Tag: musical theatre

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I’m Every Woman – The Chaka Khan Musical to Transfer to Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre!

Producer Adrian Grant is delighted to announce that I’M EVERY WOMAN – THE CHAKA KHAN MUSICAL will transfer to Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre from 22 July – 27 September for a limited season starring multi-platinum recording artist and award-winning actress Alexandra Burke* (The X Factor, Sister Act, The Bodyguard, Curfew) as Chaka Khan. Press night will be on 4 August 2026.


Tickets on sale now here.

The musical made its premiere earlier this year with performances at Hackney Empire, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry and the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne.

Further casting for the production will be announced in due course. 

Chaka Khan said â€œThis musical is more than my story. It’s every woman’s story. It’s about finding your voice, owning your truth, and rising through everything life throws at you. I’m honored to see my journey brought to the stage with such heart, strength, and authenticity.”

I’M EVERY WOMAN â€“ THE CHAKA KHAN MUSICAL is the powerful and inspiring life story of the award-winning, multi-platinum selling, global superstar herself. 

The new musical reveals the woman behind the icon and charts her rise to stardom. It has a book by Nia T. Hill, direction by Racky Plews, music supervision by Mark Crossland, choreography by Ebony Clarke, casting by Debbie O’Brien, production management by Toby P Darvill, and general management by Emily Obasohan.

The fame, the fire, the fight – this is her story. I’m Every Woman brings to life the untold story of Chaka Khan, one of the most influential voices of our time. Unapologetically bold and deeply human, the production explores her unwavering passion for civil rights, her defiance in the face of a toxic music industry, the harrowing road through addiction, and the unrelenting pressure of being a working mother. At its core, it’s a story of resilience, purpose, and power – a celebration of the woman behind the legend.      

I’M EVERY WOMAN features Chaka Khan’s much-loved songs released as a solo artist and lead singer of the band ‘Rufus’ such as I Feel For You, Tell Me Something Good, Ain’t Nobody, Sweet Thing, Higher Love and Through the Fire. The show, which is a journey of music, love and betrayal has a book that includes an array of Chaka’s famous friends. 

I’M EVERY WOMAN â€“ THE CHAKA KHAN MUSICAL is produced by Adrian Grant Productions in association with Chaka Khan. Co-Producers include Tammy Michelle for Chaka Khan Enterprises, Nia T. Hill and Michael Derek Thomas for ODX Studios; Willette Murphy Klausner for WMK Productions. For Adrian Grant Productions: Emily Obasohan, Mahben Quddus and Dave Lumby.

Website: www.imeverywomanthemusical.com

Instagram: @imeverywomanthemusical

TikTok: @imeverywomanthemusical

Facebook: @imeverywomanthemusical

*Alexandra will not perform on 22, 23, 25 (matinee), 30 (evening) July, 1, 6 (evening), 8 (matinee), 13 (evening), 15 (matinee), 20 (evening), 22 (matinee), 27 (evening), 29 (matinee) August, 3 (evening), 5 (matinee), 10 (evening), 12 (matinee), 17 (evening), 19 (matinee), 24 (evening) and 26 (matinee) September

2026 LISTINGS INFORMATION

I’M EVERY WOMAN â€“ THE CHAKA KHAN MUSICAL

Running time: 2 hours 20 minutes plus an interval 

22 July – 27 September (preview performances 22 â€“ 23 July) 

Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre

3 Fulton Rd

Wembley Park

London HA9 0SP

Tickets on sale now
Website: https://ticketing.kxtickets.com/shop/tickets/series/IEWOMAN

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NEWS: Tosh Wanogho-Maud to alternate the role of Lola with Johannes Radebe in Kinky Boots at the London Coliseum.

Tosh Wanogho-Maud, who is currently starring as Lola in the European leg of the touring production of Kinky Boots, joins the cast as Alternate Lola*.

Producers ROYO, Runaway Entertainment and Curve are delighted to announce that multi-platinum-selling recording artist and award-winning West End actor Matt Cardle will play Charlie Price alongside Johannes Radebe as Lola, in the brand-new production of the Olivier, TonyÂŽ and GrammyÂŽ Award-winning KINKY BOOTS The Musical. The show will strut into the spectacular London Coliseum for 17 weeks from 17 March 2026 to 11 July 2026, with a week of previews at Curve, Leicester from 3 March 2026. Tickets are on sale now.

KINKY BOOTS The Musical features a book by Harvey Fierstein and a score by Cyndi Lauper. It will be directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster (My Fair Lady, A Chorus Line, Billy Elliot).

