It’s official. The world is melting. Plus it’s full of fake news, alternative facts and even more worrisome true stories. Take a break from all that. Get up-to-date with this week’s theatre news instead. The past seven days have seen a whole plethora of star casting news, show extensions, brand new shows and initiatives. So if you’ve not had a chance to catch up with all things theatre this week, we’ve put all the important bits in one place for you.
More tickets to Harry Potter And The Cursed Child announced
This week, the world’s most famous wizard turned 38. Plus, the sensational show that continues his story entered its third year. To celebrate the two momentous occasions, a brand new booking period for the show has been announced.
Disney opened an Aladdin and The Lion King pop-up shop in Covent Garden
We announced the summer pop-up a few weeks ago and you guys went NUTS! And this week, the temporary exhibition-meets-shop opened its doors to the public. The shop on Long Acre is packed full of puppets, masks and costumes from both The Lion King and Aladdin, plus there will be live performances and activities.
Find out more about the pop-up, here.
Operation Ouch! Live On Stage coming to London
This Christmas, CBBC’s hit show Operation Ouch! is hitting the stage for one month only. The BAFTA-winning TV series is getting its UK stage premiere following two sold-out Australian tours.
Find out more and book tickets, here.
You have another chance to see Sheridan Smith in Funny Girl
Back in 2015, the Menier Chocolate Factory put on the first full-scale revival of Funny Girl. The three-month run sold out in a day and it quickly transferred to the Savoy Theatre. Despite a short extension, many fans were unable to see the leading lady Sheridan Smith in the starring role of Fanny Brice. But now, all those disappointed souls will be able to fulfil the wish of seeing this incredible production as Funny Girl will be screened in cinemas on 24 October.
Find out more, here.
Plan your perfect day in Theatreland
Whether you’re a born and bred Londoner or you’re making a day trip, you have something in common; you don’t make the most out of the city. The capital has so much to do, see, experience and taste – so it’s a great idea to plan your trip. We’ve put together a list of things not to miss while you’re in London.
Plan your perfect day, here.
Tim Howar is the West End’s new Phantom Of The Opera
Following his starring role in Chess earlier this year, the Mike And The Mechanic’s leading man will be taking on one of theatre’s most formidable characters, the Phantom Of The Opera.
Find out more, here.
Theatrecraft returns for 2018
Booking is now open for TheatreCraft – the UK’s largest free theatre careers event for young people. TheatreCraft is a full day of activities offering a unique glimpse into a range of non-performance careers from directing, stage management and producing to marketing, lighting and automation.
To find out more and to book, click here.
A Gran Day Out at The Mousetrap announced
This year, Mousetrap Theatre Projects is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Family First Nights. To mark the occasion, they are launching A Gran Day Out. For this special occasion, all of the families that have participated in previous Family First Nights have been invited to an exclusive performance of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap and have been encouraged to bring their grandparents, too.
Find out more, here.
Spamilton, the Hamilton parody, extends
The all-conquering Hamilton has swept awards ceremonies across the world – but can it stand up to the wit of Gerard Alessandrini, the hilarious brain behind Forbidden Broadway? The Menier Chocolate Factory audiences are finding out with Spamilton, The Hamilton Parody Musical. The satirical show has been such a hit that its been extended for an extra week!
Find out more, here.
Who’s your inner West End child?
It’s officially Kids Week! And when you’re accompanying your child, niece or grandson to the theatre, you’ll be forgiven for getting into the spirit of things. We all have an inner child. But did you know, we also have an inner West End child. Find out which theatrical youngster you are at heart with our quiz.
Take the quiz, here.
Shows to see this August
School’s out for summer! And now there’s every chance you’re bored. Maybe you’re counting down the days to a rosy summer holiday, and are looking for a new show to pass the time. Here are some of the best new London shows you can see this August.
Watch the video, here.
There was plenty of other news this week. To see what else you missed, click here.