I skipped my usual weekly wrap-ups of the week’s news and reviews (both my own and others) in tweets last weekend, so this week I’m doing “that was the fortnight that was”. So here is a bumper edition!
MY COLUMNS AND REVIEWS OF THE FORTNIGHT
- Sunday September 26
My column for today is here: https://shentonstage.com/that-was-the-month-that-was-august-29-september-26/
My That Was the Month That Was column, rounding up my columns, reviews and tweets on London theatre and beyond to the regions and Broadway, plus COVID news, is here: https://t.co/GniRQvjsxB pic.twitter.com/KkMjdObii1
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 26, 2021
- Monday September 27:
My column for today is here: https://shentonstage.com/september-27-update-latest-scheduled-new-returning-shows
My weekly updated column of new and returning shows in London and beyond, to the regions and Broadway, is here: https://t.co/08zcOmV7rK
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
Including list of this week's openings, plus new this week: @cocktheplayldn, @SecondHalfProds's new #TheGlassMenagerie pic.twitter.com/o2wuzW86ZZ
- Tuesday September 28:
My ShentonSTAGE Newsletter for today is here: https://shentonstage.com/shentonstage-daily-for-tuesday-september-28
My ShentonSTAGE Daily Newsletter, e-mailed to subscribers (ShentonStageMailingList@gmail.com to be added), is online here: https://t.co/i9CreL7UZX
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 28, 2021
Includes this year's @TheTonyAwards results, the amateur @ArtsPro, and remembering the New Piccadilly restaurant (pictured below). pic.twitter.com/fDuVaC4OGh
- Thursday September 30:
My ShentonSTAGE Newsletter for today is here: https://shentonstage.com/shentonstage-daily-for-thursday-september-30/
My ShentonSTAGE Daily newwsletter — (to receive it free, em me: ShentonStageMailingList@gmail.com) — is now online as well, incl WICKED's 15th annniversary on Tuesday, @BeautyMusical in Liverpool last night, and Daniel Craig heading back to Broadway. https://t.co/SvAG3S4k9Q pic.twitter.com/90GnsUNRLC
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
- Friday October 1
My ShentonSTAGE Newsletter for today is here: https://shentonstage.com/shentonstage-daily-for-friday-october-1/
My ShentonSTAGE Daily subscriber newsletter (available by e-mailing ShentonStageMailingList@gmail.com) is here, in which I detail the lost battle against theatre COVID safety after my visit to @LivEveryPlay yesterday. https://t.co/CXWTjexRnp pic.twitter.com/7B5TsT5k8C
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
- Also: My reviews of Beauty and the Beast (touring) and Frozen (Theatre Royal, Drury Lane): https://shentonstage.com/reviews-beauty-and-the-beast-frozen/
My reviews of two Disney stage musicals: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST @BeautyMusical, now on a new UK tour that I saw at @LiverpoolEmpire this week, and @frozenlondon, now at @TheatreRoyalDL. https://t.co/AqbaA52ru9 pic.twitter.com/hAxsLESPxB
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
- Monday October 4:
My ShentonSTAGE Newsletter for today is here: https://shentonstage.com/shentonstage-daily-for-monday-october-4/
My ShentonSTAGE Daily newsletter for Monday — emailed to subscribers (to be added, send request to ShentonStageMailingList@gmail.com) is here: https://t.co/5kDVWnZU1k
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 4, 2021
Inc a triple dose of Stephen Schwartz @composerstephen musicals I see last week (out of five in London now!) pic.twitter.com/oIT233WJFb
- Tuesday October 5
My ShentoNSTAGE Newsletter for today is here: https://shentonstage.com/shentonstage-daily-for-tuesday-october-5/
My ShentonSTAGE Daily newsletter (e-mailed to subscribers: send request to be added to ShentonStageMailingList@gmail.com) today is here: https://t.co/ADaBK3EMyG, inc reviews of @SixBroadway, and new British musicals showcased by @ALPmusicals & @AriaEnts. pic.twitter.com/9ffpE5xwaO
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 5, 2021
- Thursday October 7:
My ShentonSTAGE Newsletter for today is here: https://shentonstage.com/shentonstage-daily-for-thursday-october-7/
My daily newsletter for ShentonSTAGE is here: https://t.co/eZSA6X2hxc including seeing #CushJumbo in HAMLET at @youngvictheatre and @TheRSC's THE MIRROR AND THE LIGHT yesterday.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 7, 2021
To subscribe, send em to: ShentonStageMailingList@gmail.com pic.twitter.com/H057nFi1UP
Friday October 8:
- My Friday Diary column is here: https://shentonstage.com/friday-diary-theatre-in-cinemas-and-jessye-norman-and-my-spinal-surgery-history/
My column for ShentonSTAGE today is my weekly Friday Diary column, about theatre in cinemas and the late Jessye Norman and Maggie Smith and I sharing a spinal and hip surgeon respectively! https://t.co/plRNW6kHwk pic.twitter.com/TMHiFujJ1m
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
MY REVIEW TWEETS:
Wicked 15th anniversary:
The London production of @WickedUK is celebrating its 15th anniversary tonight at the Apollo Victoria (pictured by me last night, (and I’ll be back tonight!) Press statements from composer Stephen Schwartz @composerstephen & executive producer Michael McCabe below right. pic.twitter.com/oc3VPsG6Wn
