LATEST NEWS – 26th October 2026

• Mona Lisa – Andrew Lloyd Webber has announced that his new musical centered on the theft of the painting, will open in London around September in 2027. The composer revealed that the project was inspired by a historical feature he read about a year ago, which highlighted that “the Mona Lisa wasn’t famous until she was stolen”. The heist was carried out by an Italian workman who originally set out to reclaim an Italian artwork stolen by Napoleon Bonaparte and bring it back to Italy. However, after realising he “couldn’t fit” the larger painting he intended to take under his coat to carry out of the Louvre, he took the Mona Lisa instead. Lloyd Webber confirmed the musical’s score features a mix of “Italian arias” and “Parisian harmonies,” while teasing that the portrait herself plays an active role in the show.
• The Notebook – will make its UK premiere at the newly renamed Judi Dench Theatre in London’s West End, with previews beginning on 10 March 2027 and an opening night of 13 April. It will be the first production to open at the theatre, currently known as the Shaftesbury Theatre. The musical, based on Nicholas Sparks’ 1996 novel coincides with the 30th anniversary of the book’s publication. With music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson and a book by Bekah Brunstetter, the production is directed by Michael Greif and Schele Williams, with choreography by Katie Spelman. The story follows Allie and Noah, who come from different backgrounds and are repeatedly separated before finding their way back to one another. The Notebook has previously been adapted into a film released in 2004, starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. The musical made its Broadway debut in 2024, with Michaelson receiving a Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theatre Album. The creative team also includes music supervision and arrangements by Carmel Dean, scenic design by David Zinn and Brett J Banakis, costume design by Paloma Young, lighting design by Ben Stanton, sound design by Nevin Steinberg, hair and wig design by Mia Neal, orchestrations by John Clancy and Dean, co-vocal arrangements by Michaelson and Dean, music direction by Jim Henson, and casting by Jill Green Casting. The production is presented by Kevin McCollum, Kurt Deutsch and Jamie Wilson Productions.
• Oh, Mary! – the West End production which opened at the Trafalgar Theatre on 3 December 2025 and won Best Entertainment or Comedy Play at the 2026 Olivier Awards announces that Jane Krakowski will reprise her role as Mary Todd Lincoln which she previously played on Broadway, in the West End production from 7 December 2026 to 16 January 2027. She will take over from Lolly Adefope. Casting for the role from 18 January 2027 onwards is to be announced. Written by Cole Escola and directed by Sam Pinkleton, Oh, Mary! is a comedy about Mary Todd Lincoln in the weeks leading up to Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. The 80-minute, one-act play explores her life and ambitions through a fictionalised portrayal of the former First Lady. The production is now booking until 5 June 2027. The West End cast also includes Lucy Frederick as Mary’s Chaperone, J R Ballantyne as Mary’s Husband’s Assistant, Vinnie Heaven as Mary’s Teacher and Syrus Lowe as Mary’s Husband. The creative team comprises scenic designer dots, costume designer Holly Pierson, lighting designer Cha See, sound design and music by Daniel Kluger, sound designer Drew Levy, wig designer Leah J Loukas and arranger David Dabbon. Casting is by Stuart Burt, with US casting by Henry Russell Bergstein.
• James Graham‘s Punch – whch premiered at Nottingham Playhouse in 2024 and later ran at the Young Vic before it transferred to the West End and Broadway in autumn 2025 is set to embark on a UK tour. The production, directed by Adam Penford, is based on the book Right from Wrong by Jacob Dunne and follows the events surrounding Dunne, a teenager from The Meadows in Nottingham, whose involvement in a violent incident in Old Market Square resulted in the death of James Hodgkinson. After serving a prison sentence, Dunne is approached by Hodgkinson’s parents, Joan and David, who ask to meet him, leading to a change in his life. The show picked up the Olivier Award for Best Play at the 2026 Olivier Awards, with cast member Julie Hesmondhalgh winning Best Actress in a Supporting Role. The original creative team returns, including production designer Anna Fleischle, lighting designer Robbie Butler, sound designer and composer Alexandra Faye Braithwaite, movement director Leanne Pinder and casting director Christopher Worrall.The production will set out from Nottingham Playhouse from 25 January to 6 February 2027, Bath Theatre Royal from 9 to 13 February 2027, Birmingham Rep from 16 to 20 February 2027, Chichester Festival Theatre from 23 to 27 February 2027, Malvern Theatres from 2 to 6 March 2027, Blackpool Grand Theatre from 9 to 13 March 2027, Curve, Leicester from 16 to 20 March 2027, BEAM Hertford from 23 to 27 March, Citizens Theatre, Glasgow from 30 March to 3 April, the Gaiety Theatre, Dublin from 6 to 10 April, the Arts Theatre, Cambridge from 13 to 17 April, and the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry from 20 to 24 April 2027.
• The History Boys – The National Theatre production will return to the West End for the first time in 20 years. Nicholas Hytner will direct Alan Bennett’s play at the Theatre Royal Haymarket from 10 April where it will run through to 24 July, reuniting with designer Bob Crowley for the production. It originally premiered at the National Theatre in 2004 before transferring to the West End and Broadway. The play won three Olivier Awards and six Tony Awards. Set in 1980s Britain, The History Boys follows eight pupils at a boys’ grammar school in Sheffield as they prepare for university entrance examinations. The play explores education, class, sexuality and adolescence through the relationships between the pupils and their teachers. It has been considered one of the greatest plays of the century. Brian and Dayna Lee and Hytner (who collaborated on West End hits like Giant) will produce the West End revival, alongside Len Blavatnik and Danny Cohen for Access Entertainment. Mark Rubinstein is executive producer, with general management by Short Street Productions Ltd.
