Theatre from Tue 16 – Sat 20 Jun.

Producers Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore, Kenny Wax, Michael Wolk, Jack Lane and Leo Stages present the UK premiere production of THE KARATE KID - THE MUSICAL. Based on the smash hit Columbia Pictures motion picture, this new stage adaptation features a book by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 film that launched a 40-year global franchise, andmusic and lyrics by Drew Gasparini. The production will embark on a UK tour from April 2026, including a run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 16 – Sat 20 Jun, before heading to Toronto from September, where it will make its Canadian premiere.

Adrian Pang will lead the company as Mr. Miyagi, with Gino Ochello as Daniel LaRusso, Abigail Amin as Ali Mills, Joe Simmons as Johnny Lawrence, Matt Mills as John Kreese, Sharon Sexton as Lucille LaRusso, and Finley Oliver as Freddie Fernandez.

The ensemble includes Ambra Caserotti, Johndeep More, Ria Tanaka, Elena Breschi, Aden Dzuda, Elliott Evans, El Haq Latief, Isaac J Lewis, Emily Rose-Davis, Aaron Archer, Dylan Blake-Colbet, Serenar Douch, Esme Rothero and Sok-Ho Trinh. Adrian Pang is an acclaimed Singaporean performer whose extensive stage career spans the UK and Asia. Credits include the title roles in Hamlet and Macbeth, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Twelfth Night, The Comedy of Errors, The Grand Babylon Hotel, The Glass Menagerie, Little Shop of Horrors, Barefoot in the Park, The Odd Couple and The God of Carnage. In 2024 he portrayed Ying Ruocheng

in the world premiere of Salesman in China at the Stratford Festival in Ontario, later reprising the role at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa.
Gino Ochello, a Gibraltar-born performer and singer makes his professional stage debut as Daniel LaRusso. Abigail Amin a recent Arts Ed graduate, recently completed filming James Graham's feature film Ink directed by Danny Boyle. Joe Simmons also recently graduated from ArtsEd, with
credits including Cruel Intentions (UK Tour) and Pippin (West End).

Matt Mills' theatre credits include MJ the Musical (West End), Dreamgirls (UK Tour), Tina - The Tina Turner Musical (West End), Motown the Musical (UK Tour) and Beautiful - The Carole King Musical (UK Tour). Sharon Sexton is an award-winning Irish West End performer, best known for originating the role of Sloane in Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell: The Musical in the West End and internationally. Her extensive UK theatre credits include Donna in Mamma Mia! (international tour), A Night with Janis Joplin (Peacock Theatre), The Liza Minnelli Story (Edinburgh Fringe/UK Tour) and the original cast of The Commitments (West End). She has performed widely in concert, including performances at the Royal Albert Hall and with the RTÉ National Concert Orchestra.

The original 1984 film, The Karate Kid, starring Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso and Pat Morita asMr Miyagi was a global box office success and critical triumph, earning Morita an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The story fast became a cultural phenomenon, launching a
major global franchise that has included three movie sequels, a 2010 remake starring Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan and the hit Netflix series Cobra Kai (2018- 2025). Most recently, Karate Kid: Legends starring Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio was released in cinemas in 2025.
THE KARATE KID - THE MUSICAL received its world premiere at STAGES St. Louis, USA in 2022, playing to sold-out houses and critical acclaim.
Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this new musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations.
Daniel is the new kid in town trying to fit in until he becomes the target of Cobra Kai's relentless star student, Johnny. Underestimated and outmatched, Daniel struggles to find his footing, until Ali, Johnny's ex, sees something in Daniel that no one else does. As Johnny refuses to step aside, teenage rivalry turns into something more sinister. Daniel discovers guidance from Mr. Miyagi who teaches him that karate isn't about fighting, it's about balance, respect and that the greatest victories are won from within.

Featuring a Tony Award®-winning design team and an electrifying new score, this coming-of-age masterpiece is reimagined for the stage with stunning artistry and ground-breaking choreography. Written by Robert Mark Kamen with music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini, THE KARATE KID - THЕ MUSICAL is directed by Amon Miyamoto, with choreography by Keone and Mari Madrid, scenic design by Derek McLane, costume design by Ayako Maeda, lighting design by Bradley King, sound design by Kai Harada, projection design by Peter Nigrini, wigs and hair design by Tommy Kurzman, orchestrations by John Clancy, music supervisor and arrangements by Andrew Resnick. Produced by Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore, Kenny Wax, Michael Wolk, Jack Lane, and Leo Stages.

Tickets are on sale now and are available at http://ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

Allegra is full of life, joy and an irresistible urge to sing. She bursts into song at home, in the street and even in the local shops and cafés. Sometimes the orchestra plays only in her imagination. Sometimes it spills gloriously into the real world, much to the delight, confusion and occasional horror of everyone around her.

Lipman is incandescent as the titular Allegra. An armchair psychiatrist may well diagnose her with borderline personality disorder, or at least a mild case of bipolar – but in this story, she is portrayed simply as a woman with the unquenchable urge to bring joy into her own life, and into the lives of everyone she meets.  When Allegra first bowled down the stairs onto the impressive stage set, I didn’t know quite what to make of this slightly off-beat and disconnected performance.  It took all of a few lines for me to fall under Allegra’s spell, and I remained entranced by Lipman’s pitch perfect performance until the very last.  Lipman truly is a master of her craft and made me laugh and cry in equal measure. Every single beat was a masterclass in human behaviour – kudos to Maureen and to the show’s legendary director, Stephen Mear.

This deeply moving play takes a cynical look at a world that has lost its spark, through the eyes of one extraordinary woman who just wants to reignite it.  At the heart of Allegra’s character is unrelenting happiness and selflessness – and the story of how those around her don’t always appreciate and treasure her is one that will stay with me for a very long time.

Listen to Steven Gordon-Wilson talking to Maureen Lipman on Showtime 

The production was beautifully staged, with some brilliantly intelligent hidden secrets that are revealed throughout Allegra’s more dazzling musical numbers.  Aside from a slightly irritating lag on the microphones (meaning the first word of a fair few lines went unheard) the production quality was excellent and perfectly complemented the four outstanding actors on stage.  Final word must go once again to the seemingly unstoppable Dame Maureen Lipman who, at the age of 80, was leaping around with a nimble grace that would exhaust many half her age!

5*

Allegra plays the Wycombe Swan until 23^rd May and then tours the UK.  Tickets at allegraplay.com

Lord of the Dance, the global phenomenon that redefined Irish dance, returns to the United Kingdom in 2026 to celebrate its 30th Anniversary with an extraordinary new tour, visiting Milton Keynes Theatre from Mon 22 – Sun 28 Jun. This milestone event promises to be a grand celebration
of the production’s legacy, captivating over 60 million fans in 60 countries since its debut in 1996. Since its inception, Lord of the Dance has transformed Irish dance into a global cultural phenomenon, setting new standards for creativity and theatrical productions. Michael Flatley’s
visionary show has been celebrated as a "showpiece extravaganza" and continues to awe audiences worldwide with its captivating blend of dance, music, and storytelling. The 30th Anniversary Tour will feature brand-new choreography, stunning costumes, state-of-the- art special effects, and cutting-edge lighting, ensuring that the production continues to push boundaries and deliver an unforgettable experience.

Hailed for its dazzling combination of precision dance, powerful music, pyrotechnics, and emotional storytelling, Lord of the Dance remains a true marvel of the theatrical world. The show features over 150,000 taps per performance, with the dancers’ energy and passion promising an electrifying
experience.

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Since its inception three decades ago, Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance has achieved global success. As the creator, producer, and choreographer of the iconic show, Flatley is preparing a spectacular celebration to mark its 30th Anniversary. Though he retired from performing during his final tour in 2016, which culminated in a memorable performance at Caesar's Colosseum in Las Vegas, he has remained at the helm of the production.

Michael Flatley is set to elevate Lord of the Dance to new heights with this anniversary tour. He reflected, "The magic of Lord of the Dance lives on in the hearts of our audience, and I am thrilled to bring this iconic show back to the UK in 2026. This 30th Anniversary Tour is a celebration of the
incredible journey we've shared with fans over the years. It’s a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the spirit of dance. With fresh choreography, innovative staging, and an electrifying cast, we’re taking this show to the next level once again.

This tour is not just a tribute to our past but a bold leap into the future—a love letter to our fans and a reminder of the magic that dance can bring to the world.”

Performances run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Mon 22 - Sun 28 Jun. Tickets are available now via ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

The Ballad of Jonny and June – the Johnny Cash Musical – is currently touring the UK, and lands this week at the Wycombe Swan in High Wycombe.  It tells the story of one of the brightest and most influential relationships in music – Jonny Cash and June Carter. 

Christopher Ryan Grant brings the man in black to life on stage with a pitch perfect performance, embodying all all of Johnny Cash’s legendary swagger with a smooth velvet voice to match.  He had the audience in the palm of his guitar picking hand…  And musical instruments are a key part of the show – with the majority of the cast also picking up instruments ranging from guitars to auto harps throughout the show, and becoming part of the orchestra.  It creates a warm and inviting show, which is expertly directed to use its talented triple threat cast to tell a story with passion in its heart.

June Carter Cash is portrayed by the inimitable Christina Bianco who has wowed audiences worldwide with her comic performances, musical moments and laugh out loud impressions.  She’s a safe pair of hands for a role like this, and she totally excels in it – tackling even the most tongue-twisting of June Carter Cash’s songs with style.

Completing the lead line up, the wonderful Ryan O’Donnell as their son, John Carter Cash. His role as the omnipresent narrator means he rarely leaves the stage, and his role crescendos into something really rather moving as we move into the later part of the story – his stamina, singing voice and comic timing make John a character that it’s sometimes hard to keep your eyes off.

Steven Gordon-Wilson speaking to Ryan O'Donnell on Showtime

The three lead the piece, with a terrific supporting cast, all of whom really bring the stage to life.  The scenery does a lot of heavy lifting as well – an intelligently and creatively designed set transports us from country ranch, to record studio, via a fishing lake and that legendary prison visit.  All the while, evoking quintessential 1900s Americana. 

A few production niggles distracted from the show – misaligned projectors, malfunctioning microphones, and even a brief show stop whilst they ironed out some gremlins – but such are the woes of touring theatre.  They were handled with grace and didn’t hugely detract from the important bits – the first class performances of a story with true heart. We all left the theatre smiling, singing and knowing we’d seen something that would stay with us for a long time.

4*

Plays the Wycombe Swan until Saturday 16th May and then tours the UK – johnnyandjunemusical.com

• The Ballad of Johnny & June
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Simon Spoke with Amy Snudden

Actor, TV presenter and singer Kym Marsh (Coronation Street, Waterloo Road, Abigail’s Party) stars alongside actor, TV presenter and chef Lisa Faulkner (Missing You, The Girl Before, Holby City), who returns to the stage for the first time in 21 years, in this bold and modern reimagining of the hit 1992 movie from Columbia Pictures and bestselling book, by John Lutz, that thrilled audiences worldwide and led a generation to fear a stiletto heel!

Review: Single White Female

A 90s 'Bunny Boiler' Classic Reborn for 2026

The 90s cult classic has been masterfully transformed into a 2026 "sit on the edge of your seat" thriller. Even if you are familiar with the original story, the brilliance of this stage adaptation lies in the anticipation; you know exactly what’s coming, yet you can’t look away.

The Performance

On the night of this review, Anna Ruben stepped into the lead role of Allie (the understudy for Lisa Faulkner). Despite a few minor opening-night nerves and line slips, she delivered a compelling performance. Allie is portrayed here as a single mother to Bella, living in a flat so riddled with faults it would give a Health and Safety officer nightmares.