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 28, 2021
Just attended the 15th anniversary of the opening of the West End edition of @WickedUK at the Apollo Victoria; a celebration of the show’s success, but even more of live theatre’s return. As Glinda says, “It’s good to see me, isn’t it? No need to respond. That was rhetorical.” pic.twitter.com/jw6MaygoNg
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 28, 2021
Tonight’s company for @WickedUK was as good as I’ve ever seen it — with luxury casting of @SophieEvans (maternity cover for Glinda),the ever-glorious @kimismay as Madame Morrible & delightful @alistairbrammer as Fiyero. The star turn, though, is inevitably @laurapick91’s Elphaba. pic.twitter.com/Z31pTkRM53
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 28, 2021
- Beauty and the Beast (Liverpool Empire):
At @LiverpoolEmpire for the tour of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST @BeautyMusical! pic.twitter.com/JK0KNhkYYo
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 29, 2021
The production — now directed and choreographed by original B’way choreographer Matt West after the departure of original director Robert Jess Roth — is full of sparkle, with an act one finale of “Be Our Guest” that’s like a giant bauble of a Follies revue number come to 3D life. pic.twitter.com/w0zESpDCku
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 29, 2021
This @BeautyMusical is a real beauty, with a West End-ready cast led by @EmmanuelKojo_ as a big-voiced Beast (if @OfficialALW is looking for a future Phantom, he’s the man!); tonight’s Beauty was radiant understudy @Grace_Swaby. pic.twitter.com/XSbptfNSxg
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 29, 2021
- Our Lady of Blundelshells (Liverpool Everyman):
There’s such generosity and spirit to @JOJEHARVEY’s characterisations, and big laughs too, laced through with painful childhood secrets. A wonderful afternoon — only undermined by the total lack of Covid safety at @LivEveryPlay (even the staff don’t wear masks). pic.twitter.com/tEzop3OP0F
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
- Diana — The Musical (Netflix);
Adam points out the paradigm shift in the fact that the @Netflix release pre-dates its Broadway opening, unlike @HamiltonMusical whose filmed version took 4 years to get to @disneyplus….
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Now the Queen is discussing how Diana is "the best girl for the worst job in England" with Prince Charles….. pic.twitter.com/85SImkHGa5
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Snap click snap click, sing the paps as they harass Diana….. and that getting a good picture of her is better than a Guinness, better than a wank." REALLY?
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Charles proposes to Diana — does he love her? Yes, he does, "whatever love means." And now they are about to marry: "I will make him love me, I will prove that I can, and I will be all that all they require and demand. I will try my very best as I stumble in this dress." pic.twitter.com/JzEudApgKP
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Enjoying some of the chat comments in the viewing room I'm watching @DianaonBroadway: "This is like Always meets Which Witch" and "It really is sort of a cheesy rock evita." And now baby Prince William makes his first appearance….. pic.twitter.com/yV62yQn3bT
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Charles takes Diana to @TheRoyalBallet — and she dances with @Wayne_Sleep. pic.twitter.com/e3Lv3An3wa
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
More chat comments: "This could easily do 2 years on broadway". I'd give it two weeks myself……
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
"Don't blame her, tame her," the Queen tells Charles….. pic.twitter.com/XAMHt1QzmN
"It's not written for a British audience, so essentially it's a Disney princess musical with Diana as the princess," says @HilmiJaidin.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Diana has now gone to visit young AIDS patients….. pic.twitter.com/0d8HLAA1VS
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
"In the old days, we'd have just chopped off your head," the Queen tells Diana. "I miss the old days." pic.twitter.com/n5kaHD6n9i
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
And now Diana is dead. But this deadly show is dying a much slower death. What were they thinking of? It's genuinely mystifying. More so than even @ALWCinderella. pic.twitter.com/1yW22LWUCO
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
I’m incredulous that – having staged @DianaOnBroadway at @ljplayhouse – the show proceeded to Broadway at all, but now @CharlesMcNulty, theatre critic for @latimes, reveals it did improve a bit between takes — or at least it was even worse in California. https://t.co/9OH6ibHgjV
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 5, 2021
- Back to the Future (Adelphi Theatre):
