Trevor Nunn to direct Rob Brydon, Nigel Harman and Ashley Jensen in Alan Ayckbourn's A CHORUS OF DISAPPROVAL

TREVOR NUNN TO DIRECT

ROB BRYDON, NIGEL HARMAN AND ASHLEY JENSEN

IN ALAN AYCKBOURN’S

A CHORUS OF DISAPPROVAL

Trevor Nunn is to direct a cast including Rob Brydon, Nigel Harman and Ashley Jensen in Alan Ayckbourn’s A Chorus of Disapproval opening at the Harold Pinter Theatre later this year. Joining the trio on stage will be Teresa Banham, Daisy Beaumont, Georgia Brown, Rob Compton, Matthew Cottle and Steven Edis, who is also the show’s Musical Director. Further casting will be announced shortly. Tickets go on sale today (28 June 2012) for the run which begins previews on 17 September 2012 with booking open until 5 January 2013. Designs are by Rob Jones, with lighting by Tim Mitchell and sound by Fergus O’Hare.  A Chorus of Disapproval is produced by Sonia Friedman Productions.

This production continues Sonia Friedman's collaboration with Ayckbourn, having previously presented his Absent Friends at the Harold Pinter Theatre and his The Norman Conquests on Broadway.  As with all SFP productions there will be a range of accessible seat prices, which will include over one hundred £10 seats for every performance, many bookable in advance.

The Pendon Amateur Light Operatic Society’s production of The Beggar’s Opera is going off the rails, that is until a handsome but shy young widower Guy (Harman) joins the group. An instant hit with the company’s ferociously zealous director Dafydd (Brydon) and the show’s leading ladies, including Dafydd’s wife Hannah (Jensen), Guy soon gets more than he bargained for as he discovers that all the best action happens off-stage.  Classic songs fill the air as the drama on stage is mirrored by the romantic rivalry and small town squabbles causing a stir in the wings of this ambitious local show.

Rob Brydon (Dafydd ap Llewellyn), who is making his West End acting debut in A Chorus of Disapproval,  studied at The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama before joining BBC Wales as a radio and television presenter.  He first came to the public’s attention in 2000 with the television shows Marion and Geoff and Human Remains, winning British Comedy Awards for both.  Since then his extensive comedy credits have included I’m Alan Partridge, Little Britain, Live at the Apollo, Rob Brydon’s Annually Retentive, QI, Have I Got News For You, Gavin and Stacey, for which he was BAFTA nominated, Rob Brydon’s Identity Crisis, The Trip and Would I Lie To You?.  His television acting credits include Oliver Twist, Heroes and Villains: Napoleon, Kenneth Tynan: In Praise of Hardcore and Marple and his self-titled, BAFTA nominated TV chat show which is currently in its third series on BBC2. On film he has been seen in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, 24 Hour Party People, MirrorMask, A Cock and Bull Story and the big screen version of The Trip. Brydon has worked extensively on the radio with appearances on I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue and on April Fool’s Day in 2011 he hosted Radio 2’s Ken Bruce Show in character as Ken Bruce for the whole show.  In 2009, he completed an eighty-seven date tour of the UK with his stand-up show, Rob Brydon Live, which included a three-week run in London’s West End.  He returned to the stage in the Autumn of 2011 alongside Kenneth Branagh in The Painkiller at The Lyric in Belfast.  Also in 2011 Brydon released his autobiography, titled Small Man in a Book which he made into a nationwide tour.  He will star in the BBC Paralympic drama Best of Men alongside Eddie Marsan which will air mid August ahead of the Paralympic Games. The 90-minute feature tells the story of Dr Ludwig Guttmann, a German doctor whose use of sport to treat patients in the 1940s led to the birth of the Paralympics.

Nigel Harman (Guy Jones) won a 2012 Laurence Olivier award and Whatsonstage award for his portrayal of Lord Farquaad in Shrek The Musical at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.  His other theatre credits include Harold Pinter’s Celebration for the Gate Theatre, Dublin, Sam Shepard’s True West for Sheffield Theatres, Public Property at the Trafalgar Studios, Three Days of Rain at the Apollo Theatre, The Common Pursuit for the Menier Chocolate Factory, The Caretaker for Sheffield Theatres/Tricycle, The Exonerated at Riverside Studios and Privates on Parade at the Donmar Warehouse. His other musical theatre credits include Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls at the Piccadilly Theatre, Eddie in Mamma Mia at the Prince Edward Theatre and Mickey in Damn Yankees at the Adelphi Theatre.  On television Harman played Dennis Rickman in the BBC soap EastEnders and Sam in Hotel Babylon as well as roles in Miss Marple, City of Vice, The Outsiders and Plus One. On film his credits include Telstar, Patience and Blood Diamond.  Harman can next be seen on stage in School for Scandal at the Theatre Royal Bath opening next month.

British Comedy and BAFTA award-winning Ashley Jensen (Hannah Llewellyn) returns to the theatre having recently enjoyed a hugely successful career on television playing Maggie opposite Ricky Gervais in Extras for which she was also Emmy nominated, Christina McKinney in ABC’s Ugly Betty and Olivia in the CBS sitcom Accidentally on Purpose.  Having trained with the National Youth Theatre her previous theatre credits include Attempts on Her Life, Uganda and Storming for the Royal Court and King Lear and Howard Katz for the Royal Exchange Theatre as well as many productions for Glasgow Citizen’s and Tron Theatres.  Her recent film credits include The Pirates! in an Adventure with Scientists, Arthur Christmas, Gnomeo and Juliet, A Cock and Bull Story and Topsy Turvy.

Teresa Banham (Enid Washbrook) has previously worked with Trevor Nunn on both Measure for Measure and Blue Angel at the Royal Shakespeare Company.  Her other stage credits include playing the title role in Anna Karenina for Shared Experience for which she won the Evening Standard and London Fringe awards for Best Actress and The Heresy of Love and The White Devil and The Herbal Bed also for the Royal Shakespeare Company.  Her television credits include Robin Hood, Silent Witness and the Governor in Doctor Who.

Daisy Beaumont’s (Fay Hubbard) theatre credits include Enlightenment for Hampstead Theatre, Boeing-Boeing at the Comedy Theatre, Alan Ayckbourn’s Virtual Reality for the Stephen Joseph Theatre as well as Private Lives and The Twelve Pound Look also for the Stephen Joseph Theatre.  Her television credits include Star Stories, A Touch of Cloth, Great Night Out, The Border and New Tricks.  On film her credits include Foster, Swinging with the Finkels and I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.

Georgia Brown (Bridget Baines) trained at LAMDA and most recently appeared in New Cross, one of Touchpaper Television’s Coming Up films for Channel 4.  She has also appeared in The Bill for ITV and has performed her own show on the Edinburgh Fringe and the London comedy circuit.  A Chorus Of Disapproval marks her West End debut.

Rob Compton’s (Crispin Usher) theatre credits include Christmas in New York at the Prince of Wales Theatre, the UK tour of All the Fun of the Fair, As You Like It and Merlin and the Woods of Time for Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, the English Touring Theatre’s production of Great Expectations at the Watford Palace and A Christmas Carol at the West Yorkshire Playhouse.

