BroadwayWorld.com UK / West End Stories

Video: Andrew Lloyd Webber and Hal Prince Workshop THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA in New Footage

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 23:02:28 PST

A newly shared video Andrew Lloyd Webber offers a rare glimpse into the development of The Phantom of the Opera. In the footage, the composer plays through material from the score of the musical, walking director Hal Prince through his latest melodies during the show's formative stages.

See the pair at work on the sequence that would become the Phantom and Christine's ghostly boat ride through the catacombs and more here:

@officialalw
Andrew Lloyd Webber, Hal Prince and Charles Hart workshopping Phantom of the Opera. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon.
Andrew Lloyd Webber Musicals">♬ original sound - Andrew Lloyd Webber Musicals

About THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

The Phantom of the Opera premiered in London's West End in 1986 and has since been seen by more than 160 million people in 205 cities across 58 territories and 21 languages. Featuring a score by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the musical includes such songs as "The Music of the Night," "All I Ask of You," "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again," "Masquerade," and the title song.

Based on Gaston Leroux's novel, the musical follows a mysterious figure known as the Phantom, who lives beneath the Paris Opera House. When he becomes captivated by the voice of young soprano Christine Daaé, he takes her under his wing and helps launch her career. As Christine grows closer to her childhood friend Raoul, the Phantom's devotion turns into obsession, setting the stage for a story of love, jealousy and tragedy.

Photos: TRAINSPOTTING THE MUSICAL In Rehearsal

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 19:28:15 PST

Go inside the new show Trainspotting the Musical, in a new photos from inside the rehearsal room. Written by Welsh (adapted from his best-selling debut novel) thge production is directed and developed by Caroline Jay Ranger.

Thirty years on from the film that changed everything, and following its world premiere in London's West End, Trainspotting The Musical will embark on a major UK tour coming to Bradford Live on Mon 8 Feb – Sat 13 Feb 2027.

In 1996 film Trainspotting was released and became the biggest grossing UK film of the year taking over $76 million worldwide and won a slew of awards including a BAFTA for Best Screenplay. In 1999 it was ranked 10th in the British Film Institute's ‘Top 100 Greatest British Films of the 20th Century'.

Now, three decades later, the industrial drug crazed working-class heroes of British youth culture are back, live on stage: Renton, Sick Boy, Begbie, Spud, Tommy and Kelly. Renton (played in the film by Ewan McGregor) will be played on stage by 26-year-old Scottish actor Robbie Scott. He will be joined by fellow Scots actors Sheridan Townsley as Sick Boy, Kieran Andrew as Spud, Frankie O'Connor as Begbie, Finlay Paul as Tommy, Rebecca McKinnis as Cathy Renton, Gordon Cooper as Davie Renton, Ashley J. Russell as Colleen, Rosie Dignan as Alison, Yana Harris as Kelly, and Sophie Hutchinson as Lizzie. The ensemble comprises Ally Kennard, Kieran Brown, Melanie Marshall, Lewis Kidd, Samuel Stewart, Finlay McKillop, Ciara Ennis, Victoria Nicol, Kyra Fyvie, and Chris O'Mara.

Photo Credit: Hugo Glendinning

L-R Samuel Stewart (Ensemble), Gordon Cooper (Davie Renton)

L-R Kieran Andrew , Rebecca McKinnis (Cathy Renton)

Sophie Hutchinson, Rosie Dignan

Frankie O'Connor

Cast of Trainspotting The Musical

Ashley J Russell

FRINGE FIX to Return to Underbelly Soho With 20 Edinburgh Productions

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 18:52:41 PST

Fringe Fix returns to Underbelly Soho this September with a handpicked selection of productions making the journey from the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to London's West End.

The season will transform the Soho venue into a showcase for some of the festival's most talked-about shows, spanning comedy, cabaret, theatre, improv, and musicals.

Among the productions featured are Woody Sez: The Life & Times of Woody Guthrie, a musical celebration of the influential American folk singer; 2ShoulderPads: GALAXY TRAIN, the Spirit of the Fringe Award-winning Japanese musical; and Operotica, a blend of opera, cabaret, and comedy. The season will also include a Fringe Fix Wild Card slot, reserved for a breakout Edinburgh Fringe production yet to be selected.

Additional highlights include Burning Down The Horse, an immersive comedy inspired by the Trojan Horse; CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation, the long-running improvised murder mystery; and Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story, the drag comedy celebrating the life of Princess Diana.

The lineup also features Penelope, a contemporary chamber musical starring Broadway performer Grace McLean; Mothman: A Romance Musical; Raves R Us; Jill's Tupperware Party; and Abandoman: Afterglow, the improvised hip-hop comedy show from Rob Broderick.

Comedy offerings include Ted Hill's PowerPoindexter, Stefania Licari's I Can Make You Italian in 55 Minutes, Alfie Brown's The Entertainer, and Underbelly's Belly Laugh, a showcase of emerging comedy talent.

Audience members can receive a 10 percent discount when booking two Fringe Fix shows and a 20 percent discount when booking three or more productions in a single transaction. The season will also feature a programme of free live music events throughout the venue.

Featured Productions

Burning Down The Horse

2ShoulderPads: GALAXY TRAIN

Never Let Go: An Unauthorised Retelling of James Cameron's Titanic

Man Sings the Same Song Over and Over Again For An Hour

Penelope

Raves R Us

An Evening with Dame Granny Smith

Woody Sez: The Life & Times of Woody Guthrie

Belly Laugh

Mothman: A Romance Musical

Jill's Tupperware Party

Ted Hill: PowerPoindexter

CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation

Operotica

Stefania Licari: I Can Make You Italian in 55 Minutes

LEMONFACE

Alfie Brown: The Entertainer

Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story

Wild Card

Abandoman: Afterglow

Tickets for Fringe Fix are now on sale.

Photos: All-Female GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS at The Old Vic

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:27:35 PST

The Old Vic is presenting David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Glengarry Glen Ross with an all-female cast. The production will run through July 18, 2026. It is staged by Tony Award-winning director Patrick Marber. Get a first look at the production!

The cast features Rosa Salazar as Roma and Olivier Award-winning actress Indira Varma as Levene, Mercedes Bahleda as Lingk, Nancy Crane as Aaronow, Dorothea Myer-Bennett as Williamson, Florence Odumosu as Baylen, and Niky Wardley as Moss.

Glengarry Glen Ross is set in a Chicago real estate office where four salespeople compete to sell mostly worthless properties to unwitting customers. Whoever sells the most wins a car; whoever sells the least is out of a job.

Photo credit: Manuel Harlan

Niky Wardley

Niky

Indira Varma (Levene) in Glengarry Glen Ross at The Old Vic (2026). Photo by Manuel Harla

Indira Varma

Rosa Salazar

Nancy Crane

Dorothea Myer-Bennett

Rosa Salazar and Dorothea Myer-Bennett

Dorothea Myer-Bennett and Rosa Salazar

Indira Varma and Rosa Salazar

Mercedes Bahleda

Florence Odumosu

Rosa Salazar and Mercedes Bahleda

The Company

Derek Jacobi, Anjana Vasan, & More Join ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING Season 6

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 10:39:54 PST

The casting announcements continue for Season 6 of Only Murders in the Building. Following Wednesday's reveal of seven new recurring guest stars, an additional eight have been added to the cast of the upcoming sixth season of Hulu's comedy, which is currently in production in the UK.

Joining the cast are esteemed stage and screen star Derek Jacobi, Olivier winner Anjana Vasan, Olivier nominee Jane Horrocks, Sherlock star Martin Freeman, comedian Jamie Demetriou, former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell Horner, and Downton Abbey's Lesley Nicol. All will appear as recurring guest stars.

Variety was the first to report the news, which was confirmed by the official social media account. No word yet on the nature of their new characters or the plot of the upcoming season. They join West End alum Jennifer Saunders, Sean Teale, Bridgerton's Simone Ashley, Amar Chadha-Patel, Cabaret alum Rhea Norwood, Tony Award-nominee Matthew Beard and Sharon Horgan.

