Johan Persson
Jane McGowan heads to the West End for a round-up of the summer’s hottest shows...
August is traditionally a little bit quieter in our local theatres with many hosting youth groups or one-night-only performances. However, should your desire for drama continues unabated, then why not hop on the train, head to the Big Smoke and take in some of the best theatres the world has to offer.
Kids Week (free tickets for children)
If you have children, then August is also a great time to introduce children to the West End, thanks to the Kids Week initiative that enables one child to go free with each paying adult at a variety of top-notch shows. While some sell out within hours (Matilda, The Lion King), many will still have good availability. There is also the chance to purchase a half-price ticket for up to two other children, too.
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole
📍The Vaudeville Theatre
Look out for a brand-new musical version of Sue Townsend’s tortured teen tale The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, which has recently opened at the Ambassadors (atgtickets.com); and another literary legend The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy, which has been adapted by Emma Reeves and is running at The Vaudeville Theatre. Both have good Kids Week availability at the time of going to press, visit: officiallondontheatre.com.
Everybody Is Talking About Jamie
📍Apollo Theatre
For older children (12+) and teenagers, an absolute must is Everybody Is Talking About Jamie. Former EastEnder Rita Simons is joining this award-winning show about the boy who triumphs over the classroom haters with a head-turning appearance at the school prom. Running at the Apollo Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue. (Visit: everybodystalkingaboutjamie.co.uk)
Six
📍The Arts Theatre
This year’s breakout hit and a great show for younger audiences is Six. Recounting the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives, this loud and proud musical is not to be missed. It grabbed a clutch of honours at this year’s Olivier Awards and has gone from slow-burning touring show to West End smash. Don’t despair if you miss this run of terrific Tudors at The Arts Theatre as it is heading back out on the road this autumn. (Visit: sixthemusical.com)
Waitress
📍Adelphi Theatre
Another fantastic new show is Waitress (Adelphi Theatre). Starring former Inbetweener Blake Harrison and Pussycat Doll and Strictly runner-up Ashley Roberts, the story – which has some showstopping songs – follows the trials and tribulations of Jenna, a frustrated waitress who dreams of ditching the diner to live a more fulfilling existence. (Visit: waitressthemusical.co.uk)
Jesus Christ Superstar
Johan Persson
📍Regents Park
Returning for a second year following a very, very successful run at Regents Park Open Air Theatre this summer is Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s classic Jesus Christ Superstar, playing at The Barbican for a limited run until Aug 24. Directed by Timothy Sheader, this perennial rock opera-style masterpiece stars Robert Tripolino as Jesus and Ricardo Afonso as Judas. I can’t recommend this production highly enough. Don’t miss it. (jcsuperstar.co.uk)
Les Miserables
📍Queen's Theatre
The stars are out in force for the concert version of mega-musical Les Miserables at the Queen’s Theatre for a strict 16-week run. Featuring Matt Lucas as Thenadier, Michael Ball as Javert and Alfie Boe as Jean Valjean, this is one ticket devotees should not pass up. (Visit: tickets.delfontmackintosh.co.uk)
Bitter Wheat
📍Garrick Theatre
Away from the musical scene, the big new drama that has everyone talking is Bitter Wheat (The Garrick) starring John Malkovich. Revolving around the crimes and misdemeanours of a “depraved Hollywood mogul” there couldn’t be a more fitting play for our times and Malkovich has won wall-to-wall rave reviews. (bitterwheatplay.com)
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
📍Palace Theatre
Playing at The Palace Theatre, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a great one for the summer holidays – providing you can get a ticket. The play follows the now middle-aged Harry and his son Albus as they once again do battle with the Dark Arts. (harrypottertheplay.com)
Present Laughter
Manuel Harlan
📍The Old Vic
Man of the moment and Fleabag’s Hot Priest Andrew Scott stars in Noel Coward’s Present Laughter, which is at the Old Vic until Aug 10. Again, due to Scott’s meteoric rise in popularity of late, tickets are like the proverbial gold dust, but should you stumble upon one, make the most of it; reviews have been superb. (my.oldvictheatre.com)
