This is particularly true of shows which haven’t opened yet. Given these shows are new and may be unfamiliar to you, we thought we’d take a closer look at shows in the New Year Sale which are opening in the coming months…

January

Gerry & Sewell opens on 13 January. This heart-warming comedy about friendships and underdogs follows two Newcastle United fans desperate to get a season ticket. After a sell-out run in the North East, the play transfers to the West End for only two weeks.

Chichester Festival Theatre has a strong record of West End transfers – think Half A Sixpence, Quiz, revivals of Gypsy and Caroline, Or Change – and it shows no signs of slowing down.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry is a new musical based on Rachel Joyce’s profound and funny novel, with music by indie musician Passenger. It had rave reviews in Chichester last summer and transfers with original cast members Mark Addy and Olivier Award winner Jenna Russell, with previews from 29 January and New Year Sale prices in February, too.

Theatre company Frantic Assembly celebrate their 30^th anniversary with a new play, Lost Atoms, written by Anna Jordan who wrote episodes of Succession and One Day. The play charts the life-changing relationship of Jess and Robbie and focusses on how differing memories can change our stories. It runs at the Lyric Hammersmith from 30 January – 28 February, taking part in the New Year Sale for February performances.

February

For one night only, X Factor contestant turned West End star Lucie Jones is Live At The London Palladium. Blending her live gig roots with the drama of her stage career, including regular performances in Les Miserables and the leading role in Waitress, this will be a unique concert that showcases her incredible vocal talent. Expect surprise appearances and unique collaborations. 16 February only.

Evening All Afternoon is a brand new play by American playwright Anna Ziegler, who had a hit on the West End with Photograph 51, starring Nicole Kidman. This play explores the relationship between a stepmother and stepdaughter, confronting the human dilemma about facing loss and opening up to new connections. The play runs from 19 February – 11 April at the Donmar Warehouse, an intimate and compelling space with a storied history.

March

Sibling duo Nina and Moses Raine (Consent and Donkey Heart, respectively) team up for a new translation of Summer Folk, by Russian dramatist Maxim Gorky. 1905 was a hot, beautiful summer in Russia, but while the elite wine and dine, a storm is on the horizon. The story is fitting for the Raines, whose great uncle was Boris Pasternak, author of Doctor Zhivago. Summer Folk runs from 12 March – 29 April at the National Theatre.

While you can find opera and ballet at the London Coliseum for much of the year, London’s largest theatre stages a big musical each summer. This March will see the first West End revival of Kinky Boots.

The show is based on the British film and true story of a Northampton shoe factory that hits hard times, then takes a chance on becoming a specialist in shoewear for drag artists. With music and lyrics by pop star Cyndi Lauper and a book by Harvey Fierstein (La Cage Aux Folles), this production will be led by Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe in the role of Lola.  It runs from 17 March – 11 July with New Year Sale offers on most April, May and June performances.

Chess, Kinky Boots and brand-new British musical Treason will each be performing for one night only. With stars including Carrie Hope Fletcher, Matt Willis, Courtney Bowman, Samantha Barks and Les Dennis. These special one-off performances will be accompanied by the London Musical Theatre Orchestra.

Kicking off the season is ABBA’s iconic Chess, starring Samantha Barks (Frozen, Les Misérables) as Florence and Hadley Fraser (2:22 A Ghost Story, City of Angels) as Anatoly, with further exciting casting to be announced soon.

This will be followed by Cyndi Lauper’s Olivier Award-winning Kinky Boots with Cedric Neal (Back To The Future, Motown The Musical), as Lola/Simon, Matt Willis (Busted, Waitress, Wicked) as Charlie and Courtney Bowman (Legally Blonde, SIX) as Lauren.

The brand new musical Treason will complete the August concerts, making its live stage debut! Leading the cast for the first live outing are Carrie Hope Fletcher (Les Misérables, Heathers) as Martha Percy, Bradley Jaden (Les Misérables, Wicked) as Thomas Percy and Simon-Anthony Rhoden (Hamilton, Kinky Boots) as Robert Catesby. Treason has already garnered a global audience following its streamed concert from Cadogan Hall in March 2021 and successful release of six tracks on streaming platforms.

Sign up below to be notified when tickets go on sale! Don’t miss your favourite performers in these incredibly exciting one-off concerts. It’s sure to be the summer for musical theatre.

Chess – 1 August

Kinky Boots – 8 August

Treason – 22 August

There’s no diversion quite like an awesome musical soundtrack, so we’ve put together this Spotify playlist with FIFTY of your favourite, heart-wrenching, go-on-girl-and-be-yourself kind of music that will inspire you – no other halves required.

From Six The Musical to Les Misérables, from Phantom to Waitress, and from Mamma Mia! to Dear Evan Hansen, there’s a lotta power to the individual in these tunes. So pour yourself the largest glass of red wine, borrow your friend’s cat, plug your speakers in, and hit that ‘Play’ button right below!

Or, better yet, get down to the theatre – you can pick up a great last minute deal for the likes of Wicked, Matilda The Musical, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie – and much more! – through our New Year Sale, which runs until 15 February. Inspired to look beyond then? Then book your show tickets for the months ahead right here!

Enjoy! (*chugs wine hidden under desk*)

First posted 13 February 2018; Updated 11 February 2019

Just a heads up, some of these resolutions contain minor spoilers of the shows.

The entire cast of The Play That Goes Wrong – Be less clumsy

The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society, (or the cast of the Play that Goes Wrong as they’re commonly known) must be the most uncoordinated, accident-prone group of characters in Theatreland. As they attempt to put on a production, everything goes wrong…literally.

