Emma's Theatrics

There’s a quote in the show’s programme that reads “Our age is the age of the refugee, the displaced person, mass immigration.” We live in terrifying times. Uncertain and uncomfortable times. When the status quo is constantly being challenged, corruption is reaching far and wide and our reliance on human bonds is stronger than ever. A story like The Beekeeper of Aleppo perhaps never felt more relevant than it does right at this moment. It follows the story of Nuri ( Adam Sin

Recently, West End theatres have played host to a growing number of one-night-only concerts and musical premieres. These productions have received a wide range of responses—from standing ovations for last month’s revival of Once On This Island to more measured, and at times scathing, criticism for others. While the premiere of Rosie does not quite fall into the category of failure, it cannot comfortably be called a success either. This show follows the story of Miss Rosie B

Based on the beloved ITV series, this original story provides yet another case for Inspector Morse (played here by Tom Chambers ) to add to his repertoire. When a young actress suddenly dies during a performance of Hamlet , a gripping investigation begins, gradually uncovering elements from the inspector’s past. As with the television series that inspired it, the production attempts to balance an intricate mystery with a more introspective look at its central character. The p

*This review will focus on the filmed version that is set to hit cinemas early next month. Details at the end of this review. Based on the classic Shakespearean tragedy, this production of Othello brings a sort of modern adaptation to the stage. Whilst it is never specified when the show is set, the costumes and set design seem to hint at a relatively modern version. Othello is a high ranking army general who finds himself being manipulated by his subordinate, Iago, into beli

This famous American psychological thriller follows the story of Thomas Ripley (played here by Ed McVey ), a young man tasked with persuading a fleeting acquaintance to return home from Italy at the request of his wealthy family. Ripley travels to Italy under the financial care of the Greenleafs, intent on completing what seems, at first glance, to be a straightforward assignment. Yet as he settles into the languid glamour of sun-soaked Italy, he finds himself drawn into a ti

Based on the notorious 1992 movie with Whitney Houston , The Bodyguard returns for yet another tour of the UK. It follow the fictional story of Rachel Marron, an international superstar, as she is being targeted by an anonymous stalker. Bodyguard Frank Farmer is subsequently employed to ensure Rachel’s safety, as well as that of her sister and 10-year old son. Having had its previous tour swept up in controversy surrounding audience behaviour in theatres, expectations for th

The Mill at Sonning has one of those stellar reputations — and not without good reason. As one of the few remaining dinner-and-theatre experiences, it offers the kind of outing that feels genuinely distinctive from the moment you arrive. Having previously reviewed productions at this venue, this reviewer can say with complete honesty that, while not every show has been an outright success, the overall calibre of the experience has always compensated for any shortcomings on st

Charles Dickens ’ famous novel has been adapted countless times since its original publication, with many of those interpretations taking to the stage. To celebrate 20 years on the theatre scene, the Guildford Shakespeare Company has taken on the formidable challenge of creating its own adaptation—and the result is an undeniable success. At its heart, David Copperfield is a coming-of-age story that charts one young man’s journey through hardship, self-discovery, and personal

Sondheim’s iconic creation Into the Woods returns to the London theatre scene, and with a cast packed full of some of the industry’s finest artists, this production arrives more than primed for success. Fortunately, it largely delivers. Having never seen a live staging of Into the Woods before — though familiar with the divisive film adaptation — this reviewer found herself surprised by the tone of the piece. Darker than expected, yet far more comedic, the musical strikes a

Based on the timeless classic by Louisa May Alcott , Jo follows the story of the March sisters as they come of age during the American Civil War. It is a classic for a reason: a story of sisterhood, love, and - most importantly - of finding one’s own path, whatever that may be. Little Women is one of, if not my favourite, stories of all time. The 1994 film adaptation carried me through some of my darkest days, reminding me of the joy found in human connection and the quiet

We all know, by now, the story of the six famous New York friends. FRIENDS was not just a hit sitcom but a cultural phenomenon, redefining television comedy and leaving a legacy that continues to resonate decades later. Its influence on the genre is undeniable, with characters, catchphrases, and storylines firmly embedded in popular culture. To parody something so beloved and iconic is no small feat; it comes loaded with expectation and the ever-present risk of falling short

Charing Cross Theatre returns this year with another adult pantomime, Beauty and the Beast (A Horny Love Story) - a camp, spirited twist on the classic fairy tale. The story follows the son of a petrol-station owner in the quaint town of Lickmanochers and his unexpected encounter with a once-proud prince, now transformed into a beast. As with any panto, exaggeration is part of the charm. Here, however, the production occasionally tips into excess, at times losing the very c

The hit West End jukebox musical Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story has embarked on a new UK tour, once again delighting audiences with its iconic musical catalogue. The show follows Texas-born musician Buddy Holly as he breaks away from the conventions of country music and ventures into the emerging world of rock ‘n’ roll in the 1950s. At a time when this genre was still seen as rebellious—and even taboo among older generations— Buddy Holly and the Crickets helped to revolution

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, based on Rick Riordan ’s hit book series, is back after a successful run at The Other Palace — and this time, it’s heading out on a UK tour. The show is, as the name suggests, is based on the first novel of the Percy Jackson series. The story follows Percy, who is thrown into a world of gods, monsters, and destiny. Accused of stealing Zeus’s lightning bolt, Percy and his friends set off on a high-stakes quest across America — fi

The elegance and wit of Irving Berlin ’s Top Hat are stepping back into the spotlight with a new nationwide tour. First adapted for the stage in 2011, this musical reimagining of the 1935 Hollywood classic — complete with additional orchestration by Chris Walker — continues to capture audiences with its blend of romance, humour, and irresistible rhythm. The story follows the dashing Broadway dancer Jerry Travers as he travels to London to open a new show — only to find him

13 Going On 30 , a new musical adaptation of the 2004 rom com movie, makes a splashy and bold premiere at the Manchester Opera House. Directed by Andy Fickman , with book by Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa , the musical features music and lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner . The musical, filled with joy and nostalgia translates wonderfully on stage, creating a feel good evening of musical theatre. 13 Going On 30 follows the story of 13 year old Jenna Rink, who desperat

Jane Austen 's famous 1815 comedic novel ' Emma ' is back for a new stage adaptation, and it is wittier and funnier than ever, delighting...

Beginning its fifth year on the West End, Back to the Future: The Musical continues to thrill audiences with high stakes technical stunts, impressive choreography and unwavering energy. Having seen the show twice before, this reviewer did not expect to see so many subtle changes in characterisation. The introduction of Brian Conley as Doc Brown and Maddie Grace Jepson as Lorraine Baines imbued the performance with a renewed vitality, offering a genuinely refreshing interpre

War Horse takes the suburb writing of Michael Morpurgo and translates it to the stage, transporting the audience to the farmlands of England in 1914 and to the trenches of France during the First World War. Based off the book by Michael Morpurgo ‘ War Horse ’ follows Albert Narracott and his horse Joey and they’re forcibly separated by the First World War. Act One takes place in the English farmlands as the audience watches how Joey and Albert became a pair, whilst Act Two

Now this reviewer does not oft get the chance to watch dance productions - the main reason behind that being fear. Fear of not...