Matt Cardle rose to fame performing with Rihanna in front of a televised audience of over 20 million as the winner of The X Factor’s highest ever rated series in 2010. Since then Matt has soared up the charts and achieved similar success on his own terms releasing four studio albums; Letters (2011), The Fire (2012), Porcelain (2013) and Time To Be Alive (2018). New album, The Great Escape, is released on 10 April 2026.

Matt most recently starred as Shakespeare in the UK and Ireland tour of & Juliet. He played Huey Calhoun in Memphis (Shaftesbury Theatre, West End) alongside Beverley Knight, for which he received the WhatsOnStage Award for ‘Best West End Debut.’ He also appeared as Wally Strand in Strictly Ballroom (Piccadilly Theatre) and Pilate in Jesus Christ Superstar (Barbican Theatre).

Matt said â€œI am absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast of Kinky Boots on London’s biggest stage. Theatre has been a huge part of my career so far, and leading a cast alongside Johannes Radebe at the London Coliseum is a huge honour. Kinky Boots is a show I’ve loved for years so to get the opportunity to step into the role of Charlie Price is a dream come true. Bringing this iconic role to life in the West End is an incredible privilege, and I cannot wait to share this production with audiences.”

Tosh Wanogho-Maud started his career as a child in the iconic shows Whistle Down the Wind and The Lion King. Previous credits include ICEBERG in Titanique(Criterion Theatre) Palladium Pantomime, Oklahoma! in Concert (Theatre Royal Drury Lane), Batboy in Concert (The London Palladium), Ain’t Too Proud (Prince Edward Theatre), Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat (Toronto), The Drifters Girl (Garrick Theatre), Dreamgirls (Savoy Theatre) and The Book of Mormon (Prince of Wales Theatre). His film and television credits include Jingle Jangle (Apple TV+), Bridgerton (Netflix) and Roadkill (BBC).

KINKY BOOTS The Musical is a Broadway and West End phenomenon based on a true story and movie of the same name released in 2005.

When Charlie Price inherits his family’s failing shoe factory, saving the company – and his love life – feels like an impossibly tall order. Until, that is, he meets Lola, the sparkling, larger-than-life drag queen with the unlikeliest of answers. Can they work together to reboot the business and save the day? Perhaps they just need to help each other – and everyone around them – to stand a little taller…

A glorious celebration of friendship and individuality, let Kinky Boots raise you up higher than ever at the

legendary London Coliseum for 17 weeks only.

KINKY BOOTS is directed by Nikolai Foster with choreography by Leah Hill, set design by Robert Jones, costume design by Robert Jones & Tom Rogers, musical supervision by George Dyer, lighting design by Ben Cracknell, sound design by Adam Fisher, casting by Harry Blumenau CDG CDA, wigs, hair and make-up design by Campbell Young Associates, associate direction by Michaela Powell with production management by Setting Line.

KINKY BOOTS is produced by ROYO, Runaway Entertainment and Curve.

Website: KinkyBootsLondon.com

Socials: @kinkyboots_uk

KINKY BOOTS  

Book by Harvey Fierstein

Music and Lyrics by Cyndi Lauper  

Original Broadway Production Directed and Choreographed by Jerry Mitchell  

Based on the Miramax motion picture Kinky Boots Written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth 

Presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International

LISTINGS INFORMATION

17 March – 11 July 2026

London Coliseum

St Martin’s Lane

London

WC2N 4ES

Curve preview performances: Tuesday – Saturday 7:30pm

Preview performances: Tuesday – Saturday 7:30pm, Thursday and Saturday 2:30pm

Performances: Monday – Saturday 7:30pm, Thursday and Saturday 2:30pm

Tickets from: ÂŁ20

Box Office: 020 7845 9300


*Tosh Wanogho-Maud will play the role of Lola on all Monday performances from 6April 2026. Patrons are advised to check the website for further information.

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REVIEW: The Devil Wears Prada Musical – Dominion Theatre

🎭 The Devil Wears Prada Musical
📍Dominion Theatre
🎟️ Gifted
⭐⭐⭐

I attended the Gala Night performance of The Devil Wears Prada Musical, where an array of icons were in attendance including Elton John, Donatella Versace and Anna Wintour! It was an evening so stylish, that even Miranda Priestly might have cracked a smile.

The story

The stage adaption of Lauren Weisbeger’s book and the popular 2006 film starring Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, has been one of the most-anticipated shows of the year. With an original score by the legendary Elton John, lyrics by Shaina Taub & Mark Sonnenblick and a book by Kate Wetherhead, The Devil Wears Prada guarantees a fun evening at the theatre.