Allie’s world revolves around her tech career. Alongside her colleague Graham (Andrew Gower), she is working on a high-stakes project that promises to be their big break. Adding to the domestic complexity is Jonny McGarrity as Sam, Allie’s ex, who floats in and out of their lives with a surprise that further complicates the family dynamic.

The Catalyst: Kym Marsh as Hedy

To stay afloat, Allie takes on a lodger, the overly eager Hedy. Kym Marsh is nothing short of incredible. Taking Rebecca Reid’s sharp script, Marsh creates a believable, chillingly clever manipulator. As an audience member, you see her machinations long before the characters do; by the time they catch up, it’s far too late. It is a powerhouse performance that anchors the entire show.

Supporting Cast and Tech

The supporting players bring much-needed balance to the tension:

• Andrew Gower (Graham) & Jonny McGarrity (Sam): Both actors bring a lightness and charm to their roles, providing a necessary counterpoint to the growing dread.

• Amy Snudden (Bella): Definitely one to watch. She captures the emotional highs and lows of teenage life with exceptional authenticity.

The production’s use of tech is woven seamlessly throughout, providing a modern update that feels organic rather than forced. The sound design, in particular, enhances the atmospheric tension.

The Verdict

The show honors its roots—yes, the gruesome "90s shock" moments are all there (and yes, there is plenty of swearing)—but it feels fresh. The tension in Act 1 serves as a shadow for the explosive Act 2. From the moment Kym Marsh walks through the door for the second time, you’d better hold onto your seats.

Single White Female is more than just a play; it’s an experience you’ll want to relive. Oh my, indeed.

Joining Kym Marsh (Hedy) and Lisa Faulkner (Allie) on stage for the six-month tour are Andro as Graham, Jonny McGarrity as Sam and Amy Snudden as Bella. Understudies are Francesca McBride (Bella), Patrick McHugh (Graham and Sam) and Anna Ruben (Hedy and Allie). Allie is a recently divorced mum, balancing being a single parent with the launch of her tech start up. When she decides to advertise for a lodger to help make ends meet, the delightful Hedy offers her a lifeline. But as their lives intertwine, boundaries blur and a seemingly perfect arrangement begins to unravel with chilling consequences.

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Photo Credit - Chris Bishop

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Kym Marsh said: “I am so excited to be bringing this brilliant new play to theatres across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. I remember being totally gripped by the movie when I first saw it in the cinema and could never have imagined back then that I’d be starring in the world premiere of its life on stage. Get ready to be thrilled, shocked and entertained and watch out for those stiletto heels!”

Lisa Faulkner said: “I’m delighted to be returning to the stage playing opposite the utterly fantastic Kym Marsh. I got chills watching Single White Female in the cinema back in 1992 so it’s a real thrill to be part of this bold new production. I cannot wait to bring this fascinating story to life and keep audiences around the UK on the edge of their seats!"

Full of dark humour and sharp and suspenseful storytelling, this new play updates the original story to the age of social media and all that it brings, in a gripping tale of ambition, obsession, and the desperate need for belonging in an isolated world. Directed by Gordon Greenberg (Heart of Rock and Roll - Broadway, Guys & Dolls - West End, The Baker’s Wife - Menier, NYC) with Set and Costume Design by Morgan Large, Lighting by Jason Taylor, Sound and Composition by Max Pappenheim and from the producer of the hit stage adaptation of The Girl on the Train, Single White Female will captivate, shock, and explore just how far we’ll go to find – and keep – a family together.

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

🎶 Carol Decker Brings T’Pau to The Stables, Milton Keynes 🎶

Get ready for a night of iconic pop as Carol Decker takes the stage with T’Pau at The Stables in Milton Keynes — a live show packed with unforgettable melodies, powerhouse vocals, and pure 80s magic.

Simon Interviewed Carol Decker 

Fronted by the unmistakable voice of Carol Decker, T’Pau rose to chart‑topping fame with era‑defining hits like China in Your Hand, Heart and Soul, and Valentine. Decades on, their music still resonates — emotional, bold, and brilliantly performed.

This special evening at The Stables promises an intimate and electric atmosphere, perfect for longtime fans and newcomers alike. Expect classic songs, great stories, and a performance that proves why Carol Decker remains one of British pop’s most enduring and compelling frontwomen.

Horizon Radio is proud to spotlight this unmissable night of live music — celebrating legendary songs, incredible musicianship, and the thrill of experiencing T’Pau live in Milton Keynes.

🎤 Don’t miss it — a true pop classic, live on stage.

Lorne Michaels, Crossroads Live and Sonia Friedman Productions are delighted to be bringing the 2026/2027 UK and Ireland tour of the award-winning MEAN GIRLS THE MUSICAL to Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 14 - Sat 18 Apr.

Simon spoke to Emily Lane who plays Cady. 

The cast is led by Faye Tozer (Steps; Strictly Come Dancing) as Ms Heron/Ms Norbury/Mrs George, Emily Lane (Frozen, Theatre Royal Drury Lane) as Cady Heron, Vivian Panka (Dear Evan Hansen, UK Tour) as Regina George, Sophie Pourret (Elf the Musical, Aldwych Theatre) as Karen Smith, and Kiara Dario (The Great Gatsby, London Coliseum) as Gretchen Wieners.

The show also stars Georgie Buckland (The Devil Wears Prada, Dominion Theatre) as Janis Sarkisian, Max Gill (Charley's Aunt, Watermill Theatre) as Damian Hubbard, Karim Zeroual (CBBC; Strictly Come Dancing) as Kevin Ganatra and Joshua Elmore (La Traviata, Opera Holland Park) as Mr Duvall. 

Note these photos are London Cast

• MeanGirls7 Photo Credit_ Original West End Cast by Brinkhoff-Mögenburg
• MeanGirls1 Credit_ Original West End Cast Photo credit Brinkhoff-Mögenburg
• MeanGirls2 Original West End Cast. Credit Brinkhoff-Mögenburg
• MeanGirls3Photo credit_ Original West End Cast by Brinkhoff-Mögenburg
• MeanGirls5 Photo credit_ Original West End Cast by Brinkhoff-Mögenburg
• MeanGirls4.Photo Credit_ Original West End Cast by Brinkhoff-Mögenburg
• MeanGirls6.Original West End Cast by Brinkhoff-Mögenburg
• MeanGirls8 Photo Credit_ Original West End cast by Brinkhoff-Mögenburg

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Also joining the cast are Charlie Barnard, Rebekah Bryant, Michael Dean-Wilson, Savannah French, Fergie Fraser, Thomas Gotobed, Jenny Huxley-Golden, Trisha Kumar, Sadie Levett, Arjun Mudahar, Jessie Odeleye, Stefanos Petri, Charlotte Pourret, Jack Rose, Tori Louise Ryan, Lillia Squires and Jayd'n Tyrone.

Meet The Plastics – Regina, Gretchen and Karen. They rule North Shore High and will burn anyone who gets in their way. Home-schooled Cady Heron may think she knows a thing or two about survival of the fittest thanks to her zoologist parents, but high school is a whole new level of savage. When Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a queen bee without getting stung. Expect iconic characters, razor-sharp wit, and killer songs.

MEAN GIRLS, the smash-hit musical comedy based on the iconic Paramount Pictures film of the same name, had its first West End performance at the Savoy Theatre on 5 June 2024, where it was seen by over 330,000 people and played until 8 June 2025. MEAN GIRLS recently took home the coveted ‘Best New Musical’ award at the 2025 WhatsOnStage Awards. 

MEAN GIRLS had its world premiere in 2017 at the National Theatre in Washington, D.C and opened on Broadway in April 2018 at the August Wilson Theatre to ecstatic responses, where it played to packed houses. The show then went on a hugely successful US tour in 2019 and recently completed a second US tour. In addition, in 2024, Paramount Pictures released a new twist on the fan-favourite film from the comedic mind of Tina Fey with a fresh and fun re-telling of the story featuring sensational musical performances.

The musical MEAN GIRLS has a book by Tina Fey, music and vocal arrangements by Jeff Richmond, lyrics by Nell Benjamin, direction and choreography by Casey Nicholaw, scenic design by Scott Pask, costume design by Katrina Lindsay, lighting design by Kenneth Posner, sound design by Brian Ronan, hair design by Josh Marquette, musical supervision/vocal, dance, incidental and additional music arrangements by Mary-Mitchell Campbell, orchestrations by John Clancy and dance and incidental music arrangements by Glen Kelly. 

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

What does one generation owe the next?

The question at the heart of this timely new play from award-winning playwright Martha Loader (George Devine Award 2025, Bruntwood Judges Prize 2022).

Albatross encounters mighty questions of motherhood, the explorer’s soul and how to be a hero in today’s world. Its two strong central characters, sharp humour and urgent story make for a unique clash of what it means to care for those closest to us. Martha Loader’s riveting new play dives deep into these family ties and the lengths to which the climate crisis pulls them apart. 

The play blends the everyday with the extraordinary, transporting the audience to the frozen planes of the Antarctic without ever leaving the kitchen table.

Alice (Caroline Rippin), a successful Glaciologist, returns from a gruelling Antarctic expedition, to her daughter Alba and mother Eve (Agnes Lillis).  But the dial has moved in her absence - catastrophic floods, and an unexpected romance have changed the picture.  

Set across the backdrop of a flood-stained kitchen in the dead of night, Albatross explores themes close to the hearts of people who live and work across East Anglia - who already feel the harsh impacts of the climate crisis.

Patrick Morris, Albatross Director & Menagerie Co-Artistic Director.

“Living and working in East Anglia you can’t ignore the effects of climate change, with sea levels rising and coastal erosion. ‘Albatross’ doesn’t have a top-down approach though - it goes for the guts, weighing real choices that people have to make.  Then thinking about what we owe to future and previous generations, Martha takes us on an emotional roller coaster - I don’t think there’s a more poignant play to see right now.”

Simon spoke to Patrick

Martha was commissioned by Menagerie to write Albatross after being on their Young Writers’ Workshop. She began writing it after interviewing female Antarctic researchers.  So while it’s fictional, it’s deeply informed by their lived experiences. 

Martha Loader, Albatross Writer.

“I’m delighted that Menagerie are taking ‘Albatross’ on tour this spring across my home region and beyond. The process of writing this play has been an incredible experience. I’m so grateful to the scientists and academics I spoke to when researching the play. Their insight and honesty has been an integral part of creating this story of women’s roles in society in an age of climate catastrophe.”

As if to underline the East Anglian setting, the whole team behind the play live in our region.  The actors, designers, composer and writer - Albatross truly is a celebration of regional talent and world class new writing! 

Book tickets https://www.stantonburytheatre.co.uk/whats-on/all-shows/albatross/17664/

Following two sold out and critically acclaimed West End seasons, John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers – The Play “the funniest show in town” (Daily Express) comes to Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 28 Apr - Sat 2 May as part of a new UK tour.

Simon Spoke to Danny Bayne and Mia Austen

This “as good as comedy gets” production (Sunday Times) – which first opened in May 2024 to a host of rave reviews - is directed by originating West End director Caroline Jay Ranger, and stars Danny Bayne as Basil Fawlty, Mia Austen as Sybil, Hemi Yeroham reprising his role as Manuel,
Joanne Clifton as Polly, Paul Nicholas reprising his role as The Major and Jemma Churchill as Mrs Richards. 50 years since Fawlty Towers was first broadcast on BBC Two on 19 September 1975, comedy legend John Cleese, who originally co-wrote the “greatest British sitcom of all time” (Radio Times) with Connie Booth, has chosen three of his favourite original TV episodes - ‘The Hotel Inspector’ and ‘The Germans’ from series one and ‘Communication Problems’ from series two - and adapted them into a two-hour play, complete with a new finale.

