Category: THEATRE

CATS the musical is coming back to Sydney

Rum Tum Tugger and 2022 International Tour Company c Alessandro Pinna

Step into a world of enchanting felines and timeless melodies as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, CATS, returns to Theatre Royal Sydney. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in June 2025, this legendary production is set to captivate audiences once more, in the very theatre where its Australian journey began back in 1985. CATS first leapt onto the stage at the New London Theatre in 1981, revolutionising musical theatre with its dazzling fusion of music, dance, and T.S. Eliot’s whimsical poetry from Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Since then, it has mesmerised over 81 million viewers across more than 50 countries, earning accolades including the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Musical. On Broadway, it reigned supreme for 18 years, collecting seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and establishing itself as a defining piece of the British “mega-musical” phenomenon. Producer John Frost of Crossroads Live reflects on the show’s enduring allure: “CATS is a legendary show that I’ve admired for over 40 years. A sparkling fusion of music, dance, and verse, it was revolutionary when it first opened and enticed new audiences into the world of musical theatre. I can’t wait to bring the original production of CATS back to Australia where it all began, at Theatre Royal Sydney, to celebrate its 40th anniversary in Australia.” The magic of CATS lies in its heartwarming tale of the Jellicle cat tribe. Each year, these unique felines gather for the Jellicle Ball, where their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, makes the pivotal Jellicle choice, deciding which cat will… Read More

Lehman Trilogy is the play to see in London this season

The Lehman Trilogy 2024 L R Howard W Overshown Aaron Krohn © Mark Douet 50A6969.JPG

The return of The Lehman Trilogy to London’s West End is nothing short of a theatrical triumph. Having garnered critical acclaim and five Tony Awards®, this production reclaims its rightful place on the stage at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, dazzling audiences with its epic narrative and stellar performances. With its limited run until 5 January 2025, this is an unmissable opportunity to witness a play that has captivated over half a million viewers worldwide. Penned by the masterful Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power, and brought to life by the visionary director Sam Mendes, The Lehman Trilogy is a sweeping saga that chronicles the rise and fall of a family that not only changed the world but also shaped modern financial history. The story begins on a cold September morning in 1844, with a young Bavarian immigrant dreaming of a new life, and unfolds into a gripping tale spanning 163 years, culminating in the dramatic collapse of Lehman Brothers. This production boasts a formidable cast, with John Heffernan delivering a magnetic performance as Henry Lehman. Heffernan, known for his roles in Edward II and Oppenheimer, brings depth and nuance to the character. Alongside him, Aaron Krohn shines as Mayer Lehman, drawing on his rich experience with Sam Mendes’ previous works, including Cabaret and The Bridge Project. Howard W. Overshown rounds out the trio with his compelling portrayal of Emanuel Lehman, further solidifying his reputation from notable performances in Richard III and A Soldier’s Play. The ensemble is supported by a creative dream team, including set… Read More

Royal Shakespeare Company tells the story of Pericles

365635 Pericles print image landscape no title 2024 2024 Web use

Get ready for an unforgettable theatrical voyage as the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) sets the stage for its latest production, Pericles, a tale of love, hope, and the miracles that bind us. Directed by Co-Artistic Director Tamara Harvey, this production marks her directorial debut with the RSC, infusing Shakespeare’s poignant work with a fresh and vibrant perspective. Prepare to be swept into a world of intrigue as Prince Pericles faces a life-threatening dilemma. After solving a perilous riddle set by a king, Pericles finds himself on the run, embarking on an epic voyage that will test his courage and resilience. This journey sees him battling princes, marrying his true love, and embracing fatherhood. Yet, it’s not all smooth sailing—Pericles must also navigate the treacherous waters of storms, shipwrecks, abduction, and devastating loss. Adrift in an ocean of grief, the pressing question remains: will Pericles ever see his family again? The curtains will rise at the iconic Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, where audiences can immerse themselves in this stirring narrative from July 26 to September 21. Leading the cast is the versatile Alfred Enoch, recognized for his captivating performances in both television—like How to Get Away With Murder—and on stage, including roles in Red and Romeo and Juliet. Joining Enoch is an impressive ensemble featuring Rachelle Diedericks as Marina, Leah Haile as Thaisa, Chukwuma Omambala as Cleon, Christian Patterson as Simonides, and Gabby Wong as Dionyza. Together, they are set to breathe life into a tale that resonates deeply with contemporary audiences. The RSC is renowned… Read More

Lord of the Rings musical tries for a comeback

1. LOTR Chicago Shakespeare Theatre Spencer Davis Milford Frodo and Tony Bozzuto Gollum Photo by Liz Lauren

In its previous on stage versions, it received a mixed review. Can the latest iteration of LOTR on stage cut through the last legacies? The enchanting world of Middle-earth is making its way to Australia in a spectacular fashion with “The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale.” This ain’t your regular run-of-the-mill musical; it’s got elves, dwarves, and hobbits. The adventure kicks off with Bilbo Baggins’ eleventy-first birthday bash in the Shire, where he gifts his nephew Frodo a seemingly innocent gold ring. Little does Frodo know, this shiny trinket is about to launch him on an epic and perilous journey across Middle-earth to the darkest depths of Mordor. With his loyal Fellowship by his side, Frodo sets out to vanquish the evil threatening their world. Now, you might be wondering, “A musical, really?” Oh yes, and it’s not just any musical. Picture this: a dynamic folk-inspired score performed live on stage, weaving together original music and storytelling in a way that would make even the sternest of dwarves tap their feet. The auditions have already kicked off in Australia to find the next generation’s Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, Gollum, Galadriel, Gandalf, Arwen, and Aragorn. If you’ve always dreamt of being a part of this legendary tale, now’s your chance. Torben Brookman, on behalf of Australian co-producer GWB Entertainment, couldn’t contain his excitement. “This is a production that will delight The Lord of the Rings fans of all ages, whether you are 8 or 80, there is something for everyone in this brilliant… Read More

Sweeney Todd on stage in Melbourne this September

Sweeney Todd actors

Following critical acclaim across the country, Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning musical thriller is coming to Melbourne this Spring with Victorian Opera’s Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street A Musical Thriller. The performances will take place at the iconic Arts Centre Melbourne Playhouse from 14-21 September, with an extra show on the 16th just added. Sweeney Todd tells the gruesome story of a man living life by the razor’s edge. This spine-chilling musical thriller will transport audiences to the dark heart of London’s Fleet Street, where betrayal, vengeance and dark comedy intertwine. Starring Ben Mingay (Shrek the Musical, Frayed, Pirates of Penzance, Packed to the Rafters) and Antoinette Halloran (Mary and Max, Macbeth, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll), and directed by celebrated Australian opera and musical theatre director Stuart Maunder AM, this is a masterpiece of musical theatre not to be missed. Once, there was a barber who had it all — a happy life, a beautiful wife. But it all ended in a savage act of betrayal. Enter Sweeney Todd. From the haunting melodies of Stephen Sondheim to the chilling narrative crafted by Hugh Wheeler, this production explores the transformation of a once-content barber into the infamous “demon barber”, a suave and perilous figure with a rising desire for vengeance. Alongside the beguiling and eccentric Mrs Lovett, they hatch a twisted plan — equal parts genius and ghastly. Mrs Lovett’s reputation for serving the best pies in town may be short-lived as Sweeney’s thirst for vengeance teeters on the knife’s edge. From Stuart… Read More