• Before I Go To Sleep – the stage adaptation of S J Watson’s novel follows Christine, who appears to live an idyllic life, except that every night when she falls asleep, she loses all memory of the last 20 years. As she attempts to piece her life back together, terrifying truths emerge. It was adapted into a hit film starring Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth. Giovanna Fletcher will lead the world premiere stage show, written by Rachel Wagstaff and directed by Loveday Ingram. They previously collaborated on The Girl on the Train. Joining her on the UK and Ireland tour is Tom Chambers who will play Ben. The tour will open at Richmond Theatre from 15 to 23 January 2027. It will then visit Bath Theatre Royal (26 to 30 January), Chichester Festival Theatre (2 to 6 February), Truro Hall for Cornwall (9 to 13 February), Woking New Victoria Theatre (16 to 20 February), Cardiff New Theatre (23 to 27 February), York Grand Opera House (2 to 6 March), Milton Keynes Theatre (9 to 13 March), Cheltenham Everyman Theatre (16 to 20 March), Norwich Theatre Royal (23 to 27 March), Sheffield Lyceum (30 March to 3 April), Birmingham Alexandra Theatre (13 to 17 April), Chester Storyhouse (20 to 24 April), Dublin Gaiety Theatre (27 April to 1 May), Lowry in Salford (4 to 8 May), Shrewsbury Theatre Severn (11 to 15 May), Newcastle Theatre Royal (18 to 22 May), Edinburgh King’s Theatre (25 to 29 May), Glasgow Theatre Royal (1 to 5 June), Nottingham Theatre Royal (15 to 19 June), and Leeds Grand (22 to 26 June). The show has set, costume and video design by Justin Nardella, lighting design by Jason Taylor, sound design by Gareth Fry and is produced by Josh Andrews.
• Pinocchio – Shakespeare’s Globe has announced the cast and creative team for the return of the show which premiered at the venue in November 2025. Lee Braithwaite returns as Pinocchio, alongside Kerry Frampton as Fox, Ed Gaughan as Franzini, Lizzy Ives and Kody Mortimer as Ensemble/Swing. New cast members include Liv Alexander and Josh Butler, both as ensemble/swing, Olivier Award nominee Amy Booth-Steel as Giacomo Cricket, the Coachman and Cat, Luke Brady as Carpenter and Rabbit Prince Charming, WhatsOnStage and Olivier Award nominee Gabrielle Brooks as Blue Fairy, and Colm Gormley as Geppetto. Bartolomeo Bartolini joins returning puppeteers Aya Nakamura and Andrea Sadler. The musical is directed by Shakespeare’s Globe associate artistic director Sean Holmes, with a book and lyrics by Charlie Josephine and music and lyrics by Jim Fortune. The creative team also includes associate director Roberta Zuric, choreographer Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu, designer Grace Smart, puppetry director and designer Peter O’Rourke, orchestrator Zac Gvi and sound designer Tony Gayle. The show runs from 28 November.
• Anne Boleyn: The Musical – which premiered at Anne Boleyn’s childhood home, Hever Castle, in summer 2025 and will move into London for a new run in Greenwich. Exploring Boleyn’s early life and rise to the English court in the 16th century, the piece follows her departure from her family and her time at the royal courts of Flanders and France, leading to her return to England, where she would eventually capture the attention of King Henry VIII. The musical will run at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich from 8 May to 5 June 2027, with a press night set for 12 May. The historic grounds are on the site of the former Palace of Placentia, where Boleyn’s story became intertwined with that of Henry VIII and the Tudor court. The show will be staged in a specially constructed, fully covered outdoor auditorium and feature immersive audio, live horses and more. It will be directed by Roxana Silbert, with a book by Rebecca Night, lyrics by Night and Sam Kenyon, and music by Selma Greenwood, and is produced by Historalia Productions and Selladoor Worldwide.
• Sister Act The Musical – will tour the UK and Ireland from September 2027. Opening at New Wimbledon Theatre on 11 September, the production will visit Sunderland Empire from 20 to 25 September, Sheffield Lyceum from 28 September to 9 October, Alhambra Theatre in Bradford from 11 to 16 October, Manchester Palace Theatre from 9 to 27 November and Cliffs Pavilion in Southend from 29 November to 4 December. The tour will continue at the Alexandra in Birmingham from 6 December 2027 to 2 January 2028, followed by Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff from 10 to 15 January, Theatre Royal Nottingham from 17 to 22 January, Theatre Royal Brighton from 24 to 29 January and the Orchard Theatre in Dartford from 31 January to 5 February. Further dates include Theatre Royal Plymouth from 7 to 12 February, Hull New Theatre from 15 to 19 February, Mayflower Theatre in Southampton from 21 to 26 February, Grand Opera House in Belfast from 29 February to 11 March, Millennium Forum in Derry from 13 to 18 March and New Theatre Oxford from 21 to 25 March 2028. Dates for the Dublin engagement are to be announced, along with further tour stops. Craig Revel Horwood will play Mother Superior up until Manchester, Zoe Birkett playing Deloris Van Cartier will leave the show after the Cardiff date and Paul Chuckle will appear as Monsignor O’Hara on all dates. The musical features music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater and a book by Bill and Cheri Steinkellner, with additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane. The production is directed by Bill Buckhurst, with choreography by Alistair David, set and costume design by Morgan Large, lighting design by Tim Mitchell, sound design by Tom Marshall, musical supervision by Stephen Brooker and and wigs, hair and make up design by Sam Cox. Casting is by Pearson Casting. The production is produced by Jamie Wilson.
• Guys and Dolls – Royal Exchange Theatre Company 2027 season in Manchester includes a new production of Frank Loesser’s musical, directed by Natalie Abrahami and running from 19 November 2027 to 9 January 2028. The musical follows the lives of gamblers, showgirls and missionaries in 1950s New York.
• Dog Man: The Musical – has extended its tour into 2027, including a return to London’s Southbank Centre in the summer. The musical features a book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila, with music by Brad Alexander, and direction and choreography by Jen Wineman. Pilkey’s series, first published in 2016, has sold more than 70 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 48 languages. An animated film adaptation was released earlier this year. The stage version first opened at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in 2019 before returning in 2023 to New World Stages. In 2027, the show is set to visit Theatre Royal Brighton (16 to 17 January), Woking Theatre (22 to 24 January), Palace Theatre Manchester (28 to 30 January), Basingstoke Anvil Arts (5 to 7 February), Malvern Festival Theatre (12 to 14 February), Chester Story House (19 to 21 Feburary), Northampton Royal and Derngate (26 to 28 February), Edinburgh Festival Theatre (5 to 7 March), Alhambra Bradford (12 to 14 March), Aylesbury Waterside Theatre (19 to 21 March), Rose Theatre Kingston (1 to 4 April), Guildford Yvonne Arnaud Theatre (30 April to 2 May), Leeds Playhouse (6 to 8 May), Blackpool Grand (14 to 16 May), Marlowe Theatre Canterbury (30 May to 1 June), Southampton Mayflower Theatre (4 to 5 June), Lichfield Garrick (11 to 13 June), Bristol Old Vic (24 to 27 June), Chelthenham Everyman (2 to 4 July) and Southbank Centre London (29 July to 15 August). Returning to the cast in 2027 will be Vanessa Dumatey as Flippy, Renan Teodoro as Dog Man Sam Kipling as Petey, Shannon Bourne as Flippy and Li’l Petey cover and Robert Wilkes as Dog Man and Petey cover. Further casting is to be announced. The creative team includes scenic design by Timothy R Mackabee, costume design by Heidi Leigh Hanson, lighting design by David Lander, sound design by Emma Wilk, orchestrations by Lloyd Kikoler and musical direction by Paul Herbert. Casting is by Pearson Casting.
