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.
Burlesque the musical has officially finished it’s previews and has had their opening night at the Savoy Theatre. The show opened to some controversy online after there was a big change in the creative team after the director and Choreographer left the production which meant Todrick Hall who was starring in the show then took on both roles. The opening preview also generated some buzz for starting quite late and ending after 11pm despite the original runtime. Now that the press night has happened and the reviews are in the show is showing it’s true merits.
The Guardian ★★★★★
“What a tremendous breath of fresh air. Amid the indefatigable rise of movies cynically re-spun for the stage, this musical adaptation of the 2010 film … goes its own eccentric way.”
“Todrick Hall’s choreography is a sensation, with jaw-dropping athleticism, balletic moves and circus acrobatics, while Marco Marco’s “more is more” costumes deserve an award.”
“The show as a whole bares it artifice every now and again, but without indulging in knowingness.”
“The whole thing is very RuPaul. There is no lip-syncing, as in the film, but enough leather, feathers, sequins and disco ball lighting for a season of Drag Race.”
“It is over-adrenalised and messy in its plotting, but you forgive the blips. This is a production stuffed with personality, spectacle and wow factor. Come for the nostalgia, perhaps, but stay for the new kicks: bigger, naughtier and camp as hell.n.”
Arifa Akbar
The Telegraph ★★★★
“Christina Aguilera’s raunchy Burlesque musical is a cult hit in the making“
“Well, this is a surprise…. this knowingly daft riff on the 2010 Christina Aguilera and Cher movie emerges as a strange sort of triumph.”
“Hall embodies the show’s meta-lite theatricality by turning the fact he plays both Tess’s queeny right-hand man Sean, and Ali’s vodka-swilling gospel teacher Miss Loretta into a running gag. He makes a virtue out of the show’s scrappy DNA and madcap, extemporaneous air”
“… sometimes it’s hard to know if the show is being wink-wink referential or simply derivative… Yet the buzz is infectious. Folley is formidable as Ali, easily Aguilera’s equal”
Claire Allfree
The Times ★★★
“Car crash? Actually it’s rather compelling“
“Connoisseurs of theatre car crashes are going to be disappointed… despite its rough edges — the book, by the film’s director, Steven Antin, gets hopelessly tangled in the second half — Todrick Hall’s production has more vim than that other recently arrived contender in the hen party stakes, The Devil Wears Prada. And in the pairing of Jess Folley and the American singer Orfeh (who is making her West End debut) the evening unfurls some powerhouse vocals.
“… whenever Folley gets her moment centre stage, she’s utterly compelling. You only wish, too, that the petite Orfeh had more opportunities to showcase a voice that’s a mixture of granite and bourbon.”
“Aguilera’s Express gives Act II an explosive opening kick as Ali discovers her inner vamp. It wasn’t always possible to make out the lyrics to the songs, but the ensemble’s sheer energy made amends.”
Clive Davis
The Stage ★★★
“Messy, over-extended movie musical adaptation with star turns from Jess Folley and Orfeh”
“For all the dramas on stage and off, Burlesque is an upbeat, sassy story packed with astounding vocals – extensively from Folley and Orfeh – and some genuinely exciting dance routines choreographed by Hall.”
Paul Vale
City AM ★★★★
“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 Theatre Talk ★★★★
It recieved similarly positive reviews back when it was on at the Manchester Opera House with the same cast reprising their roles.
“The show itself opens with one of the more successful changes. A prologue penned and performed by Todrick Hall (as Sean) whips the audience into frenzied excitement”
“Burlesque is a spectacle with dazzling choreography, tantalising costuming and impressive staging.”
“Even the most devoted Aguilera fans cannot deny that Jess Folley is an absolute revelation as Ali, single handedly stealing the show. Even on a sweltering June evening, she manages to give you goosebumps with her powerhouse vocals.”
“A particular highlight is ‘Bound To You’, in which she beautifully duets with leading man Michael Mather (Jackson). Never putting a foot wrong, she is worth the ticket price alone.”
Overall from the Burlesque Review Round-Up we see it has received overall good reviews and it shows we shouldn’t judge a show in it’s preview stages too harshly. As that is when changes and errors are more permissible. The show is running for a strictly limited season at the Savoy until Paddington takes over!
It has just been announced that Clueless is to close early in the West End. The musical started its run in the Trafalgar Theatre earlier this March and has been highly successful. To the point of announcing a massive extension and booking till March 2026. However, the musical has just announced they will be closing earlier than anticipated. Playing its final performance on Saturday 23rd August. The show is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh and opened to mostly positive reviews with high praise for the actors, choreography and music.