Photo by Matt Crockett

The story follows Andrea ‘Andy’  Sachs (Georgie Buckland), a recent college grad and aspiring journalist who is on the hunt for a job. Andy lands herself a role as an assistant at Runway, a prestigious fashion magazine despite having no interest in fashion! Her boss, Miranda Priestly (Vanessa Williams), is the ruthless editor-in-chief who pushes Andy to her limits as she struggles to balance her ambition, personal values, and the cut-throat fashion industry.

My thoughts

Directed and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell, the show is packed with upbeat songs, lively dance routines and the most extravagant costumes you’ll see on the West End. Visually, the show is marvellous! Tim Hatley’s scenic design shines, particularly in Act 2, where we are transported to Paris, with the sites of the Eiffel Tower, glittering in the background. There were also lavish runway moments, with the cast strutting through the aisles in extravagant gowns.

I wished the score was as exciting as the visuals. Some of the music fell flat, with lazy lyrics and forgettable melodies. Even the Act 1 finale song – despite its grand staging with bold red and black palettes – was mediocre. Most of the music had a disco-pop and eighties feel, with fun tracks like Emily’s ‘Runway’ and Nigel’s ‘Dress Yourself Up’. These were the standouts, particularly ‘Dress Yourself Up’ which brought energy and style, featuring fabulous choreography from the ensemble.

Photo by Matt Crockett

Florals for spring might not be groundbreaking, but the performances certainly were! Making her West End debut, Georgie Buckland stars as Andy Sachs, showcasing phenomenal vocals and riffs for days! While Amy Di Bartolomeo brings a unique portrayal of Emily, the first assistant to Miranda, which I loved! Her comic presence & the delivery of witty lines paired with her impressive vocals made her one of my favourite characters in the show. Her subplot with the Hot Nurse was also amusing, even if the song felt more like filler.

Photo by Matt Crockett

Another supporting character who stole the show was Matt Henry in the role of Miranda’s stylist, Nigel. Henry’s performance was fantastic, from his showstopping number ‘Dress Yourself Up’ to ‘Seen’, the heartfelt ballad about his journey at Runway. These supporting characters elevated the production and made fresh additions to the TDWP story, which I appreciated.

Vanessa Williams was iconic as Miranda Priestley, commanding the stage with style and gravitas. Her entrance was superb and so funny; rising dramatically from the depths of the stage—was nothing short of devilishly brilliant.  Williams portrayed a more empathetic Miranda Priestly than the film’s icy version. I much preferred this take on the character – it felt more nuanced and relatable. With all the music in this show, I wished for more big musical numbers from Miranda, which never quite materialised.

Photo by Matt Crockett

I must confess that I had not watched the film until days before I saw the musical! While I appreciated the production for staying true to the film, complete with iconic lines and references, it felt like this stage adaptation didn’t dig much deeper. I didn’t care much for the characters, and there seemed to be a lack of chemistry between them (particularly Andy and her partner Nate). As a result, Andy’s climactic decision lacked the emotional impact it deserved, especially with this more sympathetic Miranda. The overall show felt a bit manufactured and lacking in substance—though this may be more of a reflection on the source material than the production itself.

While The Devil Wears Prada musical doesn’t fully deliver, the stunning visuals and standout performances make this a glamorously entertaining night out!

The Devil Wears Prada is currently playing at The Dominion Theatre until October 2025

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REVIEW: The Color Purple – Sedos London

🎭 The Color Purple
📍Sedos
🎟️ Gifted
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sedos, London’s leading amateur theatre company, is breaking barriers with its latest production of The Color Purple, marking the first all-Black cast and creative team in its 119-year history. Directed by Tasha Msanide and backed by a talented team of cast and creatives, this production is a joyful celebration of Black creativity and representation in musical theatre.

The story

Based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Color Purple tells the story of Celie, an African-American woman who endures a life of suffering; including racism, abuse and the separation from her sister, Nettie. The challenges continue when Celie is married off to a domineering Mister who further torments her. Celie develops close relationships with women such as the confident & independent Sofia and glamorous singer, Shug Avery, who teach Celie valuable life lessons.

Photo by Ben Copping

The Color Purple delves into themes of resilience, self-discovery, queer love, and redemption while highlighting the enduring strength of women, and the power of community. Having only read the book, I eagerly anticipated what the musical adaptation would have in store – and it turned out to be one of the most powerful shows I have watched.

