Here’s a guide to some of the shows you can experience in theatres from March…
Kicking off its UK tour at the New Wimbledon Theatre on the 28th March, this musical based on the 2007 film written by Adrienne Shelly features music and lyrics by composer-lyricist Sara Bareilles. It is currently touring until October this year, with casting including Les Dennis, Sandra Marvin and Carrie Hope Fletcher.
A Mirrored Monet, Charing Cross Theatre:
The London premiere of this musical will take place in March. Written and composed by Carmel Owen, the musical follows the story of the great artist as he struggles to complete his latest commission The Lillies and sees him retreating into his memories. The cast will be led by Jeff Shankley who will play Monet in 1916, with Dean John-Wilson appearing as the painter in his youth.
Following its short UK tour last year, George Brant’s play arrives in London. Telling the story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe and her singing partner Marie Knight, this revival of the show will Beverley Knight as Rosetta Tharpe and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu making her West End debut as Marie Knight – both reprising their roles in the roles they played last year. It will run in London from the 28th February until the 11th April, officially opening on the 6th March.
Kinky Boots the Musical, London Coliseum:
The beloved musical based on the true story and film returns to the West End for a strictly limited run from the 17th March until the 11th July. Featuring music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein this revival of the musical is directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster (My Fair Lady, A Chorus Line, Billy Elliot). Casting includes: Johannes Radebe as Lola, Matt Cardle as Charlie and Courtney Bowman as Lauren.
Broken Glass, Young Vic Theatre:
Now in previews, Jordan Fein’s production of Arthur Miller’s play will officially open at the Young Vic Theatre on the 3rd March. Starring Pearl Chanda and Nancy Carroll, the story follows Sylvia who on hearing about violent attacks against Jewish communities carried out an ocean away in Germany becomes obsessed to the point where she loses her ability to walk. Soon cracks appear in her marriage particularly with the arrival of Dr Hyman with whom she develops a strong bond.
Teeth ‘N’ Smiles, Duke of York’s Theatre:
David Hare’s play is being revived from the 13th March until the 6th June, with this production being directed by Daniel Raggett. It is set to star Rebecca Lucy Taylor, AKA Self Esteem, in her West End play debut. As a play with music, it features Nick Bicât and lyrics by Tony Bicât, with new additional music and lyrics by Rebecca Lucy Taylor.
Avenue Q, Shaftesbury Theatre:
Returning to London to celebrate its 20th anniversary, this beloved puppet musical comedy (although not suitable for those under 16) is set to begin performances on the 20th March and play for a limited season until the 29th August. This revival of the musical will be directed by Jason Moore and star Emily Benjamin as Kate Monster and Lucy The Slut, Noah Harrison as Princeton and Rod, Meg Hateley as Mrs T and Bad Idea Bear, Oliver Jacobson as Brian, Charlie McCullagh as Nicky, Trekkie Monster and Bad Idea Bear, Amelia Kinu Muus as Christmas Eve and Dionne Ward-Anderson as Gary Coleman.
The Greatest Showman, Bristol Hippodrome:
Given the love of the 2017 film, it is hardly surprising that this run of the world premiere stage adaptation has already sold out! Featuring all of the original songs from the film, which were written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul such as “Rewrite the Stars” and “The Greatest Show”, the musical will run in Bristol from the 15th March until the 10th May.
The Holy Rosenbergs, Menier Chocolate Factory:
Officially opening on the 9th March, Ryan Craig’s play is directed by Lindsay Posner and tells the story of a family in crisis, with one trying to save a business, another trying to save a husband and a daughter facing public scrutiny for investigating war crimes in Gaza for the UN. Having originally premiered at the National Theatre in 2011, this revival stars: Dan Fredenburgh (Saul), Nitai Levi (Jonny), Adrian Lukis (Sir Stephen), Dorothea Myer-Bennett (Ruth), Tracy-Ann Oberman (Lesley), Nicholas Woodeson (David) and Alex Zur (Simon).
I’m Every Woman The Chaka Khan Musical, The Peacock Theatre:
Alexandra Burke is set to star as Chaka Khan in the world premiere of the musical which will run in London from the 5th to the 28th March, ahead of runs in Coventry and Eastbourne. Bringing to life the singer’s incredible story, the show will feature many iof her biggest hits including: I Feel For You, Tell Me Something Good, Ain’t Nobody, Sweet Thing, Higher Love and Through The Fire.