From falling walls and breaking furniture to absent props and minor injuries, nothing ever seems to go right for the amateur dramatics group. So, their new year’s resolution should either be “become less clumsy” or “invest in some stronger staging that doesn’t collapse whenever you shut a door.”

Bobbi from Company – Worry less about what others think

A critical success since it first opened, Stephen Sondheim’s iconic musical Company tells the story of Bobbie. As she turns 35, everyone and their mothers are asking her why isn’t she married, why she’s still single and when will she find time to have a family?

The best resolution we can think of for poor Bobbie, who faces continual pressure to settle down, is to worry less about what other people think. She’s a successful woman with friends, family and happy life, what does she need to get married for?

Austin and Lee from True West – Work on their relationship

Brothers Austin and Lee have a far from ideal sibling relationship. After both pitching ideas to successful producer Saul Kimmer, the pair argue and quibble over the script, their past, their present and future, basically everything in True West.

But rather than fighting each other for fame and fortune, we think Austin and Lee should treat the new year as a clean slate, and work on building and improving their relationship instead.

Sophie and Donna from Mamma Mia – Learn to communicate better

Even the most upbeat, sing-along musicals can still provide new year’s resolutions for its characters, and Mamma Mia is no exception.

While we love the story of Sophie’s potential dads all turning up for her wedding without her mum’s knowledge, we feel had Donna communicated better with her daughter, Sophie probably wouldn’t have gone snooping in her mother’s diary in the first place.

Even though it all worked out for the best, nonetheless we feel like Donna and Sophie could improve their communication and be more honest with each other in order to stop further secrets coming out at inconvenient moments.

Joseph from Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – Launch a fashion range

The sheer beauty of Joseph’s coat of many colours is a sight to behold, and so it seems only right that Joseph takes his fashion expertise onto the high street.

Joseph is certainly someone who can achieve anything he puts his mind to, so if he made it his 2019 resolution to launch a colourful coat range, we’re sure it would be stocked in every retailer before the year was up.

What are you waiting for? Go, go Joseph!

The cast of School Of Rock – Recruit more band members

Based on the movie, this musical has a gig-like element that’s incredible to witness. The young cast of School Of Rock is mind-blowingly good, at not only acting and singing either, but also playing instruments in their super-secret class band.

But you know what’s better than the School of Rock band? More members of the band. Or even more than one band which tours across the UK…and in arenas….

Ok, this one is slightly more unrealistic as a resolution, but you can’t blame us for trying!

Glinda from Wicked – Stop trying to be popular

Glinda, the good witch from the Wizard Of Oz, has a slightly different narrative in Wicked than you’d expect, especially when it comes to her friendship with Elphaba (or as she’s known in the original story, “the Wicked Witch of the West”).

But during periods of the show, her desire to be popular and liked by the residents of Oz as she becomes Glinda The Good in her bubble, leads her to make not-so-great decisions, which at times endangers her friend.

We suspect if Glinda stopped trying to be so popular and was just herself she’d still be well-loved, and she wouldn’t put Elphaba in some of the situations she ends up in.

Don from Kinky Boots – Keep accepting someone for who they are

The uplifting musical Kinky Boots is all about accepting people for who they are and just being who you want to be, and nobody learns this lesson more than the character of Don.

Initially the workplace bully, and unaccepting of the land of Lola, Don is challenged to accept someone for who they are, and boy does he rise to the challenge!

His resolution for 2019 is simply to keep up the good work!

But really, all you need is a little love and inspiration from your favourite London theatre shows. So without any further ado, let’s get Christmassy!

1. “When a room is gloomy and its atmosphere has called it quits
You gotta remember that December is the time for glitz
Never stop til’ ev’ry limb on your Christmas tree
is Sparklejollytwinklejingley” – Elf The Musical

We dare you to say ‘sparklejollytwinklejingley’ quickly after a few mulled wines…

2. “And where the journey may lead you,
Let this prayer be your guide
Though it may take you so far away
Always remember your pride.” – Disney’s Lion King

Whether you’re far from family this year, or are on a journey of your own, Christmas is a perfect time to reconnect with your Pride. (I’m not crying, you’re crying!)

via GIPHY

3. “Come on, let’s have a little dance. Everything feels better after a dance.” – Home, I’m Darling

And you know what, they’re right. Christmas is for dancing and merriment…. unless you hate dancing and merriment, in which case this is probably not the best quote for you.

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4. “Give yourself permission to shine.” – Matilda The Musical

If you can outshine your own Christmas tree, you’re not just winning at Christmas … you’re winning at life. (I know, right? Deep.)

5. “Sometimes you’ve gotta grab life by the balls… then you take those balls, you tuck ’em between your legs and you put your best frock on!” – Everybody’s Talking About Jamie

Make sure that this year, the frock you wear to the Christmas party is amazing and shows the world that you mean business. “Yes, Cheryl, of course these are ethically sourced diamonds. I’m not a monster.”

6. “Do you hear the people sing,
Singing the song of angry men?
It is the music of a people who will not be slaves again.
When the beating of your heart
Echoes the beating the beating of the drums,
There is a life about to start when tomorrow comes!” – Les Misérables

Sing this with friends and you have the power to take on the world. Or at least, Auntie Deborah who keeps giving you socks every Christmas…

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7. “Ain’t it great to know somebody’s got your back?” – Disney’s Aladdin

Christmas is a great time to tell your loved ones that you’ve got their back. And you never know, someone’s got yours too. Everyone loves everyone’s back!

