New EVITA Production Photos have just been released following their press night on the 1st of July. Although we’ve all seen the balcony scene by now this is a first look at the actual stage, costumes and staging from inside the palladium.
Undoubtedly the theatre event of the summer the show is playing to sold out theatres every night. While an extra few hundred people wait outside. To watch Rachel Zegler serenade the crowd with Don’t Cry for me Argentina. It was a topic of controversy for the last few weeks. With many arguing it was unfair for the crowd inside to miss out. With the New EVITA Production Photos released we see how the screens incorporate the song. And how effective the staging is in representing the two sides of Eva.
The show stars Rachel Zegler as Eva Peron, Diego Rodriguez as Che and James Olivas as Juan Peron. Along with Aaron Lee Lambert as Agustin Magaldi and Bella Brown as Alternate Eva/The Mistress.
An outstanding ensemble support them: Carl Au, Damian Buhagiar, Deangrelo Jones, Gabriela Benedetti, Shakara Brown, Kyeriah D’Marni. Sally Frith, Lucas Koch, Nataha Leaver, Michael Lin, Diante Lodge, Louis Mackroot, Mireia Mambo, Mia Mullarkey, Perry O’dea, Alysha Sontae, Monica Swayne, Jon Tsouras and Harrison Wilde. The ensembles energetic execution of the choreo highlights the tension and drama of the musical.
The show has received glowing reviews across the board. And you can read about what the critics thought in this review round-up.
After the press night for Jamie Lloyd’s EVITA here’s the Evita review round-up. The show has garnered many 5 stars reviews across the board with high praise for Zegler’s performance as Eva Peron and the rest of the cast. The direction choices also received a lot of praise with the balcony stunt’s effectiveness and strong staging. The audience reception was also noted as some of the most strong reactions and applause seen in the West End. Here are some of the most notable comments from my EVITA review round-up.
EVITA Review Round-Up
WhatsOnStage ★★★★★
“Cue insanity, crowds gathering outside the theatre for her performance. And an earnest debate about whether the audience is getting what they have paid for. The answer is quite simple: they are. Everyone is.”
“Part of that is down to the effect of Zegler’s central performance. She really is superb, with a clear, strong voice and astonishing amounts of energy as she powers her way through the show.”
“The movement, performed by some astonishing dancers, is full of detail. Curved arms raised to heaven that frame the action, poses that create friezes, extended legs, passionate lifts.”
“She delivers the famous piece with great delicacy, smiling when she says, “I choose freedom”, letting the words land lightly.”
“Ultimately, like it or loathe it (which some people will), this Evitais an event with a capital E, an assertion of the unique power of theatre to become both story and spectacle, to draw people in.”
Sarah Crompton
LondonTheatre ★★★★★
“I’m thrilled to report that it’s just as electrifying, if not more, as part of the show. On a giant screen we see, live, not just Eva but hundreds of watching people, camera phones raised aloft, transfixed by her – a jaw-dropping encapsulation of this timely tale of populist politics, showbiz, celebrity worship, and purposeful myth-making.”
“But this is really a visceral experience. When Fabian Aloise’s super-athletic choreography – which combines tango and twerking – kicks into high gear, and when the phenomenal ensemble, whipped into a frenzy by the Peróns. Wave signs and scarves while confetti rains down on us. It feels like being inside a stadium gig, a football match and a political rally all at once: exhilarating, addictive, ultimately terrifying.”
Marianka Swain
The Stage ★★★★★
“Jamie Lloyd is a master of canny reinvention.”
“Now that production returns, and it’s punchier, darker, more exhilaratingly dynamic and more brilliantly layered than ever. It is meta, without being arch, and while it has the raw energy and high-octane energy of a rock gig, it’s also full-bloodedly theatrical.”
“It’s a blisteringly modern take on the show – a production that’s articulately in dialogue with our 21st-century world of image manipulation, interchangeable identity, dubious iconography and deep division. And above all, it’s an absolute blast. Unmissable.”
