Theatre
Preview
Theatre roundup: spring 2023
Explore shows including Ain't Too Proud, Mrs Doubtfire and Brokeback Mountain
It’s World Theatre Day, and we can’t think of a better time to shout about all the fantastic shows headed to the West End this spring. From 90s films getting the musical treatment, to thought-provoking drama starring decorated actors, there’s plenty of reason to get excited (and to finally get back out the house…). Here’s our pick of the best new openings to look out for this season.
Marjorie Prime
When: 28 Mar – 6 May
Where: Menier Chocolate Factory
In the age of artificial intelligence, 85-year-old Marjorie’s memories are fading. Luckily, her handsome new companion is programmed to feed the story of her life back to her. In this bold new production, Jordan Harrison asks: what would we remember, and what would we forget, if given the chance?
Ain’t Too Proud
When: From 31 Mar
Where: Prince Edward Theatre
The creators of Jersey Boys bring another beloved piece of boyband history to the stage with Ain’t Too Proud, the remarkable journey of The Temptations. From the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, follow the group as they rise from humble beginnings to music immortality. You’ll get to enjoy Tony-winning choreography and all of the group’s greatest hits, including ‘My Girl’ and ‘Papa Was A Rolling Stone’.
Bleak Expectations
When: From 3 May
Where: Criterion Theatre
Based on the award-winning BBC Radio 4 comedy series of the same name, Bleak Expectations is the riotous story that Charles Dickens might have written had he been a little more intoxicated. This one features a veritable revolving door of celebrity guest stars, each week bringing a new face and a new take on the life of young hero Pip Bin. You’ll be able to catch the likes of Tom Allen, Lee Mack and Stephen Fry treading the boards at the Criterion.
Doctor Zhivago
When: 7 May
Where: The London Palladium
Based on the Nobel Prize-winning novel by Boris Pasternak, this is the remarkable story of Yurii Zhivago. The political idealist, physician and poet Zhivago finds himself torn when he has to choose the life he wants for himself – one with his close childhood friend and wife, or the passionate and mysterious Lara Guishar. This spectacular production comes to the West End for one night only this May.
Brokeback Mountain
When: From 10 May
Where: sohoplace
Experience one of cinema’s most epic romances live on stage. Sohoplace premieres the new play with music this May, bringing Ennis and Jack to new audiences as they battle with their identities and find love in the most unlikely place. Mike Faist and Lucas Hedges both make their West End debuts in this tragic romance.
Aspects Of Love
When: From 12 May
Where: Lyric Theatre
It’s been 34 years since Michael Ball starred in the original West End production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Aspects Of Love. Now, Ball returns to the show in a different role as the musical prepares to dazzle a new generation of theatregoers. Following three generations of the Dillingham family spanning 17 years, Aspects Of Love examines love in all its many forms, and makes a case for how essential it is to life.
Mrs Doubtfire
When: From 12 May
Where: Shaftesbury Theatre
Fresh off a successful Manchester run, everyone’s favourite cross-dressing nanny makes her West End debut this May. When Daniel, an out-of-work single father loses custody of his children during a messy divorce, he comes up with an unorthodox way to stay in their lives… This brand-new musical comedy is set to be a big family hit, so don’t miss your chance to get your foot in the door early.
Spitting Image The Musical
When: From 24 May
Where: Phoenix Theatre
The Spitting Image puppets take to the stage this May for a raucous night of comedy, music and utter disrespect. See the likes of Meghan Markle, Greta Thunberg and Vladimir Putin appear live together for the first (and most likely only) time at the Phoenix Theatre. Spitting Image The Musical comes straight from a 5-star sell-out run at Birmingham Rep.
Groundhog Day
When: 26 May – 12 Aug
Where: The Old Vic
Another 90s film brought to life. The much-praised Groundhog Day returns to London this spring, with Andy Karl reprising his Olivier-winning role as cynical TV weatherman Phil Collins. Sent to cover the annual Groundhog Day event in the small town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, Phil finds himself caught in a time loop that forces him into a new perspective on how to live.
Patriots
When: From 26 May
Where: Noël Coward Theatre
As the Soviet Union falls and a new Russian rises, there are winners and losers, and today’s patriot can fast become tomorrow’s traitor. Patriots follows billionaire businessman Boris Berezovsky as his fortunes turn, and his position by the president’s side is ripped away. This exciting political drama stars BAFTA-winner Tom Hollander, reprising his role as Berezovsky.
Rose
When: 23 May – 18 Jun
Where: Ambassadors Theatre
Martin Sherman’s powerful play returns to London, starring Olivier Award-winner Maureen Lipman in the title role. Rose tells her life story to new audiences, taking us on a journey from Nazi-occupied Europe to the allure of the American dream. Don’t miss this enduring story at the Ambassadors Theatre this May.
Find more inspiration on the best theatre seats in town, visit out handy West End guide.