Matthew Cottle (Ted Washbrook) has worked extensively with Alan Ayckbourn, recently appearing in his productions of Neighbourhood Watch and Dear Uncle for the Stephen Joseph Theatre and Taking Steps at the Orange Tree. His other stage credits include The Habit of Art for the National Theatre and Racing Demon for Sheffield Theatres. On television he is probably best known for playing Martin in the cult 90’s comedy, Game On.  His other television credits include Holby City, Spooks and Eastenders.  His film credits include Blessed, Bright Young Things and Chaplin.

Steven Edis (Mr Ames) is also the Musical Director for A Chorus of Disapproval.   Edis has composed and arranged music for film, television and theatre.  His recent theatre credits include The Lion In Winter, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead and Flare Path for the Trevor Nunn season at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, Birdsong at the Harold Pinter Theatre, Inherit The Wind and The Entertainer for the Old Vic, Cyrano de Bergerac and The Music Man for Chichester Festival Theatre and The Merchant of Venice and The Royal Hunt of the Sun for the National Theatre. 

Olivier and Tony award-winning playwright Alan Ayckbourn has written more than 75 plays, over half of which have been produced in the West End as well as on Broadway.  Ayckbourn was Artistic Director at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough from 1972-2009 and was an Associate Director at the National Theatre from 1986-88.  He was awarded a CBE in 1987 and in 1997 was knighted for services to the theatre.  

Trevor Nunn was the longest-serving Artistic Director and Chief Executive of the Royal Shakespeare Company (1968 to 1986). During that time he directed most of the Shakespeare canon, as well as Nicholas Nickleby and Les Misérables.  He returned to the RSC to direct King Lear and The Seagull. From 1997 to 2003 he was Director of the National Theatre where his 21 productions included award-winning revivals of The Merchant of Venice, Summerfolk and The Cherry Orchard, as well as Oklahoma! and Anything Goes. He has directed the world premieres of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, Starlight Express, Aspects of Love, Sunset Boulevard and The Woman in White as well as Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia, Every Good Boy Deserves Favour, The Coast of Utopia and Rock 'n' Roll. His more recent theatre credits include A Little Night Music for the Menier Chocolate Factory, in the West End and on Broadway, Cyrano de Bergerac for Chichester Festival Theatre, Richard II and Inherit the Wind for The Old Vic and Birdsong at the Comedy Theatre.  As Artistic Director of the Theatre Royal Haymarket Company Nunn directed Flare Path, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, The Tempest and The Lion In Winter.  Nunn recently directed Kiss Me Kate for Chichester Festival Theatre, which will transfer to the Old Vic in November.

The world premiere of A Chorus of Disapproval was directed by Alan Ayckbourn at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough in 1984 with a cast including Lenox Greaves, Russell Dixon and Alwyne Taylor.  The London premiere at the National Theatre in 1985, also directed by Ayckbourn, starred Bob Peck, Michael Gambon and Imelda Staunton. The production then transferred to the West End the following year.

Listings Information                    

Dates: 17 September 2012 – 5 January 2013

Press performances: 25 September at 7.30pm, 26 September at 7.30pm and opening night on 27 September at 7.00pm.

   

Theatre: Harold Pinter Theatre, Panton Street, London SW1Y 4DN (formerly the Comedy Theatre)

Performances: Monday – Saturday at 7.30pm

                       Wednesday and Saturday at 2.30pm

Ticket prices: £10 - £40 opening weeks, £10 - £53.50 post opening

Throughout the run there will be over one hundred £10 tickets for all performances, many bookable in advance from the Box Office

Day seats at £10 each, available in person only, at the box office on the day of the performance

All prices include a £1.50 restoration levy

Box Office:  0844 871 7622

Website: www.achorusofdisapproval.com

BWANI JUNCTION to be first band to play on top of the Forth Bridge in Edinburgh

BWANI JUNCTION 

 “A bit like if The Libs and Vampire Weekend formed a supergroup”

“8/10. By rights they’re a Glastonbury institution in waiting”

NME

“ Afro-beat somersaults, dueling guitar solos and swaggering, tumbling drums… these guys have tunes and they aren’t afraid to use them. Be afraid!”

Artrocker

Innovative and infectious, new band Bwani Junction, become the first band to play on top of the Forth Bridge in Edinburgh on Monday 2 July.

In 1969 The Beatles played on the roof of their record company in London.

In 1987 U2 made another celebrated rooftop appearance in Los Angeles.

In 2012 Bwani Junction will eclipse both with a gig on top of the iconic Forth Bridge.

The Edinburgh based band of four – Rory, Jack, Dan and Fergus will be taking to the top to perform a set ahead of their T in the Park show on 6 July. The bands first single, Two Bridges, off their highly acclaimed album, Fully Cocked, was released on 25 June and has attracted the attention of the industry and fans alike. They will be taking to the top pf the bridge to celebrate the release and recent completion of works on the Bridge.

Jack Fotheringham, drummer, is thrilled about playing on the bridge “it’s been an ambition of ours ever since we wrote our track, Two Bridges, to now finally get a chance to play 100 metres up top of one of Scotland’s most noticeable landmarks and celebrated architectural designs will be an amazing experience and to be the first band to play will make it even more special”.

Craig Bowman, Communications Manager for Network Rail, who own and operate the Forth Bridge, commented: “We’re pleased to be able to support a local band that write and perform songs about their home town by allowing Bwani Junction to become the first band ever to play on the Forth Bridge. We’ve been able to grant one off access following the completion of Forth Bridge restoration works earlier this year, so, following their last video, we’ll keeping a keen eye out to make sure that they don’t start painting it blue”

Fully Cocked is skewed indie, sprinkled with Afro-Scottish influences, already compared to a mix between Vampire Weekend, Big Country and Two Door Cinema Club. Writing hometown tales, they mix local characters with the occasional political comment and anthemic tunes.

Bwani Junction source their sound from an array of genres, including an injection Afro-beat that sets them apart.

“We are inspired by all types of great music,” says Dan Muir, lead-guitarist, “I’ve always been a particularly massive Clash fan. I grew up with the Bhundu Boys, literally, my Dad was their manager. They taught me guitar – that may just have influenced me a little bit too.”

A fantastic live band, they own every venue they play. Having headlined the BBC Introducing stage at T in the Park last year, recorded a session for Huw Stephens and supported The Vaccines and Little Comets, they are now slated for a raft of festivals. This summer finds them playing sets at Latitude, The Great Escape, Jersey Live, Isle of Wight and T in the Park, among others.

Frontman, Rory Fairweather, “Playing live is the whole point of being in a band. If you can pull it off on stage without the studio trickery that’s the mark of a good band….also, there’s no easier way to get laid.”

Bwani Junction have attracted support from BBC Radio 1 (including Chris Moyles show), BBC 6Music, Five Live, NME, Artrocker Magazine, The Sun, Record Of The Day, among many others. Two Bridges is the lead track from the EP.

An addictive, dazzling debut album, electrifying live shows and a band with a voice, Bwani Junction are the soundtrack to the summer – and beyond.

http://www.facebook.com/bwanijunction

http://soundcloud.com/bwanijunction

Harry Potter’s Matthew Lewis joins cast of OUR BOYS at Duchess Theatre

James Seabright, Jenny Topper, Sue Scott Davison and Lee Menzies present

Directed by David Grindley

Matthew Lewis, best known for playing Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter film series, will make his West End debut this autumn when he joins Cian Barry, Arthur Darvill and Laurence Fox in the cast of Our Boys at the Duchess Theatre (previews from 26 September). Matthew takes on the role of Mick. Written by Jonathan Lewis Our Boys is a wonderfully funny yet searingly honest account of the tribulations, tedium and terror that young soldiers face when recovering from injuries incurred in the line of duty. 