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8. “Just be who you wanna be, celebrate yourself triumphantly.” – Kinky Boots

Christmas is not just about being with family and friends, but about celebrating you and all your fabulousness. Yes, that’s a word now.

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9. “All the other children at my school are stupid. Except I’m not meant to call them stupid, even though this is what they are.” – The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time

Yep, hate to say it bit some people don’t actually enjoy Christmas. (I know, it’s madness!) This one’s for the Scrooges out there.

10. “Look around, look around at how lucky we are to be alive right now.” – Hamilton

I mean, okay, so Christmas isn’t always perfect. This Christmas you might not get to see all the friends you’ve missed, and you can’t always buy all the presents you want, and your Christmas tree might not always look like the ones you see on Pinterest BUT, apart from that, you’re actually doing okay!

via GIPHY

11. “Scrooge: And so.
Tim: ‘God bless.’
Scrooge: God bless us?
Tim: Every one.” – A Christmas Carol (at The Old Vic and at The Arts Theatre)

It’s a classic and we had to quote this – it wouldn’t be Christmas without it! (Cue warm and fuzzy feelings.)

Who knew that London musicals and plays could be filled with so many inspirational and feel-good quotes? If you love theatre as much as we do, you actually probably already knew that – so you know what to do next…

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With workshops on everything from costume design to crafting an online presence, TheatreCraft 2018 was the largest yet, supplying some of the biggest names from across the industry. The event takes over mammoth spaces including the iconic Waldorf Hotel, the Adelphi, Lyceum and Novello Theatres with everything newbies (and not-so-newbies) to the industry could possibly need. And the best part? It’s completely free! Read on for what I got up to during my day there.

Wandering around the stalls setting up in the Marketplace I managed to grab a chat with some of the exhibitors before the excitement began. With some first-timers and some time-honoured pros, each had a different idea of what they were looking for from this year’s event. TheatreCraft pros Jacek Ludwig Scarso & Andrew Siddall from the London Metropolitan University discovered that the exhibition is as much a learning curve for them as it is for the attendees. Bringing new and exciting changes to the table each year, TheatreCraft gives the opportunity to listen to what young career-seekers are really interested in and provide accordingly. Their advice for newbies? “See and do” says Andrew. From the littlest project to the biggest West End productions, every experience feeds your skills and creativity. Their teaching staff certainly live by that mantra, with every member still active in the industry.

My first time at TheatreCraft was certainly eventful and making the trip down from Stoke (the Midlands) was definitely worth the journey. Pulling together crafters and theatre educators from all walks of life and every imaginable discipline makes TheatreCraft the place to be for theatre-lovers. Theatre journalist Matt Trueman pointed out that without events like this, we might not ever discover careers in theatre beyond acting itself. The collections of designers, publicity teams, directors, technicians and engineers here say otherwise.

For those making the journey into the world of the arts for the first time, TheatreCraft shows that to love the theatre does not always mean a love of performing. Where else could you walk from a masterclass in CV building or finance to an immersive workshop at the Adelphi (home to Kinky Boots), with theatre aficionados Les Enfants Terribles? Exhibitors from the University of South Wales were also keen to point out that not every arts job need centre around the stage saying, “our graduates are basically engineers”. Students from here are equipped for everything from festivals to roles in sound and video.

Hosted by Matt Trueman, the grand finale came in the form a packed Q&A session with TheatreCraft’s 2018 ambassadors: Griselda Yorke (RSC Lead Producer), Christopher Oram (British Theatre Designer), Indhu Rubasingham (Kiln Theatre Artistic Director) and Tamara Harvey (Artistic Director of Theatr Clwyd). Talking through everything from box office jobs to costume design on Broadway, the pros filled us all in on just how exactly they got where they are today. Griselda was keen to stress that “it’s important to be grateful and ask for advice along the way”, stressing that theatre is a community built on trust and mutual admiration. Both Indhu and Tamara recommended experimentation as a key component to success; “part of the way you find your voice is by finding what you hate” joked Indhu, whilst Tamara focused on the benefits of being able to look at things from lots of different angles. Welcome words for those of us still in the finding-our-way phase!

The overarching theme of the day? Do what you love, find your passion and stick to it! As today has showed me, the world of theatre and the arts takes endless forms with a niche for everyone. Looking at the opportunities on offer, it’s clear that events like TheatreCraft make it easier to enter a career in the arts, one step at a time.

Find out more about TheatreCraft here.

Ahead of the 19th annual ceremony at the Prince of Wales Theatre on 3 March 2019, the shortlist of shows and stars in the running for the publicly-voted awards was revealed today. The final voting stage thus commences until 31 January.

And the nominations revealed that Hamilton will duke it out with Eugenius!, Heathers The Musical, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical and Six The Musical for Best New Musical, while its lead duo – Jamael Westman and Giles Terera – will compete for Best Actor in a Musical, alongside Kobna Holdbrook-Smith (from Tina), Jamie Muscato (Heathers) and Rob Houchen (Eugenius!).

The rap-based story of the forgotten Founding Father also received nominations in Best Actress in a Musical (Rachelle Ann Go); Best Supporting Actor in a Musical (Cleve September and Jason Pennycooke); Best Supporting Actress in a Musical (Christine Allado and Rachel John); and Best Direction, Best Choreography, Best Costume Design and Best Lighting Design.

Also performing strongly across the musical categories was Marianne Elliott’s critically acclaimed re-imagination of Company (9 nominations), Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre‘s Little Shop Of Horrors (7 nominations), and Heathers and Six with 6 nods each.

