Toby Ward-Smith (@TobyWardSmith) shares his summer essentials for MTAS.
Here is a countdown of the 6 shows that I think you need to catch this summer especially with a few closing soon…
- Bugsy Malone
Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith until 4th September
Bugsy Malone has entertained audiences for over 40 years on both stage and screen, and this second Lyric revival of the show see’s so many talented kids bring this beloved script to love with stunning choreography and singing, and witty one liners. Add in a few splurge guns, two fighting gangs and a love affair and you have yourself one of the most fun musicals around. Make sure you grab your tickets before Fat Sam’s Grand Slam shuts down in September.
- The Comedy About A Bank Robbery
Criterion Theatre
Mischief Theatre’s second West End comedy opened back in April following on from the success of the Play That Goes Wrong and it certainly surpasses it, making it the funniest show in the West End. The story is based around a group of robbers who attempt to steal a priceless jewel from the city bank leading to disastrous actions and pure comedy genius. The original cast and creators bring this hilarious story to life with brilliant one-liners, perfect comedy timing and endless slapstick moments, leaving you with your sides split.
- Showboat
New London Theatre until 27th August
Showboat sails out of the West End at the end of August meaning you need to run to see this musical magic. This revival of the classic musical in the heart of London’s West End sees a true story brought to life with colour, energy and raw grit, making it one of the most emotional shows out there. Showboat tells the story of a showboat during apartheid in America and shows the struggles of society amongst a beautiful love story with tons of raw emotion, making it not one to miss before it departs!
- Guys and Dolls
Phoenix Theatre until 21st August
Guys and Dolls opened at the Savoy Theatre back in late 2015 and due to popular-demand it transferred to the Phoenix Theatre where it has presided since late February. A classic musical set in New York tells the story of Nathan Detroit and Sky Masterson in their pursuit of Miss Adelaide and Sarah Brown, amongst the struggle of finding a location for Detroit’s crap game to go ahead. It is one of the most energetic and feel good shows in the West End and with the recent arrival of Rebel Wilson bringing new blood to the show it is not one to miss this summer before it heads off on its World Tour.
- Matilda the Musical
Cambridge Theatre
A top London show list wouldn’t be complete without my favourite West End musical Matilda. Roald Dahl’s much loved story is brought to life in London’s Convent Garden with a stunning musical score, an outstanding set, talented kids, brilliant characters, amazing choreography and of course a magical Dahl storyline! The most uplifting musical around is one you need to go and see. Luckily it is currently booking until March 2017, however if your finding the dull summer weather a put down and need to be cheered up then this is definitely the show for you and the family.
- In The Heights
Kings Cross Theatre
One of London’s newest arrivals is a hidden gem just outside of the West End where Latino America is brought together with stunning colours, music and choreography. Tony award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda has written a beauty of a musical here. It isn’t your traditional West End musical as we see a new refreshing side to musical theatre with stunning street dance and rap, however it is a real uplifting show that you don’t want to miss. This production is certainly setting of fireworks as the lights are up on Washington DC! Make sure you catch In the Heights this summer, especially if you need a boost! It is currently booking until October; an extension would be phenomenal, but just in case it doesn’t extend then make sure you catch it before October!
I hope you’ve found this list of the hottest London shows this summer helpful. And I hope your able to catch at least one of these amazing 6 shows soon and enjoy every single minute as they are all outstanding. For further information on them then read the reviews on this site with the In the Heights, Showboat and Bugsy Malone ones to come soon! Have a great summer and enjoy the sun, or what’s left of it and make it a special one with a trip to the theatre!
Toby has his own blog too which you can follow @theatrereview18 or on this link
Do you agree with his choices? Are the other shows you think are more essential summer watching? Share your opinions below, we’d love to hear from you!
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