Matthew was recently on our TV screens as Jamie in Kay Mellor’s primetime BBC One hit series The Syndicate, receiving a TV Choice Award nomination for best actor. He recently completed filming on forthcoming British heist movie Wasteland, co-starring Timothy Spall. On stage he was last seen in the national tour of Agatha Christie’s Verdict.

Our Boys, which opens at the Duchess Theatre on the 3 October, is the story of five young soldiers whose daily routine of TV, lonely hearts ads and light-hearted banter is shattered by the arrival of an unwelcome authority figure: a young officer fresh from Sandhurst. The camaraderie of this unlikely band of brothers is soon jeopardised by a dangerous incident and an act of betrayal. With charges of misconduct looming, accusations fly – and then the fighting really starts.

Our Boys won the Best New Play award in the 1993 Writers’ Guild Fringe Awards, and this first West End production comes from the creative team behind the Tony award winning international hit, Journey’s End.

Jonathan Lewis is a writer and director for theatre and television. He wrote and directed the original productions of Our Boys at the Cockpit Theatre, Derby Playhouse and Donmar Warehouse between 1993 and 1995. Other credits include Breakfast with Jonny Wilkinson (director) and All Mouth (writer and director), both at the Menier Chocolate Factory. His solo show I Found My Horn was critically acclaimed when it opened in 2008 and subsequently toured the UK, including a run at Hampstead Theatre.  Jonathan is also an actor and has appeared in numerous plays and TV dramas including the critically acclaimed Speaking in Tongues at Hampstead Theatre, Soldier, Soldier, Silent Witness, London’s Burning and Heartbeat.

David Grindley’s theatre credits include: Journey’s End (Comedy); Abigail’s Party (Hampstead/Whitehall); Six Degrees of Separation (Old Vic); A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Stratford, Ontario); The Philanthropist (Broadway); The American Plan (Broadway); Crown Matrimonial (Tour); Blackbird (Tour); Pygmalion (Broadway); Journey’s End (Broadway) which won the 2007 Tony Award for Best Revival. In The Club (Hampstead/Tour); Honour (Wyndham’s); The Philanthropist (Donmar); National Anthems (Old Vic); What The Butler Saw (Hampstead/Criterion); Some Girls (Gielgud); Loot (Chichester/Vaudeville) and The League of Gentlemen.

The design team – Jonathan Fensom, Jason Taylor and Gregory Clarke and have all worked with David Grindley on a number of acclaimed West End productions including Journey’s End, Abigail’s Party and Six Degrees of Separation.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

OUR BOYS by Jonathan Lewis

Theatre: Duchess Theatre, 3-5 Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5LA

Dates: Previews from Wednesday 26 September. Booking until Saturday 15 December.

PRESS NIGHT: Wednesday 3 October at 7pm

Times: Monday – Saturday at 7.45pm with matinees on Wednesday and Saturday at 2.45pm

Ticket prices: £20 / £45 / premium £65 – Previews £10 off all prices

Box Office: 0844 482 9672

Book online: www.nimaxtheatres.com /

Official show website: www.ourboystheplay.com

LAURA WRIGHT announces UK headline shows & gets awarded Nordoff Robbins O2 Silver Clef Award

Laura Wright

Soprano singing sensation Laura Wright will be awarded with the PPL ‘Classic Award’ at the 2012 O2 Silver Clef Awards in aid of music charity Nordoff Robbins on Friday 29th June.

Along with Laura's recent album release 'Glorious' getting to the top of the iTunes Classical chart, she features twice on 'Sing', the #1 album from Gary Barlow & The Commonwealth Band. Laura also sang the national anthem at this years FA Cup final, and at this years Soccer Aid event in front of Robbie Williams, Will Ferrell and many more!

Laura says of her O2 Silver Clef award: “I am honoured to be receiving my O2 Silver Clef award and delighted to be able to support Nordoff Robbins and their amazing music therapy work. To have my name alongside such incredible artists who have been a real inspiration to me throughout my life and career: Andrea Bocelli, Katherine Jenkins, Nicola Benedetti, Faryl Smith and Russell Watson. This is a huge privilege and I am delighted to be a part of the O2 Silver Clef Awards, helping such an incredible charity.”

The list of attendees for the O2 Silver Clef on Friday is looking as impressive as ever with Jessie J, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Emeli Sande, Conor Maynard, Tinie Tempah, Tom Jones, Michael Buble, Laura Wright, Fatboy Slim and Manic Street Preachers.

Laura is currently on tour with Russell Watson, and in August will be touring with Alfie Boe.

UK Headline Shows

Wednesday September 12th sees her perform what is sure to be a sensational homecoming show at the Ipswich Corn Exchange and she then takes to the stage in the idyllic setting of London’s St. James Church in Piccadilly on Thursday 13th September.

Sep 12th - Ipswich Corn Exchange

Sep 13th - London St James' Church Piccadilly

www.kililive.com

www.laura-wright.com

Theatre Review: Beulah - York Theatre Royal Studio ✭✭✭✭

Beulah

York Theatre Royal Studio

The blurred lines between what we perceive as reality and the world we inhabit in our dreams is beautifully examined in the Flanagan Collective’s production of Beulah, a new piece written by Alexander Wright currently showing in York Theatre Royal’s Studio.

Taking its inspiration from the thoughts and writings of William Blake, Beulah is a tale of multiple-plains, different times and definitions of time and people from the past, present and beyond our traditional conceptions.

On one level we follow the story of Leica and Liam as their love blossoms and see how their relationship strengthens in a remote, romantic location. But this is only one side of reality. As we sleep, we enter Beulah and are granted a glimpse of another world, a world beyond ours – a world we will finally reside in once our mortal time is called. Beulah is a beautiful world, one that is personal to each individual but is linked to others at the same time, a world where we are guarded by lions and where the constraints of our standard reality do not apply.

In essence though this is a simple story – one of love, dreams and the way everything relates to each other.

We are guided through three different, but ultimately linked, story lines by the highly engaging Jim Harbourne and Ed Wren. Their natural and casual storytelling style places audiences at ease from the outset – despite the intellectual nature of the premise of the show. They address the audience, explaining the concept and introducing us to the characters with the aid of a few simple props and a tape recorder.

Despite its simple approach, audiences are completely immersed in to the world of Beulah as the production seems to organically grow as it progresses through its single act.

Strewn across the Studio floor are a variety of instruments – it would seem that if you can strum, squeeze or pluck it then Jim and Ed can play it. The production is rich with music composed by the duo and which adds another ethereal element to the overall feeling.

Technical help comes in the shape of the AV design by Ed Sunman whose video projection provides imagery such as the Northern Lights – an example of the real that is almost unreal.

We are told that this is the beginning of the story for Beulah and I certainly hope that this is a long and fruitful journey. It will be interesting to see how a few standard years of our reality transform it.

For the romantics amongst you, those of you that believe in beauty and the reality of dreams, Beulah is a dream come true.

Beulah continues at York Theatre Royal until Saturday 30 June.

