With Halloween now officially behind us Christmas is in full swing in the West End. Elf the musical which is a West End classic has reopened at the Aldwych theatre. And new production elf photos have been released! This time starring the extrememly talented couple Joel Montague and Carrie Hope Fletcher. And we now have the first elf photos with this new cast. Joel is known for his roles in Hamilton, The Great Gatsby and The Producers. While Carrie Hope Fletcher is a household name now with her many high profile roles in Les Mis, Heathers. She is now also Jenna in Waitress on the upcoming UK tour. But first this real life couple will be falling in love nightly at this fun festive show.
The new cast looks amazing as does the Aldwych Theatre which took on some rennovations after the closing of Tina in order to expand the stage for the full set of Elf. And the finiishing touch of a beautiful curtain call where fake snow falls on the audience. The last time Elf was in London was at the Dominion ( now the home of The Devil Wears prada) which had a much bigger stage. But from the photos and audience reaction nothing about this production was toned down. The stage effects add to the magical feel of the show.
Book tickets to see Elf now when the festive season is just startring because we anticipate it will quickly become the most sought after ticket once December comes!
It’s the news we’ve all been hoping for! Disney’s Hercules has released an Original London Cast Recording on digital platforms today. The CD will be available on the 21st November and the vinyl on the 5th December. Hercules Cast Recording features all the original songs form the film as well as the new songs from the musical. The show has been playing successfully in the West End since June this year.
The album is performed by the original and current London Cast which stars Luke Brady as Hercules, Mae Ann Jorolan as Meg, Trevor Dion Nicholas as Phil and Stephen Carlile as Hades. The Muses are many peoples favourite part of the show and they are played by Candance Furbert as Thalia, Sharlene Hector as Clio, Brianna Ogunbawo as Melpomene, Malinda Parris as Calliope and Robyn Rose- Li as Terpsichore.
From the Writers
Alan Menken, who wrote for the 1997 animated film with David Zippel, said. “This Hercules cast album represents the culmination of a journey that started way back in the mid-’90s. In the world of Disney animation. The unique opportunities that came from composing a score filled with stylish pop and gospel influences. Combined with David Zippel’s brilliant, sophisticated lyrics, never failed to delight me. I believe audiences connected, both then and now, with that sense of joy we had in our writing process.
“One of my favorite aspects of adapting my own pre-existing material for a stage production. Is being able to give voice to characters who never sang before, like Hades. Including Hades’ new song, David and I have written seven new songs that bring even more heart and soul into the story.”
David Zippela also added, “What a joy it has been for Alan and me to reconnect with Hercules. The Muses, Meg, Hades, the Mount Olympus gang, our brilliant music department, and the extraordinary singing actors who bring these characters and our songs to life. We have loved the chance to write new songs and deepen Hercules’ emotional journey, and we cannot be more excited to share this album with, what the ancient Greeks called, the known world.”
The Mel Brooks musical has finally made it’s triumphant return to the West End after a sold out run at the Menier Chocolate Factory. The Producers was in previews at the Garrick and now after it’s press night the review are in. In this review round-up we will go over what the different publications are saying and how the show was received. Spoiler alert, it’s glowing reviews across the board.
The Standard
“At 99 years old, and amid countless other achievements. Mel Brooks can congratulate himself on having the funniest show in London.”
“In a time of polarisation and performative outrage, this show is a hymn to tolerance and the ability to laugh with others and at oneself.”
“…has grown in swagger and finesse since it premiered at the Menier last December.Now, I honestly can’t find fault with it.”
“Truly we are not worthy. The line Bialystok quotes from a review of Springtime for Hitler also sums up The Producers. “It was shocking, outrageous and insulting – and I loved every minute of it.”
Nick Curtis
The Telegraph – ★★★★
“A carnival of wisecracks and witty tunes, the show is all about a Broadway producer’s outrageous bid to engineer a dead-cert flop. By mounting a worst-taste extravaganza in praise of Hitler.”
“It’s still a winningly funny proposition for a new generation – and Marber pulls out all the stops to raise the Garrick roof.”