Sam Marlowe
Telegraph ★★★★★
“The result is a total triumph, dominated by a powerhouse, reputation-restoring performance from Zegler, 24, and stamina-testing choreography by Fabian Aloise”
“It’s a continual button-pushing spectacle, from the mournful posturing of the opening funeral where the dry-ice flows as thick as tear-gas.”
“Exuding self-possession, Zegler can dance nimbly in step with the tireless entourage – delivering suggestive hip-thrusts, gyrations and self-caresses, especially during the big, infectious, lushly Latin numbers”
Dominic Cavendish
The Independent ★★★★★
“Rachel Zegler is enthralling as Evita in this gorgeous sensory overload of a show”
“this populist gesture is emblematic of Jamie Lloyd’s big, bold, stadium rally of a staging. With its virtuoso star Zegler romancing a rapt audience both inside and outside the theatre’s walls.”
“this gorgeous sensory overload of a show is its own comment on the rising tide of fascism. Populism is sexy, captivating, overpowering – a way for weary people to escape the dull realities of right and wrong. You know there’s something deeply twisted under that pretty shiny surface, but, like the audiences of Evita, you’re powerless to resist.”
Alice Saville
The Evening Standard ★★★★★
“Rachel Zegler is an absolute smash in Jamie Lloyd’s thrilling revival. The 24-year-old packs an impossible amount of slyly insouciant star power into her tiny frame and proves to have both stage presence and a passionate, expressive vibrato”
“Great theatre can be about many things: star quality, spectacle, the lightning-in-bottle capture of a moment, the alchemical power of song or speech on a bare stage. In this Evita, all those things come triumphantly together.”
Nick Curtis
DailyMail ★★★★★
“Prepare to be blown away by Rachel Zegler. She is simply sensational.”
“… there’s nothing innocent about Jamie Lloyd’s raunchy production. He gleefully embraces the neo-fascist pageantry of Peronism, fleshing it out with vividly athletic choreography by Fabian Aloise. The result is a carnival of body-popping physical fireworks”
Patrick Marmion
TimeOut ★★★★
“In terms of pure column inches, the balcony scene from Jamie Lloyd’s Evita is surely the biggest news to come out of the theatre world in years…. the scene – which is, to be clear, astonishingly good – can only really be contextually appreciated if you’ve seen the one before it, which very much takes place in the theatre.”
“There are a lot of things to be excited about. The balcony stream stuns. Fabian Aloise’s choreography is phenomenal: playful, jerky and contorted, like sexy demonic possession. And my god, Zegler… Zegler’s performance is brilliant and unsentimental.”
“… you’re pretty much entirely at the mercy of Rice’s lyrics for context… which can be tough. They’re good song lyrics, but a bit hazy as a guide to the ins and outs of mid-twentieth century Argentinian politics.”
“Coherence isn’t this Evita’s strong suit. But there is so much that is good about it”
Andrzej Lukowski
The Guardian ★★★
“It is 360-degree theatre, for the rich inside (who see it on a video feed) and for the “hoi polloi” outside – very fitting for Perón given her disdain for the wealthy.”
“It’s hypnotic but the narrative takes a backseat for this rock musical. Which is almost entirely sung through, with what feels like thin connective tissue in its story.”
“If you feel denied of the subtleties of story, character and commentary on populist power, you will still have an eye-popping night out.”
Arifa Akbar
I hope you enjoyed this EVITA Review Round-Up and now with these overall glowing reviews it has cemented Evita as the theatrical event of the summer. Book tickets to this unmissable show now! For the best prices book in advance for midweek late July and August.
The WhatsOnStage Winner Jeevan Braich returns to Starlight express to cover cast injury.
Jeevan Braich just said goodbye to the show on the 12th of June. Since the 2024/2025 cast of Starlight Express rolled out of the Troubadour. Unfortunately Gavin Adams who took over the role of ‘Rusty’ recently injured his shoulder and has had to take some time off. Luckily Braich has agreed to cover Adams period of absence and resume his role.