4 out of 5 stars ✭✭✭✭ 

Review by James Eaglesfield

ST. JAMES THEATRE announces opening season- Bully Boy, Daddy Long Legs, Cinderella, Our Country's Good

St. James Theatre

Announces its First Season of Work

St. James Theatre, the first newly-built theatre complex in central London in 30 years, will open to the public in early August 2012, rising from the site of the former Westminster Theatre at 12 Palace Street in the heart of Victoria. David Gilmore, Artistic Director, today announced the theatre’s first season of work.

BULLY BOY

18 September – 27 October 2012

By Sandi Toksvig | Directed by David Gilmore

A ST. JAMES THEATRE CO-PRODUCTION with LEE DEAN (following on from recent successes with End Of The Rainbow and Ladies In Lavender), CHARLES DIAMOND, Daniel Schumann and Royal & Derngate Northampton

Sandi Toksvig tackles the challenging moral issues of contemporary military occupation and its effect on the mental health of serving soldiers. Major Oscar Hadley is investigating allegations of gross misconduct within a self-styled ‘Bully Boy’ unit of the British army. When young squaddie Eddie Clark from Burnley is interrogated, Oscar begins to discover that ‘truth’ in a modern insurgency can be a point of view rather than a fact. In this ferociously gripping story, Sandi Toksvig writes with startling insight and tenderness about the minds of soldiers.

Directed by David Gilmore, Bully Boy stars Anthony Andrews. Anthony Andrews received worldwide recognition for his portrayal of the doomed Sebastian Flyte in Brideshead Revisited for which he won the British Academy Award (BAFTA) in the UK, the Golden Globe award in the USA and an Emmy nomination for Best Actor. Anthony’s most recently played Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin in 2012’s The King’s Speech. Anthony co-stars with Joshua Miles who plays squaddie, Eddie Clark

Bully Boy is directed by David Gilmore.

DADDY LONG LEGS

31 October – 8 December 2012

Music & Lyrics by PAUL GORDON | Book by JOHN CAIRD | Based on the Classic Novel by JEAN WEBSTER | Directed by JOHN CAIRD | Set & Costumes by DAVID FARLEY | Lighting by PAUL TOBEN

Produced by ST. JAMES THEATRE PRODUCTIONS in association with RUBICON THEATRE COMPANY

This new musical romance from the Tony and Olivier Award-winning co-director of Les Miserables has been lauded for its sheer beauty, depth of feeling and magnificent musical score.

Set in the early 1900s in New England, Daddy Long Legs is the vivid account of a young orphan as she blossoms into a beautiful, intelligent and vivacious woman. An anonymous benefactor gives Jerusha Abbott an opportunity to attend college, requiring that she write to him monthly, even though he will not respond. Her letters to him paint a moving portrait of her former life in the orphanage, and the development of her mind and spirit.

Broadway performer Megan McGinnis will recreate her award-winning performance in the role of Jerusha Abbott, alongside Robert Adelman Hancock.

Daddy Long Legs is currently touring the US and won more awards than any other musical at last year’s Ovation Awards in Los Angeles.

CINDERELLA

12 December 2012 – 26 January 2013

Directed by SALLY COOKSON | Designed by KATIE SYKES | Music by BENJI BOWER

Lighting by MATT GRAHAM | Scripted by ADAM PECK | Devised by the company

London Producer ST JAMES THEATRE PRODUCTIONS in association with

TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRE and TRAVELLING LIGHT

This production of Cinderella played in Bristol last year, captivating audiences with its modern take on one of the oldest, best loved fairy-tales of all time.

When a rich man’s wife dies, his daughter Ella mourns her beloved mother with a grief as deep as the snow on her grave. Before the spring sun has time to melt it, her father takes a second wife and their peaceful life is taken over by a host of new and unpleasant relations. Her only friends are the woodland birds who roost in the tree that grows over the grave, but they are no ordinary birds.

With their quirky visual style, crystal-clear storytelling, original live music and pitch-perfect ensemble acting, director Sally Cookson and team bring this classic tale of fortunes reversed startlingly and imaginatively to life.

A Christmas show to enchant all ages over 6

OUR COUNTRY’S GOOD

30 January 2013 – 9 March 2013

Based on The Playmaker by THOMAS KENEALLY | Directed by MAX STAFFORD-CLARK | Set Designer TIM SHORTALL | Lighting JOHANNA TOWN | Sound ANDY SMITH |Casting GEMMA HANCOCK CDG and SAM STEVENSON CDG

KARL SYDOW presents the OUT OF JOINT and OCTAGON THEATRE BOLTON production

Our Country’s Good premiered in 1988 and opened on Broadway in 1991 winning major awards on both sides of the Atlantic, including three Olivier Awards.  Now 25 years after the original Royal Court production, the revival of Wertenbaker’s classic play is directed by the original director, Max Stafford Clark.

Australia,1789. A boat full of murderers, thieves and marine officers arrive on a distant shore. There, an ambitious young lieutenant, Ralph Clark, is set the task of directing a cast of convicts in the Restoration comedy ‘The Recruiting Officer’ to celebrate the King’s birthday, the first play ever to be staged in Australia. With only two copies of the script, a cast of convicts, a leading lady facing the gallows and an uncontrollable passion for one of the convict players, Ralph’s, and Australia’s, first theatre production is in trouble from the start.

Tickets for all productions in the season are on sale from 29 June 2012.

Entirely funded by private investment, and designed and built to the highest standards, St. James Theatre will be one of the most luxurious venues in which to enjoy ambitious, quality theatre programming. The space will include a 312 seat theatre, a studio space, brasserie and bar.

The studio space, which will hold 150 standing or 100 seated, will present one-night and short-run comedy and live music including jazz and cabaret.

St. James Theatre will be a vibrant addition to the London cultural scene offering an unusual location for conferences and special events, with the bar and brasserie open for all-day dining. Additionally, the theatre has been fitted with state-of-the-art multi-media broadcast facilities which will be used to broadcast performances on the venues own BSkyB satellite TV channel.

Foster Wilson Architects have designed the theatre and accompanying public spaces. Artist and designer Mark Humphrey has been commissioned to design a remarkable staircase installation which will form a focal point in the public areas.

The venue's management team includes; Robert Mackintosh as joint CEO and Creative Director, the previously mentioned Artistic Director, David Gilmore, Assistant Artistic Director James Albrecht, Guy Kitchenn as Executive Theatre Director and Lady Lucy French as Director of Development.

For more information visit www.stjamestheatre.co.uk

LISTINGS
St James Theatre
12 Palace Street, London SW1E 5JA
Box Office: 0844 264 2140
www.stjamestheatre.co.uk

BULLY BOY
18 September – 27 October
Monday – Saturday 7.30pm
Thursday & Saturday 3.00pm
Tickets £20 - £30

DADDY LONG LEGS
31 October – 8 December
Monday – Saturday 7.30pm
Wednesday & Saturday 2.30pm
Tickets £30 - £45

CINDERELLA
12 December – 26 January 2013
Monday – Saturday 7.30pm
Matinee performances at 2.30pm and schools performances at 10.30am.
See website for details.
Tickets £15 - £35

OUR COUNTRY’S GOOD
30 January – 9 March
Monday – Saturday 7.30pm
Thursday & Saturday 2.30pm
Preview tickets £25 - 35
All other performances £35 - £42.50

Gig Review: James Morrison - Hampton Court Palace Festival ✭✭✭✭

James Morrison

Hampton Court Palace Festival  

20th June 2012: The sixth day of the ten day Hampton Court Palace festival brought us James Morrison.