• Pretty Woman – is readying to set out on a new UK tour in 2027 opening at the New Wimbledon Theatre on 10 March 2027, before visiting Manchester (23 March to 3 April), Milton Keynes (6 to 17 April), York (20 April to 1 May), Birmingham (4 to 15 May), Glasgow (18 to 29 May), Edinburgh (1 to 5 June), Cardiff (8 to 12 June), Sunderland (29 June to 3 July), Southampton (6 to 10 July), Hull (13 to 17 July), Stoke-on-Trent (20 to 24 July), Leeds (27 to 31 July), Oxford (10 to 14 August), Bristol (17 to 28 August), Liverpool (31 August to 11 September), Nottingham (21 September to 2 October), Woking (5 to 9 October) and Aberdeen (12 to 16 October). Set to star is Molly Rainford, making her stage debut as Vivian Ward, opposite Danny Walters as Edward Lewis and Bernadette Bangura as Kit De Luca. They are joined by Selena Barron, Jabari Braham, Jack Campbell, Cletus Chan, Josh Crowther, Sophie Cullen, Benjamin Dawson, Sian Gentle Green, Rebecca Ibbott, Kai Cameron Jay, Callum Martin, Brogan McFarlane, LJ Neilson, Matthew Prime, Alana M Robinson, Roshaan Saulnier, Morgan Scott, Ellie Seaton, Sario Solomon, Tomas Wolstenholme and Tara Yasmin. The show has direction and choreography by two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell, with scenic design by David Rockwell, costumes by Tom Rogers from the original Broadway designs by Gregg Barnes, lighting design by Kenneth Posner and Philip S Rosenberg, sound design by John Shivers, hair design by Josh Marquette, and music supervision, arrangements and orchestrations by Will Van Dyke. 101 Productions, Ltd/Kathy Kim are the global general management consultants, and direction is recreated by Dominic Shaw. Pretty Woman is produced by ATG Productions, Paula Wagner, Nice Productions, LPO, and Gavin Kalin Productions.
• Carousel – The Watermill Theatre will stage a new production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical in summer 2027 as part of its 60th anniversary season. Directed by artistic director Paul Hart, the production will reimagine the musical with the staging taking place across the theatre and its grounds. Stuart Morley will create a new orchestral adaptation for actor-musicians, with choreography by Anjali Mehra. The Watermill is also collaborating with domestic abuse charity Project Salama to explore how the story of Billy and Julie is presented in the production. The musical forms part of the theatre’s anniversary programme, which also includes the return of The Wipers Times and Jerusalem, an outdoor staging of Alan Ayckbourn’s Way Upstream, the world premiere of a new stage adaptation of Robert Harris’ Enigma and a new adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s Beauty and the Beast.
• Hairspray – has added extra dates to its upcoming UK and Ireland tour next year. The musical is based on the 1988 film of the same name and features music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman, and book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan. It tells the story of Tracy Turnblad, who longs to dance her way onto national TV, win the heart of teen idol Link Larkin, and use her newfound fame to fight for equality in a racially segregated Baltimore.This will be the second tour of this production directed by Brenda Edwards and Paul Kerryson, with choreography by Drew McOnie. Neil Hurst will reprise the role of Edna Turnblad for the new tour. He will be joined by Katie Brace, who will reprise the role of Tracy Turnblad. Hairspray will open at Manchester Palace Theatre (2 July to 19 July 2027), before heading to Glasgow Kings Theatre (20 to 25 July), Edinburgh Playhouse (27 July to 1 August), Cardiff Wales Millenium Centre (3 to 7 August), Dublin Bord Gáis Energy Theatre (9 to 14 August), Belfast Grand Opera House (16 to 21 August), Southend Cliffs Pavilion (24 to 29 August), New Wimbledon Theatre (31 August to 4 September), Liverpool Empire (13 to 18 September), Bradford Alhambra Theatre (20 to 25 September), Sunderland Empire (27 September to 2 October), Milton Keynes Theatre (4 to 9 October), Malvern Theatres (11 to 16 October), Birmingham Hippodrome (25 to 30 October), York Grand Opera House (1 to 6 November), Leicester Curve (8 to 13 November), Brighton Theatre Royal (15 to 20 November), Woking Theatre (22 to 27 November), Bristol Hippodrome (10 to 15 January 2028), Norwich Theatre Royal (17 to 22 January 2028), Swansea Arena (25 to 29 January 2028), Nottingham Theatre Royal (31 January to 5 February 2028), Southampton Mayflower Theatre (14 to 19 February 2028), Truro Hall for Cornwall (28 February to 4 March 2028), Everyman Theatre Cheltenham (6 to 11 March 2028), Sheffield Lyceum Theatre (13 to 18 March 2028) and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre (27 March to 1 April 2028). The production will feature set and costume design by Takis, lighting design by Philip Gladwell, sound design by Ben Harrison, musical supervision and arrangements by Ben Atkinson, musical direction by Richard Atkinson, casting by Grindrod Burton. The associate director is Juliet Gough and the associate choreographer is Shaquille Brush and wigs, hairs and make up design is by Craig Forrest-Thomas. The show is produced by Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale, and Laurence Myers.