My thoughts

Set in the early 20th-century American South, the hair and costume design perfectly encapsulates this era, along with the musical genres. The music is a blend of blues, jazz, and gospel, perfectly capturing both the era and emotion of this story. There were powerful ballads and upbeat numbers like Shug Avery’s introductory number ‘Push Da Button’

Photo by Ben Copping

The staging made full use of the theatre’s intimate space and I was impressed with the seamless transitions between scenes. The direction and choreography were carefully thought out, adding fluidity to the storytelling and keeping it at a good pace.  Ruth Luckin’s atmospheric lighting heightened the show’s emotional impact, from the shadows evoking danger and isolation to the radiant purple hues that illuminated Celie during moments of hope. It was subtle yet a significant creative choice.

Photo by Ben Copping

Now, I must talk about the phenomenal cast! Their performances were the heart and soul of the production. It felt like we were watching a cast of seasoned professionals; the talent on that stage was astounding!  Their vocal prowess was unmatched—truly some of the finest I’ve heard in musical theatre. Afope Rachelle Ojomo delivered a standout performance in the role of Celie. Their breathtaking rendition of ‘I’m Here’ was a highlight of the show, with the audience immediately erupting into applause. Ojomo’s ability to act through song was fantastic – the performance was raw, genuine and, honestly, transformative – no notes!

 Alongside Ojomo, Josephine Bannerman stars as Nettie – I loved their voices together! Those beautiful, sisterly moments made their separation all the more heartbreaking. Shug Avery, played by Michaella Moore, was utterly charming. Moore embodied glamour and had the most charismatic stage presence! Moore also brought incredible depth to the character as we saw a more vulnerable Shug in Act 2.

Photo by Ben Copping

The lively ensemble also deserves recognition. The gossiping trio, (Marnette Renee Bennett, Zahra Jennings-Grant and Lashayah Alizè Byfield) had sensational vocals and sharp wit as they provided light-hearted narration throughout. Sofia (played brilliantly by Rinrè Olusola) and her husband Harpo (Dupri Mckoy) were a great duo with plenty of humour and romantic clashes (The Squeak v Sofia showdown had us cracking up!🤣)

Photo by Ben Copping

The show is not without its tough moments. The abuse and injustice the characters face for being Black is difficult to watch yet the production handles this with sensitivity and care.  

What truly stood out was the sense of camaraderie and community among the cast. There was an undeniable warmth and authenticity in their interactions, making the production feel alive! Sedos has achieved something remarkable with this production of The Color Purple. With fantastic performances, thoughtful direction and an abundance of energy, this was a moving and inspiring piece of theatre that I am grateful to have watched.

Congratulations to the entire cast & creative team! đŸ’œ

For more information about Sedos London, check out their website and upcoming productions here

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REVIEW: Kiss Me, Kate – Barbican Theatre

🎭 Kiss Me, Kate
📍Barbican Theatre
🎟️ AD – Gifted
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kiss Me, Kate returns to London with a dazzling revival by Bartlett Sher. The 1948 musical by Bella and Samuel Spewack, with music and lyrics by Cole Porter, remains a theatrical classic! The story revolves around the production of a musical version of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, and the off-stage romantic conflicts and entanglements among the cast.

With laugh-out-loud moments, chaotic backstage antics, powerful vocals, and spectacular choreography, Kiss Me, Kate could be the show of the season!

Photo by Johan Persson

The musical comedy follows a divorced couple, Lilli Vanessi and Fred Graham, as they attempt to perform a musical version of a Shakespeare classic. The ex-spouses star as Petruchio and Katherine and their tumultuous relationship is mirrored in their performances. Along with the romantic entanglements, there’s also a mishap with gambling debts and gangsters, further adding to the comedic chaos. Stephanie J. Block makes her London debut in the lead role, as glamourous Hollywood star, Lili Vannessi. Lilli is confident, witty and has a fiery temperament – much like the character she portrays in The Taming of the Shrew.  Stephanie J Block was outstanding in this role, showcasing her award-winning talent and the most gorgeous vocals. I especially loved when she sang ‘I Hate Men’, with such ferocity! While the titular track, ‘Kiss Me, Kate’ showed off Block’s impressive operatic range.

Adrian Dunbar stars as Fred Graham, the director of the show, playing the character with endless charm and charisma. Like Lilli, Fred is witty and exudes confidence that borders on arrogance. Dunbar and Block had great chemistry and comedic timing, providing the audience with plenty of laughter.

Photo by Johan Persson

Michael Yeargan’s two-level stage features a revolving section, creating a clever and dynamic visual experience, revealing the split narrative between the on-stage and off-stage drama.

While there were many farcical moments throughout the show, Bartlett Sher’s direction felt slick and authentically funny. The scene-stealing Gangster duo, played by Hammed Animashaun and Nigel Lindsay, had the audience in stitches with their catchy performance about the Bard in ‘Brush Up Your Shakespeare!’ The well-deserved round of applause they received was a highlight of the evening.