James Morrison is one of the biggest-selling male solo artists in the UK and this was reflected in this sold out show.

Set in the beautiful courtyard of Hampton Court Palace, the weather was on our side, somewhat of a novelty this June. 

After a picnic or a drink the audience quickly filed to their seats and all waited in anticipation as James Morrison, dressed in black and a grey shirt, was joined on stage by his five piece band and two female backing singers (Sara Jane Skeet and Beverley Brown).

Much to the delight of the audience, the show began with Beautiful Life as the opening song.

As Morrison sang Don’t Let Me Go, the audience took to their feet and sang along, with many running down to the front creating an impromptu mosh pit.

He also sang a favourite of mine, One Life, from his second album The Awakening, Broken Strings and You Give Me Something.

Morrison spoke affectionately of his late father before giving a fantastic performance of Up, a song which was inspired by their turbulent relationship.

The audience simply loved James Morrison, with none too shy to make their declaration. If one shouted, not to be out done, another shouted louder, until half the crowd were declaring their love.

The show came to an end and James Morrison received a standing ovation as he left the stage. He came back for an encore leaving us with Wonderful World. It truly was a wonderful evening.

Look out for James Morrison in Kew on 6th July!

4 out of 5 stars ✭✭✭✭

Review by Unsa Chaudri

BBC Worldwide presents JUSTIN & FRIENDS Easter tour 2013

BBC Worldwide Presents 

Justin & Friends

Justin & Friends is the brand new show from the team that brought you CBeebies Live! Reach for the Stars. Starring Justin Fletcher MBE and many surprise guests, Justin & Friends is the pre-school spectacular that simply does not know when to stop having fun!

Make a date to join Justin as he tours the UK over the Easter Holidays next year. Stuffed full of songs, dance and comedy routines, Justin & Friends is the fabulous family Easter Treat for every fan of Justin Fletcher and CBeebies.

Put your Hands Up to book now and make sure of your seats for Justin’s great new live show for 2013!

Tour Dates
Sun 31st Mar 2013
Newcastle - Metro Radio Arena

Mon 1st Apr 2013
Manchester - Manchester Arena

Wed 3rd Apr 2013
Sheffield - Motorpoint Arena

Thu 4th Apr 2013
Liverpool -  Echo Arena

Sat 6th Apr 2013 and Sun 7th Apr 2013
London - Wembley Arena

Thu 11th Apr 2013
Birmingham -  LG Arena

Fri 12th Apr 2013
Nottingham - Capital FM Arena

Sat 13th Apr 2013 and Sun 14th Apr 2013
Cardiff - Motorpoint Arena 

Theatre Review: 42nd Street - King's Theatre, Glasgow ✭✭✭

Come and meet those dancing feet...set in Depression era New York, 42^nd Street follows the fortunes of Peggy Sawyer as she seeks to find her place on the Broadway stage and the cast of Pretty Lady, the show that she joins. The show doesn’t put a rose-tinted spin on life as a ‘hoofer’ and it should be required viewing for anyone considering a career on the West End purely for lack of sugar coating of the reality that one day you have a job, the next the show is closing and you’re back on the breadline. However in New York in 1933, at least the cast don’t have to worry about finding out on Twitter before the closure notices go up.

Harking back to the bygone era of musicals, 42^nd Street is laden with lengthy dance sequences and the incredible cast don’t put a foot out of step. The cast are the true shining stars of this production. Marti Webb is formidable as leading lady Dorothy Brock and Dave Willetts captures the power and presence of Julian Marsh effortlessly.  Jessica Punch is effervescent as Peggy Sawyer and the entire cast radiate relentless energy and enthusiasm. 

The show opens with a tantalising glimpse of a chorus line of feet as the curtain slowly rises, setting the tone for the whole production. Unlike more modern productions this is a dance-led show and the weaknesses in the book are literally tap-danced over. The solid line of tap-shoe clad feet is almost the last moment they appear to be still as the cast burst into a high-energy tap routine. Immediately from the opening scene the show explodes with energy and feet that seem to become mere blurs of movement, effortlessly undertaking complicated choreography. 

Without the enthusiasm of the cast and their marvellous dancing the show would be lacklustre. What plot there is provides little for the talented cast to work with in terms of character depth which is a real shame. Certainly Marti Webb is underused and the full power of Dave Willetts’ voice is only revealed towards the very end.

Make no mistake 42^nd Street is all about those dancin’ feet and with this talented cast it’s well worth heading down to the avenue to hear the beat of dancing feet, their energy will leave you breathless.

PERFORMANCES

Until 30th June

evening performances 7.30pm / matinee 2.30pm

Box Office 0844 871 7647 (Bkg fee)

www.atgtickets.com/glasgow (bkg fee

LANA DEL REY to release new single 'National Anthem' on July 8th - Video out now

LANA DEL REY

Sunday July 8th sees the release of “National Anthem” the latest single from Lana’s #1 album “Born To Die”. “Born To Die” has already sold over 500,000 copies in the UK, part of nearly 2million global album sales and over 2million singles sales. Lana has also won ‘Best Contemporary Song’ for her first international hit “Video Games” at the prestigious Ivor Novello Awards. 

After performances at London's Lovebox Festival, the BBC Hackney Weekender and Isle of Wight Festival, Lana is next due to appear live at Latitude Festival on Thursday July 12th

“National Anthem” will come with a diverse and exciting remix package including Tensnake, Todd Terry, Afterlife and DC Breaks

“National Anthem” is being released on Polydor Records and will be available on digital download and 7” picture disc, also available is a digital remix EP.



Official Website: http://www.lanadelrey.com / Twitter: http://twitter.com/lanadelrey

Facebook: http://facebook.com/lanadelrey / Youtube: http://youtube.com/lanadelrey

Northern Broadsides in partnership with Harrogate Theatres to tour A GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR from September

Northern Broadsides in partnership with Harrogate Theatres present

A GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR

Adapted by Deborah McAndrew from the original play by Nikolai Gogol 

Director and Composer: Conrad Nelson 

Designer: Dawn Allsopp

Lighting: Tim Skelly 

Assistant Director: Andy Cryer

‘Where there’s muck there’s brass’

After the critical success of Accidental Death of an Anarchist, Northern Broadsides’ resident director Conrad Nelson and playwright Deborah McAndrew once again team up to bring their unique brand of Northern inventiveness and humour to the stage with A Government Inspector, a Yorkshire take on Gogol’s fantastical satire The Government Inspector.

Created in partnership with Harrogate Theatres, the production premieres at Harrogate Theatre from 7 – 22 September before embarking on a national tour until December 1st.

In a small Pennine town a mysterious stranger is mistaken for a government inspector.  Fearing discovery of their corrupt goings-on, the town’s unscrupulous councillors attempt to ingratiate themselves.  Bribes, backhanders and brown envelopes abound and the young chap, who has an eye for a quick buck, takes full advantage with hilarious results.