The new season will once again star Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez as podcasters/sleths Charles, Oliver, and Mabel, respectively. The show follows the trio as they solve unexpected deaths that occur in (or around) their New York apartment building, podcasting all along the way. This time around, the trio heads to London, where they attempt to solve a murder that occurred during the Season 5 finale.

The fifth season, which aired in 2025, explored New York City's mob scene while investigating the murder of doorman Lester, who was found dead in the season 4 finale. New cast members included Beanie Feldstein, Jermaine Fowler, Renée Zellweger, Christoph Waltz, Téa Leoni, Dianne Wiest, Keegan-Michael Key, and Logan Lerman. Meryl Streep, Richard Kind, James Caverly, and Nathan Lane also returned as guest stars for that season.

Derek Jacobi Photo Credit: Pamela Raith; Anjana Vasan Photo Credit: Bruce Glikas

MEAN GIRLS West End Tour Cancels Belfast Run Amid Violent Riots

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 10:18:56 PST

The West End touring production of Mean Girls has cancelled its entire run at Belfast's Grand Opera House amid violent civil unrest that has swept across Northern Ireland this week.

The show was scheduled to play the Grand Opera House from June 9 through June 20. However, following serious rioting that broke out on Tuesday and Wednesday, producers made the decision to pull the remaining performances. Ticket holders received an email from the Grand Opera House confirming the full cancellation.

"Given the uncertainty caused by the unrest in recent days, the producers of Mean Girls have taken the difficult decision to cancel the musical's run at the Grand Opera House," the email read. "We know that customers will share our disappointment, and on behalf of the producers and the Theatre, we apologise for any inconvenience caused." Full refunds will be issued within the next two weeks.

The violence was sparked following a knife attack in north Belfast on Monday, in which a man in his 40s suffered serious injuries. A 30-year-old Sudanese man, Hadi Alodid, has been charged with attempted murder and possession of a bladed article.

The attack prompted widespread rioting across parts of Northern Ireland, with police deploying water cannon after a masked mob attacked officers in Glengormley. Vehicles, a house, and cars were torched, and petrol bombs were thrown at police in Portadown. Twelve officers have been injured and 16 arrests were made as of Wednesday evening.

Mean Girls is currently on tour across the UK.

Video: Jamie Muscato and Joy Woods in CABARET AT THE KIT KAT CLUB in London

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 09:42:23 PST

All new footage has been released for CABARET at the Kit Kat Club starring West End star and Olivier Award nominee Jamie Muscato as Emcee and Tony and Grammy Award nominated Broadway star Joy Woods as Sally Bowles. Check out the video here!

They star alongside Baker Mukasa as Clifford Bradshaw, Ruthie Henshall as Fraulein Schneider, Robert Hands as Herr Schultz, Lucas Koch as Ernst Ludwig and Jessica Kirton as Fraulein Kost/Fritzie, Joe Atkinson, Xavion Campbell-Brown, Olivia-Rose Deer, Anya Ferdinand, Danny Fogarty, Adrian Grove, Ela Lisondra, Hícaro Nicolai, Andy Rees, Alexandra Regan, Manu Sarswat, Tom Scanlon, Eva-Rose Tanaka, Marina Tavolieri and Lucy Young.

Jamie Muscato’s final performance will be Saturday 19 September 2026. Joy Woods final performance will be Saturday 5 September 2026. From 7 – 19 September 2026 the role of Sally Bowles will be played by Marina Tavolieri.

The Prologue Company are Isobel Bates, Rachel Benson, Ami Benton, Jonathan Charles, Shanelle Clemenson, Andrew Linnie, Zara Liu, Dak Mashava, Brian James O’Sullivan, Jack William Parry and Shiho Yokoyama.

CABARET is directed by Rebecca Frecknall, set and costume design is by Tom Scutt with choreography by Julia Cheng. Musical supervision is by Jennifer Whyte and musical direction is by Ben van Tienen with lighting design by Isabella Byrd, sound design by Nick Lidster, Wigs and Hair design by Sam Cox and Make-Up design by Guy Common. The casting director is Stuart Burt and the original associate director and prologue director is Jordan Fein. The prologue composer is Angus MacRae and the musical director is Ben Van Tienen.

Click Here to Play!

Video: AVENUE Q West End Cast Performs 'The Internet Is For Porn'

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 09:32:39 PST

AVENUE Q's West End cast performed "The Internet Is For Porn" in an all new clip, giving audiences a look inside the Tony Award-winning musical's run at the Shaftesbury Theatre. Check out the video here!

AVENUE Q follows a recent college graduate named Princeton as he navigates life in a shabby New York apartment building populated by human characters and puppets alike. The show blends adult humor with surprisingly sincere themes about purpose, disappointment, and finding one's place in the world.

The West End production is currently booking at the Shaftesbury Theatre. As previously reported by BroadwayWorld, the run has been extended through Sunday, January 3, 2027.

The production stars Emily Benjamin as Kate Monster and Lucy The Slut, Noah Harrison as Princeton and Rod, Meg Hateley as Mrs T and Bad Idea Bear, Oliver Jacobson as Brian, Charlie McCullagh as Nicky, Trekkie Monster and Bad Idea Bear, Amelia Kinu Muus as Christmas Eve and Dionne Ward-Anderson as Gary.

The London engagement is part of a broader wave of AVENUE Q activity. Conejo Players Theatre in Thousand Oaks is also staging the musical this June, and a production in Zurich sold out its entire run before opening night.

Click Here to Play!

LIBERACE & LIZA – A TRIBUTE to Make West End Debut at Harold Pinter Theatre

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 08:08:51 PST

Following its UK tour, Liberace & Liza – A Tribute will make its West End debut with a special season at the Harold Pinter Theatre from 24 June.

Starring the extraordinary David Saffert and Jillian Snow, the show imagines what might have happened had two of entertainment's most flamboyant icons shared the stage. The result is a joyous blend of virtuosic musicianship, powerhouse vocals, comedy and camp spectacle.

For Snow, stepping into Minnelli's shoes is both exhilarating and daunting. “Playing Liza can be terrifying,” she admits. “She's my hero—a goddess—and I would never want to poke fun at her. The key is staying authentic. She doesn't just perform a song, she lives it. That's what we try to do: inhabit every lyric and bring the audience along for the journey.”

Saffert agrees, noting that the musical arrangements themselves helped shape their onstage dynamic. “We'd find moments to push things further—maybe a wildly over-the-top piano flourish from Liberace, or a dramatic or comedic turn from Liza. Those little musical ‘conversations' became the foundation of their relationship. Now it's like watching two megastars who are best friends—though Liza might have developed a bit of a crush on Liberace,” he adds with a grin.

The show blends classic hits such as Cabaret, New York, New York, and Over the Rainbow with unexpected modern twists, including covers of Britney Spears and Lady Gaga.

Hackney Empire to Launch 16-Month 125th Anniversary Celebration With Hackney:Central Vision

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 07:57:05 PST

Hackney Empire has announced the first plans for the venue's landmark 125th anniversary year, as the much-loved East London theatre looks ahead to a major new chapter under the banner of Hackney:Central - supporting the ambitions of artists & young people, forging new partnerships, premiering new productions, and making Hackney more central to the local, London and national theatre landscape.

Since 1901, Hackney Empire has stood at the centre of its community, creating unforgettable experiences, championing global majority and under-represented creatives, igniting change with young people and communities, on and off its stage. As the Grade II* listed venue prepares to celebrate its 125th birthday in December 2026, a 16-month programme will celebrate the artists, audiences and communities who have shaped its story, and step into a new chapter as a cultural and creative home for Hackney, London and beyond.

The first phase of anniversary activity will begin with a special launch weekend on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September, with an outdoor festival stage curated by the venue's Young Producers; an exhibition celebrating iconic, pivotal and radical moments from Hackney Empire's 125 year-history; the launch of a new football kit for Hackney Women's FC, inspired by the theatre, in collaboration with London College of Fashion; and an invitation for residents and visitors to discover and rediscover “London's most beautiful theatre” (Time Out).