“The verbal wit is matched with visual élan. Choreographer Lorin Latarro honours the Fiddler-ish pastiche of Bialystock’s opening number with preposterously prancing shtetl figures”
Dominic Cavendish
London Theatre – ★★★★★
“…it delivers one belly laugh after another. And still, there is so much more to this production than good, old-fashioned tomfoolery.”
“Cheekily played by Nyman, he is packed full of shameless tricks and bravado.”
“Joanna Woodward is scene-stealing as the Swedish secretary Ulla in what otherwise is very much a boys’ show. But its humour never falters.”
“It is in these big, boisterous chorus numbers that The Producers is at its best. But there are countless small delights, too”
“What a joy it is to revel in Marber’s never-ending silliness. If you want non-stop giggles, gloriously provocative jokes and an easy escape from everyday misery, there’s no better place to be right now than the Garrick. This is an absolute hoot.”
Anya Ryan
The Stage – ★★★★
“He saturates this slick musical comedy with a wealth of physical gags, exquisitely timed double takes and an expertly judged sense of the absurd that enhances the show’s momentum.”
“Add to this Scott Pask’s clever composite set and Paul Farnsworth’s inventive, colourful costume designs, and the production seems to have found its natural home in the West End.”
“Its success relies in no small part on the hugely entertaining double act at its heart.”
“There isn’t a moment where the pace drops in Marber’s production, and there’s even time for a love story”
Paul Vale
Whatsonstage – ★★★★★
“After all, the genius of Mel Brooks’ comedy musical lies as much in its skewering of the ludicrousness of fascist ideology as its satire of showbiz.”
“But it’s not all about the set pieces. It’s anchored by a pair of outstanding performances from Andy Nymn and Marc Antolin…”
“It’s a treat for the ears too, with the band, situated atop a platform at the back of the stage, equally luxurious under the baton of Matthew Samer.”
“The Producers has come back to the West End just at the right time, offering a giant slab of feel-good escapism and genuine hilarity when such things feel in short supply.”
“Whether you’re a fan of the 1967 screen original or a newcomer, it’s got plenty of pleasures to flaunt.”
Theo Bosanquet
What did reviewers think of The Producers
The Producers review round-up shows the musical was very well-received and has garnered praise from critics on all corners. In general the show was praised for how it adapted into the bigger space at the Garrick and how it handled/tackled more senstive topics regarding fascism and showbiz. The cast were highly acclaimed for both the lead performancew as well as the supporting.
The show is currently playing until february 2026, don’t miss your chance to see this hilarious musical at the Garrick Theatre. Book tickets to The Producers now!
The complete company for ELF the Musical has been announced for it’s 10-week run at the Aldwych Theatre. The show is the first to take over the Aldwych after Tina closes this weekend after 7 years. And starts on the 28th October and will run until the 3rd of January. The show will be lead by three main leads. Joel Montague, Carrie Hope Fletcher and Aled Jones as Buddy, Jovie and Waltar Hobbs. This is excitingly the first time real life theatre couple Carrie Hope Fletcher and Joel Montague will star in a show together. Joel has just finished his run as George Wilson in The Great Gatsby at the London Coliseum. While Fletcher is most well-known for her roles in Heathers and Les Miserable. The entire Elf complete cast has also been listed.
Joel Montague, Carrie Hope Fletcher
Entire Company
Aled Jones will also star as Walter Hobbs and the rest of the cast has also been announced. They will be joined by Rosanna Hyland , Martyn Ellis, Lucinda Lawrence, Dermot Canavan as Emily Hobbs, Santa/Mr Greenway, Deb and Store Manager respectively. The Elf complete cast further consists of Mollie Cleere, Farirayi Garaba, Sophie Pourret, Lucy Rice, Biancha Szynal, Kyle Cox, Zack Guest, Ryan Jupp, Dominic Lamb and Danny Nattrass. The swings will be Sophie Camble, Amy Punter, Samuel John Humphreys and Michael Tyler.