At BACK TO THE FUTURE @BTTFmusical (at last….) pic.twitter.com/MzMvyFmIzA
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 2, 2021
Tim Hatley’s designs — and the car! — are the stars of @BTTFmusical, but @rogerbartoffic & Ollie Dobson @ollaaaay do likeable impressions of their film predecessors; the best song is the old one, The Power of Love, & the last two minutes reminded me of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. pic.twitter.com/RPVlmFKUOL
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 2, 2021
- Pippin/Children of Eden (October 3):
Heading to London for a double dose of Stephen Schwartz @composerstephen musicals: @PippinOnStage, his 1971 hit @CharingCrossThr (for my 6th time, before it closes tonight), then @ConcertEden, his 1991 West End flop (that has since gone on to a successful life) at @cadoganhall pic.twitter.com/675GDR9cxX
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 3, 2021
Thrilled to have just seen @OnPippin one more time…. The phenomenal cast of just eight players has had one change for the end of the run — @alexlodgemusic (front left) has joined as Charlemagne and blends in seamlessly and elegantly. pic.twitter.com/hBfna7exjH
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 3, 2021
Act Two of @ConcertEden was completely stopped by a standing ovation ? for @emkingston singing “Ain’t it Good”, and it sure was! Not least because she only took over (from an indisposed @alice_fearn) on Thursday! (She’s third from the right at the curtain call here) pic.twitter.com/L9L3qXQkMd
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 3, 2021
.@ConcertEden proved above all what a remarkable score Stephen Schwartz @composerstephen crafted: some real classics here like Lost in the Wilderness, Stranger to the Rain, In Whatever Time we Have & In the Beginning — plus original 1991 cast members @RuthieHenshall & @Rayshell. pic.twitter.com/PCJflsAUzp
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 3, 2021
- The Chamber Musical Sessions (Garrick Theatre, October 4):
Heading to the Garrick for THE CHAMBER MUSICAL SESSIONS – a taster of 15 new musicals in development. @ALPmusicals & @AriaEnts are really walking the walk (and not just talking) in promoting the future of musical theatre. pic.twitter.com/b901A1FeM7
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 4, 2021
Here’s @AdamLenson and Katy Lipson @AriaEnts introducing tonight’s show. The really terrific house band under @SamYoungMD (who was also an entrant!) is behind them. And a special shout-out to the performers who gave life to the songs. Wonderful to see @emkingston again among them pic.twitter.com/QC6ElbMPBc
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 4, 2021
- Hamlet (Young Vic)/ The Mirror and the Light (Gielgud Theatre)
Catching up on my (long!) two-show day on the (very) late train home: #CushJumbo’s HAMLET at @youngvictheatre finally arrived, two years after it was first announced, but definitely worth the wait. She’s a can-do-anything actor and proves it with utter precision & perception. pic.twitter.com/rDEzeYlWAy
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 6, 2021
Director Greg Hersov’s modern-dress production is crisp and detailed, with terrific support from Tara Fitzgerald (Gertrude) & Jonathan Ajayi (Laertes), both pictured with Jumbo, plus a remarkable Ophelia from Nora Lopez Holden & Leo Wringer as a wonderful West Indian gravedigger. pic.twitter.com/RqfffGId6p
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 6, 2021
Confession time: stage versions of popular books are not really my “thing” — they can feel stilted even as they strive for naturalistic familiarity — but THE MIRROR & THE LIGHT has such a good story I was gripped. (If @sixthemusical was still at Lyric, Henry’s wives would rule)
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 6, 2021
- The Long Song (Chichester Festival Theatre):
The production has now been "promoted" to the larger main house at @ChichesterFT, and with its expansive company of 15, is probably better suited there. It's a little 'worthy'; not sure how Chi audiences relate to this tale of British slavery in Jamaica, except in guilt. (2/3) pic.twitter.com/wyyNAXeqyi
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
But it is anchored by a performance of quiet authority and dignity by Llewella Gideon, as the former slave whose son was taken away from her to England by his white father, and now returns to excavate his past. An unsettling portrait of colonial legacies. pic.twitter.com/5qRXMgj4gD
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
- The Normal Heart (National’s Olivier):
The view from where I’m sitting at @NationalTheatre for THE NORMAL HEART! pic.twitter.com/PAs0IHCq2K
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 9, 2021
Director Dominic Cooke, who last staged the ravishing and sumptuous FOLLIES on this stage, now brings a stark but vivid immediacy to this haunting chapter in gay history. A must-see. pic.twitter.com/xAo8cXzCvP
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 9, 2021
- Scott Alan (Crazy Coqs):
I also fully support my friend @ScottAlan in this!