In the straight play categories, the critically acclaimed two-part epic The Inheritance received 7 nominations, including Best New Play and Best Director (Stephen Daldry). Best New Play nominees also include Dust, Girls And Boys, The Jungle and Misty.

Kyle Soller, star of The Inheritance, will compete against Aidan Turner for Best Actor in a Play. Soller and Turner, who led The Lieutenant Of Inishmore (also a hit with 6 nominations), are joined by Arinzé Kene (Misty), Colin Morgan (Translations), and Mark Gatiss (The Madness Of George III).

Best Actress in a Play will be contested by Carey Mulligan (Boys And Girls), Charlie Murphy (Inishmore), Katherine Parkinson (Home, I’m Darling), Patsy Ferran (Summer And Smoke) and Sophie Okonedo (Antony And Cleopatra), while Best Actress in a Musical will see Rachelle Ann Go up against Adrienne Warren (Tina), Carrie Hope Fletcher (Heathers), Laura Baldwin (Eugenius!) and Rosalie Craig (Company).

And in the Best West End Show category, audiences will have to make the tough choice between nominees Bat Out Of Hell, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Kinky Boots, Les Misérables and Wicked.

WhatsOnStage’s Chief Operating Officer, Sita McIntosh, said today, “2018 has proved an incredible year for new writing – for both musicals and plays, providing some of the strongest competition we have seen in recent years across the nominations.”

A full list of nominations, with details on how to vote for the winners, can be found through the WhatsOnStage website.

Here are five giant London musicals that you have to see before they close in January! And remember, with the New Year Sale, you may just be able to snap up a cheap ticket for the final weeks of their performances…

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42nd Street

The classic Broadway show 42nd Street sees the biggest cast in the West End perform on Theatreland’s oldest stage. The all-tapping, all-singing, all-glitzy show opened to rave reviews and has been wowing audiences since opening in 2017.

It tells the story of young hopeful Peggy Sawyer who dreams of making it big on Broadway. Fresh off the bus from small-town America and full of naive excitement, Peggy heads to auditions and wows the producers. So when the leading lady gets injured, will Peggy have her shot at stardom?

Closing: Saturday 5 January 2019

Chicago

You know the songs, you know the stars, but have you actually seen Chicago? The return of the Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical has seen a whirlwind of celebrities take to the stage to give us that old razzle dazzle. Currently, RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Todrick Hall is playing Billy Flynn, while everyone’s favourite reality TV host Caroline Flack is joining the cast as Roxie Hart next week (10 December).

See the killer show which tells the story of two rival showgirls who end up sharing a prison cell when they’re each accused of murder.

Closes: Saturday 5 January 2019

Bat Out Of Hell The Musical

What happens when Meatloaf meets Peter Pan? You get a rocking musical full of adrenaline, fire and magic. It’s packed with music from the record-breaking albums Bat Out Of Hell and Bat Out Of Hell II: Back Into Hell and is written by the songwriter behind the epic records, Jim Steinman. It returned to London after receiving high praise from both critics and audiences after its Manchester Opera House, London Coliseum, and Toronto’s Ed Mirvish Theatre runs in 2017. 

Set in Obsidian – a post-apocalyptic world led by the tyrannical ruler, Falco – Bat Out Of Hell tells the story of Strat and his wild gang, The Lost. By chance, Strat meets Raven, Falco’s daughter, which leads to a full-throttled love affair.

Closes: Saturday 5 January 2019 

Kinky Boots

Sashaying away from the West End is the perfectly sculpted Kinky Boots. The Olivier Award-winning show has been giving audiences the feels since 2015 and now, theatre fans are experiencing the most intense emotion – utter devastation. If you’re yet to see it, it’s a touching tale about two strangers from completely different worlds that become business partners.

When Charlie inherits a failing shoe factory, he does all he can to save the business and his employees’ jobs. Soon, it’s clear that traditional means won’t work but instead of despairing, he lets fate take the lead when he meets a drag queen with a broken heel. The unlikely pair start making boots but will their plan work?

Closing: Saturday 12 January 2019

Dreamgirls

Well, it seems that Effie told a little fib as she and the rest of the of the Dreamgirls are going. The multi-award-winning show is inspired by the stories and careers of R&B acts including James Brown, Jackie Wilson and The Shirelles.

It tells the story of a young female singing trio from Chicago called ‘The Dreams’ and their rollercoaster ride to the top of the charts. During their journey, they learn the hard lesson that show business can often be as tough as it is fabulous, and stardom isn’t always as glamorous as it initially seems.

Closing: Saturday 12 January 2019

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Remember, we have loads of new musicals coming to London in 2019. See 10 of them, here.

The heart-warming hit, set to play its last performance at the Adelphi Theatre on 12 January 2019, will temporarily welcome back Donnelly and Henry as Charlie and Lola respectively from Monday 26 – Wednesday 28 November 2018 whilst filming takes place.

Both actors were Olivier Award-nominated for their original performances in the show, with Matt Henry winning the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2016.

By the time Kinky Boots takes its final bow in January, it will have played over 1400 West End performances in a massively celebrated run. The show is also currently enjoying a hugely successful UK tour.

Since opening on Broadway in 2013, Kinky Boots has become an international hit with productions having played in Canada, Australia, Germany and Japan.

With a book by Broadway legend and four-time Tony Award-winner Harvey Fierstein, songs by Grammy and Tony Award-winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, and direction and choreography by two-time Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell, Kinky Boots, the story of a resurrected shoe factory in Northampton, is all about the friendships we discover, and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind.