Elf the Musical has had quite a history on the West End. With the last production running at the Dominion Theatre in 2022 and 2023 during the festive season. Each time the show has broken box office records and been a resounding success. While this will be the same production due to the new space new sets have been designed to fit the Aldwych Theatre. The production is presented by Temple Live Entertainment.
Hamilton have just celebrated their 10 year anniversary and it has officially been in the West End for almost 8 years. Although many love to joke about how the idea of Hamilton playing in London is ironic and funny. The show remains one of the most successful and hottest tickets in the West End. The Hamilton musical is one of the few that has never needed stunt casting and has still filled the Victoria Palace Theatre night after night.
History
Although stunt casting was never needed this doesn’t mean the show hasn’t produced famous people. The original Broadway cast of Hamilton is particulary acclaimed with Lin himself playing the titular role of Hamilton. Leslie Odom Jr. who is actually returning to the role for a limited run starred as Aaron Burr. And many other members went on to become stars in the theatre and acting world. Such as Jonathon Groff, Ariana Debose and Anthony Ramos. The original cast also reunited for a speical performace at this years Tony’s to celebrate Hamilton turning 10.
Hamilton was written by Lin Manuel Miranda back in 2015 and it quickly went on to become a global phenomenon. The show blends a unique mix of rap and singing with Lin’s signature word-play and quick wit. The story is one we should theoretically all be familiar with. As we learn of the life of Alexander Hamilton one of the USA founding fathers. Hamilton is characterized as the underdog “rag-tag” immigrant who through his wit and knowledge went on to help lay the foundation of the USA as we know it today. The story also highlights his wife Eliza Schuyler Hamilton. And her and her sister Angelica’s roles in Hamilton’s life and his legacy. The show has grown a very dedicated fan base. But beyond that has cemented itself as one of the most popular, awarded and well-known musicals of the modern era.
Why is Hamilton so Popular?
The show won the Pulitzer prize for best drama and racked up a record-breaking 16 Tony nominations. Of which it won 11. The score was critically acclaimed and was called a “eye-popping debut” by Billboard. Who also gave it a perfect 5-out-of-5 review. The show is unique in it’s concept and execution standing out from the traditional musicals we were seeing. Although it could seem like a difficult show to get into with the complicated history of America’s independence. And the founding fathers. Hamilton manages to give a condensed engaging history lesson by following his journey. And his interactions with other important figures like George Washington, Aaron Burr etc.. By telling the journey to independence in a modern, hip and fascinating way the show manages to connect with young audiences. As well as non-American audiences who might not have known the history prior.
The show has also been praised for it’s blind casting. Despite the real life figures being predominately white Hamilton has historically cast people of colour in almost all roles. This highlights minority communities and immigrants in America and in the acting space where people of color are notoriously underrepresented. This is also an empowering concept as it allows minorities to reclaim and be recognized for their part in the beginning of America.
The enduring success
Beyond this Hamilton’s success does boil down to one very simple thing. It’s just very entertaining. The songs are catchy and meaningful with clever lyrics that are impossible to process in one viewing. So you’re incentivized to listen to the soundtrack. The actors are amazing and deliver powerhouse vocals and show-stopping performances. The choreography is interesting and fully utilities the ensemble. And it’s an exciting story that encompasses all the themes that make great stories. Friendship, love, rebellion, war, rivalries and death. There’s comedic moments and dramatic moments and nothing overshadows the other. With the central rivalry of Hamilton and Burr who are both fleshed out and complex characters. Alongside Eliza and Angelic Schuyler who are given new voices to reclaim their part of history. It’s no wonder this show has hit levels of popularity rarely seen in the musical world.
How to get tickets!
Tickets for Hamilton musical are hard to come by. The best way to ensure fair prices and good availability is to book in advance. It plays every week from Monday – Saturday and the week day performances will normally be cheaper. The theatre has a decent rake and even seats on the top floor(upper circle) doesn’t feel too far away from the action. Booking online with theatrebookings will ensure you get the seats you want at a reasonable price.
The residents of the Windsor Gardens are here! The Paddington cast is finally out!
The new Musical Paddington has just announced their principle cast. For when they open at the start of November in the Savoy Theatre. The show has been massively anticipated and is expected to be the next big hit in the West End. The initial casting news means rehearsals are officially beginning and we couldn’t be more excited for this talent filled cast.
