Once again, we’ve scoured the listings for some of the best theatrical happenings in the coming month. The term ‘play’ is used rather loosely, as some of these are more like concerts and cabaret shows. ‘Tis the season, after all. But don’t worry, it’s not all Christmassy stuff; there’s some legitimate theatre in with the cheese, if that’s what you’re up for.
This classic Broadway musical was inspired by the memoires of striptease artiste Gypsy Rose Lee. With lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, it features hits such as Everything’s Coming Up Roses. Watch out for West End legend Ria Jones – she’s the stage mother from hell.
From Tudor queens to pop princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales – remixing 16th century heartbreak into 21st century girl power. This sell-out show was nominated for five Olivier Awards including Best New Musical.
The latest in a long line of ‘…Goes Wrong’ shows was a smash hit in the West End. It sees the (fictional) Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society battle technical hitches, flying mishaps and cast disputes as they attempt to stage J.M Barrie’s much-loved tale.
Manchester City Ballet presents an evening of pieces from the ballet Coppélia. Expect colourful costumes, lively characters and beautiful music by Léo Delibes combining to create some seasonal joy. The show culminates with a range of dances and songs, from the classic to the contemporary.
HOME has gone the whole hog and created a pop-up event space inside its main ground floor gallery. Here, Monkeywood Theatre will present some new plays for the holidays. Then there’s an ever-changing roster of talented comedians, or maybe you’d prefer drag queen Miss Blair celebrating some British TV icons? Either way, you’ll find both during this Christmas treat.
Le Gateau Chocolat and Jonny Woo have been dubbed the ‘Ebony and Ivory of Drag’ by the press. This raucous show sees the duo take you through a catalogue of fabulous musicals for a night of ballsy ballads, delightful duets and slaughtered show tunes. After a raucous Christmas party option? Look no further.
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story centres on a man who ages backwards – he is born an old man and dies a baby. It was famously made into a movie starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett in 2008, so it will be interesting to see how the age changes are achieved with makeup and not CGI.
Dr Seuss’s children’s classic gets the inevitable stage musical treatment in early December. A hit on Broadway, it’s coming to our shores for the very first time, starring comedian Griff Rhys Jones, unfortunately not as the titular green meany. Among the many songs is the famous festive tune ‘You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch’.
The Palace is the place to go if you like musical adaptations of movies. Alexandra Burke and her alternate Jennlee Shallow will take on the role made famous by Whitney Houston in this new stage adaptation of The Bodyguard. Hit songs include ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ and ‘I Will Always Love You’.
This world premiere is a celebration of other cultures, as told through a blend of theatre, animation and storytelling. The acclaimed theatre company 1927 have unearthed a series of rarely told folktales that offer a glimpse into the imaginations of a pre-industrialized age. Eye catching and visually stunning, this is a must for those after some family theatre fun.
Each night, a gang of comics will create a brand-new show from scratch, using only suggestions from the audience. You’re in safe hands, as Comedysportz is a long-established improv outfit with its roots in the USA – and don’t worry, the whole thing is family friendly.
- Words:
- A. James Simpkin
- Published on:
- Sat 30 Nov 2019
BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon are two alumni of Ru Paul’s Drag Race. After a successful visit last year, the duo return for a seasonal second helping in early December. Expect songs and sassiness in this show about two gals trying to deal with the stress of the holidays.