Stay calm. We have the solution. You just need to take our quiz to find out which West End character you should dress up as.

So were you a Heather from Heathers The Musical? Elphaba from Wicked? Phantom from The Phantom Of The Opera? Genie from Disney’s Aladdin? Elder Price from The Book Of Mormon? Or Lola from Kinky Boots?

Whoever you got make a splash about your costume on Twitter! And if you got Elphaba, here’s a handy-dandy tutorial on how to green up!

If you’ve been inspired to see a London musical, click here.

1. He shares his birthday with a couple of other thespians

17 October is a day for winners! Not only is today Sir Cameron’s birthday, but it’s also the birthday of actor, director, writer and Olivier Award-winner Mark Gatiss, as well as Tony Award-winning director and actor David Cromer whose latest work, The Band’s Visit, dominated the 2018 Tony Awards.

2. He worked his way up from the bottom

Cameron didn’t start out on top. In fact, he was in the wings for some years. As a teenager, he took on the role of stagehand at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. He went on to become an assistant stage manager on touring productions before producing some touring shows. By the 1970s, he started producing London shows but his career didn’t start to soar into the stratosphere until his collaboration with Andrew Lloyd Webber on Cats in 1981.

3. He was knighted in 1996 

Sir Cameron was knighted in the 1996 New Year’s Honours for his services to British theatre and he is the first British producer to be elected to Broadway’s Theater Hall of Fame. In 1990, he inaugurated the Chair of Contemporary Theatre at St. Catherine’s College in Oxford University, with Stephen Sondheim as his visiting professor. He is also the president of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

4. Cameron Mackintosh’s partner is Michael Le Poer Trench

He met the Australian-born theatre photographer while working on Oklahoma! in Adelaide in 1982. The couple split their time between their London, Somerset and West Highland homes.

5. He’s not the only producer in the family

His younger brother Robert Mackintosh is also a theatre producer. In recent years, he’s produced McQueen and Tell Me On A Sunday in the West End.

6. Sir Cameron remains the world’s most prolific producer of musicals, with over 50 shows either on or in pre-production internationally.

In addition to Cats, Cameron has been responsible for some of the biggest shows in the world. Not long after Cats, he produced Les Misérables, currently the longest-running musical in the world. He has also produced The Phantom Of The Opera, Mary Poppins and Hamilton – all currently running in the West End.

His other hits include Half A Sixpence, Avenue Q, Carousel, Kinky Boots, Miss Saigon, Five Guys Named Moe, Follies, Oliver!, Little Shop Of Horrors, and My Fair Lady.

7. Eight West End theatres are owned and operated by Delfont Mackintosh

Delfont Mackintosh is owned by Sir Mackintosh and it runs eight of the major West End theatre. The Gielgud, Noël Coward, Novello, Prince Edward, Prince Of Wales, Sondheim Theatre, Victoria Palace and Wyndham’s theatres are all part of the Cam Mac family.

As of this week, Kinky Boots has been dazzling audiences in London for 3 years! The show only has a few months left in the West End before it heads out on tour, so if you’ve not seen it yet, you need to strut your way down to the Adelphi Theatre ASAP! And if you’ve already seen it, let us remind you why you need to go again…

The cast

So, maybe you’ve seen the show before. But have you seen this cast?!

Simon-Anthony Rhoden made his West End debut as a swing in Kinky Boots back in 2016 and he has now been wowing audiences as Lola for over a year. When I first saw Simon-Anthony as Matt Henry’s understudy in 2016 I thought he was amazing, but he has grown so much into this role and really made it his own. He can sing, dance, act (all in 6 inch heels) and his comic timing is spot on.

Starring opposite Simon-Anthony is Oliver Tompsett. Oliver is no stranger to a West End leading role (you may have seen him as Sky in Guys And Dolls, Galileo in We Will Rock You, Drew in Rock Of Ages or Fiyero in Wicked) and he is giving this part everything he has got! All I will say is that you NEED to hear him sing Soul Of A Man.

Lola’s Angels

The whole cast is incredible. But Lola’s Angels deserve a eulogy of their own.

Have you ever seen someone backflip in 6 inch heels? If you haven’t, then you should see the show for that reason alone.

Lola’s Angels are always completely fabulous in every way. As soon as they enter the stage, you can feel their energy. Most people have a favourite Angel or two, but watching this cast, I didn’t know who to watch. I couldn’t pick a favourite. They were such a force on stage and I couldn’t take my eyes off any one of them.

Catchy choreography

Cyndi Lauper’s music is so catchy – the songs are still on loop in my head from last night – but have you ever watched choreography that feels catchy? The sassy walks are infectious, and you’ll be dancing in your seat by the finale.

Dazzling costumes

Do you like glitter? Do you like the colour red? Do you like shoes?

Gregg Barnes’ costumes are Olivier Award-winning – and rightly so.

It will ‘Raise You Up’

My favourite thing about Kinky Boots is that warm fuzzy feeling it gives you. It’s like a big hug of a show. I guarantee you will leave with a huge grin on your face and will feel totally uplifted!

Kinky Boots is playing at the Adelphi Theatre until 12 January. Book your tickets here.

To mark today, we’re looking at theatre’s best buddies. The dynamic duos which make us want to be better friends. The characters that inspire us to run off and start a new life. The ones that help us learn important life lessons. Celebrate your International Friendship Day with these stage pairings.

