Theatre Reviews

The English National Ballet’s Nutcracker at the Coliseum

It really does feel like Christmas when The Nutcracker comes on at the Coliseum. Everything must be alright with the world when the English National Ballet are dancing their heart out on the London stage.

The production is a lovely occasion for dancers, orchestra and audiences alike and you can see that absolutely everybody is having fun.   It’s a Christmas treat for everybody with an eclectic audience running from little girls in their fairy outfits to seasoned ballet goers. From the moment that Drosselmeyer, the owner of the magic toyshop, leapt onto the stage to open the doors, we were all entranced.   Fantastic, spectacular, fun, exuberant were all words that came to mind but most of all it was a really joyful experience.  I took my daughter to her first ballet and she was completely converted from someone who thought that classical music and dancing weren’t for her to just having a great time.

For those who don’t know the story, it’s loosely based on an old fairytale written by the German romantic E.T.A Hoffman. The story tells how the magician, Drosselmeyer, makes a little girl, Clara’s, Christmas present, a Nutcracker, come to life and we follow their adventures one magical Christmas Eve night.  

The first half has a wonderfully funny family party and a lovely set piece with Jack Frost and a host of dancing snowflakes.   My daughter’s favourite bit was the snowflakes appearing from the fridge- don’t ask, it would take too long to explain.  You’ll just have to go and see it! The second half is a series of set pieces in the Kingdom of the Sweets including the famous dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.  Throw in a battle with the Mouse King and a flight through the clouds and you have an enduring Christmas classic.

As the programme says, “This year, it was Clara’s turn.  Next year, maybe Drosselmeyer will find your house and take you on a magical adventure...”

ALADDIN REVIEW AT THE KINGS DEC 2008

You won't be disappointed if your going to see Aladdin this year at the Kings Theatre in Edinburgh. The great team of Allan Stewart and Grant Stott areback as the stars of the show proving yet again how well they work together with their quick witted banter.

This Pantomine has something for everybody young and old. Its full of good humour and songs making lots of topical local references including digs about the tram works and of course Hibs! Great recognisable music including to the delight of my daughter High School Musical and The Proclaimers!

The highlight for us was the amazing 3D effects. They worked really well and even the off the cuff casual remarks to put the 3D glasses on and off fitted smoothly into the show! Once the glasses were on everybody was ducking and diving from bats and spiders, rocks and various objects and of course the Genie, all flying around the theatre, all almost in touching distance! The whole audience were screaming with delight and surprise!

The energetic cast worked well together in this glittering spectacle. With stunning colourful costumes and scenery, great witty remarks and songs you are guaranteed as we did to leave the performance with a great feel good factor.

Highly recommended show.

Comments from the young reviewers:

Lottie age 8 – The 3D in the caves were amazing – I really thought the bats were coming to me!

Donald age 6 – I loved booing at Abanazar - he reminded me a bit of Darth Vader!

Sleeping Beauty

Once again, the Brunton Theatre in Musselburgh has produced a wonderfully festive pantomime, that is suitable for all the family, from the very young to the very old!  This is the story of Sleeping Beauty, but not exactly as we all know it: it is set in Musselburgh, and Sally (sleeping beauty) is getting ready to celebrate her 18th birthday.  However, the Wicked Witch of the Glens, Grizzlebone, is out for revenge on her beautiful neice, and an evil spell is all it will take. Luckily for Sally, her aunt, Nanny Nellie, and Daft Jamie are on hand to help keep her safe. And of course, there is the handsome Prince Duncan to hopefully save the day!

The cast are fantastic, and all of them have a great deal of experience in both panto and mainstream theatre. They have a hilarious script, with plenty to appeal to the various age groups, and the ‘dame’s costumes are a scream in themselves. The Brunton Theatre is a relatively small theatre, which provides a very friendly, family atmosphere, and certainly ensures that everybody feels – and will be! – involved in the show. There are lots of fun songs to join in with, and plenty of shouting at the baddies and cheering the goodies.

My eldest daughter, Ellana, went to see this show with her Brownie pack. She came home bubbling with excitement about it, and is still enjoying re-telling some of the funny moments even two weeks later. I took my middle child with me – Amelie, aged 6 – and she loved Daft Jamie who kept the crowd entertained during stage changes, and had a great rapport with the audience. She thought the story was very funny, and loved joining in with the shouting, even though she is normally very quiet and reserved. I must confess, I felt as though I laughed through the whole evening, but partly because the ‘dame’ so closely resembled my mother-in-law! Both girls are desperate to see the show again, and I must confess I’m tempted … perhaps I’ll take mother-in-law too?