The musical will star Adrian Der Gregorian as Mr Brown and Amy Ellen Richardson as Mrs Brown. Timi Akinyosade as Tony, Amy Booth-Steel as Lady Sloane. Tarinn Callender as Grant, Delilah Bennett-Cardy as Judy Brown, Tom Edden as Mr Curry. Furthermore Victoria Hamilton-Barritt as Millicent Clyde, Teddy Kempner as Mr Gruber and Bonnie Langford as Mrs Bird. The role of Jonathon Brown will be shared by Joseph Bramley, Leo Collon, Stevie Hare and Jaspar Rowse.
Although the casting plans and designer for Paddington Bear himself has not yet been announced.
The production will be based on the 2014 film Paddington. With new choreography, songs and all the classsic hallmarks of the iconic character.
Book tickets to see Paddington the Musical now, booking until 25 May 2026 at the Savoy Theatre.
Hadestown London is quickly turning into a staple in the West End as they near their second anniversary. If you’ve considered taking the trip to the underworld before and haven’t yet. Maybe this blog post will change your mind. We will discuss the history of the show beyond the West End. And why it has captured London’s heart as well.
Hadestown Origin
The show was a conceptual album by Anaïs Mitchell and was staged in Vermont all the way back in 2006. The album then came out in 2010. The first larger scale production was Off-Broadway in 2016 where 15 additional songs were written. It then premiered at the New York Theatre Workshop. It then ran for a year at the National Theatre in London before making its official Broadway debut in 2019. Where it picked up 8 Tony’s including the Tony for Best Musical.
It continues to play successfully in the Walter Kerr Theatre and recently celebrated 2000 performances and is moving it’s way up the long-running Broadway show list. The show then returned to London, this time at the Lyric Theatre, in the West End spring of 2024. The show has been widely praised by critics and has grown a devoted fan base due it’s music, casts and meaning. Although the first song let’s you know the show ill be a tragedy it has a uplifting and positive message and theme.
Why is it a Phenomenon?
Although musicals based on ancient Greek myths isn’t uncommon with Disney’s Hercules just landing in the West End and Percy Jackson closing a few months ago. Hadestown stands out as being an original musical not based on a film/book about a lesser known myth. The show conceptualizes the Underworld as Hadestown a play on the corporate capitalist playground where Hades rules as the overbearing boss. The visuals are striking with the red carnation as a ever [resent symbol of love and grief. You don’t need to be familiar with Greek mythology or Orpheus’s story to understand and empathize with the show. If anything it can be even more impactful. The show cleverly uses lighting and a turntable to create show stopping moments such as Wait for Me the penultimate song of Act 1 and one we’ve seen staged at the Olivier’s, Tony’s and West End Live.
In the West End
The West End run featured a diverse talented cast led by Dónal Finn as Orpheus, Grace Hodgett-Young as Eurydice, Melanie La Barrie as Hermes, Zachary James as Hades and Gloria Ontiri (Saving Mozart) as Persephone. Other notable cast members include Bella Brown (EVITA) and Allie Daniels as Fate 1 and 3. The cast was very well-received with high priase for how the show allowed actors to use their natural accents. Which made each iteration of the character feel wholly original. This resulted in fans often going back multiple times to see different covers in the role. As well as creating nicknames such as “Corkeus” for Finn’s Irish Orpheus. The final performance of Hodgett-Young and Finn was recorded and a selection of songs were released in a live album.
Broadway OBC takeover
Earlier this year it was announced that the 5 principles of the original Broadway Cast would be returning for 1 month to the West End production in order to eventually film a pro shot. This included Eva Noblezada, Reeve Carney, Andre de Shields, Amber Gray and Patrick Page. The presale for the month began a few days after the announcement and every seat was sold in a matter of hours. Unfortunately when it was due to start Patrick Page was unable to perform due to a leg injury. Phillip Boykin from the Broadway show stepped up and reprise his Hades. Page did still perform on the days they filmed the pro-shot and changes were made to the show to fit his walking aid.