The show said in a statement: “Jeevan returns to the role in place of Gavin Adams, who is taking some time off from the show due to a recent shoulder injury. To allow Gavin the time he needs, the production is delighted to welcome Jeevan back to Starlight Express. And looks forward to Gavin’s return once he has fully recovered.”
Starlight Express came back to the West End after ending it original run of 7,409 performances. Which has given the show the title of ninth-longest running West End Show back in 2002. This revival was highly anticipated and quickly picked up 3 Olivier nominations and 7 WhatsOnStage nominations. In which it went on to win Best Performer in a Musical for Jeevan. Performed on stakes at the specially designed Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. This classic musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is about a child’s toy train set that comes to life. They then compete with each other to become the fastest engine in the world. Furthermore audiences can sit in special sections within the racing track or around called Platforms and Carriages. Additionally they can pick the Locomotive section. This section is behind the performance and a more traditional raked seating area.
Book tickets now to catch Jeevan Braich returns, back in his role as Rusty and see this vibrant revival now!
Evita starring Rachel Zegler has started previews at the London Palladium. There’s already one aspect of the show that is already causing a lot of discussion. In classic Jamie Lloyd fashion it has been confirmed that the song ‘ Don’t cry for me Argentina’ will be performed on the balcony outside the Palladium. While streamed on a screen to the audience inside. This has caused a big debate with one side excited for this unique staging and choice. Meanwhile the other is annoyed as the song, arguably the biggest, won’t be sung live to the audience.
The highly anticipated Evita revival started performances this week and this production was already under a lot of eyes as it marks Rachel Zegler’s West End debut. It is also Jamie Lloyd’s third big project in the last two years. After his award winning Sunset Boulevard revival and sold-out run of Romeo and Juliet starring Tom Holland. Zegler is also a huge star already after her debut in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. Her subsequent work includes, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Romeo & Juliet and Disney’s Snow White.
The show
Evita is the story of Eva the first female president of Argentina and early reactions online are all very positive, gushing over Zegler’s performance. There has however already been some discourse as has become common with any Jamie Lloyd production. Whose signature stripped back style is very divisive. There is a lack of costuming until the final act. And one of the biggest numbers of the show is streamed to the audience which some feel very let down on.
This is not the first time he has incorporated screens in his stage show as Tom Francis famously sings the Sunset Boulevard title song as he walks outside the theatre. It’s too early to see if this stunt will earn the show positive or negative feedback as a whole. But it does mean lucky passerbys might be able to catch Zegler performing this piece for free. Around roughly 9pm every night.
Book here for EVITA tickets and to catch this unmissable debut and revival!
As Les Misérables 40th anniversary in the West End draws closer the show has announced a special cast for 8 weeks only!
Starting on the 8th of September and playing till the 1st November. A special company of performers from various past productions of Les Misérables will come together in the Sondheim theatre. Cameron Mackintosh, the producer, states “In celebration of our 40th birthday, I have put together, as I have always done for major celebrations, a special cast for eight weeks only, drawn from the outstanding performers of the last decade’s international productions of Les Mis, as well as the current Arena Spectacular and the Oscar-winning movie, all of whom have emerged as new theatre stars. This will be the last time that they will all be able to play together in Les Mis. As their careers take them onto new stellar paths.”
Les Mis has been arguably the most famous musical in the world. It’s the world’s longest running musical and this will mark another first with it’s 40th birthday.
Killian Donnelly will play Jean Valjean, Bradley jaden as javert, Katie Hall as Fantine and Jac Yarrow as Marius. They will be joined by Jordan Shaw as Enjorlas, Shan Ako as Éponin and Beatrice Toure as Cosette. Ian Mcintosh will also perform the role of Jean Valjean at select performances. Adam Gillen will appear as Thénardier and Marina Prior will play Madame Thénardier.