Sleeping Beauty is showing at the Brunton Theatre in Musselburgh until Sat 3rd Jan. It has both matinee and evening performances. Parking by the theatre is extremely easy, and the theatre is well served by buses.

Price: Off peak £13 (£10), £44 family of 4. Peak £15 (£12) £52 family of 4

Telephone Box Office for further details or to book on: 0131 665 2240

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Lyceum Theatre

28 November 2008 – 3 January 2009

At a time when all seems drab, depressing and bleak, it’s a treat to bespirited into a magical, fantasy world, which is exactly what happens in this production at the Lyceum Theatre.  However, Narnia is not a benevolent fairy tale kingdom, but the battle-ground between the forces of good and evil, where our young heroes are forced to take sides and fight for their survival.

Those who are familiar with C.S. Lewis’s well-loved book, or the recent film adaptation, will know the story well.  Four children, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are evacuated to the country during the Blitz.  While exploring the huge mansion of their host, the eccentric Professor, they discover a wardrobe that transports them to the magical land of Narnia – a world of snow and ice, dwarves, fauns, a wicked witch, talking animals and of course, magic.

In Narnia, they discover that the evil White Witch has a cast a spell, reducing the magical land to a perpetual state of winter - but never Christmas.  She has taken their brother Edmund prisoner and intends to kill him to prevent the children from fulfilling the prophecy that they will become rulers of the kingdom.  Together with their new-found friends, the curiously accented Mr and Mrs Beaver, the remaining children must find the lion Aslan, the rightful ruler of Narnia, rescue their brother and restore order to the kingdom.

This is a delightful production, both entertaining and enthralling.  Although far removed from the jollity and frivolity of a traditional Christmas pantomime, it has many magical elements.  The snowscene world of Narnia is straight from a Christmas card, and there is even an appearance from Father Christmas.

The relationships between the children are finely drawn, with particularly moving performances from Amy McAllister as the wide-eyed Lucy and Neil Thomas as the troubled middle child Edmund, who betrays his family but is finally redeemed by his heroic actions.

And while the story is full of spellbinding action and adventure, there is plenty of humour and lighter moments.  There is excellent physical comedy from the ensemble, especially from the affectionate Beavers, the skittish faun and the grotesquely cringing Dwarf (Owain Rhys Davies).  Meg Fraser as the Witch Witch, a combination of Jennifer Saunders and Miranda Richardson, is both evil and comically unhinged.

I took my 5 year old and 7 year old daughters who were entranced throughout.  There were moments in the second half, however, when even my normally unflustered eldest daughter gripped my arm tightly and confessed to being a little frightened.  (My younger daughter had long since made herself comfortable on my knee.)

The show, ideal for slightly older children, also has a lot for accompanying adults to enjoy, and makes a thrilling escape from the real world for a couple of hours.

I really enjoyed the show.  I especially loved the Lion, because he was very loud and scary.  The witch was scary too but she had a brilliant sledge."  Amelia, age 5.

"I liked all the acrobatics and the dancing from the Dwarf and the Beavers.  I liked all the funny creatures, but it was much scarier than the film."  Josephine, age 7.

Sunshine on Leith ; Written by Stephen Greenhorn, Music by The Proclaimers

Edinburgh Festival Theatre : 5th Dec 2008 thru 3rd January 2009

This must see musical is packed with hits from the Proclaimers. Performed by Dundee Rep’s award winning ensemble, this is a superb, fun and deeply moving nights entertainment.

Sunshine on Leith follows the highs and lows of Ally and Dave as they return to Leith and civilian life after leaving the army.

But they soon discover that relationships and life in Leith are not all plain sailing in this truly exceptional love story about everyday life in Scotland.

Sunshine on Leith is a fantastic extravaganza of live music with a string of hits like I’m Gonna Be, I’m on my way, Letter from America and Sunshine on Leith to name just a few.

Broad in comedy and sentimentality, Sunshine on Leith begins on the Afghan battlefields with a band of Squaddies singing about the imminence of death. The first act ends with a drunken brawl and a very unromantic version of Hate my Love.