Chris Sudworth said, “Hackney Empire is a unique and magical venue, delivering iconic experiences of theatre, comedy, music and cultural change with the people of Hackney since 1901. Our 125th anniversary is a moment of huge celebration, and a moment to look forward, imagining what is possible.

“Hackney:Central builds on our history and looks to the future - central to supporting the ambitions of artists and young people, central to the development of a more representative arts workforce, central to new partnerships, productions and collaborations, central to the lives of local people and ever-more central to the local, London and national arts narrative.

“I'm excited, proud and honoured to be leading Hackney Empire into its 125th year, alongside our committed, caring and talented team, and to share the first phase of plans for a year that will celebrate our history, our community and our future.”

Following September's launch weekend, October is a month of shared celebrations. On Thursday 8 October, internationally acclaimed company Theatre Re, led by Hackney based Director Guillaume Pige, will open the 10th anniversary tour of its multi-award-winning global hit production The Nature of Forgetting.

On Tuesday 13 October, Hackney Empire will host and partner on Talawa's 40th Anniversary Showcase, celebrating four decades of the company pioneering Black excellence in British theatre with a star-studded line up, to be announced; reflecting Hackney Empire's own continued commitment to championing global majority creatives and communities.

Thursday 22 October sees Hackney Empire launch Empire Nights, a new live series reimagining the venue's variety history, with some of the most exciting names in comedy, music and culture, curated by a special guest host. This first edition will be hosted by Jamali Maddix, whose handpicked line-up includes Guz Khan, Michelle de Swarte, Kyrah Gray, Manga St Hilare and DJ Lex Blondin, plus a very special music guest to be announced.

November celebrates Hackney Empire's status as an iconic comedy venue, and its influential role in the 1980s renaissance of alternative comedy, welcoming back early headliners Lenny Henry (Tuesday 3 November) and Jo Brand (Thursday 5 November).

The season culminates with the legendary Hackney pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, featuring the return of Clive Rowe as Dame, who also directs following the success of his award-nominated 2025 production of Cinderella. There are promises of special 125th Anniversary content to be revealed later in the year.

Looking ahead to 2027, plans are well advanced for further exciting co-productions, signalling the ambition of this new chapter, with more details set to be announced in September. Already announced is Nanny of the Maroons, a major new co-production from Belgrade Theatre, Hackney Empire and tiata fahodzi. Written by Corey Campbell and Lucia Haynes, directed by Corey Campbell and Justine Themen, with music and lyrics by Corah Fowles, Nanny of the Maroons will receive its world premiere at the Belgrade Theatre in June 2027 before playing Hackney Empire from Wednesday 7 to Sunday 11 July 2027; and will feature local ensembles alongside the touring company.

Hackney Empire has also confirmed support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for development work that will help plan the next stage of the building's story. Thanks to National Lottery players, this phase will support preparations for future capital works, audience and community consultation, and research into Hackney Empire's heritage, including the diverse artists, audiences and communities who have shaped the venue's story since 1901. This programme will also celebrate the extraordinary impact, artistic and skills legacy, and future of Hackney Empire's Creative Futures programme, which will celebrate its own 25th anniversary in 2027.

Further announcements about Hackney Empire's 125th anniversary year, including additional programme, heritage, community and fundraising activity, will be made in the coming months.

Hackney Empire to Launch 16-Month 125th Anniversary Celebration With Hackney:Central Vision

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 07:57:05 PST

Further announcements about Hackney Empire's 125th anniversary year, including additional programme, heritage, community and fundraising activity, will be made in the coming months.

Lucie Jones Will Reprise Role of 'Jenna' in WAITRESS UK Tour

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 07:05:42 PST

West End star Lucie Jones will return to reprise the role of Jenna in the UK and Ireland tour of the smash hit romantic musical comedy WAITRESS, playing King's Theatre, Glasgow, Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield and Lowry, Salford.

Lucie Jones returns to Waitress having previously played Jenna in both the West End and on tour, for which she was nominated for Best Performer in a Musical at the What's On Stage Awards. Her numerous theatre credits include the role of Fantine in Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre and as part of the Les Misérables Arena Concert Spectacular world tour, Jenna Rink in the world premiere of 13 Going On 30 – The Musical at the Manchester Opera House, Molly in Ghost at the Adelphi Theatre and the international tour, Genevieve in The Baker's Wife at the Menier Chocolate Factory, Elphaba in Wicked at The Apollo Victoria, for which she won Best Takeover at the What's On Stage Awards and West End Wilma Awards, Maureen in RENT at The Other Palace and UK tour, Elle Woods in Legally Blonde at Curve, Leicester and on tour, Victoria in American Psycho at the Almeida, Meatloaf in the international arena tour of We Will Rock You and Cosette in Les Misérables at the Queen's Theatre.

The production currently stars Carrie Hope Fletcher as Jenna, Sandra Marvin as Becky, Evelyn Hoskins as Dawn, Les Dennis as Joe, Dan Partridge as Dr Pomatter, Mark Anderson as Ogie, Mark Willshire as Earl and Dan O'Brien as Cal.

The company is completed by Will Arundell, Yochabel Asante, Alice Croft, Jamie Doncaster, Daniel George-Wright, Will Hardy, Bayley Hart, Olivia Lallo, Emma Lucia, David Mairs-McKenzie and Ellie Ruiz Rodriguez.

Emma Lucia is scheduled to play the role of Jenna for Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre (24-29 August) and Hull New Theatre (1-5 September).

Carrie Hope Fletcher's final performance will be Saturday 29 September 2026. Sandra Marvin's final performance will be Saturday 22 August 2026. Casting for the role of Becky for the rest of the tour to be announced.

WAITRESS is based on the 2007 movie written by Adrienne Shelly. Music and lyrics are written by GRAMMY award-winning, singer-songwriter sensation Sara Bareilles. With a book by Jessie Nelson, direction by Tony-award winner Diane Paulus and choreography by Lorin Latarro, Waitress has garnered multiple awards and nominations in both America and the UK, receiving acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.

Celebrating 10 years of production, WAITRESS opened on Broadway on 24th April 2016 at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre, where it ran until 5th January 2020. Waitress celebrated its official opening night at the Adelphi Theatre in London's West End on 7th March 2019. The show has gone on to global success with further productions in North America, Japan, Holland, a French language production in Canada, a Spanish language production in Mexico, and coming this spring of 2026 an Australian production in Melbourne and Sydney.

WAITRESS tells the story of Jenna, an expert pie maker in a small town, who dreams of a way out of her loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town's new doctor may offer her a chance at a new life, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes to happiness. But Jenna must find the courage and strength within herself to rebuild her life. This beautiful musical celebrates friendship, motherhood, and the magic of a well-made pie.

CRYBABIES: THE SCARING to Transfer to Soho Theatre After Edinburgh Fringe Run

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 07:03:36 PST

Hot off the heels of their brand-new upcoming Edinburgh Fringe 2026 show, The Scaring will transfer to Soho Theatre this September. The trio join forces with Olivier Award-winning Fleabag and Baby Reindeer producers Francesca Moody Productions and director Jon Brittain (Baby Reindeer, Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder!), to present a terrifying tale of fear, faith, fathers (dads), fathers (priests), fantoms (phantoms), and finally moving on.

The Scaring marks Crybabies' return to Soho Theatre, where they have previously presented two wildly critically acclaimed shows Bagbeard and Danger Brigade. The production also follows in the footsteps of previous Francesca Moody Productions' transfers to Soho Theatre, including Fleabag and Weather Girl.

When former priest Arthur Holland checks into a remote hotel, he soon finds out it's not just the breakfast buffet which poses a threat to life. Forced into an unlikely double act with Gerry, the ghost of a long-dead guest, Arthur must tackle demons both public and private under the watchful eye of Mr Lyle - the hotel's Norman Bates-esque manager.