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
(Though a pity we won’t get to see his pretty face as a result). https://t.co/am2dlu9krf
En route to @CrazyCoqs to see my friend @ScottAlan in concert: the first time we’ll be seeing each other in over 2 years. The last time we saw each other was when my husband and I went to stay with him & his husband in Florida. Now they live in New Jersey — and are parents! pic.twitter.com/pFztQ2hsAo
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 10, 2021
Some snapshots from @ScottAlan at @CrazyCoqs (2/4) pic.twitter.com/y5piG6Nhbo
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 10, 2021
REVIEWS AND REVIEW TWEETS OF THE FORTNIGHT
- Susannah Clapp in The Observer:
Theatre reviews by @susannahclapp in @ObsNewReview today:
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 3, 2021
The Normal Heart at @NationalTheatre ★★★★⁰Shining City at @stratfordeast ★★★https://t.co/5uuHIEsjso pic.twitter.com/v70SnsZ5Mo
Theatre reviews in @ObsNewReview by @susannahclapp:
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 10, 2021
Hamlet at @youngvictheatre ★★★
The Mirror and the Light at @TheRSC ★★★
What If If Only at @royalcourt ★★★★https://t.co/EcKKLgmm6P pic.twitter.com/bE4DJ8Fkmt
Just seen my friend @ScottAlan at @CrazyCoqs, joined by an exceptional West End line-up of fellow parents, singing some of his extraordinary songs about being a parent to a child, as Scott and his husband became two years ago to their delightful daughter Alex. (1/4) pic.twitter.com/UJ53oDMjUb
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 10, 2021
Other reviews:
Looking forward to catching @DrewMcOnie’s latest dance piece #Merlin for @northernballet (when it visits us in the South! It’ll be at @mayflower in Southampton Dec 2-4) https://t.co/EVulCvxnCX
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 26, 2021
The state of theatre criticism today is nearly as rotten as the state of Denmark. (This review is of HAMLET at @youngvictheatre)https://t.co/iL9JoYa0Rk pic.twitter.com/8o7VyZuygH
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 5, 2021
Link to full review here: https://t.co/eFDTiMmG6y
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 7, 2021
On the other hand, @Independent is a five-star rave: https://t.co/79JFYavkKD
- Six on Broadway:
Very observant point from @ChrisJonesTrib on @SixBroadway: https://t.co/d1TvyKUUXV pic.twitter.com/yUHECEjwxz
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 4, 2021
.@FeldmanAdam on @SixBroadway for @TimeOutNewYork: “At heart, Six is a sparkly lark—Hamilton Extra Lite, with the multiculturalism and anachronism and knowing name-dropping but without the plot, emotion and depth” https://t.co/d7Now2rVrR
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 4, 2021
An observant point on @SixBroadway. It may be about female empowerment — but the show is ALSO about male violence and murder perpetrated against women. https://t.co/eVoWeHoI5v
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 4, 2021
CONTROVERSIES OF THE FORTNIGHT
Powerful thread by a senior casting director about the constant attacks on them. No, the industry isn't perfect; but sometimes people are going against the wrong guys. https://t.co/8HptyrxEx8
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 26, 2021
It appears that @ArtsPro puts the amateur into Pro.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
Hear hear to your mum, @aprildeangelis! (And yes, @BorisJohnson IS scum….) https://t.co/k2pIWqiSqt
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
It may not be a coinidence that @smithalistair, editor of @TheStage, is away…..
