Tag: London theatre

New play in London: Blood Wedding blazes onto the stage

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Updated: 25/04/2025

Barney Norris’ gripping adaptation of Blood Wedding is set to dazzle audiences at Clapham’s Omnibus Theatre, opening on Wednesday, 30 April and running until Saturday, 24 May. Presented by Two’s Company and Karl Sydow in association with Tilly Films, this London premiere reimagines Federico García Lorca’s passionate Spanish classic, bringing its timeless intensity to the heart of contemporary England. A Tale of Love, Betrayal, and Fate Set in a rural village on the edge of Salisbury Plain, Blood Wedding explores heightened emotions, unfulfilled longings, and the clash between choice and destiny. Georgie, a 22-year-old bride-to-be, finds herself torn between her fiancé, Rob, and her ex-lover, Lee. What begins as a wedding filled with joy and anticipation quickly takes a dark and ominous turn, as Norris weaves a tale of dreams, heartbreak, and the inevitable consequences of following one’s instincts. Taking inspiration from Lorca’s original 1932 play, Norris infuses the story with a uniquely modern perspective, capturing the dreams and fears that resonate with young couples today. Reflecting on his adaptation, he muses on the role of comedy within the tragedy, stating, “Comedy makes us feel things more deeply. Comedy activates us. And comedy is the English ‘duende’. Lorca’s ‘duende’ comes from the soil of Spain to the soles of people’s feet. Ours is made of laughter.” The Stellar Creative Team and Cast Crafting this layered production is director Tricia Thorns, alongside a talented creative team that includes Alex Marker on set design, Carla Joy Evans on costume design, Neill Brinkworth on lighting design, and Dominic… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, THEATRE

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London theatre: The Psychiatrist premieres at The White Bear

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Posted: 12/04/2025

This April, The White Bear in Kennington will host the world premiere of The Psychiatrist, a powerful new play by Julian Bird. Running from 8–26 April 2025, this two-hander sheds light on the unseen struggles of psychiatrists, with Bird drawing on his decades of experience in the field to craft an authentic and thought-provoking story. The Psychiatrist explores the challenging dynamic of mental health professionals balancing their personal wellbeing with their demanding roles. Based on real events, the play portrays a psychiatrist caught between inadequate resources at work and deep personal loss, leading him to seek therapy himself. The audience sees the main character alternately as a therapist and a patient, uncovering the emotional complexity of working in mental health care. Bird not only wrote the play but also stars in the title role. After a 40-year career as a psychiatrist and physician, he embarked on an acting career in his sixties, training at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. His acting credits include acclaimed roles in theatre (Freud’s Last Session at the King’s Head) and TV (EastEnders, The Tudors). “From my own experience, I am well aware that at times of stress, the mental health of psychiatrists can be a critical factor in the treatment of their patients,” said Bird. The Psychiatrist offers a vivid glimpse into these often-unseen tensions and provides a unique perspective on the mental health struggles faced by those tasked with caring for others. The play is directed by Kenneth Michaels, who returns to The White Bear after… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, THEATRE

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What to see at the National Theatre this season

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Posted: 25/01/2025

The National Theatre is set to shine in 2025 with a bold season of world premieres, marking the grand finale of Rufus Norris’ tenure as Director and Co-Chief Executive. From powerful new plays to landmark educational initiatives, this season cements the National Theatre’s legacy as a champion of creativity and fresh storytelling. Here’s what’s in store for audiences on the South Bank and beyond. A Season of World Premieres Rufus Norris pulls out all the stops with a programme featuring four groundbreaking new productions. “Telling bold new stories on our stages has always been a hallmark of the National Theatre,” Norris reflects. “I am thrilled to end my tenure with a programme that reflects a rich and resonant range of perspectives.” Inter Alia – A Modern Tale of Masculinity and Motherhood The Lyttelton Theatre will host Suzie Miller’s potent new play Inter Alia, directed by Justin Martin. This searing exploration of modern masculinity and motherhood stars Rosamund Pike in her National Theatre debut, alongside Jamie Glover and Jasper Talbot. The play centres on Jessica Parks, a charismatic Crown Court Judge juggling her demanding career and family life when a shocking event threatens to upend everything. With set and costume design by Miriam Buether and video design by Willie Williams, audiences can expect a visually striking and emotionally resonant production. Inter Alia opens 10 July, with a press night on 23 July, running until 13 September 2025. The Estate – A Sharp Study of Family and Politics The Dorfman Theatre reopens in style with Shaan Sahota’s… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, THEATRE

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What to see at National Theatre London this season

