Here’s a guide to some of our favourite theatre of the year…
Paddington the Musical, Savoy Theatre:
It is hard not to love this musical which is as heartwarming as you would expect. Tom Fletcher’s music and lyrics captures the spirit of the story and characters beautifully, while the story combines the film and Michael Bond’s original tale perfectly. It is a musical filled with warmth and joy – just what the world needs right now.
The Producers, Garrick Theatre:
Having transferred from the Menier Chocolate Factory, Patrick Marber’s production of the classic Mel Brooks musical is as lively as you would expect. Sharply comic, it is clear that the cast are having a ball at bringing the story and characters to life!
The one play that we hope that returns to the West End soon is Ryan Calais Cameron’s snappily written play that follows a period of time in Sidney Poitier’s career, in which McCarthyism threatens his career. It is filled with sharp conversations, strong themes and was completely engaging to watch from start to finish.
Titanique, Criterion Theatre:
It took us a while to getting around to seeing this show – but it was really hilarious from start to finish. A spoof of the James Cameron film and featuring the songs of Celine Dion (who also acts as narrator), it is completely bonkers but brilliantly written to ensure that everyone has a great time.
The Weir, Harold Pinter Theatre:
A masterclass in storytelling, it was a real pleasure to watch this Connor McPherson written and directed play with Brendan Gleeson making his West End debut. It was filled with depth and is captivating to watch it all unfold.
This lively revival of the musical really captures the essence of the original story, while also allowing the songs to shine , thanks to wonderful orchestrations and choreography. Everything has been perfectly pitched to ensure that no matter the age of the audience, everyone leaves having had a wonderful time.
Marie & Rosetta, Rose Theatre:
It is great that this play about Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Marie Knight will have a longer life, making its West End debut at the @Sohoplace from the 28th February. By turns powerful and fascinating, it featured two brilliant performances from Beverley Knight and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu.
Nicholas Hytner’s production was compelling to watch from start finish not just because of the strong performances but the way in which it finds and draws out effectively the relevance of Shakespeare’s play in a modern world.
The Comedy About Spies, Noel Coward Theatre:
Mischief have done it once again with their latest show that cleverly combines a brilliant script with some terrific physical comedy to ensure that audience members are left giggling from start to finish.
Thomas Ostermeier’s production of the classic play was insightful and well thought out. It balanced the comedy and drama beautifully that made it compelling to watch from start to finish. It also featured a fabulous cast who brought a great range of detail to their performances including Tom Burke and Cate Blanchett.