The scene portraying Nurses driven insane by ‘efficiency targets’ in the NHS culminates in a rendition of Everybody’s a Victim.

Greenhorn throws in some very clever surprises, such as the all-male rendition of  ‘Lets get Married’ performed in  the Hibs supporting, Easter Road based Persevere Bar.

The tale of two returning soldiers finding their feet back in Leith has strengths and weaknesses. However, mixed with the creative and emotional songs of The Proclaimers it make for a truly entertaining show well worth walking 500 Miles for.

Milkshake! Live in my first concert

“OK I will come” I said to my Mum.  My little cousin Amelia wanted to see ‘Milkshake Live’. She is only three and I’m nine but I thought “No I shall just have to tag along”.   I mean if Charlotte can go then so can I, Oh Charlotte is Amelia’s big sister, she is twelve.

So off we went down to Tunbridge Wells to the Assembly Halls Theatre.   I was secretly getting excited but I didn’t tell anyone.   I mean, come on I’m nine and Milkshake is for little kids, right?!   WRONG!   From the minute the curtain went up it was non stop, singing and dancing.

This show is fab….and the best bit of all was there is a really cool story that went with the show. Everyone from Peppa Pig and George to Noddy, Rupert Bear, Mr Men, the Little Princess and not forgetting Fifi, all played a role im putting together a wonderful, if not fabulous concert.  We sang to all the songs and did all the actions.  I think I enjoyed it more than Amelia. So it does not matter how old or young you are, this show is for everyone, even my Mum and Aunt, was having a sing-along!

By Andi Lewis

This is a review of Beauty and the Beast showing at the Olympia Theatre, Dublin

A must see production, this UK produced family show is superb with a full professional cast and sumptuous costumes and sets making it a must for all Disney musical lovers.   A Top Class Show!

Beauty and The Beast at the Olympia Theatre for a Limited run from Wednesday 23 July - 31 August. Doors 7.15pm, show starts at 8pm sharp.

No show on Sunday 28 July and Monday 4 August

Booking: Tickets from €27.00 are available from Ticketmaster Desk, Dublin Tourism, Suffolk Street and other outlets nationwide. Also on line: http://www.ticketmaster.ie

'HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL’ LIVE ON STAGE!

FROM EAST END TO EAST HIGH! LETITIA DEAN JOINS CAST OF DISNEY’S ‘HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL’ LIVE ON STAGE!

Letitia Dean will play the role of Ms Darbus in the new stage musical based on the smash-hit Disney Channel Original Movie HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, which runs at the Hammersmith Apollo London from June 28 to August 31.

Letitia is probably best known for her long-running portrayal of Sharon Watts in BBC One’s EastEnders and for her recent hugely popular run in TV’s Strictly Come Dancing (she came fourth in December 07) and the subsequent live arena tour of the show.  She will be playing the eccentric and passionate drama teacher, Ms Darbus in the London stage version of the phenomenon.  Commenting on her casting she said:

“I am absolutely delighted to be playing Ms Darbus. She has a great love of theatre and the arts and adores her pupils and wants them to succeed. She’s firm but fair and takes no nonsense.

Musical theatre is my first love and this will be the first time I have been on a musical stage since I was in Annie when I was 13. I grew up with Judy Garland and Calamity Jane so this is a joy for me and I loved dancing in Strictly Come Dancing.

My street cred has shot up with friends’ children – forget anything else I have done! - and they all want to come and see me in High School Musical. I am really happy to be involved in a family show and I am looking forward to seeing all those kids’ faces. It feels a big responsibility as I know for many of them it will be the first time they have been in a theatre. It’s going to be a wonderful challenge but I can’t wait.”

Letitia’s other TV credits include The Hello Girls, Casualty and Grange Hill, theatre credits include Present Laughter at the Birmingham Rep and a national tour of Loot and on screen in England, My England.

Adam Spiegel, for producers Stage Entertainment UK, said

“We are delighted to be working with Letitia, the public absolutely adore her and we know she will make a fantastic Ms Darbus.  We’re also so pleased that she will be appearing in what we hope will be one of this summer’s must see events in London.”

Already a global phenomenon as a smash-hit TV movie, a quadruple-platinum soundtrack, a best-selling book and a chart-topping DVD, Disney’s HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL is now set to be a summer stage blockbuster.