• Anything Goes – Cole Porter’s musical will run from 19 November 2026 to 17 January 2027, at the Mill at Sonning. The cast will include Gemma Sutton as Reno Sweeney, with Josh St Clair as Billy Crocker. The cast also includes Lulu-Mae Pears as Hope Harcourt, Martin Allanson as Lord Evelyn Oakleigh, Elizabeth Elvin as Evangeline Harcourt, Chris Grahamson as Moonface Martin, Jessica Lim as Erma Latour and Jo Servi as Elisha Whitney, Jon Bonner plays the Captain, Rob Gathercole is the Purser, Kristian Jacobs plays Minister Henry T Dobson, Sam Khadirian is Spit, Lorenzo de Liso is Dippy, and Pamela Blair and Tara Yasmin play Angels in Reno’s act. Jamie Jonathan completes the company. De Liso makes his professional debut in the production.with Joseph Pitcher directing and choreography by Gary Lloyd. The creative team includes set designer Diego Pitarch, costume designer Natalie Titchener, orchestrator, arranger and musical supervisor Charlie Ingles, musical director Jemma Starling, lighting designer Chris Mould, sound designer Chris Whybrow, casting director Jane Deitch, assistant director Richard Carson and assistant choreographer Lauren Gore. The production team also includes sound operators Bertie Pugh and Evan Bevis, production manager Joan Farnese, company stage manager Natalie Evans and deputy stage manager Charlotte Antingham. The 1934 musical follows nightclub singer Sweeney, stowaway Crocker and a collection of passengers aboard the S S American as mistaken identities and romantic complications unfold during their voyage.

LATEST NEWS – 19th October 2026

• Longest-running shows in theatre history – several current West End musicals have climbed the rankings according to newly released figures from the Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre. Among the most notable changes, The Lion King has moved into fourth place after overtaking Blood Brothers, while Wicked has risen to seventh place, passing Starlight Express. Matilda The Musical has entered the top ten, and The Book of Mormon has climbed from 16th to 12th place after adding more than 650 performances since the previous ranking in 2025.
• Top 20 longest-running shows in London ever:
  • The Mousetrap – Over 30,642 performances
  • Les Misérables – Over 16,189 performances
  • The Phantom of the Opera – Over 15,897 performances
  • The Woman in Black – 13,232 performances
  • Mamma Mia! – Over 10,865 performances
  • Disney’s The Lion King – Over 10,622 performances
  • Blood Brothers – 10,013 performances
  • Cats – 8,949 performances
  • Wicked – Over 7,720 performances
  • Starlight Express – 7,406 performances
  • No Sex Please, We’re British – 6,761 performances
  • Stomp – 6,512 performances
  • Chicago – 6,187 performances
  • Matilda The Musical – Over 5,555 performances
  • Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story – 5,140 performances
  • The Book of Mormon – Over 4,890 performances
  • We Will Rock You – 4,659 performances
  • Thriller Live – Over 4,657 performances
  • Billy Elliot The Musical – 4,566 performances
  • The Play That Goes Wrong – Over 4,489 performances
• Top 20 longest-running musicals in London ever:
  • Les Misérables – Over 16,189 performances
  • The Phantom of the Opera – Over 15,897 performances
  • Mamma Mia! – Over 10,865 performances
  • Disney’s The Lion King – Over 10,622 performances
  • Blood Brothers – 10,013 performances
  • Cats – 8,949 performances
  • Wicked – Over 7,720 performances
  • Starlight Express – 7,406 performances
  • Chicago – 6,187 performances
  • Matilda The Musical – Over 5,555 performances
  • Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story – 5,140 performances
  • The Book of Mormon – Over 4,890 performances
  • We Will Rock You – 4,659 performances
  • Thriller Live – 4,657 performances
  • Billy Elliot The Musical – 4,566 performances
  • Miss Saigon – 4,264 performances
  • Jersey Boys – 3,787 performances
  • Jesus Christ Superstar – 3,357 performances
  • Me and My Girl – 3,303 performances
  • Evita – 3,176 performances

• Nevermore – The Imaginary Life and Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe – the musical will play at Charing Cross Theatre from 19 July to 9 October 2027. Written, composed and directed by Jonathan Christenson, artistic director of Catalyst Theatre, the musical play explores the life and imagination of American writer Edgar Allan Poe, drawing on his life and works, including The Raven, The Tell-Tale Heart, The Fall of the House of Usher and The Pit and the Pendulum. Originally created by the Canadian company Catalyst in Edmonton, Nevermore has been presented across Canada and internationally. It was staged at the Barbican as part of the London International Festival of Theatre and at New York’s New World Stages Off-Broadway in 2015, where it received three Lucille Lortel Award nominations, including outstanding musical. The creative team includes production designer Bretta Gerecke, choreographer Laura Krewski, sound effects designer Wade Staples, sound designer Andrew Johnson, London casting director Neil Rutherford and orchestrator Matthew Skopyk, who works with Christenson.
• Brixton Calling – written by Alex Urwin and directed by Bronagh Lagan, will return to London at Southwark Playhouse Borough, in the venue’s larger space, from 22 January to 13 March 2027. The production follows a sold-out run in 2025, during which it won three Off-West End Awards, including Best Overall Production, Best Lighting Design and Best Sound and Music Design. It also received a WhatsOnStage Award nomination and nine Fringe Theatre Award nominations. Inspired by Simon Parkes’ memoir Live at the Brixton Academy, the play tells the story of how Parkes bought a derelict cinema in Brixton for £1 in 1983, aged 23, and transformed it into an internationally recognised music venue over the following decade. Max Runham returns as Simon Parkes, alongside Tendai Humphrey Sitima as Johnny Lawes. Both performers play multiple characters and perform live music. Nadine Lee joins them as an on-stage musician, while Sean Green is musical supervisor. The production features music associated with the venue’s history, including songs by The Clash, Blondie, Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, Fela Kuti, Billy Ocean and The Prodigy. Pitlochry Festival Theatre has announced four further productions for its 2027 season, the second programmed by artistic director Alan Cumming. The season is produced in association with Sonia Friedman Productions.