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 28, 2021
Interesting that @TheStage appear to have removed their "@BarbicanCentre is in "freefall" story, which failed to specify the extent and management status of the walkouts claimed to have been happening amongst staff there, without which it was meaningless. pic.twitter.com/bQdhXia20s
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 2, 2021
It’s not just words, it’s action that matters in expanding the range and reach of voices that get platformed in the theatre, says @latimes critic @CharlesMcNulty. And LA’s @CTGLA are failing to represent women playwrights. https://t.co/LhfobC9luP
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
More of the sunny-uplands of Brexit-ing.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
And @EquityUK general Secretary @paulwfleming actually actively campaigned in favour of Brexit and the resulting shit-storm that has resulted, affecting musicians and actors alike in this detrimental way. https://t.co/XXqPSkogt1
Important words to the “fans”. Show some respect. Life happens. That’s WHY there are understudies. https://t.co/vxQnOmvvtO
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 10, 2021
COVID NEWS TWEETS OF THE FORTNIGHT:
I was at @thehawthcrawley yesterday — and few were wearing masks. My husband says he's not coming to the theatre anymore now. This disregard, even contempt, for public health will be theatre's undoing. @julianpbird @EleanorLloyd @Fiona_Allan
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 26, 2021
This happened last night. Congrats, @DMTWestEnd. I hope you are reminding audiences to wear masks. https://t.co/ttkQo7EXVT
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 26, 2021
Hear hear to @RebeccaCaine’s concerns here! @SOLTnews and @BarbicanCentre are failing to protect their audiences. @julianpbird @EleanorLloyd @Fiona_Allan https://t.co/6KUFUhwPrD
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 26, 2021
Here we go again…. Same thing should have applied in theatres. But thanks to the failure of leadership from @SOLTnews & @uk_theatre, which should have mandates masks for audiences and vaccines for cast/crew, theatres will yet again face closure. @julianpbird @EleanorLloyd https://t.co/pqagOWSoKy
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
Uh-oh. And so it begins on Broadway too: @aladdin re-opened here on Tuesday — then cancelled last night when company members tested positive for Covid. https://t.co/N7kvEVzRx8 pic.twitter.com/EORN75gKKt
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
Depressing how few people are masked up at @LivEveryPlay this afternoon for OUR LADY OF BLUNDELLSANDS. And even the ushers and FOH staff aren’t. Nor are Covid passports requested or checked (@LiverpoolEmpire did that last night) NO industry leadership. @julianpbird @Fiona_Allan pic.twitter.com/GiNIm1YnXD
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
Compare and contrast.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
And the deniers say masks don't work.
And @SOLTNews and @UK_Theatre don't enforce wearing either — a total failure of leadership. @julianpbird
But I'm giving up trying to fight it, after visiting @LivEveryPlay yesterday: https://t.co/CXWTjexRnp https://t.co/TbVtk4lZT8
YES! @RajGhatak — if only theatres could follow this example! Here's my piece today on how basically its a lost battle: https://t.co/YrOs1DuP2n.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
There's been a terrible failure of leadership by @SOLTnews, @UK_Theatre, @julianpbird, @EleanorLloyd, @Fiona_Allan https://t.co/cQGBA8R30i
Another reminder to #WearAMask (I wear two…) Yet theatres continue to operate with it being left to customer choice — and at @LivEveryPlay, its even true of the unmasked staff.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 2, 2021
Here's my column yesterday: https://t.co/CXWTjexRnp@julianpbird @EleanorLloyd @Fiona_Allan https://t.co/XMUdEWFoPC
Theatres are asking to be cut some slack to adapt to new COVID restrictions this winter; but given the total failure of leadership over simple safety measures like mask wearing, there will need to be more decisive leadership. https://t.co/jMWpVf5Iuf@julianpbird @EleanorLloyd pic.twitter.com/J4oUNUkBo0
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 6, 2021
An important thread on the importance of continued mask wearing in indoor spaces.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
Especially this (#4):
"VENTILATION is key. Both ventilation and masks needed to reduce risk indoors. But most buildings not ventilated well enough."@julianpbird @EleanorLloyd @Fiona_Allan https://t.co/MhgaeeKZzE
A very good question addressed to Manchester theatre operators, two of whom reply below.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
I asked every West End theatre owner the same question. Two did not reply.
