New & Upcoming Musicals - Update
'Wind in The Willows'
One of my favourite new British musicals is coming to the West End next month at the London Palladium. 'Wind in The Willows', based on the classic novel by Kenneth Graham, tells the tale of two unlikely inhabitants Ratty and Mole. It follows their journey to save Toad Hall from the Chief Weasel and other riverbank inhabitants, along with the help of Mrs Otter, Toad and Badger. This musical was written by Oscar award winning screenwriter Julian Fellows with music and lyrics by Olivier Award winners George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. The show promises to be filled with comedy and thrills. It stars many television personalities such as Rufus Hound as Mr Toad, Neil McDermott as Chief Weasel and Denise Welch in the role of Mrs Otter. My friend Michael Larcombe, the star of the show in my opinion, makes his West End debut in the ensemble. This original score includes hit songs such as "We're Taking over the Hall", "The Amazing Mr Toad", "Wild Wooders". The production has recently opened at The London Palladium for a seasonal run until 9th September.
'Annie'
The world’s favourite family musical 'Annie' is set return to London's West End at The Piccadilly Theatre this May, with television and comedy personality Miranda Hart making her West End debut playing the role of Miss Hannigan. She is also joined by musical theatre personality Djalenga Scott. Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, an orphan named Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at a run down orphanage. Her luck soon changes when she is asked to spend Christmas at the residence of renowned billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Meanwhile, behind the scenes others are hatching a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family. Previews began 23rd May, and officially opened 5th June.
'Anastasia'
The newly opened Broadway musical 'Anastasia' has recently announced new production destinations. Among the list of many London stood out to me. The musical is based on the much loved 1997 animation film and features the well known songs "Journey to the Past", "Once Upon a December" and "Learn to Do It" along with original music by Stephen Flaherty, who unfortunately is no relation. It tells the story of Anya during the 1920s, as she journeys to Paris from the Russian Empire, to discover the mystery of her past. A suave conman and a loveable aristocrat join her; together they embark on an epic adventure to help her find her home, love and family. The Broadway stars musical theatre personalities Christy Altomare, Caroline O’Connor and Ramin Karimillo who plays the new villain Gleb a Soviet officer with the intent to silence Anya. The musical has been speculated to join the West End but had not yet been confirmed.
'Waitress'
The current Broadway smash hit 'Waitress', based on the 2007 film is speculated to be crossing the pond to London's West End this year. The musical features a score by five time Grammy Award nominated singer/songwriter personality Sara Bareilles, who is currently making her Broadway debut in the leading role. The show follows a pie maker Jenna who finds herself stuck in a small town and in a loveless marriage. When she is faced with an unexpected pregnancy, she fears she may have to abandon her dreams of opening her own pie shop. No further details have been announced.