Aladdin and The Genie

There’s always give and take in friendships. Sometimes, there’s a lot more give on one side than the other and that was the case with Aladdin and The Genie in Disney’s Aladdin. The magical wish granter may have been bound to the Prince Of Thieves by an ancient curse, but his intentions and friendship to Aladdin is legit. And though this comradeship may seem a bit one-sided, Aladdin comes good for his pal in blue in the end.

Elder Price and Elder Cunningham

Opposites attract and though that might not be the case at the start of The Book Of Mormon, Elder Price and Elder Cunningham became the picture of supportive buds by the end. This rocky friendship may have been forced to begin with, but after living through difficult and trying times, a bond based on respect, love and acceptance was formed. These two made each other better people… well, mostly.

Anna and The King

We’ve all had people in our lives that blur the lines of enemy and friend, employer and friend, and lover and friend. Anna and the King may dance around these lines and cause each other to lose their minds from time to time, but when it comes down to it, they teach each other and enrich each other’s lives. Offering different perspectives of the world and traditions, this unlikely pair from The King And I showed us that friendship can be found in the most unconventional of places.

Lola and Charlie

These two are the definition of chalk and cheese. One is a conservative suit wearer afraid to chase his dreams. The other is a fabulous drag queen who stands up to bullies and refuses to let negative forces get her down. But when they come together, they create something spectacular. From a chance meeting, the driving forces of Kinky Boots form a business, a mutual respect and a bond that will last longer than the indestructible heels they end up creating.

Donna And The Dynamos

There’s a lot to be said about lifelong friends. If they’ve stuck by you throughout the years despite your missteps, indiscretions and stubbornness, they’re basically family. In Mamma Mia!, Donna has her trusted friends Tanya and Rosie who don’t just support her emotionally and vocally but don sparkly jumpsuits to entertain the guests at her daughter’s wedding. Now, that’s friendship.

Galinda and Elphaba

These Wicked witches were brought together by fate, not common interests. Loathing each other on first sight, Galinda and Elphaba defied the odds by becoming best friends after a prank went a bit too far. Through forgiveness, acceptance and a joint goal, these best friends learnt to embrace people for who they are. Unfortunately, they also learnt that sometimes it’s best to go your separate ways – though a mutual support and love will always be there, no matter how hard itmight be.

So to celebrate International Kissing Day, here are our seven favourite stage kisses… warning: MAJOR spoilers ahead…

Elphaba and Fiyero – Wicked

The love triangle in Wicked may be Love Island worthy, but when true love conquers all, our hearts are sent aflutter. The epic kiss between Elphaba and Fiyero during the beautiful As Long As You’re Mine reminds us all that people can surprise you and beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And the fact that this pair doesn’t get their perfect, cookie-cutter, traditional happily ever after ending makes this tender moment even more heart-melting.

Strat and Raven – Bat Out Of Hell

Even with all the fire and pyrotechnics, the chemistry between Strat and Raven is the hottest thing on stage. Actors Andrew Polec and Christina Bennington are a couple IRL so all those kisses come quite naturally to them. And despite their genuine fits of passion on stage, seeing a pair of young kids fall in love and fight a tyrannical ruler is pretty damn exciting.

Alec and Laura – Brief Encounter

If you thought the film gave you that tingly feeling, you wait until you see Emma Rice’s production. A haunting and beautiful love story about forbidden love is enough to pull on those heartstrings but when the two protagonists – Alec and Laura – can’t hold back their feelings anymore and finally kiss… swoon-worthy doesn’t even cover it.

Christine and The Phantom – The Phantom Of The Opera

Kissing a man because you love another seems a bit counterproductive. But when it comes to the topsy-turvy world of musicals, it all makes sense. This tender and powerful moment in The Phantom Of The Opera sees the young Christine defeat The Phantom using kindness and compassion. The simple kiss along with the message that he is not alone teaches him that love cannot be forced and the power of sacrifice.

Leonard and… ??? – Witness For The Prosecution

The classic Agatha Christie play has more twists and turns than a rollercoaster at Alton Towers. But it’s a single kiss that sends the whole show spinning out of control – and right at the end. We won’t go into too much detail but the gasp-worthy moment reveals a lot about the characters and plot of the play. The power of a kiss, huh?

Lauren and Charlie – Kinky Boots

Everybody loves a show-stopping kiss. And when Lauren finally lands one on Charlie, that’s literally what it is. During the big Raise You Up/Just Be number, Lauren stops the song when she learns Charlie is no longer with the vile Nicola and gives him a smacker in front of everyone. And the crowd goes wild…

Practically everyone in Young Frankenstein

Kisses don’t have to be overly romantic or grand gestures. Sometimes, a roll in the hay can be electric! And the tongue-in-cheek, a-little-bit-naughty kisses in Young Frankenstein are a-plenty. From Frederick and Inga’s steamy smooches to Frau Blücher and The Monster’s love connection… there’s plenty of snogging going on.

Nothing above whet your whistle? There are plenty of peck-filled shows on in London right now. Click here to find more West End shows.

Based on the cult classic film, Heathers – starring Wynona Ryder and Christian Slater – it’s got us thinking about all those other film-to-stage productions you can see in the West End. So, if you loved Heathers (or couldn’t get a ticket) here are some other shows you’ll probably love because you loved the film.

School Of Rock

Based on the 2003 comedy starring Jack Black, School Of Rock tells of a wayward musician who finds himself without a job, without a band and without a plan. Intercepting a call for his flatmate, he winds up taking a substitute teacher position at a prestigious private school where he teaches the value of rock… but not Maths, Enligh and Science.

