and the staff. The character arc of Glenn (Noah Galvin) was so heartwarming and perfectly embodied that supportive, affirming theatre spirit! Even with all the tender moments throughout the finale, as the children sing ‘Camp is Home’, I still found myself giggling at the credit scenes

This is a film that certainly resonates with me. Theater Camp is a genuine, hilarious, and light-hearted film that has beautifully shown what theatre means to people.

Theater Camp opens in UK cinemas on August 25th! You can find out more information about the film at https://www.searchlightpictures.com/theater-camp/

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Queenz: The Show With Balls! – Arts Theatre

🎭 Queenz: The Show with Balls!
📍 Arts Theatre
🎫 PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Five fabulous Drag Queens take to the stage to perform an impressive medley of classic songs from much-loved singing stars such as Gaga, Beyonce, Whitney and more! There is not a lip sync in sight as our Queenz showcase the most spectacular live vocals. The audience is treated to sassy dance routines, sparkly sequinned outfits, and a heap of cheeky humour!

Created and produced by David Griego, Queenz: The Show with Balls is hands down one of the best Drag shows I have watched. It began as an Edinburgh Fringe show and has since gone on tour across the UK.

The atmosphere was already buzzing as we were handed glowsticks upon entry. The show began with a bang and straight into a megamix of our favourite Pop songs! The entire show felt like a full-blown party; with glowsticks and phone torches parading the air and of course, a group sing-along. The lighting design wonderfully added to this party atmosphere with cascading lights around the theatre and accurately timed spotlights on the performers. I loved the variety of lighting choices, with colour tints that complemented the Queenz’ gorgeous, dazzling outfits. 

With its final London performance on a West End stage, it felt very fitting for our Queenz to perform a hilarious (and clever!) Musical Theatre medley. I was so impressed with the number of theatre classics the performers sang, with original lyrics – in just under 7 minutes! The energy was consistent, and each queen showcased their talents.

I was in awe of ZeZe Van Cartier’s (Lew Ray) and Billie Eyelash’s (Craig Colley) choreography AND hair-ography skills! Candy Caned’s (Josh Hanson) stunning outfits and Bella Du Balle’s (Ben Sell) powerhouse vocals! Completing the fabulous five was Dior Monte (Jaymi Hensley) whose comedic timing was perfect, as they had a string of funny audience participation moments!

Sass, sequins, sensational vocals – the Queenz energy was infectious and had us hooked for the entire evening. As we sang, danced, and laughed along, the show proved that time flies when you’re having fun!

The Queenz rendition of Cyndi Lauper’s True Colours was beautiful and encouraging. We were shared with an empowering message on acceptance, loving who you want and the importance of supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. 

Whether you’re a non-binary finery or a fierce ally, Queenz: The Show with Balls is the ultimate Drag show you won’t want to miss when they return on tour!

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& Juliet – Shaftesbury Theatre

🎭 &Juliet
📍 Shaftesbury Theatre
💷 £25
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Who knew I would love jukebox musicals enough to see them twice!? & Juliet is one of the most fun, entertaining, and inclusive West End shows I have ever been to. Thanks to Today Tix, I have been fortunate to see this pop musical twice and in different seating areas (much prefer the stalls!).

Based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, &Juliet tells this classic tale from a “what if” perspective, where Juliet does not die. Shakespeare (Oliver Tompsett) is persuaded by his wife, Anna Hathaway (Cassidy Janson) to rewrite the ending of Romeo and Juliet’s tragic love story. And this begins a wonderful, wild, and wacky musical journey. We follow Juliet (Miriam-Teak Lee) on her journey of self-discovery, as she travels with friends, May (Alex Thomas-Smith), Nurse Angelique (Melanie La Barrie) and Anne, from Verona to Paris.

This award-winning musical includes music from Swedish songwriter, Max Martin. His catalogue is very impressive with hits from Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry and more! The songs are hilariously and cleverly incorporated into the storyline, with my standout performances being from ‘Da Bois’ and that iconic Ariana Grande/The Weeknd mash-up. The script was witty, with some tongue-in-cheek one-liners. There were tender moments too. The inclusion of the non-binary character, May, was touching to see and provided the much-needed inclusion we need in theatres today! There were also many empowering speeches between the characters and a sense of girl power. Teak-Lee as Juliet was outstanding – the energy, the charm, the humour!

I adored the enthusiasm from the ensemble all throughout this show, especially at the beginning as they engaged with the audience. The cast wore Tudor-like costumes that had been modernised and paired with sneakers and a lot of bling! The choreography by Jennifer Weber is so catchy – I still do the same dance move whenever I hear Katy Perry’s Roar.

This is a fun musical that is suited for any audience. Yes, the storyline at times is a little ridiculous, but it was such a joy to watch. I came out of the theatre grinning, wanting to experience it all over again. (And I did, 5 months later with a different cast – who were equally as talented!)

& Juliet is a show I highly recommend for everyone!