British Theatre News Weekly Summary - 13th September 2024

Here’s an in-depth update on the latest theatre news from London and the UK:

New Productions and Key Openings

1. London Theatre Highlights:

• Coriolanus has opened at the National Theatre, starring David Oyelowo in a compelling revival of Shakespeare’s tragedy. Directed by Lyndsey Turner, this production explores themes of political ambition and personal downfall through a modern lens, with strong early reviews praising Oyelowo’s intense performance.

• Giant at the Royal Court, directed by Nicholas Hytner, features a dark comedic take on Roald Dahl’s legacy. With a cast including John Lithgow and Romola Garai, the play examines themes of prejudice and the complexities of artistic interpretation.

• A Face in the Crowd at the Young Vic, a collaboration between Elvis Costello and playwright Sarah Ruhl, adapts the 1957 film about a drifter who becomes a populist demagogue. The musical stars Anoushka Lucas and Ramin Karimloo and provides a timely commentary on media influence and public perception.

2. Additional Noteworthy Openings:

• Princess Essex at Shakespeare’s Globe tells the true story of the first woman of colour to enter a UK beauty contest in 1908, bringing a largely forgotten chapter of British history to life. The play is written and performed by Anne Odeke.

• Waiting for Godot at the Theatre Royal Haymarket features Ben Whishaw and Lucian Msamati in a fresh interpretation of Samuel Beckett’s existential classic, exploring themes of human resilience and absurdity.

Closures and Transfers

• Several well-loved productions, including Hello, Dolly!, Kiss Me, Kate, and The Baker’s Wife, are closing soon, marking the final opportunity for audiences to experience these classics.

• The National Theatre’s acclaimed production of War Horse has launched a new 18-month UK tour, starting at the New Wimbledon Theatre. This production, known for its groundbreaking puppetry and emotional storytelling, will visit multiple cities across the UK, continuing to captivate audiences with the tale of Albert and his horse Joey set against the backdrop of World War I.

Awards, Events, and Industry Updates

• London Theatre Week continues to provide exclusive discounts on a variety of West End shows, including major productions like Hamilton, Les Misérables, and The Phantom of the Opera. This initiative aims to make theatre more accessible by offering reduced ticket prices and promoting both long-standing favourites and new productions.

• West End Live returned to Trafalgar Square, featuring performances from hit West End shows. This free event showcased a diverse lineup, including acts from Mamma Mia!, Les Misérables, and Six, drawing large crowds and celebrating the vibrancy of London’s theatre scene.

• A new sustainability initiative, the Theatre Green Book, is gaining traction across UK theatres. This guide helps productions reduce their environmental impact, with new roles being created to support greener practices within the industry.

Casting Announcements and Celebrity News

• Cate Blanchett is set to return to the stage for the first time in six years, starring alongside Tom Burke in a new adaptation of Chekhov’s The Seagull at The Barbican. Directed by Thomas Ostermeier, the production will run in early 2025 and has already generated significant buzz due to Blanchett’s involvement.

• Brian Cox is confirmed to star in The Score at Theatre Royal Haymarket, opening in 2025. This new play, which explores themes of ambition and betrayal, is expected to draw significant interest thanks to Cox’s prominent role.

New and Extended Shows

• The Rocky Horror Show at the Dominion Theatre continues to entertain with its signature mix of rock ‘n’ roll and eccentric characters. This latest production, featuring Jason Donovan and Mawaan Rizwan, brings fresh energy to the cult classic.

• Slave Play at the Noël Coward Theatre, known for its provocative examination of race and sexuality, has sparked debate and divided audiences. This Tony-nominated play challenges societal norms and expectations through its bold narrative and intense performances.

Regional and International News

• Greater Manchester has unveiled a new five-year cultural plan aimed at bolstering the arts and theatre sectors through increased funding and community engagement. This plan reflects a growing commitment to cultural development outside of London, with a focus on making the arts more accessible to diverse audiences.

• Internationally, new theatre productions are being launched worldwide, including Rio Uphill, a new musical premiering in Rio de Janeiro, and the return of The Lion King in Toronto. These international developments highlight the global appeal and ongoing recovery of theatre post-pandemic.

This summary covers the latest in theatre from major openings to key industry shifts, reflecting the dynamic and evolving landscape of London and UK theatre.