• 9 to 5 – the Dolly Parton musical will feature in the 2027 season at Pitlochry Festival Theatre running from 1 to 29 May and directed by Cora Bissett. The Main House programme will open with a production of Alan Ayckbourn’s Absent Friends, running from 12 March to 3 April. Directed by Owen Horsley and designed by Ryan Dawson Laight. The Studio will stage the world premiere of Love Songs for Monsters by Hannah Lavery from 28 May to 19 June. Directed by Amber Sinclair-Case, the play reimagines Bertolt Brecht’s Baal through the story of poet Ayla and her relationship with Baal. It will feature songs written by Hannah Lavery in collaboration with musician Callum Easter. Also receiving its world premiere in the Studio will be Jack Vettriano Can’t Paint! by Eden McIntyre, running from 16 July to 7 August. The playwright’s first professional stage play examines the life and work of Scottish artist Jack Vettriano, whose paintings sold in large numbers as prints and reproductions while his work was rejected by sections of the critical and art establishments. The previously announced stage adaptation of Supernova will run in the Main House from 24 July to 21 August. Cumming and Ewan McGregor will star in the production, adapted by Harry Macqueen from his 2020 film. The run is already sold out. Further productions for the 2027 season will be announced fairly soon.
• Honk! – the musical by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe will run from 21 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, at The Barn Theatre in Cirencester Directed by Ryan McBryde, the show will feature Timi Akinyosade as Ugly, alongside Molly Cheesley, Claire-Marie Hall, Maz McGinlay, Nikki Biddington, Silas Wyatt-Barke, Daniel Robinson and Joseph Claus. The musical won the Olivier Award for Best Musical and has been staged more than 8,000 times worldwide. Four places are also available in the production’s young company for local performers playing Ducklings and Froglets.
• Pride – the musical which opens at London’s Bridge Theatre on 12 November 2026 has announced casting. The cast will include Samuel Barnett as Jonathan, Matthew Durkan as Mike, Gillian Elisa as Gwen, Daniel Forrester as Carl, Dan Hand as Bromley, Robin Hayward as Martin, Chris Jenkins as Gethin, Ryan Kopel as Mark, Darren Lawrence as Cliff, Kirsty Malpass as Hefina, Madeleine Morgan as Debbie, Catherine Morris as Mrs Bromley, Grant Neal as Mr Bromley, Sarah Pugh as Siân, Caroline Sheen as Maureen, Carl Spencer joining as Reggie, Mared Williams as Margaret, Courtney Stapleton as Steph and Matthew Woodyatt as Dai.The swings are Joe Boyle, Billy Cullum, Ben Heathcote, Michael Larcombe, Sorelle Marsh, Shannon Quarini and Samantha Thomas, with Thomas as dance captain and Larcombe as assistant dance captain. Based on the true story depicted in the 2014 film Pride, the musical is developed and directed by Matthew Warchus, who also directed the film, with a book and lyrics by Stephen Beresford, who wrote the screenplay.
• Mog the Forgetful Cat – a new stage adaptation of Judith Kerr’s will open at Rose Theatre in Kingston from 11 to 21 February before visiting theatres across the UK. Written and adapted by Miranda Larson, with music by Eamonn O’Dwyer and directed by Rose Theatre artistic director Christopher Haydon, the production will feature puppetry and music. The tour will visit Chesterfield, Derby, Stockton-on-Tees, Grimsby, Winchester, Newport, Eastbourne, Bristol, Southend, York, Sheffield, Bishop’s Stortford, Belfast, Radlett, Poole, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Dorking, Swindon, Truro, Guildford, Jersey and with a return to London at Unicorn Theatre. Nicoll Entertainment is also behind the stage adaptation of Kerr’s The Tiger Who Came to Tea, which received an Olivier Award nomination. The company has previously collaborated with Rose Theatre and Unicorn Theatre on productions of The Lion Inside and The Koala Who Could.
• Nanny McPhee – the new musical adaptation of the Nanny McPhee films and the Nurse Matilda character created by Christianna Brand and Edward Ardizzone will have its world premiere at the Aldwych Theatre in London, with performances beginning on 6 November 2027. Written by Emma Thompson alongside Gary Clark, who will compose the music. The story follows Nanny McPhee as she arrives at the home of the Brown family, where she encounters unruly children, a desperate father, an uncontrollable donkey and a baby. Using her unusual methods and magic, she attempts to restore order to the household. The stage production will be directed by Katy Rudd, whose credits include Ballet Shoes and The Ocean at the End of the Lane. Set and costume design is by Rob Howell, with musical staging and choreography by Ellen Kane. With orchestrations by Simon Hale, music supervision by Nigel Lilley, and music arrangements by Hale and Lilley. Lighting design is by Howard Hudson, sound design by Ian Dickinson for Autograph, illusions by Chris Fisher, puppetry by Samuel Wyer and projections by Andrzej Goulding. Casting is by Natalie Gallacher for Pippa Aillon and Natalie Gallacher Casting. Playful Productions will provide general management.

LATEST NEWS – 12th October 2026

• Dance for Parkinson’s – from January 2027, Mayflower Southampton will become English National Ballet’s sixth hub partner for its flagship programme, bringing weekly dance classes for people living with Parkinson’s. Ahead of the weekly programme in Southampton, English National Ballet will run a series of community workshops across the city in collaboration with Parkinson’s UK. Five taster sessions will take place at Mayflower Studios from 4 November – 2 December. This new partnership deepens the relationship between English National Ballet, Mayflower Southampton and the city of Southampton, that spans more than eight decades. The Company (originally London Festival Ballet and then from 1989 when it was renamed English National Ballet) first performed at Mayflower (then the Gaumont Theatre) in 1953 and has returned regularly ever since. In 2024, the relationship reached a new milestone with the world premiere of English National Ballet’s new Nutcracker choreographed by Artistic Director Aaron S. Watkin and Olivier Award-Winner Arielle Smith. Mayflower Southampton joins with Royal Albert Hall in London, DanceEast in Ipswich, Liverpool Hope University, Oxford MuMo Creative and affiliated hub partner National Dance Company Wales in Cardiff.
• Florian Zeller’s The Truth – will return to the West End next summer for a 12-week run at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. The show will see Stephen Mangan, Ardal O’Hanlon, Sarah Hadland and Janie Dee reunite for the run which will begin performances on 29 July 2027 and run until 16 October, ahead of a UK tour which will visit Theatre Royal Brighton from 18 to 23 October, the Lowry in Salford from 26 to 30 October 2027, the Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham from 2 to 6 November and Theatre Royal Glasgow from 9 to 13 November. Directed by Lindsay Posner and translated by Christopher Hampton, Mangan will play Michel, alongside O’Hanlon as Paul, Hadland as Alice and Dee as Laurence. The production features set and costume design by Lizzie Clachan, lighting design by Richard Howell and sound design by Adam Cork. The production is produced by Simon Friend and Hanna Osmolska for Melting Pot, in association with Len Blavatnik and Danny Cohen for Access Entertainment, Gavin Kalin Productions, Fiery Dragons and Keren Misgav.