There is a fundamental failure of leadership at the highest level. @julianpbird, @EleanorLloyd, @Fiona_Allan https://t.co/5P1hebKT6e
LONDON HEADLINES OF THE FORTNIGHT
SWAN SONG, a one-person play by @JOJEHARVEY, to play London season at @TurbineTheatre from Nov 29-Dec 4, with @AndrewLancel, after two nights in Cumbria. Press statements below right. pic.twitter.com/v9SHBrUFfi
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
Weird that @HairsprayLondon is ending its run midweek (that usually only happens when a show collapses, like the ill-fated Petula Clark musical SOMEONE LIKE YOU when producer Harold Fielding ran out of money…..) https://t.co/8p5go0Vgff
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 29, 2021
Two new plays, by Rebecca Watson and Nell Layshon, to premiere at @Hamps_Theatre Downstairs.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 29, 2021
* Watson’s little scratch, Nov 5-Dec 11, press night Nov 11
* Leyshon’s FOLK, Dec 18-Feb 5, press night Jan 4
Press statements below right. pic.twitter.com/BDF69VLsti
Congrats to @sixthemusical as it moves to its "forever" West End home from tonight — the Vaudeville, after previously being resident at @theartstheatre and then temporarily the Lyric…. though a pity that we're losing another intimate playhouse to a long-runner. pic.twitter.com/7JQJW0Izre
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
OMG! Look at this cast! February 21 at @Yourallypally:@OfficialTracieB @TheNicolaHughes @melabarrie @RebeccaLock22 @kealasettle @samanthaspiro @ann_triplett pic.twitter.com/h9wQTCGgWA
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
JODIE COMER Is to make her West End debut in @SuzieMillerWrtr's PRIMA FACIE, at @HPinterTheatre from April 15, press night April 27, for 9-week season to June 18. Justin Martin directs. Press statements from Cromer and producer @Bierman71 below right. https://t.co/wsq9F5xGfg pic.twitter.com/j9nHoiTjRt
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Press statement from Bill Kenwright @BKL_Productions on SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER. Choreographer is @BillDeamer. pic.twitter.com/zpxyBjUqgS
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
FRANK & FRIENDS – The Music of Frank Wildhorn, featuring Broadway composer @FrankWildhorn himself at the piano, to be presented at @CadoganHall on Jan 16, presented by @F_W_Live. Press statement and bio below right. pic.twitter.com/I1u0ajNaU9
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Last 14 weeks announced for the run of @PrinceOfEgyptUK at @DominionTheatre: it will close January 8 at the end of its current booking period. https://t.co/BbPO8bFwxA pic.twitter.com/CpfnwH4LxP
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Getting to @TurbineTheatre will now be considerably easier! (This is the first time I’ve seen this destination marked on the Northern Line!) pic.twitter.com/B5gIICnaC3
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 2, 2021
Alarming news on a "medical emergency" at @PhantomOpera at Her Majesty's tonight which caused the cancellation of the performance….. https://t.co/A4r2Rot2bx
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 2, 2021
As if the risks of catching COVID in an unmasked theatre aren't enough, there's this…. a random hammer attack in the West End last night. pic.twitter.com/QBs5STYreb
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 3, 2021
Can't wait for this! @RuthieHenshall as Fosca in Sondheim/Lapine's PASSION at @hopemilltheatr1 in May 2022, directed by Michael @strassen. WOW!!! https://t.co/LUNGD54Z3o
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 7, 2021
The Tiller Girls — the world's longest-running dance troupe, famous for appearing on SUNDAY NIGHT AT THE @LondonPalladium in 60s and 70s — are returning there to join the company of PANTOLAND @PalladiumPanto from Dec 4-Jan 9. https://t.co/kWTkPYf0MP pic.twitter.com/QkYnVZ3n3X
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
Ralph Fiennes to star in David Hare's new play STRAIGHT LINE CRAZY, directed by Nicholas Hytner, at @_bridgetheatre from March 16-June 18, press night March 23. It is about Robert Moses, who for 40 years was the most powerful man in New York, creating parks, bridges and roads. pic.twitter.com/N5U1yc2OSz
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
Full casting for SPRING AWAKENING, @TheDuncanSheik & @stevensater musical, at @AlmeidaTheatre from Dec 7-Jan 22, press performance Dec 14. Release attached. pic.twitter.com/QvPz9aXSM8
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
Funny when the first announcement you see of a new production is an ad in the paper (today’s @thetimes). Downton’s ELIZABETH McGOVERN to play Ava Gardner in her own play AVA: THE SECRET CONVERSATIONS @AvaGardnerPlay, at @RiversideLondon, Jan 14-April 16. https://t.co/6JUqLNBUgt pic.twitter.com/g2FMI6yXno
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 9, 2021
INTERVIEWS OF THE FORTNIGHT
Interview with Arinzé Kene on starring as @BobMarley in @GetUpStandUpLDN, beginning perofrmances at the Lyric from October 1. https://t.co/05AK0YCscT pic.twitter.com/dUJmi1cR73