The closure announcement comes around the time rumors have been flying. Over shows which have announced their premiere in the West End despite a lack of available venues. Most notable is the play Clarkston by Samuel D. Hunter which has confirmed their UK premiere and star cast but not the venue. It is now speculated heavily that the show starring Heartstopper’s Joe Locke will go to the Trafalgar Theatre.
Emma Flynn as Cher Horowitz
The West End has been lacking in available playhouses for a few years, with many shows that opened at theatres that normally and quite often turnarounds proving to be huge hits. Some examples would be Back to the Future, which has now run for 4 years at the Adelphi, Hadestown at the Lyric and even The Devil Wears Prada, which is continuing to sell out at the Dominion. This lack of playhouses likely means theatre owners are even more inundated with options. This could sadly be one of the reasons Clueless is to close early as a more promising option is waiting in the wings for a free theatre.
Book tickets for Clueless now to catch this super fun show before it closes in August! For discounted prices and special offers book on theatrebookings.
The Summer Holidays are almost here! And so begins the West End’s busiest season. Why not buy in advance to secure you and the whole family the best seats at the best prices. Before it all inflates from demand. Here’s a list of all the best family friendly show currently playing or about to start in the West End. From no age limit to a low age limit of 3+ these are shows the whole family will be able to enjoy and understand. And it’s not just shows directly made for kids. With classics like The Lion King and Matilda it’s guaranteed to be a fun day out.
CoComelon Live Sing-a-long
From the hit YouTube channel Cocomelon, this phenomenon has caught children by storm. The stage show will be a great way to introduce your babies and toddlers to the wonderful world of live musical theatre. With classic characters like JJ, Cody and Ms Appleberry appearing for not just the show but a meet and greet afterwards. It will be a memorable and exciting experience for any child. The show includes songs like “If you’re happy and you know it” and takes place at St Martin’s Theatre. To read a bit more about this show check out this article from when it was announced.
The Lion King
The Lion King has been playing all over the world for decades and remains one of the most successful musicals for good reason. The magic captured with the props and set alongside the always phenomenal cast has made The Lion King unforgettable. Based on the classic Disney Film the story follows Simba. A young lion cub as he grows up and finds his place in the world as king. The show is recommended for 6+ and children under 3 won’t be admitted as it is a full length 2.5 hours west end show. However with the classic songs like “Circle of Life”,”Hakuna Matata” it’s sure to capture your child’s attention the entire run.
Hercules
Disney’s Hercules has just landed in the West End and it’s all anyone’s talking about. The reviews have come out and it’s been unanimously agreed that it’s the perfect show for the whole family. The story is based on the Disney cartoon about Hercules the demi-god trains to live up to his birthright. While falling in love with Meg. The Muses shine in this story with powerful vocals addicting songs and striking stage presence. Hades played by Stephen Carlile has also been praised for his humour and almost panto like actions that brings a lot of levity to even the slightly darker moments of the show. Here’s a review round-up of all the praise and recommendations for Hercules if you’re still not completely sold!
Matilda
Matilda is now on it’s 14th year in the West End and is the 15th longest-running production in London. The show based on Roald Dahl’s Matilda is about a remarkably gifted little girl who uses her intellect and magical powers to create a better life for herself. For kids the show thrills with it’s large talented cast of children who make up the majority of the ensemble as well as the titular character. The choreography is bold and imaginative with relentless energy while the songs are beautifully sung, it is truly wicked and glorious fun for all.
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
Based on the iconic children’s book. The Tiger Who Came to Tea is an Olivier nominated play about when Sophie and her mum had a very unusual guest over. The show is back again for a limited run at the Theatre Royal Haymarket this summer. And promises to be filled with sing-a-longs, chaos and magic. With careful attention to detail particularly regarding the costumes, sets and staging. This truly will feel like the story book brought to life.
Back to the Future
Meanwhile this ones for the slightly older crowd but if your children are over 4. And you want to introduce them to one of the classics from the 80’s in a flashy and fun musical adaptation. Back to the Future is the show for you. Sticking to the original story faithfully while adding stage comedy and musical numbers. This would be a great chance to relive a great story and introduce it on. The show doesn’t just rely on nostalgia it stands out in it’s own right. Having won the Olivier and WhatsOnStage awards for best new musical back in 2022. It has also garnered wide spread praise for it’s direction, lighting and sound design with many saying the stage effects are the most magical and mind-blowing on the West End.
