We’re back with another monthly round up - bringing you the biggest news from theatreland, letting you know what shows we reviewed and what shows to look out for over the next month. There's also a competition to win two tickets to one of the hottest musicals in the West End!
Welcome to our July theatre roundup, where we bring you the latest and greatest news from the heart of the UK's theatre scene, London. This month, more cast has been announced for the upcoming production of Waiting For The Godot and Starlight Express has extended its booking period due to popular demand. Unfortunately, we also bid farewell to great shows in August, like Standing at the Sky's Edge which is closing soon. Additionally, we've reviewed some fantastic shows, including the energetic and inspiring Fangirls and the classic musical Hello, Dolly!. Enjoy this month's roundup!
The most talked about theatre news in July
Major revival of The Producers is heading to London
The Producers at Menier Chocolate Factory.
As part of the Menier Chocolate Factory’s Autumn/Winter season, a revival of the classic cult film of the same name is on the horizon! The original Broadway production snapped up 12 Tony Awards, the most a musical has ever won! This is sure to be a hit with London audiences when it opens in December.
Further casting announced for Waiting for Godot
Tom Edden and Jonathan Slinger headshots. Photos provided by production.
Ahead of its opening at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in September, Waiting for Godot announced who would be joining the previously announced Lucian Msamati and Ben Whishaw. Waiting for Godot is known for exploring themes of human existence.
New cast announced for Mamma Mia! The Party
Antony Costa, Inês Fernandez, Henryk Firth and Georgia Morgan headshots.
Now in its fifth successful year at The 02, Mamma Mia! The Party continues to thrill audiences with its theatrical dining experience. The new cast includes Lucinda Lawrence, Inês Fernandez, Henryk Firth and Georgia Morgan. Antony Costa will also continue in his role in the show until 15 November.
Starlight Express extends booking period
Jeevan Braich (Rusty) and the cast of Starlight Express. Photo by Pamela Raith.
Want to see Andrew Lloyd Webber’s breathtaking production in London? The “scorcher of a revival” Starlight Express has announced it will be extending until June 2025. The adrenaline-filled production which has inspired audiences for generations sees a child’s train set magically come to life.
John Simm to play Scrooge in A Christmas Carol
John Simm headshot.
Back again at The Old Vic following another record-breaking run last year, Matthew Warchus’ beloved A Christmas Carol will star John Simm. Simm will return to the stage for the first time since 2019 to play Scrooge, the stingy and cold-hearted character who will undergo a transformative journey of redemption and self-discovery. This production is always a hit in London during the festive season!
What London shows are closing in August
Looking to snag some last-minute tickets to catch a show before it closes this month? Check out our website for a comprehensive roundup of eight shows ending in August. Highlights include the beloved musical Sister Act, the spine-tingling 2:22 - A Ghost Story, and the critically acclaimed Standing at the Sky’s Edge. Don’t miss your chance to see these incredible performances before they take their final bow!
What London shows are opening in August
Audiences are eagerly anticipating the debut of several exciting new productions in London this August, making it a thrilling month for theatre enthusiasts. Among the highlights are The Wizard of Oz, which promises to bring the beloved classic to life with a fresh and magical stage adaptation, and Farm Hall, a compelling drama that delves into the intriguing lives of captured German scientists during World War II.
If you love music then you can look forward to A Night With Janis Joplin, a vibrant celebration of the legendary rock and blues singer, featuring electrifying performances of her greatest hits. For those in search of humour and relatability, Why Am I So Single? offers a hilarious and insightful exploration of the trials and tribulations of modern dating. Grab a ticket whilst you can, they will be popular!
What we reviewed in July
Fangirls, Lyric Hammersmith
FANGIRLS at Lyric Hammersmith Theatre (c) Manuel Harlan
With book, music and lyrics by Yve Blake, Australian import FANGIRLS is tinged with social conscience and offers messaging which results in genuinely thought-provoking moments. This is a show which knows exactly how to send itself up and we’re absolutely certain it will enjoy a long and extremely successful run.
Read our full review of Fangirls
Hello Dolly!, London Palladium
Imelda Staunton in Hello, Dolly. Photo by Manuel Harlan.
55 years on from the film that nearly bankrupted 20th Century Fox studios, how does this new stage version starring Imelda Staunton compare? Staunton’s less showy and slightly more vulnerable incarnation works extremely well. The near full-sized orchestra is one of the stars of the show, creating a lush and luxurious atmosphere.
Read our review of Hello Dolly!
Slave Play, Noel Coward Theatre
Slave Play at Noel Coward Theatre. Photo by Helen Murray
Transferring to the West End, Slave Play proves an interesting, welcome and altogether exciting and challenging addition to the city. The play secured a record breaking 12 Tony nominations, it may just achieve an equivalent feat this side of the Atlantic.
Your Lie in April, Harold Pinter Theatre
You Lie in April at Harold Pinter Theatre. Photo Craig Sugden.
The Japanese manga series originally unfolded over the span of 11 monthly magazine editions. It has since been adapted into an anime television series, a novel, a live-action film, and now it’s making its debut as a brand-new musical on the West End stage.
Read our review of Your Lie in April
Starlight Express, Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre
Jade Marvin (Momma) and the cast in Starlight Express (Photo Credit Pamela Raith)
This entirely revamped production hopes to electrify a fresh generation of musical trainspotters at the 2000-seater Troubadour venue at Wembley Park. If you have kids under 10, Starlight Express is a no-brainer and money well spent. Musical fans won’t regret snapping up a ticket for this show over the summer too!
Read our review of Starlight Express
July Top 5 Sellers.
We are thrilled to announce our 5 best-selling shows in June. This month our customers have been snapping up tickets to see some great theatre including Next to Normal, Hello, Dolly!, Choir of Man, Witness for the Prosecution and Mamma Mia!
Win two tickets to Wicked
Wicked the Musical.
In celebration of becoming the 10th longest-running show in West End history and with the movie release just months away, we’re giving away two tickets to see Wicked! The musical has attracted thousands of fans of all ages since it opened at the Apollo Victoria Theatre in 2006. Head to our Instagram, X, Facebook pages to enter!
As always we will see you again next month for another roundup, have a brilliant month of theatre in August.
