Time goes so quickly. So quickly that the show you’ve had at the top of your to-see list could be closing any day now. To make sure you don’t miss out on anything on your theatre to-do list, we’re going to remind you of all the shows coming to an end this May.
Scary Bikers
Closing: 4 May
From prolific writer and Olivier Award-winner John Godber comes the brand new comedy Scary Bikers. Originally commissioned by Sky Arts as part of their ART 50 project, it explores British identity following the result of the Brexit referendum.
After suffering a loss, retired miner Don and former private school teacher Carol meet at a support group. A budding romance soon starts to blossom and both think it’s a new beginning. Until they take a bike ride through Europe, that is. Join the pair on their journey which leads them to reconcile the past, debate the present and worry about the future.
Starring John and his wife Jane Thornton – who is well known for roles in Up ‘N’ Under and The Jam From Outer Space – this hilarious play is not to be missed.
Intra Muros
Closing: 4 May
Multi-Molière Award-winning playwright Alexis Michalik’s Intra Muros is a sharp-witted and provocative comedy-drama which questions our concept of time and its effect on the human spirit.
Set in a maximum security prison, ageing thespian Richard along with his actress ex-wife Jane and inexperienced social worker Alice attempt to put on a theatre class for inmates. When only two inmates turn up, an exploration into life within the walls begins.
Featuring live music and digital sound mixing from jazz artist Roi Kai amongst other innovative storytelling techniques, this is a unique and fascinating piece of theatre.
All About Eve
Closing: 11 May
It’s one of those productions you promise yourself you’re going to see but ultimately miss because you didn’t realise how soon it was closing. Luckily, we’re here to remind you!
Starring Gillian Anderson and Lily James, All About Eve tells the story of an ageing star whose light is beginning to fade and a fanatic young actress who will do anything to find fame.
Based on the iconic Oscar-winning film of the same name, this brand-new, razor-sharp stage-adaptation explores fanaticism, deceit and the dark side of show-business.
Captain Corelli’s Mandolin
Closing: 12 May
Lose yourself in romance with the first major theatrical adaptation of Louis de Bernières’ best-selling novel, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
The peaceful and idyllic Cephalonia on the brink of change as Italian and German soldiers occupy the Greek island as part of the Second World War. Local girl Pelagia is determined to hate the invaders, especially when the young Italian Captain Corelli moves into her home. But as the world and everything the islanders know about life changes, can love find a way to blossom?
Marking the 25 years since the book was first published, this adaptation by the award-winning playwright Rona Munro and the Olivier and Tony Award-nominated director Melly Still could not have come soon enough. And it’s going even sooner…
Hell Yes I’m Tough Enough
Closing: 18 May
If current political issues are getting you down, this satire may help put a smile on your face. Fragen Theatre Company’s Hell Yes I’m Tough Enough takes on the turbulence of British politics that will leave you wanting to grab a placard and take to the streets!
Two opposing party leaders – Ned Contraband and David Carter – are battling it out to get into government. Going head-to-head, they sling propaganda, ridicule and blackmail at one another in an attempt to gain power. But which has the best pitch? Why are we in this situation in the first place? And who is going to fix it?
Sisters Grimm – Inala
Closing: 18 May
And now for something a little bit different. Expand your theatrical horizons with this beautiful dance show which features current and former members of The Royal Ballet and Rambert performing a Zulu ballet.
Following two sold-out runs at Sadler’s Wells, this music and dance sensation is an exciting fusion of South African and Western cultures live on stage.
Created by two-time Grammy Award-winning choral legends the Soweto Gospel Choir with choreography from the multi-award-winning Mark Baldwin OBE, Inala is a collaborative celebration of some of the world’s most exciting artists. Watch 26 performers take to the stage in this moving and awe-inspiring show.
Ghost Stories
Closing: 18 May
For the thrill seekers out there comes the terrifying Ghost Stories. Enjoying its third run on a London stage, this spooky and shocking show plays with your fears to create an experience you won’t forget in a hurry.
Since starting its life in 2010, the show’s plot has been kept secret by its creators and its viewers so we won’t spoil the tradition. But, what we will say is it’s 80 minutes of on-the-edge-of-your-seat, nail-biting action that’ll probably make you want to sleep with the lights on.
From Andy Nyman and Jeremy Dyson, this is a rare opportunity to see a horror story live on stage.
Admissions
Closing: 25 May
Direct from New York, where it won the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Best Play, comes Admissions – a biting new comedy about education and race.
ER and Doctor Who’s Alex Kingston plays Sherri, the Head of Admissions at a highly respected private school. She’s determined to diversify her school. But when her son Charlie doesn’t get accepted to his university of choice but his mixed-race best friend does, Charlie is convinced it’s because his friend ‘ticks a box’ and Sherri’s principals are put into question.
Adam Kay: This Is Going To Hurt
Closing: 28 May
Last year, Adam Kay’s book This Is Going To Hurt made millions of people cross their legs and wince thanks to its true stories about a Junior Doctor working in the NHS. Focusing mainly on his time on labour wards, there are tales of sometimes gruesome, sometimes hilarious, sometimes life-changing interactions he’s had with patients and the hardships young doctors face.
This one-man stage show was first seen at Edinburgh Fringe 2016 and was so popular it went back for 2017 and 2018. It recently had a celebrated UK tour and ha a sold-out run in the West End last year. So if you want an evening of fun and memorable anecdotes, make sure to catch this unique show… but if you’re about to have a baby, maybe wait until after the birth.