No one is better positioned to breathe life and vigour into this barmy story than Northern Broadsides, one of the country’s finest and best-loved touring theatre companies. If you like your references topical, your heart warmed and your brass bands live, look no further than A Government Inspector. Absurdly funny, clever and strangely familiar, you’ll never trust your local authority again … if you ever did that is!

Director and composer Conrad Nelson said about the play “Deborah McAndrew’s contemporary English vernacular version of Gogol’s classic Russian play is set in a small northern town, geographically and culturally remote from the centre of government.

“This adaptation is created to incorporate a live brass band score, evoking traditional values of honest labour and community. The warmhearted music is a moral counterpoint to the shady racketeering of the town’s inhabitants - in particular the Leader of the Council, Tony Belcher.

“Gogol was aiming high when he wrote The Government Inspector. With his wonderful, grotesque characters and surreal comedy he wanted to seek out darker truths about the human spirit. McAndrew’s A Government Inspector goes beyond literal translation, but is absolutely faithful to Gogol’s stated intention to peel away the surface layers of ordinary people and expose the corruption beneath.

“Bringing Gogol’s timeless work to the stage, this new exuberant production will integrate live brass band music with outrageous characters and rollicking comedy to create a fantastical fable for our time.”

A Government Inspector’s excellent cast includes Jill Cardo, Howard Chadwick, Andy Creswell, Richard Colvin, Andy Cryer, Clara Darcy, Susie Emmet, Anthony Hunt, Harry Myers, Andrew Price, Kraig Thornber and Jon Trenchard. The production is designed by Dawn Allsopp (Private Lives, Nottingham Playhouse), with lighting by Tim Skelly (We are Three Sisters, Northern Broadsides and Big Society, Red Ladder Theatre) and music composed by Conrad Nelson.

Northern Broadsides is a unique theatre company with a true northern voice. Its work is characterised by a high degree of theatrical inventiveness and robust performances from a large ensemble cast of multi-talented and charismatic northern actors who all perform in their natural voices. For the past 20 years, it has delighted audiences here and abroad with a growing classic repertoire that has won the company many awards and a loyal following worldwide.

A Government Inspector will open at the Harrogate Theatre on 7 September and then tour to Winchester, Cheltenham, Lancaster, Scarborough, Huddersfield, Newcastle-under-Lyme,

Liverpool, Halifax and York.

www.northern-broadsides.co.uk

Listings Information

UK Tour:  Opening at Harrogate Theatre from 7-22 Sept and then touring until 1 Dec 2012

7-22 Sept at 7.30pm (Mat: 15 & 22 Sept at 2.30pm) Harrogate Theatre

Box Office 01423 502 116 or www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk

25-29 Sept at 8pm (Mat: 27 Sep at 1.30pm & 29 Sep at 2.30pm): Theatre Royal Winchester

Box Office 01962 840440 or www.theatre-royal-winchester.co.uk

2-6 Oct: at 7.45pm (Mat: 4 Oct & 6 Oct at 2pm): Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham

Box Office 01242 572573 or www.everymantheatre.org.uk

9-13 Oct at 7.30pm (Mat: 10 Oct at 1pm & 13 Oct at 2pm) Dukes Theatre, Lancaster

Box Office 01524 598500 or www.dukes-lancaster.org

16-20 Oct at 7.30pm (Mat: 18 Oct at 1.30pm & 20 Oct at 2.30pm): Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough

Box Office 01723 370541 or www.sjt.uk.com

24-27 Oct at 7.30pm (Mat: 27 Oct at 2.15pm): Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield

Box office 01484 430528 or www.thelbt.org

6-10 November at 7.30pm (Mat: 10 Oct at 2.15pm): New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-Under-Lyme

Box Office 01782 717962 or www.newvictheatre.org.uk

13-17 Nov at 7.30pm (Mat: 15 Nov at 1.30pm & 17 Nov at 2pm): Liverpool Playhouse

Box Office 0151 7094776 or www.everymanplayhouse.co.uk

20-24 Nov at 7.30pm (Mat: 23 Nov at 2.30pm): Viaduct Theatre, Halifax

Box Office 01422 255 266 or www.deanclough.com

Tue 27 – Sat 1 Dec at 7.30pm (Mat 29 at 2pm &1 Dec at 2.30pm): York Theatre Royal

Box Office 01904 623568 or www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

GEORGE MICHAEL 'White Light' video out soon - catch exclusive video shot here

GEORGE MICHAEL - 

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO NEWS

The final touches are currently being put on George Michael’s "White Light" video, which will get its world exclusive in July. If you can't wait until then, check out this exclusive shot, taken at the video shoot in London, and which George has personally connected to this lyric from the single “I am back.....I am back.....prouder than ever baby......louder than ever maybe..”

“White Light” is due for release August 12^th 2012.  The single also contains a brand new recording of "Song to the Siren", a beautiful previously unreleased cover of the classic song from George.

Visit www.georgemichael.com for more info.

More to follow.....

RITA ORA announces new single 'How We Do (Party)' & headline UK shows

RITA ORA

How We Do (Party)

BRAND NEW SINGLE

HEADLINE UK SHOWS ANNOUNCED

UK Single Release 12^th August / available for pre-order now

Manchester Sound Control headline show 29^th August

London Scala headline show 30^th August

Following the No.1 success of the gold selling DJ Fresh track ‘Hot Right Now’ and her own UK No.1 debut ‘R.I.P’, Roc Nation / Columbia Records signing Rita Ora returns with a brand new single ‘How We Do’ (Party) released on 12^th August.  To celebrate the release of the single and her forthcoming debut album Rita will be playing two exclusive headline shows in the UK – Manchester Sound Control on 29^th August and London’s Scala on 30^th August.

‘How We Do (Party),’ is an infectious pop-rock party anthem paired with her stunning vocals.  Lyrically, ‘How We Do (Party)’ celebrates being young and having fun, as Rita sings, “We're tearing up the town, 'cause that's just how we do" over production duo The Runners' irresistible guitar and drum driven beats.  Rita and The Runners have created one of the most addictive tunes of 2012, and ‘How We Do (Party)’ is sure to be an essential on every playlist this summer.

After touring with Coldplay around Europe and sensational performances at the Capital Summertime Ball, Lovebox and Radio 1’s Hackney Weekend, Rita will be returning to the UK in August for two very special headline shows where fans will be able to see Rita perform live No.1 singles 'Hot Right Now', ‘R.I.P’ and her new single ‘How We Do (Party)’.

‘How We Do’ (Party) bundle includes remixes from Gustavo Scorpio, Papercha$er, Sandro Silva and Laidback Luke and will be released on 12^th August and available for pre-order now here http://smarturl.it/howwedoparty

Fans who want to get a copy of the album and be the first to buy tickets for the Manchester Sound Garden or London Scala shows as well will be able to do so via an exclusive fan club pre-order link http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/promo/x6v02v from 9am on 27^th June. Tickets will go on general sale on Friday 29^th June.

For more information go to –

Official site - http://bit.ly/RitaOraOfficial

Twitter – http://bit.ly/RitaOraTwitter

Facebook – http://on.fb.me/RitaOraFB

LOUISE DEARMAN to lead all star West End cast in PETER PAN workshop at Lyric Theatre tomorrow

ALL STAR WEST END CAST PERFORM 

PETER PAN WORKSHOP 

LED BY LOUISE DEARMAN

West End stars Louise Dearman (Wicked), Tim Driesen (Never Forget), Gerard Carey (Masterclass) and Lucy Sinclair (We Will Rock You) will lead a workshop presentation of a brand new musical comedy version of JM Barrie's Peter Pan.