How to book tickets to Hadestown?
Although the OBC cast definitely sold out tickets faster than West End shows are used to. The current cast are also doing extremely well performing to packed theatres every night. The show often will only have a few seats left on the day so for the cheaper prices in the balcony and Upper Circle, booking in advance is your best bet. Hadestown will also have better availability on weekday evenings and the mid week matinee which is normally the Thursday.
Hadestown London is on at the Lyric Theatre which is one of the older theatres at a capacity of 915. As it’s quite a small theatre even the seats higher up offer a good view of the stage. There are some pillars towards the back of dress and upper circle so be sure to watch out for those when booking! Apparently for one of the seats the pillar is actually right in the leg room space so you have to watch the show completely leaning over!
The new stars of Cabaret have been announced and we couldn’t be more excited! Reeve Carney and Eva Noblezada will be gracing the London stages once more. This time as the Emcee and Sally Bowles in Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club. After we already saw them for a month earlier this year as the OBC of Hadestown took over the Lyric Theatre.
Eva having just finished her run as Sally Bowles in the Broadway production. Shared a teaser video on Sunday before the official announcement came out. Stating she was not ready to leave yet and if she could bring a special guest. Fans immediately suspected it to be Reeve. As the two have starred in the same show before and recently got engaged in London.
This revival of Cabaret started in 2029 starring Eddie Redmayne and has since proven extremely successful recently hitting 2000 performances worldwide. The structure of the casting has always centered the two main stars which Hannah Dodd and Rob Madge currently in the role. Other stars who have stepped on stage in these roles include Billy Porter, Marisha Wallace, Cara Delevinge and Adam Lambert. This will be Reeve’s debut as the Emcee and Eva is repising her role which gained widespread praise.
The new stars of Cabaret is scheduled to start on September 22nd and conclude their run January 24th. Please note they will not be performing October 22nd to November 5th.
In light of so many show closures and new openings. I thought this would be an interesting time to look back at some of the true long runners of the industry and how they have stayed so popular in such a competitive environment. This list will also show the true history of the West End as the theatre hub officially started with Theatre Royal Drury Lane opening all the way back in 1663. During this time the West End has grown to 39 theatres from massive playhouses like the Apollo Victoria with a capacity of over 2000 to small intimate venues like the Arts theatre with only a 350 capacity. There has been countless shows playing at a near constant turnaround but these are the 6 shows that are the longest-running west end shows.
The Mousetrap – 73 years
The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie is the longest running show in the entire world. Starting all the way back in 1952 the show has become a bit of a legend. And many tourists and locals flock to it daily to see how this murder mystery secret has been kept for all these years. Based on the classic Agatha Christie novel the Mousetrap tells the story of this unlikely group of characters. Who become trapped in a hotel during a snow storm before one mysteriously turns up dead. We then follow along the investigation and the audience is kept guessing over whodunit. The play also famously ends with the cast telling the audience to help them keep the secret.
Tickets for the show are always very hot but everyday they release cheap front row seats in the stalls. Visit us at our ticket booth in Leicester square for £27 seats on the day.
Les Miserable – 30 years
Les Miserable is the longest running musical in the world playing now in the West End for 30 years. The show has played over 15,000 performances. It is now celebrating it’s 30th anniversary with a special cast from alumni of the show. The musical follows Jean Valjean, a french peasant, who is released on parole after 19 years of imprisonment for stealing a loaf of bread. Over decades we follow him on his new life searching for redemption as the revolutionary period in France commences. The musical is the most awarded show in the world with some of the most famous songs being “I dreamed a dream”, “Do you hear the people sing” and “At the end of the day”.
The Phantom of the Opera – 29 years
The Phantom of the Opera is the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical about the tragic story of Christine Daae, who becomes the obsession of the mysterious musical genius. Who live below the Paris Opera House, The Phantom. The show has been seen by 20 million people an is praised for it’s grandeur and simplicity. It also tackles the classic themes of love and obession, which means it connects well with international audiences as well. The show includes the iconic titular song “The Phantom of the Opera” and other classics like “Music of the Night” and “All I Ask of You”.
