We look at some of the big shows opening this year, with big names.
We look at some of the big shows opening this year, with big names.
From tunes you’ll have in your head for days, to thrilling whodunnits, we look at some of the UK’s biggest shows this year, and some of the star casting behind them.
1. Louise Redknapp and Bonnie Langford
Although it’s been announced that Louise Redknapp will have to delay her appearances as Violet in the Dolly Parton musical, 9 to 5 The Musical, she is still expected to re-join the cast later in the year. Bonnie Langford will still be performing as expected in the role of Roz. The show tells the story of Doralee, Violet and Judy - three workmates pushed to boiling point by their sexist and egotistical boss.
When? Opening 28th January. Where? The Savoy Theatre, London.
2. Samantha Womack
Known for her role as Ronnie in BBC’s Eastenders, as well as film credits including Kingsmen: The Secret Service, Samantha Womack (pictured below) will be starring as Rachel, the lead in the new play adaptation of Paul Hawkins’ The Girl on the Train. This thriller will be touring the UK until July, visiting venues such as Milton Keynes Theatre, Northampton’s Royal & Derngate and Leicester Curve.
When? Opening 23rd January at Milton Keynes Theatre. Where? Various locations across the UK.
3. Craig Revel Horwood and Anita Dobson
Those who can’t get enough of the Strictly judge will be able to see him in action on the stage in the role of Miss Hannigan in Annie, which he has played various times before. His other stage credits include Cats, Miss Saigon, and Crazy for You. The role will be shared with TV star Anita Dobson, as the musical tours the UK, so keep an eye out for who will perform at which location.
When? Opening 2nd February at Opera House Manchester (Anita Dobson). Where? Various locations.
4. Gwyneth Strong
Gwyneth Strong, who is perhaps best known for her role as Cassandra in Only Fools and Horses, will perform for 24 weeks on a national tour of the Agatha Christie play, The Mousetrap. The play will travel across the country to venues including Northampton’s Royal & Derngate, Oxford Playhouse, and Liverpool Empire. The Mousetrap is described as a masterful whodunit and follows a group of people, gathered within a country house and cut off by the snow, as they discover there is a murderer in their midst.
When? Opening 28th January at Guildford Yvonne Arnaud Theatre. Where? Various locations.
5. Jack McBrayer
You may recognise him from films such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall, or perhaps the hit US show 30 Rock. Well, he also voices Fix it Felix in Disney’s Wreck It Ralph, besides having plenty of other credits to his name. But this year, Jack McBrayer will make his west End debut in Waitress, alongside Katharine McPhee. The musical has music and lyrics by singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles and has also played on Broadway.
When? Previews from 8th February. Where? The Adelphi Theatre, London.