The workshop, which will take place in front of an invited audience at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue  at 1.00pm on  Thursday 28th June, will feature Dearman as Tinker Bell, Driesen as Pan, Carey as Hook and Sinclair in the role of Wendy.

A musical menagerie of 35 other characters is played by a supporting cast of 7 comprising Allyson Ava-Brown, James Ballanger, Natasha J Barnes, Matt Corner, Anthony Lawrence,Sion Lloyd and Kit Orton in a fast-paced, frantically funny new script.

The workshop of Peter Pan is directed by Christian Durham (Chicago, We Will Rock You), with movement by Lucie Pankhurst, musical direction by Dean Austin (Taboo, Zorro, Spamalot), casting by Anne Vosser and orchestrations by Tom Curran. Music, book and lyrics are by Jimmy Jewell, with additional book and lyrics by Nick Stimson.

NEWTON FAULKNER, THE OVERTONES & more announced for FREE BT London Live gigs

30 DAYS TO GO!

BT LONDON LIVE - FREE DAYS OUT DURING THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC and PARALYMPIC GAMES

     NEWTON FAULKNER, SATURDAY 28 JULY

     THE BEAT, WEDNESDAY 1 AUGUST

    SAINT ETIENNE, SATURDAY 4 AUGUST

     THE OVERTONES, THURSDAY 9 AUGUST

     TEMPER TRAP, FRIDAY 10 AUGUST

WATCH THESE SPECIAL PERFORMANCES AND ALL THE SPORTING ACTION LIVE FROM THE OLYMPIC PARK

BT London Live is proud to announce a huge host of sensational artists including: Newton Faulkner, The Beat, Saint Etienne, The Overtones and Temper Trap presented by Absolute Radio (Official National Radio Station of BT London Live) and Magic 105.4 (Official London Radio Station of BT London Live). All these acts will be performing at Hyde Park as part of London’s biggest FREE celebration of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Newton Faulkner

The stellar line-up includes a whole variety of artists, from ‘Dream Catch Me’ singer-songwriter Newton Faulkner, who will be performing on Saturday 28 July, to brummie 2 Tone Ska band The Beat, performing on Wednesday 1 August and synth pop trio St Etienne, who will be performing on Saturday 4 August.

The UK’s hottest vocal harmony group The Overtones will be performing on Thursday 9 August and ‘Sweet Disposition’ indie band The Temper Trap will be performing on Friday 10 August. Visitors will also get to see ALL of the Olympic Sports and Medal Ceremonies of the day LIVE, in addition to a spectacular array of have-a-go activities.

The Overtones

BT London Live Hyde Park and Victoria Park has something for everyone, from live music to watching the 100 metres final on a 160m² screen, the 55m high BT Observation Wheel in Victoria Park giving views of the Olympic Park, have-a-go sports, plus al-fresco Sports Bars and much more.  A great line up of artists has already been announced, they include: Tom Jones, McFly, The Feeling, Feeder, Dodgy, The Levellers, Cast, Amy Macdonald, Paul Carrack Kenny Thomas and the cast of ‘We Will Rock You’. For updates and details of days they are performing go to: www.btlondonlive.com

‘BT London Live’ is a partnership between the Mayor of London, The Royal Parks and The London Borough of Tower Hamlets, and is a key part of the citywide programme of events being organised by the Mayor of London to celebrate the London 2012 Games. 

Theatre Review: Murder on the Nile - Theatre Royal, Glasgow✭✭✭

As summery weather made a fleeting appearance in Glasgow, it was fitting to be watching a play set on the Nile as the inside of the theatre reflected the warmth of the setting perfectly. The handkerchiefs clutched by the actors for dramatic effect would have been gratefully borrowed by the rapt audience as the temperature climbed and the tension on stage reached its crescendo. 

Based on Agatha Christie's book, Death on the Nile, the play takes place during a paddleboat journey but sadly it does not feature her most famous character Hercule Poirot, as the book does.It is a credit to the strength of Agatha Christie's writing that this play stands the test of time. There is an overwhelming availability of criminal activity focused programming on TV these days and yet this play had more twists than an episode of CSI with the characters appearing shiftier and shiftier as the action progressed. CSI: Miami's Horatio Caine would have been quite at home on the deck of the paddleboat that dominates the stage twirling his Ray Bans and waiting for the murderer to crack under the pressure.  

What makes this play compelling is that up until the very last scenes it is impossible to predict whodunnit from this mismatched collection of people who find themselves on the Nile together. Kate O’Mara is scene stealing as the formidable Miss ffoliot-ffoulkes and Max Hutchinson is the perfect foil as William Smith. Smith’s one-liners and casual wit provide much needed light relief from the tension on stage. O’Mara’s  interpretation of brandy-addled ffoliot-ffoulkes is particularly entertaining.

The strong performances from the whole cast and the glorious lack of technical wizardry revealing by DNA who the murderer is ensure the attention of the audience as they try to unravel the mystery. For a trip to the by-gone era of travel and fans of a traditional murder-mystery a night on the Nile is just the ticket. 

PERFORMANCES

Until 30th June

Wed - Sat evening performacnces 7.30pm

Thu & Sat matinees 2.30pm

Tickets: £12 - £27

Box Office 0844 871 7647 (Bkg fee)

www.atgtickets.com/glasgow (bkg fee

Theatre Review: Close The Coalhouse Door - York Theatre Royal ✭✭✭✭✭

Close The Coalhouse Door

York Theatre Royal

What kind of theatre do you want?  Gritty drama? Musical? Comedy perhaps? Whichever one of those you selected, or even it was a combination, then Close The Coalhouse Door, which is sadly about to conclude it’s tour around the North of England, should be extremely high on your list.

The first door you should concern yourself with though is the theatre’s front door – as that is where you should leave any preconceptions conjured up by the title. Dispel any thoughts that this is simply going to be a “it’s grim up North” drama. It certainly has an element of that but that would undersell this superb production from Northern Stage and Live Theatre massively.

We are introduced to a play within a play from the outset; this show is self-aware with the actors often coming away from character to address, and occasionally interact with, the audience. We join the anniversary celebrations of a North East coal mining family and whilst their present story sets the scene, it is the stories of striking pitmen that form the main basis of Alan Plater’s clever play.

The cast slip easily from one character to another as they gently guide us through the history of the coalminer’s struggles against their money obsessed employers and corrupt politicians. The unjustness of the working conditions imposed on them, the development of the unions and how the consciences of the nation were stirred are brought vividly to life by the family enacting key moments from the past.

But this is no dry trudge through the history books. A deep vein of humour runs through the show and, under the direction of Sam West, is allowed to shine demonstrating the positive attitude that lied behind the curtains of houses in Northern mining towns living in the shadows of the slag heaps. To help further, jokes are brought up to date for modern audiences and tailored to fit the locality of the theatre. Be warned though, there are some true groaners littered amongst the script that would even have some panto writers wincing!

This is a family get-together though which means nothing can be straight forward. The return of the prodigal son, who broke away from the family tradition to study rather than mine, sparks debate about the way the world is changing – especially when compared to his brother who seems to be shackled by his roots. The stark reality of change is wonderfully underlined at the close of the 3 act play.