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 26, 2021
As @WickedUK celebrates its 15th anniversary tomorrow in the West End, @guardianstage talks to Gregory Maguire (who wrote the original book it is based on) & @idinamenzel, Broadway and London’s original Elphaba. (I love how Maguire named her, too!) https://t.co/hqKHbn14Ve
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
Lovely to see almost a full page of today’s @guardian print edition given over to the West End’s “fairytale power couple” — @CarrieHFletcher (from @ALWCinderella) & @OliverOrmson (from @frozenlondon). Online here: https://t.co/jP9QY0J8Nb pic.twitter.com/GPDcbeBOUN
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 9, 2021
REGIONAL/ TOURING AND FESTIVAL HEADLINES OF THE FORTNIGHT
2021/22 tour of @SirMattBourne’s NUTCRACKER! announces cast for tour, starting at @TRPlymouth from Nov 15; visiting 14 venues inc Xmas season at @Sadlers_Wells Dec 7-Jan 30. pic.twitter.com/EUllWYtchq
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
New tour of WHITE CHRISTMAS to kick off at @WokingTheatre from Oct 28, feat.@SheilaDFerguson, @danburton22, @emily_langham (left), @MatthewJeans & Jessica Daley @jessicacaca7 (right). Tour dates: https://t.co/v4W1cuHhWP pic.twitter.com/LIW8LXKdUa
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Press statement from producer @simon_friend and @AuthorDanBrown on the stage version of THE DA VINCI CODE @DaVinciCodeShow: pic.twitter.com/pQTZll49gG
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
FAT FRIENDS — THE MUSICAL @FatFriendsShow to launch second UK tour at Dartford's @OrchardTheatre in January, with cast inc @LeeMead, @SherrieHewson, @JessicaEllisUK, @LesDennis, Marc Akinfolarin, Alex–May Roberts. (My 2018 review for @TheStage is here: https://t.co/skv91lDkdo) pic.twitter.com/GuJYUZlW4N
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 7, 2021
Today’s press ad for THE CHERRY ORCHARD, opening to the press at @TheatreWindsor on Wednesday (Oct 13). Loving the facial hair — @IanMcKellen’s beard and Jenny Seagrove’s @springmeister moustache (Movember has clearly come early this year…!) pic.twitter.com/5WINN5y8Xs
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 9, 2021
BROADWAY (AND BEYOND) HEADLINES OF THE FORTNIGHT
- The Tony Awards:
#TonyAwards tweet of the day!
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 26, 2021
Feeling very strange, knowing this is happening just three blocks from the apartment I own in NYC (50th/10th) but last visited in October 2019 and have been unable to return to since….. https://t.co/gbE7tw4TYI
Last night's (long-delayed) @TheTonyAwards winners: @MoulinRougeBway takes home 10 awards, inc Best Musical, director, choreographer and @AaronTveit in his uncontested leading musical actor category, plus Danny Burstein (pictured) as featured actor. https://t.co/J6L5qZV6Qd pic.twitter.com/ORAol6jQE2
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
.@SlavePlayBway failed to pick up any of the record 12 Tony awards it was nominated for. Playwright @jeremyoharris (whose twitter name has changed from Most Nominated Playwright to Most Snubbed Playwright) suggests why. https://t.co/T9ReEhSfQU
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 28, 2021
- Other US Theatre News:
Broadway critics are yet to check in on @DianaOnBroadway, the Princess Diana musical that was shut down during early previews due to the pandemic, but a @netflix filmed version of which has released today. @PeterBradshaw1 reviews is for @guardianfilm: https://t.co/cAvZa0z1lm pic.twitter.com/d23uuZlQRR
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
SIX @SixBroadway (finally!) opens on Broadway on Sunday (October 3), after its original opening on March 12 2020 was cancelled after Broadway was entirely shut down that same night! Pics: Joan Marcus. https://t.co/svFVghFoTt (2/2) pic.twitter.com/pp5bPgi2no
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 1, 2021
Other news:
Press statement on return of @SlavePlayBway from playwright @jeremyoharris & producer Greg Nobile (below left). There will also be "Black Out" invitation-only performances, where black identifying audiences can see the play "free from the white gaze" (below right). pic.twitter.com/dKmaGjapJd
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
I think this is the show I am most eager to get back to nyc for! Can’t wait to see @JudyKuhn1 in ASSASSINS #AssassinsCSC directed by the genius John Doyle at @classicstage. https://t.co/6cblntYxFQ
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 29, 2021
Lovely to see #SharonDClarke being interviewed live from Times Square about the imminent Broadway run of @ChichesterFT / @Hamps_Theatre’s transfer of CAROLINE, OR CHANGE. (A second reason to rush back to nyc soon…..) https://t.co/FsLhWaWy7q
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 29, 2021
Daniel Craig and Ruth Negga to star in MACBETH on Broadway, at Lyceum Threatee from March 29, opening April 28, for 15 week run, directed by Sam Gold. (No, the lead producer isn’t Scott Rudin but Bond producer Barbara Broccoli). On sale from Oct 8. https://t.co/KE3LEKnWz4 pic.twitter.com/LjC8rHFRFz
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