With absurd characters, classic horror tropes, and a plot that twists itself into ever stranger territory, The Scaring combines Crybabies' signature blend of surreal sketch, narrative ambition, and theatrical mischief. Expect Shakespearean zombies, broken-armed serial killers and walking waxworks, in a frightening tale where not everything is as it seems. Or rather, as it screams.

Despite the chaos, it all makes sense. The Scaring moves at a breakneck pace, with Crybabies shapeshifting through dozens of roles and whiplash-fast costume changes – often within the same scene. The sheer number of characters, the speed of the switches, and the fact that the audience somehow always knows exactly who's who border on the miraculous.

The show embraces a sharper visual ambition this year, with moments of genuinely slick theatricality - but it never loses the ramshackle brilliance Crybabies are known for. Expect high drama built from low-budget nonsense: costumes assembled from scraps, effects powered by suggestion, and set pieces that are both ridiculous and ridiculously effective. It's big-budget horror on a shoestring; ambitious, theatrical, and still held together with gaffer tape.

The Scaring marks a bold new chapter for Crybabies: bigger, stranger, and more ambitious than ever. Produced by Francesca Moody Productions - the Olivier award-winning powerhouse behind Fleabag, Baby Reindeer and Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder!, in association with award-winning comedy and podcast company Plosive Live - this is Crybabies with the volume up. It's slicker, spookier, and somehow even sillier.

Over the last few years, all three Crybabies have been quietly levelling up. They've been working on a new BBC radio series, developing projects for screen, and popping up on TV including roles in Jack Rooke's award-winning Channel 4 series Big Boys, Disney's Extraordinary and Ricky Gervais' After Life on Netflix. Their solo careers have taken exciting steps forward, while their collective chaos has only grown more refined.

Following the success of Danger Brigade and Bagbeard, both of which transferred to Soho Theatre, Crybabies have built a loyal, slightly obsessed fanbase. With their signature blend of chaos, tenderness and theatrical invention, Crybabies have become one of the UK's most distinctive, and best-loved sketch acts.

The trio's BBC radio series Crybabies Present… saw the boys take the big screen to your normal-sized radios across the country. The series launched in 2024 with Bagbeard , followed by Yours, Fatally last August, with both earning nominations at the BBC Audio Drama Awards in 2025 and 2026 respectively.

Crybabies said: “We're thrilled to be performing at Soho Theatre for the first time since 2023. And because the world hasn't become terrifying enough in those convening years, we thought we'd do a horror. Inspired by everything from Scary Movie to scary movies, we're determined to put even more boos into the Soho evening air. The fact we've managed to drag the good folks of FMP into it is still, quite frankly, baffling.”

Francesca Moody said: “I'm delighted that we're transferring this horrifyingly funny show to Soho Theatre. It's hugely exciting to be bringing together the comic genius of Crybabies with the imagination of a top tier creative team led by Jon Brittain. This wonderfully talented group of people are making something ambitious, surprising and truly terrifying.”

The Scaring is directed by Jon Brittain (Baby Reindeer, Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder!), with Set and Costume by Cecilia Carey (Baby Reindeer, Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder!), Lighting by Bethany Gupwell (The Virgins, Twelfth Night), Sound by Ed Lewis (Stage Fright: Inside Number 9, A View from the Bridge) and Video by Nina Dunn (Avenue Q, The Shark is Broken).

CRYBABIES: THE SCARING to Transfer to Soho Theatre After Edinburgh Fringe Run

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 07:03:36 PST

Daniel Krikler Will Lead World Premiere of THE PIANIST Musical

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:15:19 PST

Daniel Krikler will star as Wladyslaw Szpilman in the new musical stage adaptation of Szpilman's internationally acclaimed memoir, The Pianist, the inspiration behind Roman Polanski's Academy Award-winning film.

Written and directed by Thom Southerland (Titanic the Musical), The Pianist will run at Park Theatre, London, from 15 October to 28 November 2026, with a national press night on Thursday 22 October. Before its London opening, the production will play a limited run at Mayflower Studios, Southampton, from 9 to 12 September 2026.

This landmark new production brings his story and music together on stage for the first time, featuring Szpilman's own compositions with new musical arrangements by Simon Lee, Andrew Lloyd Webber's long-time Musical Director.

The creative team is led by adaptor and director Thom Southerland, with new arrangements, musical supervision, and orchestrations by Simon Lee, choreography & movement direction by Karen Bruce, set and video design by Andrzej Goulding, lighting design by Robbie Butler, sound design by Gareth Tucker for Autograph Sound, costume design by Jonathan Lipman, musical direction by Malcolm Forbes-Peckham, assistant direction by Josh Whatsize, casting by Ginny Schiller CDG and casting assistance by Ben Armstrong. Executive producing and general management by DEM Productions.

Daniel Krikler said, “I couldn't be more honoured and excited to be bringing Wladyslaw's life to the stage, especially in a way that truly celebrates his own compositions through phenomenal live musicians and orchestrations. As well as being a timely reminder of what happens when we dehumanise a particular section of society, Szpilman's story demonstrates the true universality and power of music.”

Best known worldwide through his memoir and the Academy Award-winning film it inspired, Wladyslaw Szpilman was not only a Holocaust survivor, but one of Poland's most celebrated composers and pianists.

The production will feature new lyrics by an international group of writers and musicians, bringing fresh voice to Szpilman's original compositions. The lyricists and songwriters include two-time Grammy nominee Carol Connors, acclaimed songwriter David Batteau, jazz singer Wendy Lands and collaborator Jim Gillard, Grammy-nominated Michael Ruff, Szpilman's son Andreas Szpilman, and award-winning lyricist Marcy Heisler. Together, their work allows Szpilman's music to sit at the heart of the production, not simply as accompaniment, but as another voice in the telling of his story.

Thom Southerland said, “The Pianist is a story that has lived with me for many years, and I feel deeply honoured to be bringing it to the stage. At its heart is Wladyslaw Szpilman's extraordinary journey of survival, but what moves me most is the humanity that shines through the darkest of circumstances. It is a story about compassion, courage, and the moments of kindness that can change the course of a life.

“Throughout this process, it has been a genuine privilege to collaborate with the Szpilman family. Their trust in us to tell Wladyslaw's story is something I carry with great responsibility, and their insight has been invaluable in helping us bring him to life not only as a survivor, but as an artist, a father, and a man whose music was inseparable from who he was.

“I have also been incredibly fortunate to work alongside an exceptional team of creatives. Collaborating with Karen Bruce, Simon Lee, Robbie Butler, and the extraordinary Daniel Krikler, who embodies Szpilman with such sensitivity and depth, has been a constant source of inspiration. Every person involved has brought immense passion and care to this production, united by a desire to honour the truth of this story.

“One of the aspects of the production I am most excited to share is the music. Beyond the story that many people know, there exists a wealth of beautiful and often overlooked music composed by Szpilman himself. To unearth these works and allow audiences to experience them in the context of his life feels incredibly special. His music becomes another voice in the telling of this story, one that speaks of loss, hope, memory and ultimately survival.

“As we prepare to share The Pianist with audiences, I am reminded of why this story continues to resonate across generations. In a world that can often feel divided, it reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of art to sustain us, connect us, and, at times, save us. I hope audiences are moved not only by what Szpilman endured, but by what he created, and by the enduring belief that even in the darkest moments, humanity and beauty can prevail.”

Producer Michael Wolk said, “I've been delighted to see how melding Wladyslaw Szpilman's brilliant melodies with his riveting memoir makes THE PIANIST a completely new experience. The movie and book tell Szpilman's story, but Szpilman's score reveals his heart and soul, which gives our production a remarkable immediacy and intimacy.”

A cast of virtuoso actor-musicians conjures the golden age of Jewish Warsaw in all its warmth and wit: the packed concert halls, the candlelit cafés, the irrepressible spirit of a city that loved music above all else.

Original compositions from the so-called "Polish Gershwin" score his story: popular songs that had Warsaw humming, compositions that made him a star.