Whilst not an out and out musical, there are a number of witty musical numbers and the cast pick up instruments and strike up a song at will. They take us from folk tunes about the hard coalface to rock and roll as the music mirrors the journey through time.

All cast members are superb. They engage the audience fantastically and you get the sense that they are truly enjoying the performance. The subject matter traditionally lends itself to a more seriously straight production, but here the cast make their serious points in a way that is thoroughly enjoyable and fun without making light of the narrative. A tricky line to walk but successfully carried off.

This is a complete production. Soutra Gilmour’s revolving set is dynamic, being at one moment expansive and then contracting to reflect the claustrophobic feeling of the mine. And this is no mechanically operated revolve – like the miners, the actors are made to graft! Lighting too is impressive with James Farncombe’s design helping to take us from one scenario to another, from the dark gloom of the pit to the bright lights of a 1960’s gig.

This is one of the most surprising pieces of theatre I have seen for sometime and gave the audience an evening of entertainment in a way many of them were perhaps not expecting. One audience member commented as he left at the end “that was the best play I have seen in theatre for a long time”, and I find it hard to disagree. In fact, I loved every second of it!

Close The Coalhouse Door continues at York Theatre Royal until 30 June 2012.

www.closethecoalhousedoor.co.uk

5 stars out of 5 ✭✭✭✭✭

Review by James Eaglesfield

Gig Review: Josh Osho - Jazz Café, London ✭✭✭✭

Josh Osho

Photo from www.facebook.com/JoshOshoMusic

Jazz Café, London

Monday 25^th June: At London’s famous Jazz Café last night was Josh Osho’s first headline gig. It’s been a long time coming and over the past year, this South London singer is definitely starting to get the credit he deserves. This gig was all about Josh, and the celebration of his new debut album ‘L.I.F.E (Learning Is For Ever)’.

The crowd was warmed up by BBC 1extra’s CJ Beatz, awesome DJ, great way to get the night going. The first support act to entertain the sold out Jazz Café was Rax, a South London rapper, he performed 5 songs. My favourite had to be ‘Up In Da Clouds’, which features Andrae Melody Palmer, he possesses a creative and witty flow. Rax’s mixtape’s are available for download (raxofficial.com). The final support act was Marcus Bonfanti; he brings the sound of North London blues, talented guy, great voice, and crazy on the guitar.

At around 9pm, it was time for the artist everyone had come to see -  Josh. The first song to kick off his set was ‘Ebenezer Hotel’, the bluesy song about his time spent living in a half way house. ‘Footprints’ was the next song, such a catchy song, it has an African drum-patterned background, and the lyrics send a message ‘I will learn from the footsteps in my life, each imprint left behind’.

Photo from www.facebook.com/JoshOshoMusic

‘I want more energy! Didn’t sleep last night, I was so excited,’ was the first thing to be said. Josh made it clear to us at that point that he was going to be talking a lot as it was the first time he could talk, and he had every right to, it was his show. Josh was definitely enjoying every minute of this night.

‘Home For Your Birthday’; another great song, the infectious R&B song. Next taking it to a slow song was, ‘Wishing Well’, Josh went on to say that he had written this song ‘about all the people I love’.

Taking it even slower ‘SOS’, this is such a beautiful song, when looking around the audience all eyes were on Josh, it was hard to take your eyes off him. Another slow song was ‘Imperfections’, one of my favourite songs from the album; if you read my review on the album HERE, I mentioned that it’s a song you’d love Josh to perform to you personally, and I was right, I loved this performed live, made my night. The next two tracks were ‘Free Will’ and ‘Highlight Of My Day’.

After Highlight Of My Day, Josh started giving his thanks to everyone that had helped him on the journey and everyone joining in on the ride.

The two singles from the album were performed next ‘Giants’ and ‘Redemption Days’, hearing them live you know why they are singles. Crowd pleasers, this audience definitely knew the words.

Josh came on for an encore; and it happened to be the first song I’d ever heard from Josh, a cover of Kanye West’s ‘Jesus Walks’, the first time he has ever done it in front of a live audience. He uses a loop panel to make all the music, a completely different version to the original. This song shows you that his talents never end.

I love watching Josh live, he brings a certain energy in to every song, he can make the way you’re feeling change just by singing; I was inspired, happy and then sad all in one night. When I reviewed the album ‘L.I.F.E’, it was obviously an impressive album, but hearing your favourite songs off the album live, makes you realise just how great the album is and how great Josh is as a live performer.

If you haven’t got that album I suggest you get it, and if you can see him live you have to do that too.

4 stars out of 5 ✭✭✭✭

Review by Christina Benneworth

Listing information:

Friday 6^th July – Kew Gardens, London

Saturday 7^th July – Wireless Festival, London

Newly added to the line up at T in the Park

http://joshosho.com/

@joshoshomusic

http://www.facebook.com/JoshOshoMusic

Gig Review: Nicki Minaj - HMV Hammersmith Apollo London ✭✭✭✭

Nicki Minaj

HMV Hammersmith Apollo London

Monday 25th June: A sold out crowd of mostly die-hard fans of Minaj were wowed by a high octane performance last night in London. After playing Radio 1's Hackney Weekend, and selling out this venue on Sunday, it was plain to see why she is so popular.

On a backdrop of an LED video wall set, lots of truss, strobes and backed by six dancers, a DJ and an MC, the crowd were in for a great night, and Nicki didn't disappoint.

Opening with Romans Revenge, Did It On 'Em and I Am Your Leader, she showed why she is a clear leader at working an audience, whipping everyone into a frenzy with her delectable style of rapping and figure hugging costume. Got to admit that her singing isn't the greatest I've ever heard, but she makes up for it with her rapping, so I will let her off.

Beez In The Trap got an almighty deafening roar from the crowd, clearly a huge favourite, along with Stupid Hoe. Along with three costume changes, the audience were singing along to other hits such as Starships and Marilyn Monroe.

Towards the end, Nicki got a few members of the audience on stage to sing along with her, and finished the night in style with Superbass. Everyone left with a beaming smile on their face after witnessing a highly entertaining evening, and looking forward to an arena tour in October/November.

4 out of 5 stars ✭✭✭✭

NICKI MINAJ

PINK FRIDAY TOUR

JUNE 2012

SUNDAY                       24         LONDON HMV HAMMERSMITH APOLLO

MONDAY                      25         LONDON HMV HAMMERSMITH APOLLO

TUESDAY                     26         BIRMINGHAM NIA ACADEMY

THURSDAY                   28         02 APOLLO MANCHESTER

PINK FRIDAY 'RELOADED' ARENA TOUR

OCT 2012

SUNDAY                       21         NOTTINGHAM ARENA

MONDAY                      22         MANCHESTER ARENA

WEDNESDAY                24         LIVERPOOL ECHO ARENA

THURSDAY                   25         NEWCASTLE ARENA

SATURDAY                   27         BIRMINGHAM LG ARENA

TUESDAY                     30         LOND0N 02 ARENA

NOV 2012

SATURDAY                   03         SHEFFIELD ARENA

WEDNESDAY                07         CARDIFF ARENA

Tickets go onsale 9am on Friday 29^th June priced at £46.00 & £40.00 London / £39.50 regionally (subject to booking fee) and are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk or  www.livenation.co.uk