Mamma Mia – 26 years
Mamma Mia is the first and only jukebox musical on this list composed by Catherine Johnson. And based on the songs by ABBA the Swedish group. The musical is named after the 1975 chart topper “Mamma Mia! and the original band members Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus were involved in the entire process. The musical features all of Abba’s greatest hits like “Super trouper”, “Dancing Queen”, “Knowing me, Knowing you” and “Voulez-Vous”. It has also been adapted into a film starring Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried in 2008. The story follows Sophie who is looking for her real father to attend her wedding. Guaranteed to be a fun night filled with joyous songs the show has drawn over 70 million people worldwide.
The Lion King – 26 years
The Lion King is the most successful Disney musical based on original animated film. The show debuted 1997 three years after the film and was an instant success. It feature actors in animal costumes as well as giant hollow puppets. The show won many awards including best musical at the Tony’s but also won Best Costume across the board. For it’s revolutionary use of puppets and animal costumes. The show blends a beloved story with captivating visuals and universally loved music to create a show that has been simultaneously running in the West End and Broadway for over 20 years. It is also the first show on the list to delight audiences across the ocean for this long. As it’s still playing after Phantom, Mamma Mia and Les Mis closed on Broadway.
Wicked – 19 years
Wicked has been running for 18 years at the Apollo Victoria theatre in London and shows no sign of lowing down after the film came out last year to massive commercial success and praise from critics. The musical is loosely based on the book by Gregory Maguire. It tells the unheard story of the Wicked Witch of the West from the classic story The Wizard of Oz. The show has been seen by over 12 million people in London alone. And has won awards all over the world including three tony’s and a Grammy for Best Musical Album. The film Wicked: For Good adapts the second half of the stage show and is due to be released this November.
Honorable Mention: Starlight Express – 18 + 1 years
Starlight Express is an honorable mention for this list as the revival currently playing isn’t the same production as the one that ran for 18 years but it is notable as one of the few cases of a long runner closing and then coming back. Starlight Express is another Andrew Lloyd Webber show and is about a child’s train-set coming to life in his dreams and competing to become the fastest engine in the world. Playing in the specially built Troubadour Theatre the show famously has all the actors on rollerskates. The theatre is split into Platforms, carriages and the locomotive for a immersive experience.
Book in advance with theatrebookings for great prices to these shows!
The Producers, by Mel Brooks, full cast has now been announced. The show is to begin previews at the Garrick Theatre on the 30th of August after Mrs Warren’s Professions closes on the 15th. With the official opening on the 15th of September. But we now have the full cast list and a bit more information about this West End transfer.
The Producers is based on the cult film by Mel Brooks. Which was his first film to win the academy award for Best original Screenplay. Overall the story follows two producers who down-on-their-luck decide to create the biggest flop in theatre history. Hilarity will ensue however, when ironically the show is beloved by the audience and opens to thunderous applause. Packed with Mel Brooks signature humor the Producers guarantees to be a hilarious night out.
After announcing the principal cast in March. With most actors from the London transfer reprising their roles for the West End run. This includes Andy Nyman as Max Bialystock, Marc Antolin as Leo Bloom, Trevor Ashley as Roger de Bris. Raj Ghatak as Carmen Ghia, Harry Morrison as Franz Liebkind and Joanna Woodward as Ulla.
The cast is completed by Alex Lodge, Kelsei-Rae Marshall, Megan Armstrong, Olly Christopher, Gabrielle Cocca. Nolan Edwards, Michael Franks, Matt Gillett. Esme Kennedy, Sinead Kenny, Josh Kiernan , Kate Parr, Emma Robotham-Hunt, Pierce Rogan, Hollie Jane Stephens, Jermaine Woods and Ryan Pidgen. Furthermore Ryan Pidgen will be Max’s standby and Matt Gillett is the Resident Director. Additionally with Gabrielle Cocca and Josh Kiernan as Dance Captain and Vice respectively.
Book tickets in advance to see The Producers at the Garrick theatre now! The midweek performances usually have the best availability.