Theatre goers across the country are in for a treat as this “comedy masterpiece makes a seamless transition to the stage” (The Arts Desk) to deliver “an indisputably funny evening” (Daily Telegraph), as “from the moment Basil walks on stage, the audience start laughing” (Daily Mail) whilst watching “some of the best punchlines ever written” (London Theatre). To quote Broadway World; “if you loved the original TV series, you will adore this show”.

John Cleese said: “I’m thrilled with the top-class group of comedy actors that we've assembled for the UK tour of Fawlty Towers - The Play which begins in September. September also marks exactly 50 years since the first ever TV episode was broadcast on the BBC. I never thought that all these years later the stage show would get the reception that it has. But here we are, still making theatres rock with laughter.”

The play also features other beloved characters from the original TV sitcom: Mr Hutchinson / Wilhelm played by Greg Haiste; Miss Tibbs played by Emily Winter; Miss Gatsby played by Dawn Buckland; Mr Thurston / Günter played by John Hasler; Mr Walt played by Adam Elliott; Taxi Driver/
Mr Firkins / Mr Kerr / Mr Sharp played by Neil Stewart; and Johanna and Liz (Hotel Guest) played by Josie Brightwell. Completing the company are Ashleigh Harvey playing Debbie (Hotel Guest), Ben Jacobson playing Ken (Hotel Guest), Matthew Gordon playing Mr Dale (Hotel Guest) and Raymond Rose playing Philip (Hotel Guest).

• 6. Paul Nicholas Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 10. Cast of Fawlty Towers - The Play. Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 9 Mia Austen and Danny Bayne. Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 2. Danny Bayne. Credit Hugo Glendinning (2)
• Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 3. Hemi Yeroham. Credit Hugo Glendinning
• Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 8. Mia Austen. Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 1. Danny Bayne. Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 5. Paul Nicholas and Danny Bayne. Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 7. Joanne Clifton and Paul Nicholas. Credit Hugo Glendinning
• Credit Hugo Glendinning
• 4. L-R Danny Bayne and Hemi Yeroham. Credit Hugo Glendinning

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Following a tip off that hotel inspectors may be visiting and eager to impress, Basil attempts to ingratiate himself with guests that he suspects are there to critique the establishment. The situation is further plagued by a party of Germans, the deaf and dotty guest-from-hell, Mrs Richards, whose
infuriating complaints prevent him from hiding a gambling win from his ever vigilant and bossy wife, Sybil. Together they run their hotel with a little help from the unflappable Polly, and very little help at all from Manuel, the trainee waiter from Barcelona who is the butt of Fawlty’s frustration.

Set in a fictional hotel in the seaside town of Torquay, only 12 half hour episodes of the original BBC comedy were ever made. Based on a real-life hotel owner, Donald Sinclair. John Cleese came up with the idea for the character Basil Fawlty when he stayed at Sinclair’s Gleneagles Hotel in Torquay and became fascinated with his incredibly rude behaviour.

The iconic TV show won many awards and plaudits including two BAFTAS for Best Situation Comedy and in 2000 it was voted the best British programme of all time in a British Film Institute poll.

Creative Team:
Written by John Cleese & Connie Booth
Adapted for the stage by John Cleese
Directed by Caroline Jay Ranger
Set and Costume Designer – Liz Ascroft
Lighting Designer – Ian Scott
Casting Director – Anne Vosser
Assistant Director – Denise Ranger

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

‘ALL RISE for this powerfully uplifting theatrical event’

Evening Standard

Aaron Sorkin’s riveting stage adaptation of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, the seminal American novel about racial injustice and childhood innocence that became a Broadway and West End sensation with sell-out seasons on both sides of the Atlantic, embarks on its first ever UK &
Ireland tour and will be visiting Milton Keynes theatre from Tue 19 - Sat 23 May.

Successful lawyer, Atticus Finch, encourages kindness and empathy in his children, but is pushed to the limits of these qualities himself when he resolves to uncover the truth in a town that seems determined to hide it. Set in 1934 Alabama, To Kill a Mockingbird was inspired by novelist Harper Lee’s own childhood and has sold more than 45 million copies worldwide. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Literature and was long at the top of the banned book lists.

★★★★★

‘Mockingbird soars anew in Sorkin’s blistering adaptation. SPELLBINDING’

Daily Mail

The role of Atticus Finch will be played by Patrick O’Kane in the performances at Milton Keynes Theatre.Anna Munden as Scout Finch, Gabriel Scott as Jem Finch, Dylan Malyn as Dill Harris, Andrea Davy as Calpurnia, Stephen Boxer as Judge Taylor, Aaron Shosanya as Tom Robinson, Oscar Pearce as Bob Ewell, Evie Hargreaves as Mayella Ewell, Richard Dempsey as Horace Gilmer, Sarah Finigan as Mrs. Dubose, Phillipa Flynn as Miss Stephanie / Dill’s Mother, Harry Attwell as Mr. Cunningham / Boo (Arthur) Radley, Colin R Campbell as Sheriff Heck Tate and Simon Hepworth as Link Deas, with Paul Albertson, James Mitchell, Jonathan Rubin, Cheryl Burniston, Charlotte Luxford, Oyin Orija, Tiwai Muza, Tom Brace-Jenkins, and John J. O’Hagan.

• Aaron Shosanya (Tom Robinson) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson (2)
• Andrea Davy (Calpurnia) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson
• Anna Munden (Scout Finch) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson (2)
• Anna Munden (Scout Finch) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson
• Dylan Malyn (Dill Harris) Anna Munden (Scout Finch) Gabrield Scott (Jem Finch) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson
• Evie Hargreaves (Mayella Ewell) with the To Kill A Mockingbird cast. Photo by Johan Persson
• Gabriel Scott (Jem Finch) Dylan Malyn (Dill Harris) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson
• Oscar Pearce (Bob Ewell) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson
• Oscar Pearce (Bob Ewell) Richard Coyle (Atticus Finch) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson
• Oscar Pearce (Bob Ewell) with the To Kill A Mockingbird cast. Photo by Johan Persson
• Richard Coyle (Atticus Finch) Aaron Shasanya (Tom Robinson) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson
• Richard Coyle (Atticus Finch) Aaron Shosanya (Tom Robinson) with the To Kill A Mockingbird cast. Photo by Johan Persson
• Richard Coyle (Atticus Finch) in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo by Johan Persson

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★★★★★

‘POWERFUL. IMPORTANT. DEEPLY MOVING. I wept as I rose at the end’

Sunday Express

Oscar winning writer Aaron Sorkin's stage adaptation of To Kill A Mockingbird is paired with Bartlett Sher’s visionary direction. Aaron Sorkin has had many years of great success on stage and screen. He is perhaps best known as the creator and screenwriter of hit TV series The West Wing, and as the screenwriter for The Social Network, for which he received an Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA and Writer’s Guild Award. He is also the writer-creator of The Newsroom and the author of the Academy Award-winning film A Few Good Men.

Bartlett Sher spent over ten years as Director of New York’s Lincoln Center Theater and has also headed acclaimed productions such as My Fair Lady, The King and I and South Pacific. The creative team for To Kill a Mockingbird is completed by Louisa Muller (Associate Director),
Miriam Buether(Set Designer), Ed Pierce (Design Supervisor), Ann Roth (Costume Designer), Jennifer Tipton (Lighting Designer), Scott Lehrer (Sound Designer), Adam Guettel (Original Score), Kimberley Grigsby (Musical Supervisor), Serena Hill CDG (Casting Director), Campbell Young
Associates (Hair and Wigs Designer), Laurence Belcher (Resident Director), and Tavia Jefferson (Cultural Coordinator).

The UK & Ireland tour of To Kill a Mockingbird is presented by Jonathan Church Theatre Productions in association with Karl Sydow and Tulchin Bartner. Originally Produced on Broadway.

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

The production will star Seann Miley Moore (X Factor UK; Miss Saigon, International Tour; Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Australian Tour), reprising their celebrated role as The Engineer, following acclaimed performances across an international tour that visited Australia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Singapore. The Australian dates saw the Filipino-British actor take home the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Performance in a Musical at the inaugural Time Out Sydney Arts & Culture Awards.

Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary musical is being reborn in this new UK production of Miss Saigon which welcomes brilliant new talent and recent Brit School graduate, Julianne Pundan, making her professional debut as Kim alongside exciting actor and singer Jack Kane (who has starred in Dragonheart Vengeance opposite Helena Bonham Carter, and Years And Years (BBC and HBO) with Rory Kinnear and Emma Thompson) as Chris.
Dom Hartley-Harris, recently seen in the West End as George Washington in Hamilton and on tour as Curtis Taylor Jr. in Dreamgirls, is John, Emily Langham (Singin’ in the Rain International Tour; Hello, Dolly! London Palladium; The Witches, National Theatre) is Ellen.

The cast is completed by Mikko Juan (Hulu /BBC iPlayer’s Better Things, Urinetown: The Musical) as Thuy and Thao Therese Nguyen as Gigi, Bea Ward as Alternate Kim, Aaron Teoh as Alternate for The Engineer, Jamil Abbasi, Aaron Aisoni, Daniel J Brian, Ann-Marie Craine, Luoran Ding, Ben Fenwick, Aaron Gonzales, Owen Johnston, Evita Khrime, Caleb Lagayan, Rayhan Lee, Zina Lin, James Mateo-Salt, Shania Montevalde, Ryan Ocampo, Julius Sahr, Tonny Shim, Kerry Spark, Aimee Yue and Carmen Zhu.

MISS SAIGON has music by Claude-Michel Schönberg with lyrics by Richard Maltby Jr. and Alain Boublil, adapted from the original French text by Alain Boublil, with additional lyrics by Michael Mahler and Orchestrations by William David Brohn.

Jean-Pierre van der Spuy, whose recent credits include co-direction of Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre and Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular, is the production’s Director. Chrissie Cartwright (Associate Director and Choreographer for CATS Worldwide and choreographic recreation of Phantom of the Opera, West End and North American tour), and Carrie-Anne Ingrouille (SIX The Musical) are Co-Choreographers.

Andrew D. Edwards is Set and Costume Designer (Tartuffe, Theatre Royal Haymarket and numerous productions at The Globe); Olivier Award-winner Bruno Poet is the production’s Lighting Designer (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Frankenstein at the National Theatre); Sound Design is by Olivier Award winner Adam Fisher (Oliver! Gielgud & Chichester Festival Theatre; Sunset Boulevard Savoy & Broadway); and Video Design is by George Reeve (2025 Tony Award recipient for Best Scenic Design of a Musical, Maybe Happy Ending, Disney’s Hercules and Oliver! Chichester Festival Theatre and West End); Graham Hurman is the Musical Supervisor and Sarah Leung CDG is Casting Director. Maria Graciano is Resident Director, and Jasmin Colangelo is Resident Choreographer. This new production of MISS SAIGON is overseen by Cameron Mackintosh
In the last days of the Vietnam War, 17-year-old Kim is forced to work in a Saigon bar run by a notorious character known as The Engineer. There, she meets and falls in love with an American GI named Chris, but they are torn apart by the fall of Saigon. For 3 years, Kim goes on an epic journey of survival to find her way back to Chris, who has no idea he's fathered a son.