• The Lord of the Rings – a new production of the musical will premiere in Istanbul in October 2027 before touring across the world. The new stage production will open at Zorlu Performing Arts Center on 8 October 2027. The musical, seen both in the West End and in an award-winning revival at the Watermill Theatre, features a score by Academy Award winner A R Rahman, Finnish folk group Värttinä and Tony Award winner Christopher Nightingale, with a book and lyrics by Shaun McKenna and Matthew Warchus. Directed by Bruce Guthrie, head of film and theatre at the National Centre for Performing Arts, Mumbai, the production will feature scenic, video and puppetry design by Tony and Olivier Award winner Andrzej Goulding (Life of Pi). Following its Istanbul premiere, The Lord of the Rings will visit Bucharest, Prague, Warsaw, Thessaloniki, Tallinn, Athens, Sofia, Zagreb and Dubai, with further venues and dates to be announced. The production will be cast and rehearsed in the UK, with auditions taking place in early 2027. It is produced by Kevin Wallace and William Bennett for KW Productions, George Isaak for People Entertainment Group, and Middle-earth Enterprises, LLC. Peter Huntley and Callum Runciman are executive producers and general managers for Smart Entertainment.
• Bristol Old Vic – has announced its 2027 season. A 40th anniversary revival of Winsome Pinnock’s Leave Taking runs from 23 September to 16 October and is directed by Nancy Medina. Pinnock’s play became the first play by a Black British woman to be produced by the National Theatre in 1994. Disco Dracula, a co-production between Bristol Old Vic and Disco Dracula Productions, runs from 27 May to 19 June. The new musical has music by Charlie O’Connor and book and lyrics by Alena Henke and O’Connor, and is directed by Robyn Grant. The story follows John and Mina, a couple whose attempt at a normal night out leads them to a disco vampire lair, where Dracula and his Brides are holding auditions for eternity. As the couple encounter the Lord of Darkness, their relationship is put to the test. The production features an original disco score and audience participation. From 22 April to 15 May, Rikki Henry directs Uncle Vanya in a co-production with Stratford East. The production uses David Lan’s English version of Chekhov’s play. Visiting work includes Dog Man: The Musical, based on Dav Pilkey’s book series, from 24 to 27 June, while Hijinx’s Housemates, in association with Sherman Theatre, runs from 30 June to 3 July, Being Mr Wickham, starring Adrian Lukis, runs from 22 to 23 June. Other visiting productions already on sale include The Signalman (19 to 21 January), Food of Love (28 January), Austentatious (29 to 30 January) and Bristol School of Acting’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along(12 to 17 July). In the Studio, Until I Find You runs from 6 to 17 April. Created by Ad Infinitum and Mexico’s El Ingenio del Caldero, while New Perspectives and Royal and Derngate’s Let The Whale Die follows from 18 to 22 May. Further 2027 shows will be announced in November.
• One Day – will open in the West End next month following a preview run at Edinburgh’s Lyceum Theatre. It will run at the Garrick Theatre from 17 November through March 2027. The new stage adaptation is based on David Nicholls’ 2009 novel adapted by David Greig, about the long-term and fractious relationship between Emma and Dexter, it has music and lyrics by Abner and Amanda Ramirez of Johnnyswim, with additional material by Jeremy Sams. Olivier Award nominee Jamie Muscato will play Dexter, while Sharon Rose will play Emma. Joining them are Dan Buckley as Ian, Dougie Carter as Callum, Anna-Jane Casey as Alison Mayhew, Ross Dawes as Mr Godalming, Christopher Dickins as Stephen Mayhew, Vanessa Fisher in the ensemble, Kelly Hampson as Sylvie, Jennifer Louise Jones as Miffy, Romona Lewis-Malley as Tilly, Rosalía Morales as understudy, Ewan Murphy in the ensemble and Tom Mussell as an understudy. Jasmine and Sonia are played by Bonnie Harper, Esmae Kevany, Hannah McIntyre and Ava-Rae Timewell. Directed by Max Webster, the creative team also includes choreographer Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, musical supervisor, musical director and co-arranger Nigel Lilley, set and costume designer Rae Smith, lighting designer Bruno Poet, sound designer Simon Baker, video designer Lewis den Hertog, wigs, hair and make-up designer Carole Hancock, orchestrator and co-arranger Simon Hale, casting director Stuart Burt, intimacy director Ingrid Mackinnon, voice coach Barbara Houseman and production manager Chris Hay. Children’s casting is by Keston and Keston, with orchestral management by Andy Barnwell and Rich Weeden for BW Musicians Ltd.
• In Pieces – has extended its initial world premiere run at London’s The Other Palace next year after the initial announced performances sold out. The show, by Joey Contreras, is directed by Martha Geelan. The creative team comprises Sam Wilson Freeman as choreographer, Brian Russell Carey as music supervisor, and Harry Blumenau as casting director. The piece is produced by Andrew Patino and Jacob Stuckelman of Regular People and Rebecca Gwyther of RJG Productions.Described as a love story about the people you don’t end up with, In Pieces follows the romantic journeys of six characters across three chapters of their lives. The musical will now run from 6 February to 21 March 2027.
• Jesus Christ Superstar – has announced its final Herod for its run at Theatre Royal Drury Lane which ends on 9 January 2027, before embarking on a major UK tour from February 2027. Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Award winner Glenn Close will play the role of Herod from 4 to 9 January. The performer famously played Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard, and her memorable screen roles include Alex Forrest in Fatal Attraction, Marquise de Merteuil in Dangerous Liaisons, Cruella de Vil in 101 Dalmatians, and Patty Hewes in Damages.