At its heart, this is a love letter to culture, to the artists and dreamers who carried it, and to the extraordinary power of creativity to outlast even the most turbulent chapters of history. Szpilman's music doesn't merely accompany this story; it breathes life into it, binding past to present and reminding us that some things, once made, can never truly be silenced.

Szpilman's memoir became known worldwide as the basis for Roman Polanski's Academy Award-winning film, but this production marks the first time his music and story are brought together in a major musical for the stage.

Daniel Krikler Will Lead World Premiere of THE PIANIST Musical

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:15:19 PST

Original compositions from the so-called "Polish Gershwin" score his story: popular songs that had Warsaw humming, compositions that made him a star.

Charlie Burn and Ashley Gilmour Will Lead UK Premiere of JANE EYRE THE MUSICAL

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:14:08 PST

West End stars Charlie Burn (Jane) and Ashley Gilmour (Rochester) will lead the cast of Jane Eyre, a musical by John Caird and Paul Gordon based on the novel by Charlotte Brontë, for its UK Premiere at Southwark Playhouse Elephant for a strictly limited season from 28 August – 24 October 2026.

Charlie Burn most recently played the role of Cady Heron in Mean Girls at the Savoy Theatre West End and starred as Cosette in Les Misérables on the UK & Ireland Tour, in Les Misérables: The Staged Concert and in the West End production at the Sondheim Theatre.

Ashley Gilmour is currently starring in the West End production of The Phantom of the Opera having played the lead role of Chris in the UK and International Tour of Miss Saigon as well as in the West End. His other credits include My Fair Lady and Evita at Curve and in Les Misérables in the West End.

Charlie Burn said “I'm so honoured to be joining the cast of the UK premiere of Jane Eyre, a sweepingly beautiful musical that brings one of literature's most beloved female icons to life. The opportunity to work with theatrical royalty like John Caird, Paul Gordon and Megan McGinnis is incredibly special, and I can't wait to get started.”

Ashley Gilmour said “It's hugely exciting to join the cast of this wonderful musical, marking the first time it has been seen on UK stages. Playing alongside the great Charlie Burn is set to be a thrill and I can't wait to bring this epic story to the intimate setting of Southwark Playhouse, Elephant.”

Jane Eyre will be co-directed by RSC and National Theatre director John Caird, who previously adapted and co-directed the original production of Les Misérables in the West End, on Broadway and across the world. Most recently he directed the hugely successful and critically acclaimed stage adaptation of Spirited Away at the London Coliseum. Broadway's Megan McGinnis, star of Beauty and the Beast, Little Women and Beetlejuice, will co-direct alongside John Caird. Full cast and creative team will be announced soon.

Jane's journey, from cruelly-used orphan to independent womanhood, centres on the dark and beautiful Thornfield Hall and its owner, the mysterious and conflicted Edward Rochester. Here Jane is caught up in a web of secrets and lies, physical and moral danger, self-doubt, betrayal and heart-breaking loss. How she restores herself, through inner strength, self-knowledge and forgiveness, gives this passionate story the most moving and uplifting resolution.

Charlotte Brontë's romance, derived from her own life story, is imbued with her own brand of fervent feminism, but also has elements of the gothic and the supernatural, both derived from her profound spiritual beliefs. These complexities and ambiguities are brought to vivid life in the figure of her heroine, the vulnerable, witty, lovable and indomitable Jane.

Jane Eyre originally premiered in Toronto in 1996 and was subsequently produced on Broadway in 2000, being nominated for five Tony Awards. Adam Blanshay Productions is partnering with the original Canadian producers, David and Hannah Mirvish, for the 30th Anniversary year of the show.

Charlie Burn and Ashley Gilmour Will Lead UK Premiere of JANE EYRE THE MUSICAL

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:14:08 PST

BRITAIN'S GOT TALENT Semi-Finalist Fraser Penman Will Join NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:11:50 PST

2026 Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist Fraser Penman will join the stage illusion spectacular NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE as special guest act. The show runs at the London Coliseum for 5 weeks only from Friday 31 July to Sunday 6 September 2026. Tickets are on sale now.

Fraser Penman is rapidly emerging as one of the UK's most distinctive new live entertainment stars — a modern Scottish albino stage hypnotist redefining an age-old art form for a new generation.

A Britain's Got Talent Semi Finalist, West End performer, and viral sensation with more than 10 million social media views, Fraser has captivated audiences both online and on stage with his cinematic presence, emotionally charged performances, and striking visual identity. In 2026, Fraser reached millions through his standout appearance on Britain's Got Talent.

Fraser has performed before audiences of more than 3,000 at legendary venues including the Eventim Apollo and the Blackpool Winter Gardens, while continuing to build a devoted international following through his live shows and digital content.

Blending hypnosis, psychology, storytelling, humour, and imagination, Fraser creates immersive experiences that transcend traditional stage hypnosis, leaving audiences inspired long after the curtain falls. His fresh, modern approach has led to collaborations with comedians, influencers, musicians, and television personalities, alongside appearances across major UK broadcasters including ITV and BBC.

His performances have received widespread acclaim across the UK and internationally, including multiple sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe — the world's largest arts festival — cementing his reputation as one of the most exciting emerging names in contemporary live entertainment.

Fraser joins the previously announced “The Horsemen”: internationally acclaimed illusion designer and performer, Enzo Weyne*; one of the world's leading escapologists, Andrew Basso; a dynamic rising star of modern magic, Gabriella Lester; award-winning British magician and master storyteller, Matthew Pomeroy and next-generation manipulation artist and special guest star Eden Choi**.

NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE, inspired by Lionsgate's worldwide blockbuster franchise, Now You See Me, will bring the magic to life with a mix of high-tech illusions, solo stunts, and jaw-dropping spectacles.

A world-class magic ensemble inspired by the film's characters, “The Horsemen” will stun audiences in a showcase of unmatched synergy. Assembling from around the globe, they will bring an unbelievable arsenal of solo skills, shocking twists and grand feats of illusion to London this summer.

NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE has been dazzling audiences across Australia and Singapore, playing to packed houses - including a completely sold-out run at the Sydney Opera House. Critics at The Sydney Morning Herald called it “a mind-blowing spectacle of illusion and storytelling,” while Broadway World said, “your jaw will hit the floor…a high-energy blend of wonder, humour and jaw-dropping illusions,” cementing its status as a must-see event.

NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE is brought to the stage by Simon Painter (Co-Creator, Executive Producer), Adam Trent (Co-Creator), Tim Lawson (Executive Producer), Ash Jacks McCready (Creative Director, Staging Director), Kirsty White (Creative Director), and Enzo Weyne (Illusion Director), and is co-produced by Runaway Entertainment, BOS Productions and Timothy Laczynski, by arrangement with Lionsgate.

The Now You See Me film franchise was produced by Lionsgate and earned $929 million at the global box office. The franchise is based on characters created by Boaz Yakin & Edward Ricourt and includes two hit films and a third instalment, Now You See Me: Now You Don't, which premiered in theatres last November. The film was directed by Ruben Fleischer, with a screenplay by Seth Grahame-Smith, Michael Lesslie, Paul Wernick, and Rhett Reese, and based on a story by Eric Warren Singer.

BRITAIN'S GOT TALENT Semi-Finalist Fraser Penman Will Join NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:11:50 PST

Fraser Penman is rapidly emerging as one of the UK's most distinctive new live entertainment stars — a modern Scottish albino stage hypnotist redefining an age-old art form for a new generation.

NOW YOU SEE ME LIVE, inspired by Lionsgate's worldwide blockbuster franchise, Now You See Me, will bring the magic to life with a mix of high-tech illusions, solo stunts, and jaw-dropping spectacles.

Jinkx Monsoon Will Make West End Debut Reprising Role in OH, MARY!

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:07:10 PST

Jinkx Monsoon will make her West End debut, reprising her performance as Mary Todd Lincoln in OH, MARY!, a role she sold-out during her 8-week run on Broadway and subsequent encore engagement. Jinkx will play a strictly limited 6-week season at Trafalgar Theatre from 17 August until 26 September 2026.