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, produced by Stage Entertainment in co-operation with Disney Theatrical Productions, is currently on a UK tour with one of the biggest advances in British theatre touring history.  A second UK production will be mounted for a nine week summer season at London’s Hammersmith Apollo commencing 28 June 2008.  Letitia joins an entirely new cast and a production designed specifically for the venue for this London production of HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, set to be one of the city’s hottest tickets for families this summer.

The stage adaptation of the smash-hit musical Disney Channel Original Movie features a book by David Simpatico (adapted from the original movie script by Peter Barsocchini), and a score including all songs from the original chart-topping soundtrack, including the UK hit singles Breaking Free and We’re All In This Together, plus two new numbers.  The production will be directed by Jeff Calhoun, whose credits include the award-winning Broadway revivals of Grease and Big River.  The creative team will also include the original US production’s choreographer Lisa Stevens and other members of the American production team.

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL is a contemporary musical comedy about Troy, a popular high school basketball star, and Gabriella, a shy, academically gifted newcomer, who discover they share a secret passion for singing.  When they sign up to audition together for the lead roles in the school musical it threatens East High's rigid social order and sends their peers into uproar.  In an attempt to maintain the status quo, the ‘jocks’ and ‘brainiacs’, and even the drama club regulars, are soon hatching convoluted plans to separate the pair and keep them offstage.  Defying expectations and taking a chance on their dreams, and each other, the couple inspires the other students to go public with some surprising hidden talents of their own.

For booking details, venue information, additional dates and lots of fun facts go to www.HSMonstage.co.uk

Performance details

Ticket hotline 0844 847 2397

Online at www.HSMonstage.co.uk

28 June – 31 August 2008

Tuesday – Saturday at 7.30pm

Matinees Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 3pm

Tickets from £10 - £45 and an access rate of £10 across all performances

Show running time 2 hours 10 minutes with a 20 minute interval

DISNEY THEATRICAL GROUP (DTG) Operates under the direction of Thomas Schumacher and is among the world’s most successful commercial theatre enterprises.  DTG produces or licenses live entertainment events that reach a global annual audience of over 20 million people in more than 40 countries.  DTG produces and licenses Broadway musicals around the world, including Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, Elton John & Tim Rice’s Aida, TARZAN® , Mary Poppins, a co-production by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh. The London production of The Lion King is now in its 9th triumphant year at London’s Lyceum Theatre.  In 2007 Disney Theatricals launched the professional touring stage version of Disney’s High School Musical.  Also in 2007, led by director Francesca Zambello, some of the theatre’s most innovative artists gathered to create The Little Mermaid, with a score by eight-time Academy Award® winner Alan Menken and the legendary Howard Ashman, with new lyrics by Glenn Slater.  After a successful pre-Broadway try-out in Denver, The Little Mermaid opened on Broadway in December 2007.  DTG also delivers live entertainment around the world through its license to Feld Entertainment, producer of Disney on Ice and Disney Live!  including High School Musical: The Ice Tour and Playhouse Disney Live! both of which launch this autumn.  In addition, DTG licenses musical titles for local school and community theatre productions through Music Theatre International.

DISNEY CHANNEL

Disney Channel, part of the Disney-ABC Television Group, known for its unique, quality entertainment, airs hit shows such as the top-ranking, animated series Disney’s Kim Possible, live action shows like Hannah Montana and Disney Channel Original Movies such as High School Musical.  Playhouse Disney is the home of fun, learning-based entertainment that engages the minds and imaginations of pre-schoolers with shows like My Friends Tigger and Pooh and Disney’s Little Einsteins. Disney Cinemagic is a premium channel brand, offering family programming featuring classic Disney animated movies.

STAGE ENTERTAINMENT The relationship between Disney Theatrical Productions and STAGE ENTERTAINMENT began with their first international production of Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida in 2001 in Holland.  Since then, the companies have mounted six Disney musicals that have played to an audience of over 10 million people in Germany and Holland alone.  Disney/Stage Entertainment shows have grossed over $400 million in ticket sales.  In addition to High School Musical, Stage Entertainment currently has four other Disney productions in their theatres, including The Lion King in its fifth year in Germany, The Lion King in Paris, Beauty and the Beast on tour in Germany and Holland, Aida on tour in Germany and TARZAN® in Holland with a German production scheduled for 2008.  As well as High School Musical, Stage Entertainment’s current UK credits include the West End hit Hairspray and the live touring version of Strictly Come Dancing.  It also recently acquired the UK’s second largest ticket agency,

Playhouse Disney Live!

