The current production of the 60s musical Half a Sixpence, running at Chichester Festival Theatre through September 3, has announced a transfer to the West End. It will begin performances October 26 prior to an official opening November 17 at the Noël Coward Theatre.
The entire Chichester cast will transfer to the West End, including newcomers Charlie Stemp as Arthur Kipps and Devon-Elise Johnson as Ann Pornick, alongside three-time Olivier-nominated actor Ian Bartholomew as Chitterlow and three-time Olivier-nominated actress Emma Williams as Helen Walsingham.
This new stage version of Half a Sixpence, adapted from H.G. Wells’ semi-autobiographical novel Kipps: The Story of a Simple Sou, is a completely fresh adaptation that reunites book-writer Julian Fellowes with George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, the musical team that co-creator Cameron Mackintosh first put together to create the hit stage adaptation of Mary Poppins with Disney. The score is inspired by and features several of composer David Heneker's exhilarating songs from the original production, including "Flash Bang Wallop," "Money To Burn" and "Half A Sixpence."
Half a Sixpence is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, designed by Paul Brown and choreographed by Andrew Wright. Orchestrations are by William David Brohn; the musical supervisors are Stephen Brooker and Graham Hurman, who will also conduct. Lighting is by Paule Constable with sound by Mick Potter and video design by Luke Halls. The original 1963 musical was written by Beverley Cross and David Heneker.
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David Birch, who trained at Bodywork, Cambridge Performing Arts, and holds a National Diploma in Musical Theatre, was part of the ensemble in Half a Sixpence. more...
Kimberly Blake, who performed in the West End production of "Half A Sixpence" at the Noël Coward Theatre, has an impressive resume that includes roles such as Carlotta in "The Phantom of the Opera" in the UK and Giulietta in "Aspects of Love" at the Hope Mill Theatre. more...
Nick Butcher, an Olivier Award-nominated songwriter and recognized as a Rising Star of 2024 by The Stage 100, contributed his musical talents to "Half a Sixpence" more...
Gerard Carey, who starred in "Half A Sixpence" at both the Chichester Festival Theatre and the Noël Coward Theatre, boasts an extensive theatre resume including roles in "Les Misérables" and "Twelfth Night." more...
Matthew Dale, a Middlesbrough native and Arts Educational Schools, London graduate, showcased his talents in "Half a Sixpence" both at the Noël Coward Theatre with Cameron Mackintosh Ltd and at the Chichester Festival Theatre. more...
Jaye Juliette Elster, a recent graduate from Millennium Performing Arts with a National Diploma in Musical Theatre, showcased her versatility in past productions such as playing Winnie and Swing in "42nd Street" at Leicester Curve and serving as dance captain and understudy Serena in the Ireland tour of "Fame." more...
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Jennifer Jones, Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director of StarStruck Theatre, has a storied career in directing and acting, including memorable onstage roles such as Velma Kelly in "Chicago" and Golde in "Fiddler on the Roof," showcasing her versatility and dedication to the arts. more...
Vivien Parry, known for her extensive theatre work including roles such as Donna in "Mamma Mia!" and Mrs. Johnston in "Blood Brothers," also graced the stage in "Half a Sixpence." more...
Charlie Stemp's breakout role as Arthur Kipps in the 2016 production of Half a Sixpence at Chichester Festival Theatre, which later transferred to the Noël Coward Theatre in the West End, earned him critical acclaim and several award nominations, solidifying his status as a rising star in musical theatre. more...
Callum Train, who played Pierce in both the Chichester and West End productions of *Half A Sixpence*, also showcased his talents in the show's London Cast Recording and appeared in *Live at the Palladium* with the *Half A Sixpence* cast in 2016/17. more...
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Olivier Award-nominated Emma Williams, known for her West End debut as Truly Scrumptious in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, brought her remarkable talent to the stage in Half a Sixpence, adding another notable performance to her distinguished career. more...
Awards and Nominations
2017 Olivier Awards
Best Actor in a Musical: Charlie Stemp was nominated but did not win.
Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical: Ian Bartholomew was nominated but did not win.
Best Actress in a Supporting Role in a Musical: Emma Williams was nominated but did not win.
Half a Sixpence FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
All in the Cause of Economy
Half a Sixpence
Money to Burn
The Oak and the Ash
She's Too Far Above Me
I Don't Believe a Word of It
I'm Not Talking to You
If the Rain's Got to Fall
The Old Military Canal
The One That's Run Away
Long Ago
Flash, Bang, Wallop!
I Know What I Am
I'll Build a Palace
I Only Want a Little House
A Proper Gentleman
The Party's on the House
This Is My World
Lady Botting's Boating Regatta Cup Racing Song
Videos