The Olivier and Tony Award-winning comedy OH, MARY! recently extended its West End run and is now booking until 2 January 2027.

Check out photos from Jinkx's Broadway run in Oh, Mary! here.

About Jinkx Monsoon

Jinkx Monsoon can currently be seen as Judy Garland in Peter Quilter's End of the Rainbow at Soho Theatre, Walthamstow. She is an award-winning actress, comedian, recording artist, and the first and only drag queen to win RuPaul's Drag Race twice. In just two years, she has become a Broadway breakout star and box office draw with critically acclaimed performances including Mary Todd Lincoln in the Tony-winning smash hit, Oh, Mary!, Matron "Mama" Morton in Chicago (where she broke box office records during an extended 10-week run), Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors off-Broadway opposite Corbin Bleu, and Ruth in the Tony-nominated revival, Pirates! The Penzance Musical - which landed Jinkx her first Drama League Award nomination.

In addition to Broadway, Jinkx blew audiences away last year with her performance as Maestro on the beloved British sci-fi series Doctor Who (BBC / Disney+). She has toured the world performing original cabaret shows with music partner Major Scales, including the hit Off-Broadway sensation The Vaudevillians, as well as six international tours of the wildly successful The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show with longtime collaborator and RuPaul's Drag Race alum BenDeLaCreme. In 2023, she embarked on her first major concert tour with a live band titled "Jinkx Monsoon: Everything at Stake" which performed in sold-out theatres across 44 cities, and in 2025 she headlined her first Carnegie Hall concert which also sold out. Jinkx is due to tour the UK later this year with her new show, Speaking of Witch.

Additional accolades include the Gregory Award for her portrayal of Hedwig in Hedwig and the Angry Inch and The MAC Award for original show, The Ginger Snapped. As a recording artist, Jinkx has released three critically-hailed albums of original music written by Major Scales including The Virgo Odyssey, The Inevitable Album and The Ginger Snapped.

As a voice actor, Jinkx has voiced characters for animated shows such as "Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake" (playing the iconic character Lemongrab), "Steven Universe" (playing Emerald), "Helluva Boss," "Mighty Magiswords," "Bravest Warriors," and more.

Jinkx first garnered an international fan base following her win on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 5 (2013) and continued her winning streak on RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 7 (2022) where she was crowned “Queen of All Queens,” winning the competition against all previous winners.

About Oh, Mary!

OH, MARY! currently stars Catherine Tate as Mary Todd Lincoln, Kate O'Donnell as Mary's Chaperone, Oliver Stockley as Mary's Husband's Assistant, with Dino Fetscher as Mary's Teacher, and Scott Karim as Mary's Husband.

Catherine Tate's final performance as Mary Todd Lincoln will be Saturday 18 July. Cole Escola will then reprise their Tony Award-winning role as Mary Todd Lincoln for a strictly limited 4-week season from 20 July until 15 August 2026. Casting for the role of Mary Todd Lincoln from 28 September 2026 onwards is to be announced.

OH, MARY! is a dark comedy about a miserable, suffocated Mary Todd Lincoln in the weeks leading up to Abraham Lincoln's assassination. Unrequited yearning, alcoholism, and suppressed desires abound in this 80-minute one-act play that finally examines the forgotten life and dreams of Mrs. Lincoln, through the lens of an idiot (playwright Cole Escola).

OH, MARY! received Tony Awards for Best Leading Actor in a Play (Cole Escola) and Best Direction of a Play (Sam Pinkleton), Drama League Awards for Outstanding Play and Outstanding Direction of a Play, as well as a special citation from the New York Drama Critics' Circle. It was named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

OH, MARY! premiered off-Broadway at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in January 2024, before a Broadway transfer to the Lyceum Theatre in July 2024, where it broke box office records and continues to play to sold out audiences. It had its West End premiere at Trafalgar Theatre on 3 December 2025 and won Best Entertainment or Comedy Play at this year's Olivier Awards. This Autumn, OH, MARY! will also launch a US National Tour.

In addition to Cole Escola (Writer) and Sam Pinkleton (Director), the full creative team includes dots (Scenic Designer), Holly Pierson (Costume Designer), Cha See (Lighting Designer), Daniel Kluger (Sound Design and Music), Drew Levy (Sound Designer), Leah J. Loukas (Wig Designer), David Dabbon (Arrangements) with Casting by Stuart Burt CDG.

Associate creatives include Zoë Hurwitz (Scenic), Debo Andrews (Costume), Tom Turner (Lighting), Chris Reid (Sound), Kim Kasim (Wigs), and Caitlin Morgan (Music Direction).

SYLVIA to Host Largest Ever UK Education Matinee at Royal Albert Hall

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:04:18 PST

Go Live Theatre has announced the largest education performance ever staged in the UK with the Olivier Award-nominated musical production Sylvia on Friday 13 November at the Royal Albert Hall, where the production concludes its run.

Thanks to the support of The Garek Trust, Go Live Theatre will be able to welcome almost 5000 children and young people to the performance, continuing Go Live's commitment to improving access to live theatre for young people. Each ticket will be priced at £10.

The critically acclaimed musical Sylvia tells the story of activist Sylvia Pankhurst and her role in the Suffragette movement, set against a soundtrack blending hip hop, funk, soul and gospel. The production stars Olivier Award winner Beverley Knight, with direction and choreography by Kate Prince.

Sita McIntosh, CEO of Go Live Theatre today said, "We are thrilled to be staging our largest ever education matinee with the acclaimed production Sylvia at the Royal Albert Hall this November. We know first-hand the lasting impact that live theatre can have on young people - with thanks to The Garek Trust nearly 5000 children and young people have the opportunity to experience this inspiring production.”

Beverly Knight, Patron of Go Live Theatre, commented, “It's such a privilege to be a part of such a landmark event. To welcome nearly 5000 young people into the Royal Albert Hall to experience the power of live theatre through Sylvia feels incredibly special - and there could not be a more fitting venue for a story about courage, activism and freedom.”

Eleanor Lloyd, co-Producer of Sylvia, added, “Sylvia has had a remarkable journey from The Old Vic to a UK Tour and now finishing at the Royal Albert Hall with the biggest education matinee ever staged in the UK. The story of Sylvia Pankhurst remains as powerful and relevant as ever, and this production offers young people an inspiring and accessible way into that history. We're honoured to collaborate with Go Live Theatre, whose work continues to transform access to live performance for thousands of young people.”

The Royal Albert Hall holds a significant place in suffragette history, having hosted more than 20 suffragette rallies and some of the movement's most important speeches in the fight for women's right to vote. Suffragettes were subsequently banned from the Hall between 1913 and 1918, making Sylvia's arrival at the venue especially resonant.

Since its inception as Mousetrap Theatre Projects in 1997, Go Live Theatre, has enabled more than 275,000 children and young people to experience the joy of live theatre, with that number growing exponentially. The company work with those from disadvantaged and/or vulnerable backgrounds for whom a trip to the theatre is out of reach because of economic or physical reasons or quite simply, relevance. Working on a wide variety of programmes with producers and venues, Go Live Theatre exist to change that.

Go Live Theatre are committed to cultivating the next generation of audiences and/or creative talent by igniting a passion for theatre from an early age through trips to the theatres, impactful programmes and inspiring workshops.

The organisation presented the very first relaxed performance of a West End show back in 2012 with Shrek the Musical and since then have been able to offer a multitude of shows including Hamilton, The Devil Wears Prada, Sister Act, Wicked, Matthew Bourne's Nutcracker!, 101 Dalmatians, The Play That Goes Wrong, and MAMMA MIA!.

SYLVIA to Host Largest Ever UK Education Matinee at Royal Albert Hall

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:04:18 PST

Tom Stoppard’s JUMPERS Will Be Revived at Hampstead Theatre

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 05:37:26 PST

Tom Stoppard's Jumpers will be revived at Hampstead Theatre later this year, alongside the premieres of three new plays.