The rest of the company includes Matthew McConnell, Adam Pearce, William Pennington, Jordan Simon Pollard, Hollie Aires, Aidan Banyard, Nicholas Carter, Ella May Carter, Matthew Dale,Irfan Damani, Lila Falce-Bass, Jessica Johns-Parsons, Seán Keany, Chris Kiely, Sam Kipling, Mia Lamb, Sarah Lark, Ollie Llewelyn-Williams, Lewis Renninson, Danielle Rose, Georgia Tapp, Noah Thallon, Imaan Victoria, and Danny Whelan.
The biggest collaborative theatre event is almost upon us and the official schedule has been released! Held in Trafalgar Square West End Live is back for another year and it’s the 20th anniversary of this event.
Almost all shows will be in attendance with EVITA announcing their participation last week. This will mark Rachel Zegler’s first appearance at the free event! You’re find the full West End Live schedule below.
Both days the West End Live schedule will be opening with a Disney musical. As is tradition with Hercules kicking off the event as a whole on Saturday. As previews have all sold out now until July. The crowds are anticipated to be huge in order to get a look at this new musical.
Other crowd favorites include Hamilton which always has the crowd singing along word for word as well as Operation Mincemeat one of the most successful home grown musicals now playing in Broadway and the West End. Although Saturday might seen slightly more stacked with most long running shows performing then Sunday is not to be left behind with Titanique, The Great Gatsby and The 20 years of West End Live Concert to end the day. Although the lineup hasn’t been revealed for that performance it’s safe to say there will be familiar faces and incredible vocals.
If you want to catch any of these shows before or after the event book here for cheap tickets!
The hit musical by Disney Hercules has made it’s much anticipated debut in the West End. Making it’s lightening debut in The Theatre Royal Drury Lane there is officially two Disney shows back on in London. Hercules was announced last year in November after Frozen closed following a successful 3 year run at the same theatre.
Based on the classic 1997 Disney animated film, Hercules. Which is subsequently based on the Greek myth of the demi god. The story follows Hercules as he struggles to live up to his birthright and strength. Alongside his rivalry while against the villain Hades. Although based on the film there is a new book by Robert Horn( Shucked) and Kwame Kwei-Armah (The Visitor). The music is by Alan Menken and lyrics by David Zipppel. Popular numbers within the show include “Go the Distance”, “Zero to Hero” and “I Won’t Say”.
The titular role is played by Luke Brady. He will be starring opposite Mae Ann Jorolan who originated the role of Meg in Hamburg. Furthermore the rest of the principle cast include Trevor Dion Nicolas as Phil, Stephen Carlile as Hades, Craig Gallivan as Bob and Lee Zarrett as Charles. Excitingly the five muses will be played by Candace Furbert, Sharlene Hector, Brianna Ogunbawo, Malinda Parris and Robyn Rose-Li.
The official opening night is the 24th of June and previews have now sold out. The show is clearly already garnering a lot of attention having just announced their first extension. They are now booking until March 2026.
For best availability check from early July onwards and book your tickets now with theatrebookings!
Tina -the longest running show at the Aldwych is preparing to roll out on the 13th of September! Ahead of their final performances they have announced the final West End Cast as well as some new rehearsal photos.
Alongside current star Karis Anderson, singer and presenter Fleur East will be joining the show as alternate Tina. Performing on select dates all summer. Based on the life of Tina Turner the role is very challenging vocally and has historically been shared by two actresses. Joining this will be Natasha J Barnes as the manager and Chrissie Bhima as Alline Bullock. Furthermore James Chrisholm as Richard Bullock and Matt Dempsey as Phil Spector and Terry Britten.
Also joining the cast will be Christian James as Roger Davies, Samuel Sarpong-Broni as Raymond Hill and Erwin Bach will be taken over by Dan O’Brien. The other roles will be continued with with the current cast.
The final West End Cast will be starting performances on the 24th June.