• Porridge – a new stage adaptation of Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais’ tv series will embark on a UK tour in 2027. It will be adapted and directed by Samuel Freeman, and feature a cast of three, yet to be announced. The tour is presented by Joshua Beaumont and Matthew Emeny for The Production Garden and will visit The Rondo Theatre, Bath (9 to 11 September), Salisbury Playhouse (13 to 18 September), Medina Theatre, Isle of Wight (21 September), The Lighthouse, Poole (24 to 25 September), Lichfield Garrick (28 September to 1 October), New Theatre, Peterborough (2 October), Harrogate Theatre (4 to 5 October), Lancaster Grand Theatre (6 to 7 October), Lowther Pavilion, Lytham Saint Annes (8 October), Queen’s Theatre, Barnstaple (9 October), The Riverfront, Newport (14 October), The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury (15 October), Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli (16 October), Regent Theatre, Ipswich (18 October), Marina Theatre, Lowestoft (20 October), Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere (22 to 23 October), The Montgomery Theatre, Sheffield (25 to 27 October), Buxton Opera House (28 to 30 October), Floral Pavilion, New Brighton (1 to 4 November), Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury (5 to 6 November) and BEAM, Hertford (12 November).
• Fourteen Again – a musical featuring songs by Victoria Wood and penned by Tom MacRae will begin previews on 21 November, ahead of an opening night on 2 December at the Menier Chocolate Factory, where it will run until 27 February 2027. Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, the production began at the Victoria Wood Theatre in Bowness-on-Windermere earlier this year. NeilMorrissey will play Duncan, with Ria Jones as Lou and Sally Ann Triplett as Peggy. The musical was commissioned by producer Charlotte Scott and designer Roger Glossop to mark the renaming of the Old Laundry Theatre as the Victoria Wood Theatre, on the tenth anniversary of Wood’s death. The venue was opened by Wood, who served as a trustee and performed there on several occasions. She also directed Talent, which was co-produced with the Menier, while her television film Housewife 49 was adapted for the stage at the venue in 2013. The cast also includes understudies Jayne Ashley and Matt Gillett. The creative team comprises musical supervisor, arranger and co-orchestrator Nigel Lilley, choreographer Sammy Murray, set designer Roger Glossop, costume designer Caroline Hughes, lighting designer Jason Taylor, sound designer Sam Glossop, video designer Leo Flint, musical director and co-orchestrator Archie McMorran, assistant director and choreographer Matt Gillett, associate set designer Caroline Dalton and associate sound designer Harry Greatorex.

LATEST NEWS – 5th October 2026

• São Paulo Dance Company – following its triumphant 2024 UK and Ireland debut, the company will embark on a second Dance Consortium tour in 2027. The company brings a new programme, Brazilian Perspectives, a triple bill of work by three female choreographers, Leilane Teles and Lili de Grammont, both giving UK and Ireland premieres, and Cassi Abranches, whose Agora went down a storm with audiences in 2024. The colourful and flirtatious Agora, opens the evening. Next will be dancer and choreographer Leilane Teles’ Umbó, made for São Paulo Dance Company in 2023. In a ritual of inspiration and desire, Teles takes the rhythmic textures of Afro-Brazilian traditions and blends them with evocative vocals from singer/songwriter Tiganá Santana and singer Virginia Rodrigues to create something uniquely her own. The final piece will be EST.AÇÃO (Station), Lili de Grammont’s second work for the company. Dance Consortium is a group of 23 large-scale venues based across the UK and Ireland set up in 2000 to engage audiences with the best contemporary dance from across the world. The tour will open on 5th February 2027 at BIRMINGHAM Hippodrome, before moving on to Eden Court INVERNESS, EDINBURGH King’s Theatre, ABERDEEN His Majesty’s Theatre, SALFORD Lowry, LONDON Sadler’s Wells Theatre, NEWCASTLE Theatre Royal, NORWICH Theatre Royal, BRADFORD Alhambra Theatre, CANTERBURY The Marlow Theatre, SOUTHAMPTON Mayflower Theatre and PLYMOUTH Theatre Royal.
• Side by Side by Sondheim – will be revived at Upstairs at the Gatehouse from 10 December 2026 until 17 January 2027. The musical revue, which premiered in the West End in 1976, features numbers from the likes of West Side Story, Gypsy, Company, Follies, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and A Little Night Music. The 50th anniversary production will be helmed by Amanda Noar, alongside associate director and dramaturg Isaac Bernier-Doyle, and musical director Harry Style. The creative team also includes set designer Ruby Boswell-Green, lighting designer Simon Jackson and costume designer Hannah Danson. Produced by Annlouise Butt by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe), the cast will comprise a quartet of “all-singing, all-dancing, all piano-playing performers” and will be announced shortly.
• In Pieces – will have its fully staged world premiere at The Other Palace where it will run from 6 to 14 February 2027. The show, by Joey Contreras, was first seen in the UK in a concert run at the same venue earlier this year. Described as a love story about the people you don’t end up with, In Pieces follows the romantic journeys of six characters across three chapters of their lives. Martha Geelan is returning to direct. The creative team also comprises Sam Wilson Freeman as choreographer, Brian Russell Carey as music supervisor, and Harry Blumenau as casting director. The piece is produced by Andrew Patino and Jacob Stuckelman of Regular People and Rebecca Gwyther of RJG Productions. The production marks the next stage for the musical, following multiple sold-out performances, including appearances at New York City’s Joe’s Pub, as well as a digital live-capture and a deluxe highlights album released by Broadway Records.
• Gianni Schicchi (or Where There’s A Will) – will be a key element when OperaUpClose take up residency at London’s 2027 Park200 season from 14 April to 8 May. The 65-minute production, rewritten by Hannah Kumari and re-orchestrated by Vahan Salorian, transforms Puccini’s classic opera into a comic murder mystery. Directed by PJ Harris, the piece is designed by Anna Yates, and is co-produced with Mayflower Southampton where it premiered in March this year.