But now all performances to October 10 have been cancelled for Broadway’s @aladdin, after more positive Covid cases in the company. Statement from Blythe Adamson, an epidemiologist working with the company, below. https://t.co/c7MgRRWLTx
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 2, 2021
Statement from @aladdin: pic.twitter.com/tsydgogf9s
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 2, 2021
I can’t WAIT to see this again on Broadway! Received an invite to a press performance — but it’s before the border restrictions are eased. So I’ll have to go after! https://t.co/TPk10jyeKS
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 4, 2021
Reviews round-up of Ruben Santiago-Hudson @rsantiagohudson's solo autobiographical show LACKAWANNA BLUES that opened at @MTC_NYC's Samuel Friedman Theatre on Broadawy last night, via @Broadwayworld. https://t.co/rfZJmEDVrG pic.twitter.com/VQClh5xiym
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
I think I will have to be at this! https://t.co/xBLWgYtHRE
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
This is happening tonight! Can’t wait to get back to nyc to see this phenomena performance yet again. (I’ve seen it four times already, between @ChichesterFT, @Hamps_Theatre & twice at the West End’s @PlayHouseLDN…) https://t.co/3GpLzmJM6n
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
EUROPEAN THEATRE TWEET OF THE FORTNIGHT:
I think a trip to Malaga may be in order in November….Antonio Banderas to play Bobby in Sondheim and Furth’s Company, that he will also direct! (Sure it’s in Spanish, but I know every word of the English version so I’ll keep up….) https://t.co/QiG1ZrAIj2 pic.twitter.com/7cfsrYumvs
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
STREAMING NEWS OF THE FORTNIGHT
THE ROCKY HORROR SHO to be broadcast live from @Sadlers_Wells Peacock Theatre to over 500 cinemas across UK and Europe on October 28, with @OreOduba as Brad Majors. Cinemas: https://t.co/N0ZbRmGMxU
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 7, 2021
Trailer: https://t.co/d16QVSBG3V pic.twitter.com/Cc0BGPCa0C
ANYTHING GOES @AnythingGUK, currently at @BarbicanCentre where it has been filmed, is to be screened into cinemas on November 28 and Dec 1, via @TrafalgarRel. https://t.co/YLiTXyY0E8. Cast inc Sutton Foster @sfosternyc, @RobertLindsay, @garywilmotactor (pictured). pic.twitter.com/kgZwhNqF7H
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
EXECUTIVE AND BEHIND-THE-SCENES ANNOUNCEMENTS OF THE FORTNIGHT:
Pretty major behind-the-scenes news: talent agency CAA @CArtsAgency is buying ICM @ICMPartners_. (This is like a live episode of CALL MY AGENT…..) pic.twitter.com/rVhSTTZWnp
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 27, 2021
New leadership team appointed at Coventry’s @BelgradeTheatre, succeeding outgoing Executive Director, Joanna Reid and Chief Executive and Artistic Director, Hamish Glen, from January 2022. Press release below right. pic.twitter.com/TGAWC16Ylh
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 4, 2021
AND FINALLY, SOME FAVOURITE PERSONAL TWEETS OF THE FORTNIGHT
Now here’s a casting I could get behind……! H/t @cajoelme https://t.co/ewXZ9hWFYP
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 28, 2021
Heaven! https://t.co/EW9unZ0suE
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) September 30, 2021
This just happened! Me with (some of) the company for THE CHERRY ORCHARD, now at @TheatreWindsor — left to right, adapter Martin Sherman, Martin Shaw, @IanMcKellen, Francesca Annis, director Sean Mathias, Jenny Seagrove @springmeister, @RobertDaws pic.twitter.com/ASfQiASsg4
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 5, 2021
Love this Insta entry from David Gregory, the director who was filming my round table yesterday with @IanMcKellen, @RobertDaws, Jenny Seagrove @springmeister, #MartinShaw, #MartinSherman & #SeanMathias about THE CHERRY ORCHARD at @TheatreWindsor. pic.twitter.com/yXSgZTwrUS
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 6, 2021
The view from the train as I’m heading to London of #AmberleyCastle, which is literally at the bottom of our street! Such a beautiful place to live! pic.twitter.com/eeCZhIjaEU
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 6, 2021
Andrew Lloyd Webber @OfficialALW hated @catsmovie so much, he bought a dog! https://t.co/o6CHkFKCsV
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 7, 2021
Great thread of the fear of speaking your mind in the theatre world.
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 8, 2021
This thread refers to practitioners — but many in the theatre won’t allow that critics should be able to speak their minds too…… https://t.co/lOA3kavwfh
So very true: how the announcement of revivals of shows we saw the original productions of age us! Even more so when you were IN the original production, as Evie Hoskins was of the UK premiere of this Broadway masterpiece by @TheDuncanSheik & @StevenSater. https://t.co/bKuYoc8Xim
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 9, 2021
Foggy view outside my house today! pic.twitter.com/0MhN72hKHC
— Mark Shenton ? (@ShentonStage) October 9, 2021