Book now for the best prices on the best family shows and secure your place before the summer rush!
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.
Hercules has stormed into the West End after much anticipation and hype! The previews are officially over and the reviews are out. It’s been a mixed bag with the general consensus being it’s a spectacular visual show with amazing songs and dance. But the book hasn’t quite captured the heart and magic of the original story. Here’s the new West End musical Hercules Reviews Round-up
The Critics:
The Telegraph – ★★★★
“This fun-filled adaption has retained the Disney animation’s goofy knockabout humour and refusal to take itself seriously”
“Best of all, it boasts a truly heaven sent quintet of Muses who sashay their way through Alan Menken’s still radiant gospel-driven score with just the right amount of sass to make your average tween squeal in delight.”
“Luke Brady is an endearing wannabe hero, sporting a goofy grin worthy of Jim Carrey and singing the show’s stand out song Go The Distance with palpable tenderness. The beefed up character of Meg doesn’t come off so well”
“Nothing to scare the gods then, but for families with young children, an excellent tip for summer.”
Claire Allfree
The Evening Standard – ★★★
“This adaptation of the Disney film is slick with some fun songs but somewhat lacking in strength”
“Stephen Carlile’s outrageously camp, scene-stealing Hades gets all the best lines: “People die all the time: I should know, I kill them.””
“… the show chugs along agreeably enough, powered by the attitude and powerhouse vocals of the Muses.”
Nick Curtis
The Guardian – ★★★
“Luke Brady is an incredible singer, as Hercules navigates his journey between godliness and humanness with sidekick Phil”
“The cast around Brady is just as strong vocally, but breezy in their dialogue.”
“Go the Distance is a lovely solo by Hercules but you do not feel quite enough emotion from it. The upbeat numbers work better… there is astolidity to the story, as if an ancient tablet of stone has taken the place of a flesh and blood heart.”
“…in the second half Kwame Kwei-Armah and Robert Horn’s book gets funnier, Hercules turns goofier and his love story with Meg (Mae Ann Jorolan, cool cat to Brady’s golden retriever) grows in chemistry.”
Arifa Akbar
The Times – ★★★
“… it’s hard to work up much enthusiasm about Casey Nicholaw’s musclebound production at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. True, the temperature rises whenever the five muses deliver hand-clapping gospel fervour”
“The good news, though, is that Trevor Dion Nicholas adds mischief as Hercules’ sidekick Phil”
“Stephen Carlile makes an authentically sneering villain as Hades: all hurt pride and flaring nostrils, he brings a touch of panto energy to the proceedings. Whenever he’s on stage, the script co-written by Robert Horn and our own Kwame Kwei-Armah starts to crackle.”
Clive Davis
WhatsOnStage – ★★★
“Hercules, the latest arrival, has all the qualities associated with the brand: it’s slick, it’s colourful, it’s energetic.”
“Hercules smiles at every opportunity and has a nice line in cheek, while Meg enlivens each scene in which she appears.”
“Best of all are the five Muses, who combine magnificent gospel-riffed singing with plenty of humour and knowing sass.”
TimeOut – ★★★
“While there’s a vague nod to Hellenistic art, there were endless opportunities to have done something visually audacious and aesthetically interesting, and they were all passed upon.”
“All that accepted, it’s a sturdy action-adventure romp that absolutely does the trick and is eminently worth taking The Kids to during the hols.”
“It has charm, because it’s adapted from a charming film and talented people have made it, but it’s definitely not going to go down in legend.”
Andrzej Lukowski
RadioTimes – ★★★★★
“This lustre-dusted show-stopper of a musical is everything you could want. Spangled, joyous and gloriously camp”
“The sets are bigger than you could possibly imagine, in one moment you’re basking in the romance of Herc and Meg’s delicate rose garden, the next, Hades is descending dramatically on a rusty walkway in an Underworld that carries the vibe of a sad school disco.”
“then there’s the characters. Without hesitation, the highlight of the show are The Muses. Candace Furbert, Sharlene Hector, Brianna Ogunbawo, Malinda Parris and Robyn Rose-Li are a party in human form, making sure the show is always as irreverent and un-serious as possible, and delivering note-perfect vocals throughout. Without them, the show simply wouldn’t work.”
Conclusion
Overall, while it’s not glowing reviews the show is praised for it’s excellent acting and songs alongside gorgeous sweeping sets. Hopefully you enjoyed the Hercules Reviews Round-up and are excited to see the show playing until 2026 it’ll be the perfect fun night out with the whole family this summer.