Since its London premiere in 1989, Cameron Mackintosh’s original production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s epic musical MISS SAIGON became one of the most successful musicals in history. The original Broadway production of MISS SAIGON opened on April 11, 1991, and played for nearly ten years with its 4,097 performances attended by more than 6.3 million people. Cameron’s latest London production of MISS SAIGON opened in London in May 2014 to record-breaking advance sales and critical acclaim, followed by a UK tour in 2017. During this run, in 2016, the spectacular 25th Anniversary Gala Performance of this timeless musical, featuring appearances by the original cast, including Jonathan Pryce and Lea Salonga, took place and was filmed for television and cinema and continues to be shown around the world.

The soaring musical score features the hit songs: The Heat is On in Saigon, The Movie in My Mind, Last Night of the World and The American Dream. September 2024 marked 35 years since the show’s opening in the West End.

MISS SAIGON has been performed in 33 countries, 378 cities in 15 different languages, has won 75 major awards, including 2 Olivier Awards, 3 Tony Awards, and 4 Drama Desk Awards and has been seen by over 38 million people worldwide.

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

The producers of the UK and Ireland tour and WhatsOnStage Award-nominated musical HERE & NOW, presented by UK pop sensation Steps, are delighted to bring the show to Milton Keynes Theatre for a week of performances, from Tue 31 Mar – Sat 4 Apr.

Simon Spoke to River Medway for Horizon Radio. 

The show stars Lara Denning (& Juliet, UK Tour; Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, West End) as Caz, Sally Ann Matthews (Coronation Street, ITV) as Patricia, Jacqui Dubois (Ghost The Musical UK tour) as Vel, Blake Patrick Anderson (Emojiland, West End) as Robbie, Rosie Singha (& Juliet UK and Ireland tour) as Neeta, River Medway (RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, BBC) as Jem, Chris Grahamson (NOW That’s What I Call A Musical UK and Ireland tour) as Gareth, Edward Baker-Duly (The King and I, Broadway & West End) as Max, Ben Darcy (Pretty Woman, West End) as Ben, John Stacey (Kiss Me Kate, Barbican) as Lesley and Lauren Woolf (I Should Be So Lucky, UK Tour) as Tracey.

Simon saw the show on 31st March

Review: Here & Now – The Steps Musical

A Supermarket Sweep of Pure Pop Joy

Step into "Better the Devil" supermarket, where literally everything is happening at once. The plot centers on Caz—delivered via an outstanding performance by Laura Denning—as she reaches her milestone 50th birthday. Her loyal supermarket squad, Val (Jacqui Dubois), Neeta (Rosie Singha), and Robbie (Blake Patrick Anderson), are racing against the clock to complete a secret task before "Sunday Week," a deadline that drives the high-energy narrative forward.

The Cast & Characters

The production is anchored by a stellar ensemble. We are led down a colorful path to meet:

• Jem (River Medway): A standout Drag Queen who brings charisma and flair to every scene.

• Max (Edward Baker-Duly): The manager with a secret "French Lover" persona. He plays the villain we love to hate—he certainly deserves a boo!

• Gareth (Chris Grahamson): Caz’s husband, who grounds the show's domestic heart.

While the ensemble is strong, we definitely found ourselves wanting more "Jem time," especially after her dazzling, spotlight-stealing moment during "Chain Reaction."

The Set: A Moveable Feast

The staging is a technical marvel. The set is a "moveable feast" of brightly colored, heavy-duty industrial units. From freezers and washing machines to checkout counters and back offices, the set pieces are incredibly robust, shifting seamlessly to keep the pace lightning-fast. It’s a vivid, saturated world that feels both sturdy and whimsical.

The Music: Steps Like You’ve Never Heard Them

This show breathes new life into the iconic Steps catalog. The arrangements add surprising emotional depth; "One for Sorrow" is particularly poignant, stripping back the pop veneer to find the heart of the lyrics. On the flip side, the fun is never far away—the band donning pink cowboy hats was a brilliant touch that wasn't lost on the audience.

The Verdict

This is one heck of a camp musical with the "Steps touch" all over it. With clever plot twists and non-stop energy, it is a must-watch for anyone who knows even a single Steps track.

It’s "Time to Begin," so count me in! 5/5 Stars.

The cast is completed by Georgia Christofi, Kade Ferraiolo, Albert Green, Harry Jack, Casey Jay, Charlie-Jay Johnson, Rosemary Annabella Nkrumah, Dean Rickards, Markus Södergren, Genevieve Taylor, Jessica Vaux, and Jack Palmer.
Featuring Steps’ most beloved hit songs, HERE & NOW has an original book by Shaun Kitchener and is produced by the band and ROYO with Pete Waterman. It is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, with choreography by Olivier Award-winning Matt Cole and Matt Spencer-Smith as musical supervisor, orchestrator and arranger.

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• Ben Darcy as Ben & Rosie Singha as Neeta in HERE & NOW, credit Pamela Raith
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• LtoR Jacqui Dubois as Vel & Rosie Singha as Neeta in HERE & NOW, credit Pamela Raith
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• River Medway (centre) as Jem in HERE & NOW, credit Pamela Raith 1
• Rosie Singha as Neeta & Blake Patrick Anderson as Robbie in HERE & NOW, credit Pamela Raith

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It’s Friday night, and the vibe is right as Caz and her fabulous friends dream of the perfect summer of love. But when Caz discovers her ‘happy ever after’ is a lie, and the gang’s attempts at romance are a total tragedy, they wonder – will love ever get a hold on their hearts? Or should they all just take a chance on a happy ending…

Steps (Claire Richards, Faye Tozer, Ian ‘H’ Watkins, Lee Latchford-Evans and Lisa Scott-Lee) are the UK’s most successful mixed sex pop group of all time, with 14 top-five singles, 4 number-one albums, 22 million record sales, 500 million streams & 11 sold-out national arena tours under their belts. The band’s hits include #1 singles Tragedy/Heartbeat and Stomp, the gold certified One For Sorrow & Better Best Forgotten, the silver certified 5,6,7,8, Last Thing On My Mind, Love’s Got A Hold On My Heart, Chain Reaction, all of which will feature in the musical alongside many more. 

Steps’ 2017 comeback tour sold out all 300,000 tickets, making it one of the biggest pop tours of the year. The band have since continued to release new music, including two further iTunes #1 singles, the Sia-penned What The Future Holds in 2020 and the Michelle Visage duet Heartbreak In This City in 2022. In 2022, Steps celebrated their 25th anniversary with a headline summer tour and released the #1 album Platinum Collection, which means they join ABBA, Rolling Stones and Stereophonics as the only groups in UK history to score #1 albums in four consecutive decades.

Musical supervision, orchestrations and arrangements by Matt Spencer-Smith, set design by Tom Rogers, costume design by Gabriella Slade, lighting design by Howard Hudson, sound design by Adam Fisher, wigs and hair design by Sam Cox, make-up design by Jackie Saundercock, casting by Will Burton for Grindrod Burton Casting, Music Technology by Phij Adams and Production Management by Setting Line.

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

Sonia Friedman Productions and ATG Productions are bringing the multi-Olivier Award-winning hit musical SUNNY AFTERNOON back around the UK for a 2026 tour, which includes performances at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 24 - Sat 28 Mar.

Simon went to see the show

Review: Sunny Afternoon – The Kinks (MK Theatre)

Take a band you know, but a story you might not. Sunny Afternoon transports us to 1960s Muswell Hill, capturing the sharp threads, close-knit family ties, and defiant attitudes of the era. At its heart are Ray and Dave Davies: two brothers bound by a love for music but divided by their search for a specific sound. We see Ray’s uncompromising vision firsthand in the moment he rips a speaker cone to birth the distorted, powerhouse rock classic "You Really Got Me."

The production flows seamlessly through the band’s meteoric rise and turbulent stumbles—from navigating shady managers and finding true love to the infamous US union ban and the literal onstage brawls that sent them packing for home. The set design is clever and immersive; a recording studio framed by a "wall to wall" graveyard of amps and speakers, with props that slickly transform the space into various global locations.

Danny Horn and Oliver Hoare (both reprising their acclaimed West End roles) embody Ray and Dave with a brilliant, biting chemistry. Their sibling rivalry feels authentic and lived-in.

When the music hits—and it hits often—it is electrifying. Whether it’s a single distorted chord, a soaring melody, or a stripped-back a cappella moment, you cannot fail to be moved. The sheer talent of this versatile cast is staggering; seeing actors pick up brass instruments or watching Ben Caplan (as Eddie Kassner) having the time of his life behind the drum kit adds a wonderful layer of energy to the performance.

Even with a limited prior knowledge of The Kinks’ discography, I left the theatre immediately diving into their back catalogue (and discovered the fascinating history of the songs they sold to the likes of Sonny and Cher). Sunny Afternoon is a musical masterclass with a story that refuses to give up.

Stepping into the legendary shoes of The Kinks, Danny Horn (Sunny Afternoon, WestEnd) will play ‘Ray Davies’, Oliver Hoare (Sunny Afternoon, West End) will play ‘Dave Davies’, Harry Curley (Sing Street, Lyric Hammersmith) will play ‘Peter Quaife’, andZakarie Stokes will play ‘Mick Avory’. These four form the iconic band at the heart of Sunny Afternoon.

Returning from the original Hampstead Theatre and West End companies are Ben Caplan as ‘Eddie Kassner’ and Tam Williams as ‘Grenville Collins’, and from the original UK Tour are Victoria Anderson as ‘Gwen’, Deryn Edwards as ‘Mrs. Davies’, Joseph Richardson as ‘Robert Wace’, Lisa Wright as ‘Rasa’ and James Hudson. The company is completed by Alicia Ally, Morgan Burgess, James Chisholm, Phil Corbitt, Alasdair Craig, Dominic Gee-Burch, Kristian Jacobs, Robin Johnson, Sorrel Jordan, Jada Langley, Timothy Roberts, Georgiana Wainwright-Jones and Emily Whitby-Samways

Producer Sonia Friedman said today, “From the very first workshop we produced, when I heard that incredible music played live in the room, I knew I had to produce this show. The songs don’t just get under your skin – they live in your veins, they stay with you forever.Paired with such honest, powerful storytelling, Sunny Afternoon became one of the most unforgettable theatre experiences of my life. To see it go on to win multiple Olivier Awards,including Best New Musical, was simply extraordinary – but what really matters to me is that the spirit of The Kinks’ music and their story still connects so deeply with audiences today. I’ve missed this show, so I’m beyond thrilled that it’s back on the road, giving new generations the chance to experience – or relive – the sheer joy, energy and heart of Sunny Afternoon. Huge congratulations to the brilliant company keeping its spirit alive.”

Ray Davies added, “We’ve assembled a fantastic company to retell our story and lookforward to seeing them breathe new life into the production on tour. I hope SUNNYAFTERNOON will be a much-needed tonic for people.”

SUNNY AFTERNOON celebrates the raw energy, passion and timeless sound of one of Britain’s most iconic bands, THE KINKS. Charting the euphoric highs and agonising lows, it tells their story through an incredible back catalogue of chart-toppers,including “You Really Got Me,” “Lola,” and “All Day and All of the Night.”

SUNNY AFTERNOON was the recipient of four Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical and Outstanding Achievement in Music for Ray Davies

Set against the backdrop of Britain on the cusp of the rebellious '60s, SUNNY AFTERNOON is an exhilarating and moving celebration of the music, life, and the band that changed it all.

Following a sell-out run at Hampstead Theatre, SUNNY AFTERNOON opened to critical acclaim at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London’s West End, where it ran for two years ahead of its sensational sell-out tour of the UK and Ireland throughout 2016/17.