You can take your child to School Of Rock for free during August with Kids Week. 

Kinky Boots

The Olivier and Tony Award-winner came to be after the 2005 film that tells the true story of a man who inherits a failing shoe factory which leads to him forming an unlikely business partnership with a drag artist. Packed with sequins, glamour and a whole lot of love, it’s a feel-good show that will have you searching for your very own Kinky Boots.

You can take your child to Kinky Boots for free during August with Kids Week. 

Disney’s Aladdin

The Prince Of Thieves stole everyone’s heart back in 1992 when Disney released the animated film which quickly rocketed to many people’s fave list. Since, the musical has been taking people on a magic carpet ride of West End brilliance. Stop wishing. See your childhood hero come to life.

Matilda The Musical

Which came first, the book or the film? Well, clearly it’s the book. But each incantation of Roald Dahl’s much-loved tale is unique and offers its own charm. The RSC’s multi-award-winning show has been enchanting West End audiences since 2011. So go on. Be a little bit naughty. You deserve it.

Young Frankenstein

The Oscar-nominated Mel Brooke’s film made a generation howl with laughter and put Putting On The Ritz on the map in 1074. And last year’s stage adaptation has done exactly the same for West End goers. Filled with cheeky jokes, tongue-in-cheek songs and a whole lot of silliness, Young Frankenstein will give you LIFE!

You can take your child to Young Frankenstein for free during August with Kids Week. 

Strictly Ballroom

So. Much. FUN! The era-defying Baz Luhrmann film rekindled the world’s love of ballroom dancing. And this year’s musical has rekindled the West End’s love for joyful shows. Full of colour, fake tan and pop songs sung live by Will Young, this live-action version of the cult 90s film will have you feeling the love in the air.

You can take your child to Strictly Ballroom for free during August with Kids Week. 

Disney’s The Lion King

The pride of the West End, The Lion King has been wowing audiences for 19 years. The pioneering show brings animals to life with innovative and industry-changing puppets. Set to those spine-tingling Elton John songs from the film, it’s a walk down memory lane which you’ll want to do again and again.

There are loads of brilliant shows to see in London. To see what’s on, click here.

Having recently revealed plans for a UK tour and welcomed in a new cast to the Adelphi Theatre, the ever-popular show announced the news via social media.

https://twitter.com/KinkyBootsUK/status/1006241983281713152

https://twitter.com/KinkyBootsUK/status/1006241990768582656

Kinky Boots is based on the comedy film about a son who reluctantly inherits his father’s shoe factory, inspired by true events.

Big-hearted and high-spirited, the West End musical tells the true story of Charlie Price, the new owner of his late father’s Northampton shoe factory. Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save the family business from bankruptcy, Charlie finds inspiration in the form of Lola, an entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos.

Don’t miss it – book your Kinky Boots tickets today! And for families, Kinky Boots is currently participating in Kids Week 2018!

The backstory

The show is based on the 2005 film of the same name. The film written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth is inspired by the true story of the young owner of a struggling shoe factory in northern England who found an unlikely business partner which changed his life forever.

Shortly after the film was released, Geoff and Tim realised the touching and glitzy story would make a brilliant musical. Four years after the show’s conception a creative team – including Cyndi Lauper – was assembled and Kinky Boots The Musical went into development.

In October 2012, it made its world premiere at Bank of America Theatre in Chicago before making its Broadway debut at Al Hirschfeld Theatre in April 2013.

Despite being pit against Matilda The Musical, it swept the 2013 Tony Awards receiving a staggering 13 nominations and winning 6.

When it came to the West End, it met rave reviews and received seven Olivier Award nominations, taking home three – including the Best New Musical award.

What’s Kinky Boots about?

It tells the true story of Charlie Price – a young man who inherits a shoe factory in Northampton. But the business is failing and if he doesn’t do something fast, his whole workforce will face unemployment. But, on one fateful night, Charlie meets Lola – a cabaret performer in need of some rather sturdy stilettos.

With Lola’s help, Charlie creates a brand new line of shoes for a very particular clientele, and both their lives change forever.

What age is Kinky Boots appropriate for?

The show is recommended for audiences aged 8 and over. Parental discretion is advised due to mild adult content.

How long is Kinky Boots?

The show is 2 hours and 30 minutes including one interval. Performances are normally at 7.30pm Monday to Saturday, with matinee performances at 2.30pm on Wednesday and Saturday.

Where is Kinky Boots playing in London?

It’s currently playing at Adelphi Theatre on The Strand. The nearest stations to the show are Charing Cross (350m), Covent Garden (500m) or Embankment (500m). You can also get to the Adelphi Theatre via overground train to London Charing Cross (350m).

Will Kinky Boots be touring?

Yes, it will! Later this year, it will be engaging on a UK tour. It’ll start in Northampton (the city the show is based in) in September 2018 and conclude in Southampton in September 2019. Until then, the only place to see it will be at the Adelphi Theatre.

Who is in the Kinky Boots cast?

There are eight young actors in the cast, plus six fierce drag queens.

• Lola is played by Simon-Anthony Rhoden. Simon-Anthony’s previous credits include If I Should Stay and Vernon God Little. The role of Lola was famously played by Matt Henry who won an Olivier Award for his performance.
• Charlie Price is played by Oliver Tompsett. Oliver’s appeared in many West End shows including Wicked and We Will Rock You. Killian Donnelly originated the role in the West End and was nominated for an Olivier Award for his performance. 
• Lauren is played by Natalie McQueen. Natalie has starred in Les Mis and Wonderland.
• Don is played by Sean Needham. You may recognise Sean from his appearances in Mamma Mia!, Wicked, and Our House.
• Nicola is played by Bleu Woodward. Bleu was the original understudy of Nicola and when Cordelia Farnworth went on maternity leave, Bleu took the role. Cordelia will be returning to the role of Nicola this year.
• George is played by Anthony Reed. Anthony has travelled the world to perform in shows such as Mamma Mia! and Annie.

