There is (as always with me) so many things that I want to go and see at the moment in the West End but most particularly new musicals that have sparked an interest in me. It is a good mix of classics as well as new so let’s take a closer look at the top five on my list.
5. Gypsy, Savoy Theatre: I have heard only good things about this production of this classic musical starring Imelda Staunton. Much of the praise has been for the performances which is one reason that I would love to see it but it is also not a musical that I’m familiar with so I’m intrigued by it for that reason as well.
Based around the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, the story focuses on her mother Rose and how she raised two daughters to perform on stage, while giving an insight into the hardships of show business life.
This production has been directed by Jonathan Kent and is running at the Savoy Theatre until 28th November – so I had better get my skates on if I want to see it!
4.Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Aldwych Theatre – this show had barely opened when Katie Brayben won Best Actress in a Musical at this year’s Olivier Awards as well as Lorna Want as Best Supporting Actress in a Musical. It shows how highly this production is already thought of in the West End, making it one that I really must see.
This show tells the story of Carole King and how she found her own voice and stepped into the spotlight, creating some of the most memorable songs of all time. From all the comments that I have read about the show from people who have been to see it (not just reviews I hasten to add) it seems I need to get to the Aldwych Theatre as soon as possible!
3. High Society, Old Vic Theatre – based on the classic 1956 film, this musical is a fitting celebration to the end of Kevin Spacey’s run as Artistic Director for the theatre. Of course filled with memorable and catchy songs, this musical also has a lot of humour and fun to be enjoyed.
Having seen and loved the film, it is only natural that I want to see this stage production that has been directed by Maria Friedman (who also directed the Olivier Award winning Merrily We Roll Along).
2. Bend it Like Beckham, Phoenix Theatre – early audience reactions seem positive to this new film transformed into a musical production. This film was a favourite growing up so I’m not quite sure what the music is going to be like or how it will fit in with the story but I’m really hoping that it will pay off and not be a flop like Viva Forever or I Can’t Sing. We will have to wait until press night to find out for certain but fingers are crossed…
Here is the trailer for the film to give those who aren’t familiar with the story a better idea of what it is about:
1. Memphis The Musical, Shaftesbury Theatre – yes I realise this one has been in the West End for a while now but I’m curious to see this for the music and the plot that seems to have gone down well with audiences. Beverley Knight is continuing in her role as Felicia until October, with Matt Cardle joining the cast as Huey from the 6th July.
So there you go that’s my current list of shows that I want to go and see in London – what would yours be?