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As seen on TV: the best ways to celebrate the small screen without staying home
Step inside your favourite TV show with these eleven special events bringing the small screen to life
Ever wanted to take a seat in P.T. Barnum’s big top? Grab a coffee in Central Perk? Explore the oceans with Steve Backshall? Investigate the mysteries of Hawkins, Indiana? We’ve rounded up all the places you’ll want to be to get a dose of TV magic. From big names on tour to theatrical adaptations of beloved shows, there’s plenty of action to be found away from your screens as well – with no risk of square eyes.
Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular
Inspired by the 2017 film, Come Alive! invites fans into the world of Barnum’s circus, with international circus talent performing a brand new story, in the immersive setting of the Big Top at the Empress Museum. The show will include many of Pasek and Paul’s fan-favourite songs from the film, including ‘A Million Dreams’, ‘Rewrite the Stars’ and ‘This Is Me’. It promises to be a live experience unlike any other – this is definitely one you won’t want to miss.
National Television Awards
There’s no better way to celebrate all your favourite shows at once. Join all of the UK’s brightest TV stars at the O2 on 11 September for the country’s biggest television awards show, voted for by the public. There’s even an option to get red carpet access and watch all the stars arrive – definitely not one to miss if you’ve been waiting for your chance to see Ant and Dec in the flesh.
The Friends Experience
Sitting down in Central Perk for a coffee is a dream no longer. The Friends Experience is about as immersive as it gets, recreating every iconic set piece from Monica’s purple apartment to the infamous “PIVOT” staircase. It’s the cheapest trip to New York you’ll ever take – and the perfect opportunity to find out if those BarcaLoungers are really as comfy as they look.
Ben Fogle – WILD
Television’s Ben Fogle hits the road in March and April 2025 to share his wildest stories and impart lessons learnt from his interactions with animals and people alike. The host of Animal Clinic promises hope, positivity and inspiration – exactly what audiences have come to expect from Fogle. His tour kicks off in Inverness on 2 March 2025, with tickets available now.
Fawlty Towers – The Play
One of the most beloved British comedies of all time has a new lease of life thanks to a stage adaption from John Cleese. Basil Fawlty, Sybil and the rest of the cast are back for more mishaps and misunderstandings as they attempt to keep their hotel up and running – against the odds. Fawlty Towers – The Play is currently booking until 4 January 2025 at the Apollo Theatre. You can currently get up to 32% off on select seats to Fawlty Towers – The Play at the West End’s Apollo Theatre – valid on all performances from 28 August 2024 to 31 October 2024, excluding Friday and Saturday performances. This offer expires at 23:59 on Monday 30 September 2024. You can find T&Cs here.
Steve Backshall – Ocean
TV presenter Steve Backshall has helped millions of children and adults better understand and appreciate the world around them – now he’s taking us on a trip to another world entirely. The Deadly 60 host’s new show, Ocean, is a love letter to the most exciting environment on our planet, and a lesson in what we can do to protect it. Backshall will be touring Ocean around the UK this October and November.
Simon Reeve: To The Ends Of The Earth
Adventurer and TV presenter Simon Reeve has recorded over 100 documentary episodes about his travels around the globe. His new show, To The Ends Of The Earth, sees him sharing stories from his myriad of adventures, and motivating audiences to get out of their comfort zone and embrace the great outdoors. He’s touring across the UK this autumn, kicking things off in Cardiff on 20 October.
Bluey’s Big Play
If you’ve got some small fans of a fun-loving blue dog, then this couldn’t come better recommended, with the Guardian calling it “a glorious celebration of everything you love about the show.” Expert puppeteers bring Bluey and friends to life in this acclaimed piece of family theatre, playing in Southampton and Dublin this August.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Back before Mike and Eleven were investigating the Upside Down, an evil still lurked in Hawkins… Fans of the Netflix phenomenon won’t want to miss this blockbuster adaption, which delighted critics across the board and won Best Entertainment at the Olivier Awards. Stranger Things: The First Shadow is currently booking at the Phoenix Theatre until early February 2025.
Dr Rangan Chatterjee – The Thrive Tour
As BBC Breakfast‘s resident doctor and host of Doctor In The House, Dr Rangan Chatterjee has more than a degree of experience in educating the general public about their health. His new show, Thrive, takes it a step further, inspiring audiences to make changes that actually last and take steps to achieve optimal wellness. He’ll be touring the UK in March 2025.
James Martin Live
Celebrity chef James Martin is back on the road following four sell-out tours, ready to bring mouth-watering food to venues across the UK. His new live show will see him sharing recipes, skills and experiences with his audience, with all the warmth and wit that fans have come to expect. Catch him at a venue near you this February and March 2025.
Jason Fox: Life At The Limit
The presenter and former UK Special Forces soldier both charmed and awed audiences on SAS: Who Dares Wins and The Final Mission: Foxy’s War. He’ll be bringing that unique combination to the live stage this winter, as he tours his new live show, Life At The Limit. Catch him sharing his life story onstage across the UK this January and February 2025.