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SUNNY AFTERNOON has music and lyrics by Ray Davies, with a book by Joe Penhall and original story by Ray Davies. It is directed by Edward Hall and designed by Miriam Buether with choreography by Adam Cooper. Lighting design is by Rick Fisher, withsound design by Matt McKenzie and musical supervision by Elliott Ware. Musical and vocal adaptations are by Ray Davies and Elliott Ware, based on the original Kinks’recordings. Casting is by Natalie Gallacher CDG for Pippa Ailion & Natalie Gallacher Casting. Hair, wigs and makeup are by Carole Hancock. Associate direction is by Christopher Chase Carter, associate set design by William Fricker, associate costume design by Deborah Andrews, associate lighting design by Eric Watkins and associate sound design by Ken Hampton.

Tickets are on sale now and are available at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

Melting Pot and Birmingham Repertory Theatre are bringing their thrilling co-production, Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts, to Milton Keynes Theatre this March as part of a major UK tour. Led by Tom Chambers (winner of BBC 1 Strictly Come Dancing series six and Inspector Edgar Sullivan in BBC 1’s Father Brown), who will play the beloved detective Inspector Morse, the production opens in Milton Keynes from Tue17 – Sat 21 March.

Simon from 9-12 Mid Morning went to see the show.

Review: Inspector Morse in "House of Ghosts"

A Tragic Echo of Hamlet The play opens with a reflection on Hamlet: a tragic romance destroyed by madness, revenge, and manipulation. We see Ophelia driven to heartbreak by Hamlet’s erratic behavior and the brutal "nunnery" scene—a descent into madness fueled by the death of her father, Polonius. It is a fitting start to this metatheatre production, as those themes of corruption and innocent victims haunt the entire narrative.

An Original Mystery Written by the late Alma Cullen—who penned four classic episodes of the Inspector Morse TV series—this story stands apart because it is an original stage play, not an adaptation of a Colin Dexter novel.

The Cast and Chemistry Tom Chambers, no stranger to the world of murder mysteries, steps into the iconic shoes of Inspector Morse. Set in 1987, the plot finds Morse in the audience of a Hamlet production, surrounded by former associates from his past. Standing by his side is Tachia Newall (known for Waterloo Road) as DS Lewis. The two share an excellent rapport; their "on-stage" chemistry captures the spirit of the duo perfectly while bringing a fresh energy to the roles.

Misdirection and the Reveal By the end of Act 1, the play introduces the central figure everyone has been whispering about, utilizing clever misdirection to keep the audience guessing. When the "why" and "who" are finally revealed, it forces you to cast your mind back to see if the clues were there all along.

The twist—despite being subtly foreshadowed in various conversations—is genuinely difficult to spot. Even the best "home detectives" might find themselves stumped, which is exactly what you want from a Morse mystery.

The Verdict The cast is exceptionally well-chosen, portraying a range of theater-world characters who remember Morse from his younger days. It creates a compelling tension: Morse is no longer just a friend or a peer; he is now a policeman. I particularly enjoyed the "play within a play" structure, which weaves through Morse’s own lifetime.

Final Thought: Watch closely, listen carefully, and see if you can spot the killer through the red herrings—or simply sit back and enjoy the ride.

Joining Chambers in the iconic role of Morse is actor and rapper Tachia Newall (who played fan favourite, Bolton Smilie in BBC 1’s Waterloo Road, in addition to roles in ITV’s Coronation Street and BBC 1’s Doctor Who) as loyal Detective Sergeant Lewis, bringing a fresh dynamic to the beloved detective duo.

Also starring Robert Mountford (Much Ado About Nothing, Globe Theatre; The Merchant of Venice, RSC), who plays the dual roles of Lawrence Baxter and Paul Kincaid, James Gladdon (The Score, Theatre Royal Haymarket & Theatre Royal Bath; A View From the Bridge) as Freddy, Spin Glancy (Forty Years On, Chichester Festival Theatre) as Justin, Teresa Banham (A View From The Bridge, Touring Consortium; Netflix’s The Crown) as Ellen, Charlotte Randle (Vardy V Rooney: The Wagatha Christie Trial, Wyndham’s Theatre; Medea, Almeida) as Verity, and Olivia Onyehara (All’s Well That Ends Well / Richard III,RSC; The 39 Steps, SJT Scarborough) in the multi-roles of Rebecca / Harriet / Ellen.

The ensemble is rounded out by Josh Katembela, making his touring theatre debut following his graduation from RADA, and Eliza Teale (Swansea Boy, Volcano Theatre; Filumena, Theatre Royal Windsor / BKL Tour).

A chilling mystery unfolds when a young actress suddenly dies on stage during a performance, and Detective Chief Inspector Morse embarks on a gripping investigation. What begins as a suspicious death inquiry takes a darker turn when the legendary inspector, together with DS Lewis, uncovers a connection to sinister events in his own past, twenty-five years earlier.

Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts marks the first-ever stage adaptation of the iconic detective. ITV’s long-running Inspector Morse, hailed by Radio Times as ‘The greatest British crime series of all time’, has inspired equally beloved spin-offs, Lewis and Endeavour. Starring Tom Chambers (Father Brown, Strictly Come Dancing) as Inspector Morse, this original story written for the stage is a must-see for fans of compelling detective stories and thrilling mysteries.

Alma Cullen penned episodes for the ITV crime drama series, The Secret of Bay 5B(1989), The Infernal Serpent (1990), Fat Chance (1991) and The Death of The Self (1992),derived from the characters created by Colin Dexter.

Based on the novels by Colin Dexter, the hit ITV series, Inspector Morse, starred John Thaw as the erudite Inspector, famed for his love of opera, crosswords and a fine real ale. Alongside his trusted Sergeant, DS Lewis, played by Kevin Whately, the pair captivated audiences for 13 years and a total of 33 episodes with the programme’s trademark gripping mysteries, intelligent plots and memorable characters. The series became a classic of British television, earning numerous accolades and a devoted fanbase. Dexter’s characters continue to enthral audiences, with House of Ghosts marking the latest chapter in the iconic detective’s career.

Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts is written for the stage by Alma Cullen. The tour alsoreunites Tom Chambers with Director Anthony Banks (The Girl on the Train, West End /UK Tour; Steel Magnolias, UK Tour) following their collaboration on the 2020/21 tour of Dial M For Murder.

Tom Chambers’ theatrical credits include Murder in the Dark (Touring); Elf (Dominion Theatre); Dial M For Murder (Tour); Crazy For You (UK Tour); Private Lives (UK Tour); White Christmas (Dominion Theatre); Top Hat (Aldwych Theatre) Cyrano De Bergerac (Derby Theatre). His TV credits include Father Brown, The Great Train Robbery, Midsomer Murders, Casualty, Emmerdale, Holby City and Waterloo Road. Films include Fakers, Apollo13: Dark Side of the Moon and Meet Pursuit Delange.

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Anthony Banks has directed world premieres of many new plays including: The Girl OnThe Train (West End/National Tour); Jim Cartwright’s Raz (West End/National Tour) andThe Gap (Hope Mill); Lucinda Coxon’s Herding Cats (Soho/Hampstead/Ustinov); James Graham’s Bassett (Bristol Old Vic); Dennis Kelly’s DNA (National Tour); Mark Ravenhill’s Blackmail (Mercury); Nick Dear’s Hogarth’s Progress (Rose); Ryan Craig’s Games For Lovers (Vaults); Kevin Elyot’s Twilight Song (Park Theatre); Bryony Lavery’s Cesario and More Light, Lucinda Coxon’s The Eternal Not and Michael Lesslie’s Prince of Denmark(National Theatre); Snoo Wilson’s Pig night (Menier); Mark Ravenhill’s The Experiment (Soho Theatre/Berliner Ensemble).He has also directed some twentieth century classics: Daphne du Maurier’s My Cousin Rachel by Joseph O’Connor (Bath/Chichester); Patrick Marber’s After Miss Julie (Theatre Royal Bath); Patricia Highsmith’s Strangers on a Train (National Tour); Patrick Hamilton’s Gaslight (National Tour); Tennessee Williams’ The Hotel Plays; Dial M For Murder(National Tour) George Bernard Shaw’s Mrs Warren’s Profession (Bath/Chichester) and Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias (National Tour).

Anthony was an associate director at the National Theatre from 2004 to 2014, during which time he commissioned and developed 100 new plays for NT Connections.

Simon Friend Entertainment Limited and Birmingham Rep present, Inspector Morse - House of Ghosts.

Tickets are on sale now and are available at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

Producers ROYO and Curve are bringing a brand-new Made at Curve production of the West End and Broadway smash-hit musical comedy LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL on tour! The UK & Ireland tour will be visiting Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 10 – Sat 14 Mar.

The production will star Strictly 2025 finalist Amber Davies (The Great Gatsby, West End; Pretty Woman, UK Tour; Back to the Future The Musical, West End) as Elle Woods. Joining Amber will be musical theatre and TikTok star Hannah Lowther (SIX, West End; Heathers: The Musical, The Other Palace), who will play Margot and Alternate Elle Woods at certain performances.*

Nicole went to see Legally Blonde

Review: Legally Blonde – UK Tour, Opening Night at Milton Keynes Theatre

“Nearly two decades on, Legally Blonde proves its staying positive with audiences, with a fresh, Gen Z-infused energy that had millennials and younger audiences loving every minute.”

“A vibrant, modern revival that balances nostalgia with clever contemporary updates.”

“A high-energy production packed with powerhouse vocals, inventive staging and pure feel-good theatre.”

The UK touring production of Legally Blonde arrived at Milton Keynes Theatre on opening night with infectious energy, proving that nearly two decades on, this musical still packs a punch. In fact, this revival feels like a reminder of why the show has endured for so long: a vibrant, modern revival that balances nostalgia with clever contemporary updates.

From the outset, the production leans confidently into a more modern sensibility. Subtle changes throughout the show bring the story into the present day without losing the spirit audiences know and love.

Elsewhere, creative staging choices help modernise the story too such as the song Serious now unfolds in an arcade rather than the traditional restaurant setting, while costume decisions make the characters feel younger and more believable as Harvard students, with Warner sporting a collegiate jockey jacket that perfectly captures his privileged persona.

It’s these thoughtful touches that make this production feel particularly relevant today. Nearly two decades on, Legally Blonde proves its staying power, with a fresh, Gen Z-infused energy that had millennials and younger audiences loving every minute.

At the centre of it all is Amber Davies as Elle Woods, who brings undeniable star quality to the role. Her vocal performance is consistently impressive throughout the evening, delivering both power and clarity. Davies’ portrayal begins with a slightly sharper “mean girl” edge, but as the story unfolds she allows Elle’s determination and warmth to take centre stage, making her journey from underestimated sorority president to Harvard law student all the more satisfying. Plus… spine-tingling vocals!

The supporting cast bring strong performances across the board. Emmett played by George Crawford, proves a brilliant singer, delivering heartfelt moments that ground the story’s emotional arc. 

Meanwhile Hannah Lowther, who portrayed Margot, is magnetic whenever she appears, drawing the audience’s attention each time she steps onto the stage. I personally couldn’t keep my eyes off her whenever she walked on stage and together with the “Greek chorus”, it was giving Heather’s meets cutesy Delta Ni vibes. 

Midway through Act One, however, the show receives an undeniable boost with the arrival of Karen Mavundukure as Paulette. Her entrance elevates the already energetic production and from that moment she becomes one of the night’s most memorable performers. With powerhouse vocals and impeccable comedic timing, Mavundukure delivers a Paulette that is both hilarious and deeply endearing - 

Visually, the production is just as engaging. The curved set design creates a striking three-dimensional feel, giving depth to the stage while still allowing scenes to move quickly. Miniature set pieces cleverly introduce each location before larger elements glide into place, seamlessly transitioning between Paulette’s salon, Harvard Law and beyond.

