News, Reviews & Interviews September 2018

Here are some highlights from London’s West End, Off-West End, and regional theatre in the UK for September 2018:

West End Highlights:

1. “Hamilton” at Victoria Palace Theatre:
   • The critically acclaimed musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda continued to be a major draw, telling the story of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton through a groundbreaking score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway.
2. “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” at Palace Theatre:
   • The two-part play, written by Jack Thorne based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany, and Thorne, remained incredibly popular. It follows Harry Potter, now a Ministry of Magic employee, and his son Albus.
3. “The Lion King” at Lyceum Theatre:
   • Disney’s spectacular production continued to enchant audiences with its stunning visuals, brilliant music by Elton John and Tim Rice, and captivating storytelling.
4. “Les Misérables” at Queen’s Theatre (now Sondheim Theatre):
   • The long-running musical adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel about redemption and revolution in 19th century France.
5. “Wicked” at Apollo Victoria Theatre:
   • The backstory of the witches of Oz remained a West End favorite with its spellbinding performances and memorable music by Stephen Schwartz.

Off-West End Highlights:

1. “Aristocrats” at Donmar Warehouse:
   • Brian Friel’s play about a family of former aristocrats living in a decaying manor in Ireland, directed by Lyndsey Turner.
2. “The Lieutenant of Inishmore” at Noel Coward Theatre:
   • Martin McDonagh’s dark comedy about a ruthless Irish terrorist whose cat has been killed. Directed by Michael Grandage and starring Aidan Turner.
3. “Heathers The Musical” at Theatre Royal Haymarket:
   • Based on the 1988 cult film, this darkly comedic musical by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy enjoyed a successful run.

Regional Theatre Highlights:

1. “Matilda The Musical” at Birmingham Hippodrome:
   • The RSC’s production of the beloved Roald Dahl story with music by Tim Minchin continued its UK tour.
2. “War Horse” at The Lowry, Salford:
   • The National Theatre’s award-winning production featuring stunning life-size puppetry by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company was on tour.
3. “The Full Monty” at Sheffield Theatres:
   • Simon Beaufoy’s stage adaptation of his hit film about a group of unemployed steelworkers who turn to stripping for money returned to its roots in Sheffield.
4. “Dr. Dolittle” at Churchill Theatre, Bromley:
   • The new musical adaptation of the story of the man who can talk to animals began its UK tour.

These highlights reflect the diverse and vibrant theatre scene across the UK in September 2018, showcasing a mix of blockbuster musicals, classic plays, and innovative new productions.

September 2018

Review: AIRLOCK presents ERIS at The Bunker Theatre