• Dinnerladies – a new stage adaptation of Victoria Wood’s sitcom is the first piece of Wood’s work to be commissioned by the Victoria Wood estate. It will be presented in association with Phil McIntyre Live and Sustainable Entertainment, having been adapted for the stage by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne, featuring a storyline inspired by episodes from the original TV sitcom, and directed by Sean Foley. Les Dennis will star as Stan, while Sue Cleaver plays Jean and Karen Henthorn plays Dolly. Amy Drake will perform as Bren. Joining them are Gemma Dobson as Twinkle and Faye Weerasinghe as Anite, with Jimmy Fairhurst as Tony, Josie Brightwell as Petula, Rachel Marwood as Jane and Rachel Pickup as Philippa. Completing the ensemble is Sarah Dearlove, Alex Frost, Matthew Gordon, Angela Heenan and Tyne Pearson. The original comedy aired between 1998 and 2000, consisting of 16 episodes in total. Winning a British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy in 2000, the sitcom was set in the canteen of fictional Manchester factory HWD Components, and followed the lives, friendships and workplace tribulations of the staff and regulars who gathered there every day. The stage adaptation will debut at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley (22 and 23 January 2027), before heading to Manchester, Llandudno, Bath, York, Birmingham, Stockton, Milton Keynes, Eastbourne, Blackpool, Cardiff, Hull, Nottingham, Wimbledon, Ipswich, Torquay, Truro, Bournemouth, Northampton, Stoke, Guildford, Canterbury, Leeds, Wolverhampton, Liverpool, Reading, Sheffield, and culminating in Southend (3 to 7 August 2027).
• Cats – the new touring production which opens this week at Theatre Royal, Plymouth has announced the performers who will play Grizabella – Louise Dearman, Alice Fearn and Rachael Wooding will share the role of Grizabella. Wooding played the role during the show’s Regent’s Park run. The production, presented by Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals, follows the record-breaking run of the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre revival, directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie. Dearman is scheduled to appear in Plymouth, Birmingham, Bristol, Norwich, and Edinburgh. Fearn will play Grizabella in Llandudno, Glasgow, Nottingham, Canterbury, Sunderland, Aberdeen, Belfast, Dublin, Oxford, Southampton, Bradford, Liverpool, Woking, Cardiff, Milton Keynes, and Newcastle. Wooding reprises the role in Hull and Manchester.
• Little Dancer – following concert presentations at Theatre Royal Drury Lane last year, the new musical is set to receive its fully staged West End premiere in 2027 at Theatre Royal Haymarket from 15 February until 27 March 2027. Based on the story of the young ballerina who posed for Edgar Degas’ sculpture, the piece is written by the Olivier and Tony Award-winning team of Lynn Ahrens (book and lyrics) and Stephen Flaherty (music), whose previous works include the likes of Ragtime, Anastasia, and Once on This Island. Five-time Tony Award winner Susan Stroman (Crazy for You) will once again direct and choreograph the musical, having helmed the concert production last year, and returning cast members include Emmy Award winner and Olivier Award nominee Tiler Peck (Tiny Pretty Things) as Young Marie van Goethem, Julian Ovenden as Edgar Degas, Laura Pitt-Pulford as Adult Marie, and Josefina Gabrielle as Martine. The creative team also includes set designer Beowulf Boritt, lighting designer Ken Billington, costume designer William Ivey Long, sound designer Kai Harada and casting director Jill Green. Orchestrations are by Doug Besterman and Larry Hochman, while music supervision and dance arrangements are provided by Sam Davis. The show is produced by Anita Waxman, alongside Jana Shea, Patricia R Klausner, Sharon A Carr, Iwan Lewis (UK executive producer), Emily Blavatnik, and Danny Cohen, with general management by Short Street Productions Ltd.
• Dirty Dancing – will return to the West End early next year at the Prince Edward Theatre from 19 January 2027 for a limited season, until 24 April. Dirty Dancing received its West End premiere at the Aldwych Theatre in 2006, where it ran for five years. It has since gone on to tour the world and returned to the West End in 2013, playing at the Piccadilly Theatre. It then returned again to the Phoenix Theatre in 2016, and had runs at the Dominion Theatre in 2022 and 2023. Michael O’Reilly returns as Johnny Castle. He will lead the company alongside Pippa Jackson as Baby Houseman and Emily Layden-Fritz as Penny Johnson. Produced by Karl Sydow, in association with Lionsgate and Magic Hour Productions, the stage production is written by Eleanor Bergstein, screenwriter of the 1987 film. The creative team features director and set designer Federico Bellone, choreographer Austin Wilks, music supervisor Richard John, lighting designer Valerio Tiberi, sound designer Chris Whybrow, associate director Juliet Gough, costume designer Jennifer Irwin, casting director Harry Blumenau, and production manager Pete Kramer. The associate producer is Russ Spencer, the co-producer is Ivan Mactaggart with general management by New Road Theatricals.
• The Radium Girls – a new musical, will receive its world premiere at Southwark Playhouse Borough where it will run from 20 March to 8 May 2027. Inspired by the real-life experiences of women on the factory frontlines in the 1920s, it follows ambitious teenager Olive and her friends as they land jobs painting glowing watch dials at New Jersey’s United States Radium Corporation. The show has music and book by Amanda D’Archangelis, and lyrics and book by Sami Horneff and Lisa Mongillo. It is described as a “horror-laced” musical comedy. Marissa Jaret Winokur, best known perhaps as Broadway’s original Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray, will direct. Chadd McMillan serves as associate director and Jonathan Bauerfeld is the orchestrator, whilst Rebecca Reaney choreographs the show. The team is completed by casting director Harry Blumenau, executive producer RJG Productions and general manager HFH Productions. The show is produced by High Octave Productions and supported by co-producers Stubbs and Saul Productions.
• Grease – the new tour will feature Debbie McGee in the cast in the role of Miss Lynch in the musical. McGee, who trained at the Royal Ballet School and rose to fame as the assistant of popular magician Paul Daniels in the 1980s. She became one of the first female magician members of The Magic Circle. Nikolai Foster once again directs the teen musical, penned by Jim Jacobs and Warrey Casey, alongside Arlene Phillips who once again choreographs the production. The creative team also includes designer Colin Richmond, orchestrator and musical supervisor Sarah Travis, lighting designer Ben Cracknell, sound designers Tom Marshall and Richard Brooker and casting director David Grindrod.
• Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard – will form the first part of The Octagon Theatre in Bolton’s 60th anniversary season. The theatre was conceived by five students and their drama lecturer Robin Pemberton-Billing. The Octagon opened to the public in November 1967 as a producing theatre with a fully flexible performance space. Artistic director Lotte Wakeham directs a new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical which will be performed by a company of actor-musicians. The production is a co-production between the Octagon Theatre Bolton, Royal and Derngate Northampton and York Theatre Royal, and runs from 2 April to 1 May 2027