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Posted: 18/10/2024

As the festive season approaches, theatre lovers can rejoice as National Theatre at Home unveils a captivating lineup of productions set to grace screens this winter. With an array of exhilarating dramas and heartwarming comedies, the platform promises to illuminate chilly evenings with world-class performances, all from the comfort of home. Kicking off the seasonal offerings is a fresh take on Shakespeare’s Macbeth, featuring Ralph Fiennes, known for his roles in The Menu and Straight Line Crazy, alongside Indira Varma of Game of Thrones fame. Released on 31 October, this cinematic rendition, filmed live at Dock X in London and directed by Simon Godwin, offers a spellbinding experience just in time for Halloween. November brings an opportunity for audiences worldwide to enjoy Nye for free, as part of the ‘Take Your Seats’ initiative. This epic Welsh fantasia, featuring Michael Sheen as Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan, delves into the life of the man who founded the National Health Service (NHS). Available on the National Theatre YouTube channel from 7pm GMT on 7 November until 11 November, it’s a must-watch for fans of stirring historical narratives. The festive cheer continues in December with Noël Coward’s Present Laughter. Directed by Matthew Warchus and filmed during its sold-out run at The Old Vic in 2019, this comedy is available from 6 December. Audiences can revel in Andrew Scott’s Olivier award-winning portrayal of Gary Essendine, a flamboyant actor on the brink of a tour, joined by the equally celebrated Indira Varma and Sophie Thompson. Also joining the platform on 6 December… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, THEATRE

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Lehman Trilogy is the play to see in London this season

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Posted: 13/10/2024

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

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, THEATRE

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Choreographers of Canada bring Frontier to Sadler’s Wells

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Posted: 09/07/2024

Grab your tickets and get ready to witness a spectacular ballet extravaganza at Sadler’s Wells from Wednesday 2 – Sunday 6 October 2024! The National Ballet of Canada is pulling out all the stops for the UK premiere of Frontiers: Choreographers of Canada, featuring an incredible triple bill of works by three of Canada’s most visionary choreographers. Kick-start your evening with Crystal Pite’s Angels’ Atlas, a breathtaking ballet that originally premiered in Toronto. This award-winning piece transforms the stage into a hypnotic play of light and movement, paired with a transcendent soundtrack by Owen Belton, Tchaikovsky, and Morten Lauridsen. It’s like stepping into another world—a world that prompts you to ponder humanity’s place within the vast cosmos. Next, experience the groundbreaking creation of Emma Portner’s islands, a hypnotic duet that simultaneously mesmerizes and challenges conventional ballet norms. With an eclectic mix of contemporary tunes and an avant-garde soundscape by Forest Swords, this performance promises to be unlike anything you’ve seen before. You might recognize Portner from her collaborations with Justin Bieber and her groundbreaking work in theatre, and now she’s dazzling the ballet world with her vision. Rounding off the trio of masterpieces is James Kudelka’s Passion, a spellbinding abstract love story set to Beethoven’s sublime concerto. The chemistry between the classical and contemporary couples is electric, weaving an intricate narrative of passion and relationships that will leave you breathless. Having served as The National Ballet of Canada’s Artistic Director, Kudelka’s influence and distinctive choreographic style remain integral to the company’s legacy. Don’t miss this… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, DANCE, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE

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East London Shakespeare Festival (ELSF) brings Much Ado About Nothing to London

a group of people holding up a group of posters

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Updated: 24/06/2024

There are lots of events in London parks throughout the summer, but few are so purposeful in their mission in injecting the wholesome feeling that comes from community theatre as the East London Shakespeare Festival. In parks dotted all around London this summer, the Shakespeare theatre company will be showing one of the bard’s most popular plays, Much Ado About Nothing. And if you’ve got kids, bring them along! The group is keen on getting kids involved to plant those seeds of interest and enjoyment of Shakespeare’s work from a young age. They put on some crafty options that kids go wild for. It’s the kind of thing that just makes you smile. And the cast do a truly excellent job of blending contemporary reality with Shakespearean whimsy that you can very easily get into. Throw in a little crowd participation and dance choreography that is as funny as it is engaging, there really is something for everyone. If you’re not a theatre or community theatre-goer particularly, my suggestion is to throw off your preconceptions, go and surprise yourself. In Shakespeare’s delightful comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, audiences are transported to the enchanting setting of a modern-day Messina where sun-soaked mischief and romance intertwine under the Mediterranean stars. Filled with witty banter, clever trickery, and heartwarming moments, this opulent tale showcases the triumph of love amidst playful deceptions, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of human emotions and relationships set against a backdrop of timeless charm and laughter. The East London Shakespeare Festival is known for its… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, THEATRE

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