And of course, no production of Legally Blonde would be complete without its canine companions. Bruiser and Rufus quickly become audience favourites, earning delighted reactions every time they appear L- easily some of the most charming scene-stealers of the night.

While the sound mix on opening night occasionally pushed the orchestra and vocals to impressive volume levels, the strength of the cast ensured the show’s humour and heart still landed clearly.

Ultimately, this touring production delivers exactly what audiences want from Legally Blonde: joy, humour and an unapologetically feel-good theatrical experience. 

Packed with strong performances, inventive staging and contemporary touches, it’s a high-energy production that proves Elle Woods’ pink-powered message of self-belief continues to resonate with audiences of every generation.

So get yourself Whipped Into Shape and head on down to Milton Keynes Theatre whilst it’s still on!

They star alongside George Crawford (The Great Gatsby, London Coliseum; Newsies, Troubadour Wembley Park) as Emmett, Karen Mavundukure (Stranger Things, West End, The Colour Purple, Birmingham Hippodrome & UK Tour; Dreamgirls, West End) as Paulette, Adam Cooper (A Chorus Line, Curve/Sadler’s Wells; Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, Sadler’s Wells; Billy Elliot, Universal) as Callahan, Jamie Chatterton (The Little Big Things, Soho Place; The Osmonds: A New Musical, UK & Ireland Tour) as Warner, Annabelle Terry (Scissorhandz, Southwark Playhouse Elephant; Hamlet, National Theatre) as Vivienne, Jocasta Almgill (A Chorus Line, Curve/Sadler’s Wells/UK Tour; Grease, Dominion Theatre) as Brooke, Rosanna Harris (Grease, UK Tour; The War of the Worlds: Spirit of Man, Arena Tour) as Serena and Remi Ferdinand (Hamilton, West End; Grease, West End) as Pilar. With Ty-Reece Stewart (Footballer’s Wives, Assembly Rooms Edinburgh; Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, UK & Ireland Tour) as Kyle and Bradley Delarosbel (A Chorus Line, Sadler’s Wells/Curve/Japan; Matilda the Musical, Netflix) as Carlos.

The cast is completed by Keanna Bloomfield (The Sound of Music; My Fair Lady, Curve), James Lim (Disney’s Aladdin, UK Tour; Clueless, West End), Aaron Shales (&Juliet, West End/UK & Ireland Tour; Fantasies Come True, The Other Palace), Jaime Tait (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, West End; Motown the Musical, West End), Daisy Twells (Muriel’s Wedding, Curve; Heathers, Soho Place/The Other Palace/UK Tour), Louie Wood (Billy Elliot; A Chorus Line, Curve), Raiaz Fisher (TINA: The Tina Turner Musical, West End; Save The Cinema, Sky Cinema), Dylan Gordon-Jones (Freaky Friday The Musical, Home Manchester), Lauren Hampton (Half a Sixpence; Hello Dolly, Bristol Hippodrome) and Ollie Hart-Bradford (Legally Blonde, Curve; Elf, UK Tour).

Amber Davies said, “I'm absolutely thrilled to be playing the iconic role of Elle Woods in ROYO and Curve's new production of Legally Blonde. As a huge fan of the film and the musical, this part is the role of a lifetime, and I am honoured to be stepping into Elle’s perfect heels. I have always wanted to work with the incredible theatrical mind that is Nikolai Foster, and I am so excited to hit the road again and bring Laurence O'Keefe's incredible score back to the UK! Get ready, Harvard... This is gonna be just like senior year, except for funner!”

The multi-award-winning LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL features original music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin and a book by Heather Hach, based on the novel LEGALLY BLONDE by Amanda Browning and the iconic 2001 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film of the same name starring Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Coolidge. It is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International.

• Amber Davies as Elle Woods (front) & cast in LEGALLY BLONDE, credit Marc Brenner
• Amber Davies as Elle Woods in LEGALLY BLONDE, credit Marc Brenner (2)
• Amber Davies as Elle Woods in LEGALLY BLONDE, credit Marc Brenner
• George Crawford as Emmett & Amber Davies as Elle Woods in LEGALLY BLONDE, credit Marc Brenner
• Jocasta Almgill as Brooke in LEGALLY BLONDE, credit Marc Brenner
• LtoR Hannah Lowther as Margot & Remi Ferdinand as Pilar in LEGALLY BLONDE, credit Marc Brenner
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Amber Davies as Elle Woods (front) & cast in LEGALLY BLONDE, credit Marc Brenner

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LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL will be directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster (Kinky Boots; The Wizard of Oz; A Chorus Line) and choreographed by Leah Hill (Kinky Boots, UK and Ireland tour; Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Curve & UK Tour; The Wiz, Hope Mill Theatre) with musical supervision & additional arrangements by Matt Spencer-Smith (Here & Now, Birmingham Alexandra & UK and Ireland tour; Dear Evan Hansen, UK tour), set design by Colin Richmond (The Little Big Things, Soho Place; The Wizard of Oz, UK tour), costume design by Tom Rogers (Here & Now, Birmingham Alexandra & UK and Ireland tour; A Knight’s Tale The Musical, Manchester Opera House), wigs, hair & make-up design by Sam Cox (Moulin Rouge, West End, Broadway and International Tour; 13 Going On 30 The Musical, Manchester Opera House), lighting design by Ben Cracknell (Clueless, Trafalgar Theatre, The Wizard of Oz, London Palladium), sound design by Adam Fisher (Here & Now, UK & Ireland tour, Evita, London Palladium) and casting by Harry Blumenau CDG CDA (Kinky Boots, UK & Ireland Tour/West End; Ride the Cyclone, Southwark Playhouse Elephant).

LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL comes hot off the heels of the sell-out tour of KINKY BOOTS, also directed by Foster and co-produced by Curve and ROYO. 

“Whoever said orange is the new pink was seriously disturbed”

This ultimate feel-good rom-com, based on the award-winning film starring Reese Witherspoon, follows Elle Woods on her transformation from ‘It Girl’ fashionista to legal ace at Harvard Law School, all in the name of love. Elle must prove she is more than blonde ambition, swap the changing rooms for the courtroom and learn that ‘being true to yourself never goes out of style.’ 

LEGALLY BLONDE is produced by ROYO and CURVE.

*Please check the website for Amber and Hannah’s performance dates.

Tickets are on sale now and are available at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

Following the exciting announcement of earlier this year, Birmingham Stage Company and Lion Television are thrilled to bring Horrible Histories – The Concert to MiltonKeynes Theatre as part of a UK Tour. For the very first time, Horrible Histories Live (and Dead!) on Stage will feature both
the hit TV songs and stars of the beloved CBBC series, a unique combination never before seen on tour.

Simon from Mid Morning Spoke with Neal Foster

Simon saw Horrible Histories.

Horrible Histories at Milton Keynes Theatre

Date: 27th February 2026

Creative Team: Written by Ben Ward & Claire Wetton; Music by Richie Webb; Directed by Neal Foster.

It is no exaggeration to say that this show breathes vibrant, chaotic life into the past. Drawing from a massive back-catalogue of over 200 songs, Horrible Histories delivers a masterclass in "stealth learning."

The Standout Performances

Richard David-Caine, portraying a wonderfully witty William Shakespeare, is an absolute blast of fresh air. He keeps the energy electric, guiding the audience through a "greatest hits" tour of historical mishaps. His comedic timing is impeccable—the "Milton Keyne-ze" quips landed perfectly with the local crowd, and his routine with Simon (Skeleton) Cowl was a genuine highlight that had the entire theatre in stitches.

This production also marks a fantastic milestone: the BBC cast finally joining forces with The Birmingham Stage Company. Seeing Harrie Hayes, Inel Tomlinson, Ethan Lawrence, Verona Rose, Alison Fitzjohn, and Neal Foster together on stage felt like a true family reunion.

A High-Octane Production

The staging is clever and effective. A massive screen dominates the backdrop, with the live band positioned front-and-center, giving the actors plenty of room to dance, act, and feed off the audience's energy. The first half flies by with incredible pace; the sheer enthusiasm of the performers is infectious. The second half allows us a shorter time but still with a high impact. The final song is simply perfect. 

The Audience Experience

Attending the schools' performance added an extra layer of magic. Watching the children’s reaction to the opening bars of "Divorced, Beheaded, Died/Survived" was a joy—they were on their feet instantly, singing along to every word (most of which they clearly knew by heart!).

As someone new to the Horrible Histories stage shows, I was surprised by how much I personally took away. From the reality of Dick Turpin to the lineage of British Monarchs, I was learning without even realizing it. Richie Webb has done a magnificent service to both history and our children by making education this much fun.

Verdict: An absolute must-see. Primary school age is the "sweet spot" for this show, but honestly? Anyone with a sense of humor will come out having learned something new.

Leading the music is Richie Webb, the award-winning composer behind every unforgettable Horrible Histories TV song. From the iconic ‘The Monarchs' Song’ to the riotous anthems that have become fan favourites, Richie joins the cast as Musical Director, bringing his extraordinary catalogue to the stage with a live band. Sharing the spotlight are some of the most recognisable current faces from the multi BAFTA-winning Horrible Histories and its spin-off Horrible Science:

• Richard David-Caine, one of the show’s longest-serving performers, also known for Class Dismissed and CBeebies’ Swashbuckle.
• Harrie Hayes, who has embodied history’s most iconic royals, from Elizabeth I to Marie Antoinette.
• Inel Tomlinson, A core cast member of both shows, from Histories’ Rameses to Science’s Big Danny.
• Ethan Lawrence, a Horrible Histories favourite and star of Ricky Gervais’ global Netflix hit After Life.
• Verona Rose, a regular on Horrible Histories and a writer-performer on Top Boy, Fully Blown amongst others and the host of ITV2’s Secret Crush.

Joining them are two stalwarts of the 20-year stage phenomenon Horrible Histories Live on Stage:

• Alison Fitzjohn, an original cast member who has toured the world with Birmingham Stage Company.
• Neal Foster, the company’s Actor/Manager and creative force behind all

• 01. Horrible Histories - The Concert cast. Photo by Matt Crockett
• 05. Neal Foster as Charles II in Horrible Histories - The Concert. Photo by Matt Crockett
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• 02. Harrie Hayes as Death in Horrible Histories - The Concert. Photo by Matt Crockett
• 13. Horrible Histories - The Concert cast. Photo by Matt Crockett
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• 11. Harrie Hayes as Boudica in Horrible Histories - The Concert. Photo by Matt Crockett
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• 12. Horrible Histories - The Concert cast. Photo by Matt Crockett
• 14. Horrible Histories - The Concert cast. Photo by Matt Crockett
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01. Horrible Histories - The Concert cast. Photo by Matt Crockett

Horrible Histories - The Concert cast. Photo by Matt Crockett

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the Horrible stage shows since 2005. Together, this extraordinary company unites the best of the smash-hit TV series with the legendary stage productions, promising a once-in-a-lifetime experience for fans. When William Shakespeare is asked to create the greatest show on earth, he knows it won’t be easy – but he has no idea how much trouble he’ll get from monstrous monarchs like King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria! Things hot up when Death appears, and now Boudica and Cleopatra want to take over. Can things get any worse? Of course they can!
Featuring a live band led by Richie Webb performing his much-loved TV songs, with guest appearances from Charles II, Dick Turpin and a bunch of Vikings barging through the stage door, Horrible Histories – The Concert promises a truly Horrible night out. Bring your singing voices for a show that will make history come alive like never before!

Horrible Histories - The Concert is written by Ben Ward & Claire Wetton, songs & music by Richie Webb, directed by Neal Foster, designed by Jackie Trousdale, with lighting by Jason Taylor, sound by Nick Sagar and choreography by Lucie Pankhurst. Executive Producers are Richard Bradley and Simon Welton, for Lion Television, an All3Media Company.