Will I like Kinky Boots?

If you like fun, you’ll love this. It’s a heartwarming story of acceptance and triumph with songs from Cyndi Lauper and some of London’s best drag performers. It’s great fun for all the family and it’ll make you want to invest in some spangly thigh-highs and live your best life.

Where can I buy tickets to Kinky Boots?

Right here with us! Just visit Official London Theatre’s Kinky Boots page to find the best available tickets for great prices.

Today it was announced that Oliver Tompsett and Natalie McQueen will be joining the cast from 4 June 2018 as Charlie and Lauren respectively. Oliver and Natalie will star alongside Simon-Anthony Rhoden who will continue playing Lola. Sean Needham also joins the cast as Don, and Antony Reed will play George. While Cordelia Farnworth will continue playing Nicola.

Oliver’s prior theatre credits include Guys And Dolls (Phoenix Theatre), We Will Rock You (Dominion), Rock of Ages (original London cast, Dominion), Wicked (Apollo Victoria), and Mamma Mia! (Prince of Wales).

Natalie’s previous works include Wonderland (European premiere UK and Ireland tour), Murder Ballad (The Arts, London), Les Misérables (Pimlico Opera), and Wicked (Apollo Victoria).

Sean is a prolific performer and has appeared in productions all over the UK and Europe. His West End credits include Mamma Mia! (Prince of Wales) and Wicked (Apollo Victoria). While Anthony is known for his appearances in The Entertainer (Garrick) and Jolson (Victoria Palace).

Kinky Boots was the 2013 success story of the Tony Awards having received a massive 13 nominations and taking home 6. It won three Olivier Awards, including the Best New Musical awards, in 2016. Since it’s become an absolute crowd-pleaser and is now one of the UK’s most-loved musicals.

Based on a true story, Kinky Boots tells the story of Charlie Price – a young man who inherits his father’s shoe factory in Northampton. The business is struggling but Charlie is determined to live up to his father’s legacy and avoid bankruptcy, all while keeping his team employed. But how? On one fateful evening, Charlie meets Lola, a cabaret performer who could do with some sturdy stilettos.

With songs by Grammy® and Tony® Award-winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, and based on the 2005 comedy film of the same name, this heart-warming show is an absolute must see.

Yet to get your tickets? Strut on over to our Kinky Boots page and get them, now. 

Playing in the West End for the first time in four years, in a one-off spectacular at the Shaftesbury Theatre, the 8 competing shows are now seeking public votes to win the coveted The Best Video Ident Trophy. Votes can be cast via text, with details on the event’s website.

Ahead of the real 63rd annual Eurovision Song Contest in Lisbon, Portugal in May, the eight West End shows competing in West End Eurovision are: 42nd Street, Disney’s Aladdin, Dreamgirls, Hamilton, Kinky Boots, Mamma Mia!, The Phantom Of The Opera and Young Frankenstein. You can see all their idents below.

West End Eurovision 2018 promises a sea of flags – and outrageous costumes – as the casts of some of Theatreland’s biggest shows battle it out to be crowned the champions of West End Eurovision, to raise funds for the Make A Difference Trust.

Eight of London’s top musicals will be competing against each other by singing original Eurovision Song Contest songs to win text votes from the audience and the approval of a panel of celebrity judges and judges from each competing show.

The last West End Eurovision held in 2014 saw Les Misérables named joint winners with Mamma Mia!.

Melanie Tranter, chair of the Make A Difference Trust said, “The generosity of time talent and spirit of all of these amazing people will make the return of West End Eurovision one of the best nights in the West End. We are thrilled to see the return of this glittering night of high camp fun back for one amazing night!”

Tickets can be booked via the Shaftesbury Theatre website.

Raising funds for the Make A Difference Trust, they will be joined by the casts of popular West End productions 42nd Street, Kinky Boots, Mamma Mia!, The Phantom Of The Opera and Young Frankenstein for a one-night-only special production at the Shaftesbury Theatre on Sunday 22 April.

Promising sequins, spandex and glitter balls aplenty, the production will see the casts battle it out to be crowned the champions of West End Eurovision, performing original Eurovision Song Contest songs to win text votes from the audience. A panel of celebrity judges and judges from competing shows will also provide their verdict.

The casts will giving their all to lift 3 coveted West End Eurovision 2018 Trophies — The Champions, The Best Ident Movie and The Best Creative.

The last West End Eurovision, held in 2014, saw Les Misérables named joint winners with Mamma Mia!. The Les Mis cast unforgettably performed previous Eurovision UK entry Flying The Flag, with its producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh making a guest appearance on film dressed as an airline pilot.

The show will also feature a special guest appearance by a past original Eurovision Song Contest entrant, with previous performers including Scooch, Bucks Fizz and Katrina Leskanich (of Katrina and the Waves). Expect a sea of flags and the most outrageous costumes on display in Theatreland.

A spokesman for the Make A Difference Trust, said: “This high camp, fun event will raise such a lot of money for the projects we support. We are thrilled to return West End Eurovision once again to the West End… for one unforgettable performance and one night only!”

Tickets are available through the Shaftesbury Theatre website.