Jack Butterworth as Paul, led the sizzling opening in Act 2 with the notable ‘Too Darn Hot’, accompanied by a talented ensemble. Choreographed by Anthony Van Laast, this spectacular jazz-style number was an iconic way to begin the second act. Vocal powerhouse and rising star, Georgina Onuorah, also stole the show with a lively, flirtatious rendition of ‘Always True to You in My Fashion.’ Charlie Stemp, known for his signature moves, graced the stage with a mesmerising and joyful tap dance number during ‘Bianca’. 

Photo by Johan Persson

Kiss Me, Kate is oozing with energy from this brilliant cast, leaving the audience beaming with joy. The vibrant musical revival still features the hilarious comedy, the classic charm, romance and of course, those showstopping dance routines. All this combined makes the ultimate musical comedy – and a must-see this season!

Kiss Me, Kate plays at Barbican Theatre until 14 September 2024. You can book tickets for this show directly at London Box Office.

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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 ÂŁ20 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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REVIEW: Stranger Sings – Southwark Playhouse

🎭 Stranger Sings
📍Southwark Playhouse – Borough
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jonathan Hogue’s award-winning parody musical, Stranger Sings, first made its way to London in 2022 at The Vaults. The musical has since gone on to entertain audiences on a U.K. tour and has returned to Southwark Playhouse for an alternative festive show!

Stranger Sings is a guaranteed evening of laughter – expect big hair, heavy 80s synths and a dancing Demogorgon! We are transported to season one of Stranger Things, joining the whole Hawkins Gang on a mission to find Will. We may even find #JusticeForBarb! The show also features cameos from characters in later seasons. While the show is sure to be popular with fans of the show, I don’t think it’s necessary to have watched all seasons (or any!) to enjoy and appreciate the musical. 

Justin William’s set design is incredible and effortlessly portrays notable scenes from the series. We are seamlessly transported to the woods, to Joyce’s festive-lights living room and into the Upside Down. Alongside the great set design, Ellie Farrow’s costume design is so detailed, matching the characters perfectly. Clancy Flynn’s lighting and Richard Carter’s sound design worked well to enhance the eerie atmosphere. 

Directed by Ellis Kerkhoven, the show is fast-paced, and brimming with jokes, all of which are hilariously timed.  Stranger Sings features an impressive selection of original music, including classic 80s-inspired songs, upbeat pop tunes and even big 11 o’clock numbers. The score is exciting, and catchy with some of the most witty lyrics. I also loved how throughout the show, the writing constantly pokes fun at the decade and references iconic pop cultural moments from that era. Musical theatre fans may also spot the lyrical references from popular musicals.


Musical director, Olivia Zacharia leads the talented cast of 9, who are absolute stars. They showcased impressive multi-roleplaying, showing off their range by playing different characters. All the costume changes were seamlessly executed, never interrupting the flow of the show. The cast stayed true to the characters while adding their unique flair. Howard Jenkins gave a strong performance in the role of Jim Hopper, perfectly embodying the character with his mannerisms (that walk!) and their dry comic delivery. Verity Power is equally incredible as she perfectly encapsulates the chain-smoking, slightly manic character of Joyce. Power displayed an incredible vocal range in a spectacular song with surprise cameos, but also in their role as Will Byers (performed via puppet!)

Alfie Doohan was fantastic as Steve Harrington, Jonathan Byers and Dr Brenner – each role from Doohan had us laughing at how precise his portrayal was (and all those wigs!) Elliott Wooster, Jessie Jae Davis and William Shackleton perform as Mike, Lucas and Dustin, the beloved trio of friends. Shackleton was perfect as Dustin; paired with the baseball hat and lisp, Shackleton delivered strong vocals and hilarious characterisation in the role. Anna Amelia had the most gorgeous vocals and gave great performances as Nancy Wheeler and Eleven. Davis’ performance as the Demogorgon was an unexpected highlight, with catchy choreography by Lucinda Lawrence.

Philippa Leadbetter is a powerhouse in the role of Barb Holland  – “the throwaway plot device character from season 1”. Leadbetter had the most impeccable comedic timing, and delivered a performance that can only be described as theatrical excellence! The cast is supported by two super swings, Ally Kennard and Shannon Bourne. 

Hogue’s writing is clever and serves as a love letter to the 80s and one of the most popular TV series. As a Stranger Things fan, this musical has become one of my all-time favourites! It’s nostalgic, packed with hilarity and utter mayhem! The entire cast and creative team have put on a spectacular show, that I highly recommend! 

Stranger Sings is playing at Southwark Playhouse until 6 January 2024, before continuing its UK tour. 

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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!