Playing Victoria Page are Ashley Shaw, Cordelia Braithwaite, Hannah Kremer and Holly Saw, alongside Andy Monaghan and Reece Causton as Boris Lermontov, Dominic North and Leonardo McCorkindale as Julian Kraster, Michela Meazza, Cordelia Braithwaite and Katrina Lyndon as Irina Boronskaya, Liam Mower, Will Bozier and Jackson Fisch as Ivan Boleslawsky and Glenn Graham, Liam Mower and Reece Causton as Grischa Ljubov. They are joined by Mark Austin, Tom Barnes Standing, New Adventures Emerging Artist Isabella Chandler, Adam Davies, Cameron Flynn, Anna-Maria de Freitas,Christina Gibbs, Thomas Ireson, Rosanna Lindsey, Callum Mann, Daisy May Kemp, Jarrod McWilliams, Matthew Potulski, Molly Shaw-Downie, Kingston Taylor, Shakiera Ward and Daisy West.

Simon interviewed Shakiera Ward 

Matthew Bourne said: “I’m thrilled to announce that 11 of the original cast of The Red Shoes, which premiered in 2016, are returning for this 10th Anniversary production, performing the roles they created, possibly, for the last time. This is something that no New Adventures fan will want to miss!

Simon From Mid Morning Show Saw the Show on 10th Feb

I think what I love most about a Matthew Bourne ballet is how accessible it is for "non-ballet watchers." The Red Shoes tells the story of a dancer forced to choose between the man she loves and her obsession with dance—a choice that proves to be fatal.

The show opens with a fantastic rotating proscenium arch that glides back and forth, effortlessly whisking us from the front of the curtain to the world behind it. The 1940s setting is captured beautifully through the hair and costumes. As we follow the company on tour through London, Monte Carlo, and Villefranche-sur-Mer, the production leans into that glamorous 1940s Hollywood musical style, blending contemporary movement with classical ballet.

We meet the formidable Impresario Boris Lermontov (Andy Monaghan), the ambitious Victoria Page (Cordelia Braithwaite), and the struggling composer Julian Craster (Dominic North). Bourne brilliantly parodies the "daily grind" of company life—from the ego of the aging prima ballerina to the rigid discipline of the Ballet Master.

The momentum builds when the lead dancer is injured, giving Vicky her big break in a new ballet commissioned by Lermontov. The transition to the South of France is a highlight, featuring a vibrant beach scene inspired by vintage holiday posters and Busby Berkeley choreography, complete with clever "swimming" and beach balls. Act I concludes with the Red Shoes premiere—a 15-minute expressionistic sequence where the story of the girl who dances to death mirrors Vicky’s own rising obsession. It is an enthralling end to the first half.

Act II ramps up the passion and tension. After Lermontov discovers Vicky and Julian's secret romance, he forces an ultimatum: "Art" or "Love." Choosing Julian, Vicky is cast out, moving from the glamour of Monte Carlo to a "deliciously downbeat" East End music hall featuring seedy variety acts and comedy camels. The toll of their cramped London bedsit and Julian’s writer's block leads to a tragic breaking point. When Lermontov tempts her back for one last performance, the tug-of-war between the two men—and the shoes themselves—leads to her famous, explosive end under a train.

I had no idea of the story before I arrived, yet I "got" it completely. The metaphors are powerful, and while I had to look up the train reference later, the emotion was crystal clear. If you love fantastic music, incredible sets, and expressive dance, delight yourself with this show—just don't put on the red shoes!

The Red Shoes was the culmination of a twenty-year ambition to bring Powell and Pressburger's seminal 1948 film to the stage. It was also, in many ways, a personal love letter to a life in theatre and dance. This production was certainly a landmark event for New Adventures, becoming an instant
classic and a beloved addition to our repertoire. I’m so happy to see it return this year, especially as our last tour in 2020 was sadly cut short by the pandemic and left many of our loyal audiences throughout the UK disappointed.

So, welcome back to the Ballet Lermontov and to paraphrase the great impresario himself… ‘It's time to put on the red shoes, Vicky, and dance for us again....’” A sell-out before its world premiere season opened in 2016, Matthew Bourne’s triumphant adaptation of the legendary film went on to win Best Entertainment at the 2017 Olivier Awards, with Matthew Bourne winning the award for Best Theatre Choreographer. The show then returned for a national tour in 2019. A timeless fairytale and Academy Award-winning movie, The Red Shoes has captivated audiences and inspired generations of dancers with its powerful tale of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page
lives to dance, but her ambitions become a fierce struggle between the two men who inspire her passion.

Matthew Bourne’s magical double Olivier Award-winning production of the legendary Powell and Pressburger film is set to a score orchestrated by Terry Davies, featuring the mesmerising music of golden-age Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann, with sumptuous designs by Lez Brotherston (set and costumes), Paule Constable (lighting) and Paul Groothuis (sound).

An intoxicating drama where life imitates art with fateful consequences, The Red Shoes will dazzle your senses and break your heart. THE RED SHOES is supported using public funds by Arts Council England.

Tickets are on sale now and are available at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes
 

West End mega-hit TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, comes to Milton Keynes Theatre as part of its first ever UK & Ireland tour.

Following a record-breaking run in the West End in 2023, James Graham's Olivier Award-winning play Dear England is now on tour, visiting 16 venues across England, in a co-production with Josh Andrews and Stuart Galbraith for JAS Theatricals. Performances run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 20 - Sat 24 Jan 2026, with tickets available now via ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

Dear England is 'gripping, moving and funny…as good as theatre gets' (★★★★ The Sunday Times). Audiences have been brought to their feet for this inspiring, at times heartbreaking, and ultimately uplifting story of Gareth Southgate's revolutionary tenure as England manager.

Heading the cast in “the decade's biggest theatrical triumph” (★★★★ Daily Telegraph) is David Sturzaker as England manager Gareth Southgate, with Samantha Womack (EastEnders, Mount Pleasant) playing team psychologist Pippa Grange.

Simon, from Mid Morning 9-12pm Spoke to David Sturzaker

Simon saw Dear England 

Dear England at MK Theatre

Dear England follows the journey of Gareth Southgate, played brilliantly by David Sturszaker. Originally intended as a temporary fix following his success with the Under-21s, the play tracks his tenure all the way through to his resignation after the Euros.

The production features a clever use of staging, with moveable props and a dynamic backscreen that allow the story to flow seamlessly from the quiet of the backrooms to the high pressure of the pitch. Along the way, we meet the FA, former England managers, and the players—including a special nod to one of our own, "Ali."

Southgate’s mission is simple: he wants people to fall in love with the England team again. We see his strategic "game plan" unfold, with Qatar originally set as the final chapter. One of his most pivotal changes was the introduction of Pippa Grange (played by ex-EastEnders star Samantha Spiro), a psychologist who helped the players navigate the off-pitch trauma of their on-pitch performances. By teaching them to lose the suffocating pressure to win and instead focus on playing well together, the narrative shifts beautifully from what happened to why it happened.

The show doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of racism in football, nor is it overly political—aside from some humorous cameos from two Prime Ministers. It isn't just a dry list of facts and figures; it is a story about the people who made those moments happen.

David Sturszaker’s performance is incredibly believable—he is Southgate. The journey of highs and lows is shared and celebrated with the audience, creating emotional moments of joy and sadness that unite the theatre community.

Verdict: Whether you are a die-hard football fan or just love a powerful human story, go see Dear England. It made me want to revisit the Southgate years with a fresh perspective.

Catch it at MK Theatre until Saturday!

The cast also includes: Jake Ashton-Nelson (Jordan Henderson), Luke Azille (Jadon Sancho), Ian Bartholomew (Greg Dyke), Jass Beki (Bukayo Saka), Ashley Byam (Raheem Sterling), Steven Dykes (Sam Allardyce), Courtney George (Alex Scott), Oscar Gough (Harry Kane), Jayden Hanley (Marcus Rashford), Connor Hawker (Harry Maguire), Tom Lane
(Eric Dier), Ian Kirkby (Gary Lineker), Jack Maddison (Jordan Pickford), Liam Prince- Donnelly (Dele Alli), and George Rainsford (Mike Webster). Stuart Ash, Natalie Boakye, Ebube Chukwuma, Sam Craig, Miles Henderson and Alex Wadham complete the company. The cast are also playing additional roles as part of the ensemble.

Dear England is written by multi-award-winning stage and screen writer James Graham (Punch, West End; Sherwood, BBC One), directed by Almeida Theatre's Artistic Director Rupert Goold (Patriots, Ink; Almeida Theatre/West End/Broadway), with set design by Es Devlin (Beyoncé's Renaissance World Tour; The Lehman Trilogy, National Theatre).

It’s time to change the game. The country that gave the world football has since delivered a painful pattern of loss. The England men’s team has the worst track record for penalties in the world, and manager Gareth Southgate knows he needs to open his mind and face up to the years of hurt to take team and country back to the promised land.

The wider creative team for Dear England includes costume designer, Evie Gurney; lighting designer, Jon Clark; co-movement directors, Ellen Kane and Hannes Langolf; video designer, Ash J Woodward; co-sound designers, Dan Balfour and Tom Gibbons with additional music by Max Perryment.
They are joined by tour revival director Connie Treves, revival movement director Tom Herron, casting director Bryony Jarvis-Taylor CDG, associate lighting designer Ben Jacobs, associate video designer Libby Ward, associate sound designer Johnny Edwards, casting associate Lilly Mackie and resident director Dan Hutton.

The National Theatre will run a year-long schools engagement programme inspired by Gareth Southgate’s ‘Dear England’ open letter that he wrote to England fans in 2021. This programme, which will prompt young people across the UK to reflect on their own place in history, just as the footballers in Southgate's squad were encouraged to do, is in response to this year being the 80th anniversary of the Second World War. It will be
delivered in schools across England with assemblies and workshops using spoken word and sound design to support students to share the hopes and aspirations they have for themselves and other young people, 80 years from now. The resulting sound archive will form a unique 2025–2026 time capsule. Students will also be invited to see performances of Dear England during the tour. This year-long schools engagement
programme is expected to reach over 10,000 young people.

Dear England was originally commissioned by the National Theatre and developed with the theatre’s New Work department. Its world premiere was on 20 June 2023 in the Olivier theatre. Following a sold-out run, Dear England transferred to the Prince Edward Theatre, in London’s West End, from 9 October 2023 to 13 January 2024, where it broke box office records. Dear England was subsequently released to cinemas through National Theatre Live on 24 January 2024 and has been screened almost 2,500 times across the UK. In February 2024, the BBC announced it had commissioned a four-part drama of Dear England based on the stage production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer, and it won ‘Best New Play’ at the 2024 Olivier Awards later that year. Dear England returned to the National Theatre in spring 2025, updated to reflect the 2024 UEFA EURO tournament and Gareth Southgate’s final chapter as England manager.

The play had its regional premiere at the Lowry in Salford on 29 May, followed by a 4-week run. This 2025/2026 national tour of Dear England is a co-production between National Theatre Productions and JAS Theatricals. It has been supported by ‘Incentivising Touring: Repayable Grants for Theatre and Dance’, a pilot scheme developed by Arts Council England to support larger-scale productions to tour to regional venues. Dear England was amongst the first to receive a share of over £2 million as part of the first round of the scheme, which creates the opportunity for more people to see high-quality shows close to where they live. Raymond James and Charles Stanley are proud to support the national tour of Dear England.