Stoppard's 1972 comedy of murder, marriage and metaphysics has not been seen in London for more than 20 years. Directed by Blanche McIntyre, this new production of Jumpers follows Hampstead Theatre's record-breaking revivals of Stoppard's Indian Ink, The Invention of Love, Rock ‘n' Roll and Hapgood. It will play Hampstead's Main Stage from 25 November 2026 to 23 January 2027, with a press night on Monday 7 December. A Gala performance of Jumpers will be held on Saturday 16 January 2027 as a fundraiser for Hampstead Theatre.

Receiving its world premiere is The Urmetazoan by Alex Rugman, a graduate of Hampstead's INSPIRE programme for emerging playwrights. Directed by Anna Ledwich, the play explores the complex bond between two very different sisters who reconnect while facing an unimaginable goodbye. It will play Hampstead Downstairs from 18 September to 24 October, with a press night on Thursday 24 September.

Following the sell-out success of Bellringers in 2024 playwright Daisy Hall returns to Hampstead Downstairs with the world premiere of Dogstar – a darkly comic tale set aboard an icebound whaling ship where the crew are dropping like flies, mutiny brews and strange visions spread. Performances are from 30 October to 5 December, with a press night on Monday 9 November.

Multi-award-winning writer Lauren Yee's acerbic comedy Mother Russia receives its UK premiere following a smash-hit run at New York's Signature Theater earlier this year. Set in St. Petersburg in 1992, in the aftermath of the collapse of the Soviet Union, the play follows two friends who stumble into working in surveillance. It plays Hampstead Downstairs from 11 December to 30 January, with a press night on Thursday 17 December.

Hampstead Theatre's Producer and Chief Executive, Greg Ripley-Duggan said, “Bringing Jumpers back to London after more than 20 years is tremendously exciting, particularly as we continue to celebrate an extraordinary playwright whose work has become such a vital part of Hampstead Theatre's recent history. Alongside it, we're proud to present three brilliantly original new plays by playwrights who are beginning to make a name for themselves. Together they reflect everything we strive for at Hampstead Theatre and speak to our enduring commitment to great writing.”

These four productions join the previously announced European premiere of the Tony Award-winning musical, Kimberly Akimbo by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori. Starring Maria Friedman and directed by Michael Longhurst it plays on the Main Stage from 28 August to 7 November.

Alongside these productions, Hampstead Theatre's ENGAGE programme for adults at risk of loneliness and isolation in Camden will present a large-scale community production on the Main Stage this summer. Dragonflies is a heartfelt new play by Juliet Gilkes Romero about grief, resilience, belonging and the transformative power of community. Directed by Jennifer Davis the production combines a professional cast with a community chorus of Camden residents. It will have two performances on 31 July and 1 August.

Tickets for Jumpers go on sale to Patrons from today, Thursday 11 June, to Friends Plus on Friday 12 June and to Friends on Monday 15 June. Public booking opens on Thursday 18 June. Tickets for The Urmetazoan, Dogstar and Mother Russia go on sale to Patrons and Friends on Monday 6 July with public booking opening on Friday 10 July.

Tom Stoppard’s JUMPERS Will Be Revived at Hampstead Theatre

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 05:37:26 PST

Tom Stoppard's Jumpers will be revived at Hampstead Theatre later this year, alongside the premieres of three new plays.

Cast Set For PARANORMAL ACTIVITY Fourth Extension at Ambassadors Theatre

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 05:21:39 PST

Following the recent announcement that Paranormal Activity is set to return to its West End home, the Ambassadors Theatre, this summer, casting has been announced for its fourth extension.

From Tuesday 11th August, the production will star Ty Fanning (Othello, Ethel Barrymore Theatre, opposite Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal) as ‘James', Ami Okumura Jones (My Neighbour Totoro, Barbican; Hostage, the Netflix political drama) as ‘Lou', Kirsty Bushell (BBC, Motherland; King Lear, Chichester Festival Theatre) as ‘Etheline Cotgrave' and welcomes the return of Pippa Winslow in her role as ‘Carolanne' following her celebrated runs in the Leeds Playhouse and first West End season.

Tickets for the new booking period, Monday 5 October – Saturday 7 November are on sale now. From Tuesday 11 August 2026, the show's performance schedule will be evenings Monday – Saturday at 7.30pm with Friday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm.

Following its original run at Leeds Playhouse and its first West End engagement, which saw the show play at the Ambassadors Theatre from Friday 5 December 2025 – Saturday 25 April 2026, Paranormal Activity began a North American tour last autumn, with dates including the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Center Theatre Group, Ahmanson Theatre, Shakespeare Theatre Company, Washington DC and American Conservatory Theatre, San Francisco. Paranormal Activity marks its Canadian premiere at the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre, Toronto this June, ahead of a run at Boston's Emerson Colonial Theater in July, before embarking on a 20-week Broadway season at the August Wilson Theatre from August 14 2026.

James and Lou move from Chicago to London to escape their past, but they soon discover that places aren't haunted, people are… Inspired by the iconic, terrifying film series, Paranormal Activity is a new story live on stage.

A new story inspired by the worldwide horror phenomenon, Paranormal Activity, is directed by immersive theatre pioneer and Punchdrunk's Founder and Artistic Director, Felix Barrett and written by playwright Levi Holloway, whose pulse-pounding theatrical thriller Grey House chilled Broadway audiences.

Paranormal Activity reimagines the modern ghost story with an unsettling intimacy only theatre can provide. Immersing audiences in an atmosphere of creeping dread, unseen forces, and psychological tension, Levi Holloway's script offers a bold reinterpretation of the original, blending domestic horror with mind-bending theatricality. Felix Barrett, known for breaking boundaries between audience and performer, brings his signature visionary style to the production. With innovative staging and chilling soundscapes, Paranormal Activity invites audiences to witness the inexplicable up close—and feel the fear in real time.

The creative team also includes Fly Davis as Set and Costume Designer, Illusions by Chris Fisher, Anna Watson as Lighting Designer, Gareth Fry as Sound Designer, Video Design by Luke Halls and Casting Direction by Stuart Burt CDG and Ginny Schiller CDG and Associate Director, Anna Marshall.

Released by Paramount Pictures in 2009, the original Paranormal Activity is a master class in psychological terror. Reimagining the found footage genre for a new generation, the film became a global sensation, grossing nearly $200 million worldwide and kicking off a blockbuster franchise spanning seven feature films. Now, the legacy of fear comes to the intimate world of the theatre as the terrifying phenomenon transitions to the West End stage. Get ready to experience Paranormal Activity in real life.

Paranormal Activity is produced by Simon Friend & Hanna Osmolska for Melting Pot in association with Gavin Kalin, Ken Davenport, Jenny King, Patrick Gracey, Jonathan & Rae Corr and Leeds Playhouse.

Biographies

Ty Fanning makes his West End debut as ‘James.' Broadway: Othello, alongside Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. Off-Broadway includes SPAIN (Second Stage) and Crooked Cross (Mint Theater). Regional credits include the title role in Hamlet (DCPA), Lindiwe (World Premiere, Steppenwolf), The First Lady of Television (World Premiere, Northlight), McNeal (Regional Premiere, Milwaukee Rep), Teenage Dick (Chicago Premiere, Theater Wit), Death of a Salesman (Palm Beach Dramaworks), Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (Indiana Rep), 5 seasons at American Players Theatre, 2 seasons at the Utah Shakespeare Festival, and multiple productions at Chicago Shakespeare Theater. TV/Film: 'Chicago Med' (NBC), 'Search Party' (HBO), 'Hot Mess Holiday' (Comedy Central), and the upcoming 'Bolio: Spirit of the Mustang' with Tony Shalhoub. BFA Acting, Oklahoma City University.

