With the shutdown of theatres not too distant in our memories, it’s still so exciting to say ‘I’m going to see a show!’ Last week, a number of shows announced that they are extending their West End runs. It’s a sign that theatre is back in a big way – and that audiences are responding.
It was a big week for long time favourites Les Misérables, Mary Poppins and The Phantom of the Opera, which all extended their runs to October 2022. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child went even further and is now accepting bookings up to February 2023. Moulin Rouge! The Musical, which opened in late 2021 and has received five Olivier nominations including Best New Musical, has also extended booking to October.
Life of Pi has also extended its run at the Wyndham’s Theatre to September. The show has been nominated for an incredible nine Olivier Awards, including Best New Play, Hiran Abeysekera for Best Actor and Max Webster for Best Director. The seven actors who play the tiger (Fred Davies, Daisy Franks, Romina Hytten, Tom Larkin, Habib Nasib Nader, Tom Stacey and Scarlet Wilderink) have also been nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. This makes Olivier Awards history, as it’s the first time puppet performers have been nominated in an Olivier Awards acting category.
In other big news, the smash-hit romp Choir of Man has announced its return in October. The show enjoyed international success before making its West End debut at the Arts Theatre. Due to phenomenal demand, the show will return from October 2022 to February 2023 and booking is now open. It’s a party. It’s a concert. It’s the best lock-in you’ve ever been to. Book your tickets now.