The show is directed by Phyllida LLoyd known for her work on Mamma Mia! and written by Pulitzer Prize winner Katori Hall. Anthony van Laast choreographed the show and set and costume designed were by Mark Thompson. The show started back in 2018 at the Aldywch and has stayed ever since. Though the closing announcement came as a shock this is hardly the end for the musical. The UK and Ireland tour is still going strong after starting on the 6 March 2025.
Book tickets here with no booking fee to see TINA before it closed on the 13 September 2025.
The annual Tony Awards happened last night and even from the West End it was very exciting to see what theatre is being celebrated across the pond. Here’s a round up of some of the Tony awards highlights, winners and other memorable moments.
Cynthia Erivo was the host, who was catapulted to a more mainstream stardom last year with Wicked the movie. Although she is no stranger to the Tony’s and was well known for her win back in 2011 for The Colour Purple. She started the ceremony with the original song “” where some stars were welcomed to sing along. Notable mentions are Kristin Chenoweth, Aaron Tveit and Adam Lambert all of whom are Wicked alumni.
Hamilton was probably the most talked about and shared performance from the show to celebrate their 10 year anniversary. The original Broadway cast reunited to perform a medley of all of the most iconic songs such as, non-stop, Schuyler sisters and my shot.
Notable cast members include, Lin Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr, Renee Elise Goldsberry and Ariana Debose who was part of the ensemble. The performance incurred a standing ovation and has once again shown what a cultural phenomenon it is. Subsequently the show has now played for almost 10 years in Broadway and 8 in the West End at the Victoria Palace Theatre.
Book tickets to see the show in the West end with the fantastic new cast that are starting next week.
Stranger Things : The first shadow was the most awarded play of the season. They picked up awards for Best Scenic Design of a Play, Best Sound Design of a Play and Best Lighting Design. Therefore they also won a special Tony Award to acknowledge the insane illusions and technical effects.
In addition the show is currently playing in the Phoenix Theatre and has garnered much praise for the direction and effects. Make sure to catch this outstanding play before the 5th season comes out with our special offers tickets. Book here to save up to 50% off.
Notable Tony Award Winners:
Best musical – Maybe Happy Ending
Performance by an actress in a leading role in a musical – Nicole Scherzinger (Sunset Boulevard)
Best performance by an actor in a leading role in a musical – Darren Criss (Maybe Happy Ending)
Best revival of a musical – Sunset Boulevard
Performance by an actor in a leading role in a play – Cole Escola (Oh, Mary!)
Best play – Purpose
Performance by an actor in a featured role in a musical – Jak Malone (Operation Mincemeat)
Best costume design of a musical – Paul Tazewell (Death Becomes her)
The new Wicked: For Good trailer is finally out! Part 2 of the critical and box office hit, Wicked, is coming out November 21st this year. The trailer has been eagerly awaited and it’s here offering fans a glimpse into part two.
The trailer starts with Elphaba in hiding as her opposition to the wizard’s scheme has made her a fugitive. We see Glinda and Elphaba reminiscing on their times together at Shiz in separate scenes. As well as their continued complicated relationship with Fiyero. Dorothy and her friends are shown on the famous yellow brick road. But who plays the characters remains a mystery for now. There’s been a lot of speculation on who would play Dorothy with rumors of Alisha Weir (known for Matilda) and some even jokingly saying it’ll be cgi Judy Garland.
Starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande the trailer offers us a first listen of their anticipated duet for good. The trailer also shows Jonathon Bailey as Fiyero and a look at the extravagant wedding between him and Glinda. This is one of the scenes which appear to be film exclusive, the movie is theorized to be 2hour 30mins like part one. As the stage show is only 2 hours 40 mins, there will likely be a lot of brand new scenes in this film. Jon Chu the director has confirmed there will be two new songs although none were teased in the Wicked for good trailer.
Don’t want to wait till November to see the conclusion? Catch the stage show in London with cheap tickets here!