Ami Okumura Jones is ‘Lou'. Ami originated the breakout leading role of 'Satsuki' in the RSC's Olivier award-winning production of My Neighbour Totoro, playing the role from its sell-out debut at the Barbican Theatre through to its West End run at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. On screen, she can be seen starring in Matt Charman's high-stakes Netflix series Hostage as 'Zadie', Acorn's Art Detectives, and the BBC's gritty Rebus reboot opposite Richard Rankin. She also leads the cast as Steph in the short film Shrike. An alumnus of East 15 Acting School, her early career includes television roles in EastEnders as 'Mieko Yoshi' and Midsomer Murders as 'Erin Turner', followed by starring stage roles in Scandaltown (Lyric Hammersmith) and Wendy & Peter Pan (Leeds Playhouse).

Kirsty Bushell as ‘Etheline Cotgrave' Theatre includes: In Case of Emergency (Southbank Centre), A View From The Bridge & Angels In America (Headlong, UK Tour), The Tempest (Jermyn Street), Richard III, The White Devil, Twelfth Night, The Tempest, The Comedy of Errors (RSC); King Lear (Chichester & West End); Romeo and Juliet (Shakespeare's Globe); Edward II, 13, Edgar and Annabel, There is a War, Danton's Death, The Voysey Inheritance, The Two Gentlemen of Verona (National Theatre); Antigone (Barbican & International Tour), The Cherry Orchard (Bristol & Royal Exchange); Torn (Royal Court); Boys Will Be Boys, Disgraced, 2000 Feet Away (Bush Theatre); A Thousand Stars Explode in the Sky, Don Juan (Lyric Hammersmith); Fen, Far Away, Plenty (Sheffield Crucible) Pornography, Testing The Echo (Tricycle) Belongings, I Know How I Feel About Eve (Hampstead) Hedda Gabler (Salisbury Playhouse), The Seagull (Northampton), The Importance of Being Ernest (The Watermill); An Inspector Calls (West End) Blue Heart (Out of Joint). Television includes: Run Away, Ellis, Inspector Lynley, Tom Jones, Murder in Provence, The Dark Tower, Motherland, This Way Up, Silk, Pulling, Injustice, Casualty, Pornography, Midsomer Murders, Eastenders, FM Radio Takeover, Tumanba. Law & Order, Is This Love, Pulling, Talk To Me, Family Business, Holby City, Midsomer Murders, The Bill, Life Isn't All Hee Ha Ha, EastEnders, Roger Roger.

Pippa Winslow performs as ‘Carolanne.' Theatrical credits include: Bonnie & Clyde (Garrick and Arts Theatres); Eureka Day, Other Desert Cities (Old Vic); Strangers on a Train (Gielgud Theatre); Buried Child (Trafalgar Studios); Paranormal Activity: A New Story, Live on Stage (Leeds Playhouse); Follies (Grand Opera House, Belfast); Flowers for Mrs Harris (Riverside Studios); Mame, Perfectly Ordinary, The Exonerated (Hope Mill Theatre); Oklahoma!, Hairspray, Sister Act, Cougar the Musical, 9 to 5 the Musical, Phantom, The Sound of Music (UK and Ireland tour). TV includes: The Bombing of Pan Am 103 (BBC/Netflix); Silo (AppleTV+); The Crown and Rebecca (Netflix); The King's Man (Disney+); Ten Percent, The Piper, Jericho Ridge (Amazon Prime); Revolution X; Dead Island 2 (video game).

Cast Set For PARANORMAL ACTIVITY Fourth Extension at Ambassadors Theatre

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 05:21:39 PST

Following the recent announcement that Paranormal Activity is set to return to its West End home, the Ambassadors Theatre, this summer, casting has been announced for its fourth extension.

Paranormal Activity is produced by Simon Friend & Hanna Osmolska for Melting Pot in association with Gavin Kalin, Ken Davenport, Jenny King, Patrick Gracey, Jonathan & Rae Corr and Leeds Playhouse.

Biographies

MARTIN GUERRE and HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES Will Come to The Old Vic

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 05:19:35 PST

The Old Vic has announced the next two shows in Artistic Director Matthew Warchus' final In The Round Season.

This summer, Phillip Breen (Anna Karenina, Red or Dead) will direct Alan Ayckbourn's 1969 play How the Other Half Loves, starring Roger Allam (Endeavour, The Thick of It) and Dorothy Atkinson (Ludwig, Mum), from 29 Jul–19 Sep with press night on Tue 11 Aug.

This will be followed in October by an all-new version of the Olivier Award-winning musical Martin Guerre, from the creators of Les Misérables, Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg. Featuring new music, lyrics and folk-inflected orchestrations, this semi-staged production will be directed by Matthew Warchus (A Christmas Carol, Pride).

The Old Vic's Artistic Director and Director of Martin Guerre, Matthew Warchus, said: ‘I grew up in North Yorkshire with Alan Ayckbourn's theatre on my doorstep and he has long been one of my favourite writers. The Old Vic's current In The Round configuration was in fact originally created for my production of The Norman Conquests 18 years ago so I'm delighted that one of his most celebrated plays will feature in my final season. Phillip Breen is a director well known for delivering comedic excellence and I'm delighted to welcome him to The Old Vic. As my penultimate show, I'm very excited to be sharing an all-new version of Boublil and Schönberg's extraordinary musical, the creation of which has been many years in the making. The show has been radically reworked, featuring new lyrics, new folk-inflected orchestrations and an immersive In The Round staging.'

Tickets for How the Other Half Loves go on sale to Members at midday today, Thu 11 Jun, and on general sale at midday on Fri 12 Jun. Tickets for Martin Guerre will go on sale later this summer

MARTIN GUERRE and HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES Will Come to The Old Vic

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 05:19:35 PST

The Old Vic has announced the next two shows in Artistic Director Matthew Warchus' final In The Round Season.

Tickets for How the Other Half Loves go on sale to Members at midday today, Thu 11 Jun, and on general sale at midday on Fri 12 Jun. Tickets for Martin Guerre will go on sale later this summer

THE SMARTEST GIANT IN TOWN to Return to London's West End This Christmas

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 05:19:29 PST

Fierylight and Little Angel Theatre's Olivier Award-nominated musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's classic The Smartest Giant in Town will return to London's West End this festive season, heading to St Martin's Theatre from 09 December 2026 to 03 January 2027.

This heart-warming stage production brings one of the nation's favourite picture books to life in a magical musical adventure. Packed with delightful puppets, catchy songs and Julia Donaldson's beloved characters, it is a beautiful tale about friendship, kindness and the joy of helping others that continues to delight audiences since first opening in 2022.

George wishes he wasn't the scruffiest giant in town. But after a trip to a fancy clothes shop, he has a spectacular new look: smart trousers, a smart shirt, a stripy tie, and shiny shoes. Now he's the smartest giant in town... until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help - and his clothes!

The Smartest Giant in Town is based on the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, the UK's leading picture book partnership. Their books together, which include classics The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child, are loved around the world and have sold more than 75 million copies globally. The Smartest Giant in Town was first published by Macmillan Children's Books in 2002.

Julia Donaldson says: "I wrote ‘The Smartest Giant in Town' twenty years ago but the theme of generosity and kindness seems just as relevant today. The story really comes to life in Little Angel's adaptation, which is also very faithful to Axel Scheffler's brilliant illustrations. I saw the show when it first opened at Little Angel Theatre and the whole audience - including me - loved the puppets and enjoyed the songs. I'm so pleased that now more children will be able to experience it”

From the award-winning Little Angel Theatre (A Squash and a Squeeze, Charlie Cook's Favourite Book) and West End producers Fierylight (Peppa Pig, Bing, Octonauts, The BFG), the production is adapted and directed by Artistic Director Samantha Lane, with music and songs by award-winning musician Barb Jungr. Set and costume design is by KATE BUNCE, puppets are designed by Judith Hope and lighting design is by SHERRY COENEN.

“We're so pleased to bring The Smartest Giant in Town back to St Martin's Theatre for 2026. The show captures all the warmth, humour and heart of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's story. It's such an uplifting story which reminds us that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference, and we can't wait to share it with even more families this Christmas”

The Smartest Giant in Town will once again play at St Martin's Theatre, in tandem with The Mousetrap, offering families a magical theatre experience in the heart of London over the festive season.