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale, and Oskar Eiriksson, in association with The Barn Theatre Cirencester, present the 2025/26 UK and Ireland tour of FRIENDS! The Musical Parody. The side-splitting musical comedy is packed with iconic moments from all 10 seasons of the beloved television series, and performances run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 13 - Sat 17 Jan 2026. Tickets are available now via ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

Review From Simon Tuck (Early Morning Breakfast)

Friends! The Musical Parody – "The One Where They Sing"

Running for 10 years and spanning 236 iconic episodes, Friends became a "staple diet" for millions. Friends! The Musical Parody manages to condense all 10 seasons into a punchy, two-hour "mega-episode" that is a total delight for fans and newcomers alike. 

As someone who isn't a die-hard fan, I found myself thoroughly enjoying the ride, though the atmosphere was definitely electric thanks to the experts in the audience who knew every line, accent, and prop reference. 

The Cast & Characters
The script gives every character a chance to shine, with characterisations that truly do the originals justice. 

• Enzo Benvenuti (Ross) and Eva Hope (Rachel) captured that classic "Will they, won't they?" energy.
• Alicia Belgarde (Monica) and Daniel Parkinson (Chandler) were pitch-perfect, especially during their proposal scene.
• Ronnie Burden (Joey) and Amelia Atherton (Phoebe) brought all the charm, with the "duck and the goose" puppetry being a personal highlight for me.
• Edward Leigh was a standout chameleon, expertly multi-rolling as Gunther, Tom Selleck, and Paolo. 

Music & Staging
The soundtrack is incredibly clever, winking at musical theatre fans with nods to Rent and Chicago—particularly a "Cell Block Tango" inspired number. But the real showstopper? "The Janice Song." Oh. My. Gawd! It brought the house down. 

The set is ingeniously moveable, letting the audience feel like they are watching a live TV taping unfold. From the first splash of the fountain to the arrival of the final orange couch, the nostalgia is palpable. 

Final Verdict
Whether you’ve never seen an episode or you’ve watched the series on loop, this show will surprise and delight you. It was "The One I Watched for the First Time," and I’m so glad I did. 

Review from Friends Fan - Nicole Read.

One word: ICONIC. Not just the 90’s TV show of Friends but also Friends the Musical Parody too - because it’s every bit comedic, musical, crazy and iconic in its own right.

As an avid Friends fan, whilst the term “parody” suggests not to take it so seriously, I had high expectations. With a TV show as famous as this, it would be hard to get it wrong.

From start to finish, I was laughing, crying with laughter and felt such joy and nostalgia watching my favourite show I’ve grown up with come to life on stage in the wackiest, over-the-top way possible (in the best way!).

I loved how the stage set was literally a TV set, bringing the audience in on the action and making us feel like the audience too (much like the show itself, where you hear audience reactions). It was a great way to set the mood for the whole show, including some fun Friends trivia.

I was surprised and amazed at how they managed to fit so many Friends moments into a two-act show — but they did. From every lyric and spoken line to the props and characters, I came away feeling like I’d watched all ten seasons.

The first act basically covered seasons 1 to 3, which I think was important to establish the show and introduce the characters for anyone who may not be familiar with Friends. Then, a clever way of speeding things up was — of course — through song, setting up Act 2 before multiple seasons were wrapped together to bring even more comedy chaos from across the ten seasons to life.

Small details like Ross’ stammer, Chandler’s famous “could I BE anymore”, Phoebe’s chaotic energy, Joey’s lovable confidence, Monica’s intensity and Rachel’s growth all came together to create characters that felt instantly recognisable without ever trying to be carbon copies.

Enzo Benvenuti (as Ross), Daniel Parkinson (as Chandler), Amelia Atherton (as Phoebe), Ronnie Burden (as Joey), Alicia Belgarde (as Monica) and Eva Hope (as Rachel) all had impeccable comedy timing and clearly studied and nurtured these characters to bring them to life on stage.

The star of the night? Janice! Aka the same actor who played Chandler (Daniel Parkinson), which took me until Act 2 to realise — because they were completely separate and unhinged in the best way. It was such a clever move to have a male portray Janice so over-the-top. I can’t get her song out of my head.

Another star of the show? The puppets… without spoilers, this was such a clever way of portraying two key characters from the seasons, and I loved the additional tap number with them and Joey (you’ll have to watch to find out!).

Special shoutout to Edward Leigh (as Gunther and multiple characters including Tom Selleck). He tugged on my heartstrings as Gunther, and whilst he’s very much a minor character in the show (which they tease and make fun of a lot), I won’t be forgetting his memorable performance and Little Mermaid-esque moment.

Speaking of songs, as it is a parody, I loved how the show nodded to equally iconic musical theatre moments — from Phoebe pulling off an Elphaba riff, to Gunther’s Ariel moment wanting to be “part of the group”, and a Chicago-style tango between Ross and Rachel. So incredibly clever and it truly scratched both my 90’s sitcom and musical theatre brains.

As a Friends fan, should you see this show? Absolutely yes. It scratched every nostalgic itch, delivered constant laugh-out-loud moments, and felt like one giant love letter to the show — with extra jazz hands. It’s packed with iconic catchphrases, clever musical numbers, blink-and-you’ll-miss-them references and moments that make you think, “oh my god, I remember that episode”. Oh, and just you wait for that finale dance… (if you know, you know) 

Whether you know every line by heart or just enjoy a great night of musical comedy, this show makes you feel like you’re right back on that sofa at Central Perk, except this time, they’re singing, dancing, and being even more ridiculous than you remember. Could it be any more fun?

Make sure you PIVOT your way down to Milton Keynes Theatre to see this show this week, because this parody is the one where you laugh non-stop, leave humming the songs and immediately want to rewatch all ten seasons again.

Listen to the interview with Ronnie who plays Joey

The iconic characters will be played by Enzo Benvenuti (The Devil May Care; Southwark Borough Playhouse) as Ross, Alicia Belgrade (GREASE; UK & Ireland Tour) as Monica, Daniel Parkinson (Jersey Boys; Trafalgar Theatre) as Chandler, Eva Hope (Snow White and the Seven Elves) as Rachel, Ronnie Burden (GREASE; Royal Caribbean Cruise Line) as Joey, Amelia Atherton (SIX The Musical; Vaudeville Theatre) as Phoebe and Edward Leigh (Shrek; Apollo Theatre Hammersmith) as Gunther, Tom Selleck and Paolo. The cast is completed by Lottie Lester and Meg Darcy as Female Ensemble Covers, Jared Thompson and Harry Mallaghan as Male Ensemble Covers. 

• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• FRIENDS! The Musical Parody
• One with Ronnie Horrizon

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Creative team includes Director Michael Gyngell, Books & Lyrics by Bob and Tobly McSmith, Music by Assaf Gleizner, Set and Lighting Design by Andrew Exeter, Sound Design by Chris Whybrow, Costume Design by Jennie Quirk, Wigs, Hair and Make-up Design by Craig Forrest-Thomas, Music Supervisor by Mark Crossland and Music Arranged by Charles Olins.

FRIENDS! The Musical Parody is produced by Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale, and Oskar Eiriksson under license from Theatre Mogul. Originally produced in New York City by Lynn Shore Entertainment, Theater Mogul and McSmith Family Entertainment. 

Book your tickets now at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

Milton Keynes Theatre announced earlier this year that pantomime legend Brian Conley will return as Billy Barnum to lead this year’s cast in the magical circus-themed Goldilocks and the Three Bears from Sat 6 Dec - Sun 11 Jan 2026. He’s joined by Lucy Conley, who stars as Goldilocks along with renowned dame David Robbins as Dame Betty Barnum, panto villain Gary Milner as Baron Von Blackheart, magician Phil Hitchcock as The Magical Mysterioso, and (direct from Zippo’s Circus) The Timbuktu Tumblers.

Dawn Tuck went to see this and said

🌟 Goldilocks and the Three Bears: A Triumph of Panto Magic!

This production is a lively, joyful explosion of classic pantomime spirit, successfully blending humor, excitement, and genuine warmth for a perfect family outing.

A Panto Dynasty: The Father-Daughter Duo

The true heart of the show lies in the fantastic casting of the father-daughter duo, Brian and Lucy Conley. Their real-life connection translates into a wonderfully warm and authentic stage chemistry that anchors the performance.

• Brian Conley (as Billy Barnum): Brian is the undisputed master of ceremonies. His naturally quick wit and effortless stage presence are superb, driving the story forward with perfectly timed jokes and countless throwaway lines that keep the audience roaring.

• Lucy Conley (as Goldilocks): Lucy shines brightly as Goldilocks, bringing a modern sensibility, energy, and charm to the role. She captures Goldilocks’ playful curiosity while balancing the show’s comedic chaos with genuine sweetness.

Standout Performances & Circus Thrills

The supporting cast is equally brilliant, delivering exactly what panto fans crave:

• David Robbins (as Dame Betty Barnum): Robbins is a sensation! He provides everything audiences love in a panto dame—impeccable comic timing, outrageous costumes, and fantastic rapport with the crowd, keeping the energy levels sky-high.

• Gary Milner (as the Evil Ringmaster): Milner is delightfully wicked. He relishes the audience's boos, making a flamboyant entrance in every scene. His dramatic performance, punctuated by hilarious physical comedy (like a face full of spat-out apple!), adds necessary drama while keeping the mood light.

• Magical Mysterioso (Phil Hitchcock): Magician Phil Hitchcock is truly impressive. His illusions are seamlessly woven into the narrative, creating moments of pure wonder for the younger audience members.

The show is further elevated by the incredible talents of The Timbuktu Tumblers. Their acrobatic skills and dynamic circus routines provide thrilling bursts of energy and authenticity, fitting perfectly with the pantomime's comedy and storytelling.

VERDICT: This production is a must-see. It's an unforgettable, fun experience for families and dedicated panto enthusiasts alike.

For five weeks only, Milton Keynes Theatre will be transformed into a sensational circus, where everything is possible, and anything could (and will) happen. This festive extravaganza will be packed with riotous comedy, extraordinary special effects, hair-raising stunts, and awe-inspiring circus acts!

Goldilocks’ circus is under threat from an evil rival circus owner and, with the help of their circus friends, they’re battling to rescue their Big Top from ruin. Will they succeed? All seems lost, until three brilliant bears join the gang…

Emma Sullivan, Theatre Director at Milton Keynes Theatre, said:

“Two years ago, audiences adored the on-stage chemistry and comedy banter between panto legend Brian Conley and his daughter Lucy, so we are beyond thrilled to be once again welcoming back not one but two members of the Conley family for this year’s festive season!

David Robbins, Gary Milner, Phil Hitchcock, and the rest of this fantastic cast will ensure there is a perfect mix of speciality circus acts and traditional panto fun: all the ingredients we need for Goldilocks and the Three Bears to be the greatest panto on earth!”

• Brian Conley
• Lucy Conley
• David Robbins
• Phil Hitchcock
• The Timbuktu Tumblers
• Gary Milner
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks Launch at MK Theatre
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024
• Goldilocks at Bristol Hippodrome 2024

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Goldilocks and the Three Bears runs at Milton Keynes Theatre from Sat 6 Dec 2025 until Sun 11 Jan 2026. Full casting is to be announced later in the year. There will be a range of Audio Described, Captioned, BSL interpreted and relaxed performances throughout the season.

The official charity partner for this year’s pantomime is the Milton Keynes Community Foundation (MKCF), which means that the generous donations made during the panto season will go directly into MKCF’s Community Fund, ensuring that local charities and community groups across Milton Keynes benefit through vital grant opportunities.

Book your tickets today at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes and be swept away by a pantomime spectacular that’s just right!