First-ever UK Performance of Playhouse Disney Live!

At The Hammersmith Apollo, London

Playhouse Disney Live! arrives in the UK for a twelve city tour this spring, and will playing at The Hammersmith Apollo, London from 29th May – 1st June.

Audiences are taken on a magical adventure; in the first-ever UK opportunity to watch the lovable characters from ALL four Playhouse Disney TV shows live on stage at the same time!

Produced by Feld Entertainment, Playhouse Disney Live! draws audiences into the colourful world of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Little Einsteins, My Friends Tigger & Pooh and Handy Manny in their journey of sing-along fun.

Mickey’s hosting a musical party at the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and everyone’s invited!  The story unfolds as the ‘Playhouse Disney Postess’ delivers party invitations to all of Mickey’s Playhouse Disney pals.  The audience follows along as the animated characters venture off to find music in the Hundred Acre Woods, Sheetrock Hills and beyond.

Winnie the Pooh, Tigger and their friend Darby call upon the kids to help solve the mystery of their missing music.  Everyone boogies in Sheetrock Hills with Handy Manny and his ‘talking handy-dandy tools’ as they use their special talents to make an upbeat song to share at Mickey's party.

The citizens of Sheetrock Hills add to the rhythm using bricks, brooms and buckets.  “Everyone works together to create a dynamic tumble and dance number to a 'stomp'-like beat.  It is incredibly energetic and a lot of fun to watch!  The audience is clapping and singing along the entire time,” says Director Patty Vincent.

The party then meet up together at the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse where the audience helps Mickey by singing out the four magic words “Meeska Mooska Mickey Mouse” to enter.  Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy make their own music for the party and decorate the clubhouse for Mickey’s big musical bash. 

Mickey reminds his friends that music brings everyone together as all of the Playhouse Disney pals take the stage and share their special songs.  Playhouse Disney Live! Promises to give children a treasured interactive musical experience they will never forget.

Disney Play House Live!

Will be showing at The Hammersmith Apollo

from: 29th May - 1st June 2008

With a Nationwide tour scheduled from: April 24th - 22nd June 2008

Ticket prices at the Hammersmith Apollo range from: £14.00 - £19.50.

To purchase tickets contact the box office on 08448 444748 or online via www.ticketmaster.co.uk.

For more information visit:  www.disneylive.com.

TREASURE HOUSES TOUR

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ON ICE 

WORLD-CLASS ICE DANCING IN THE GROUNDS OF MAGNIFICENT STATELY HOMES : JULY & AUGUST 2008

**** “If blood-stirring, bravura skating is what you’re after, look no further.”

THE TIMES (on The Sleeping Beauty on Ice)

This summer the world-renowned Imperial Ice Stars embark on a national tour of the UK’s magnificent Treasure Houses with THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ON ICE. The Imperial Ice Stars Treasure Houses Tour brings together, for the very first time, three marks of excellence – the world’s leading theatrical ice skating company, some of the finest stately homes in England and a sumptuous Tented Ice Palace.

The Imperial Ice Stars Treasure Houses Tour visits Chatsworth, Castle Howard, Burghley House, Blenheim Palace and Beaulieu during the months of July and August 2008.

To Tchaikovsky’s glorious music, The Imperial Ice Stars tell the classic love story of THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ON ICE through sublime world-class ice dancing, including breathtaking high speed throws, awe-inspiring aerial gymnastics, stilt skating, fire effects and their performance speciality of incredible lifts and lift sequences, unrivalled throughout the ice skating world, as part of their unique style of theatre on ice.

The 23-strong cast of Olympic, World, European and National Championship skaters, including Ilia Klimkin (Turin 2006 Winter Olympics) in the role of Catalabutte, glide through this much-loved story with grace and athleticism.  Daring skating feats, normally only seen in Olympic arenas, are performed within the confines of a frozen theatre stage in the intimacy of The Tented Ice Palace - to thrilling effect.

“Skilful, exciting and utterly beautiful… a cut above the rest in every way.” THE SCOTSMAN (on The Sleeping Beauty on Ice)

The Imperial Ice Stars enjoyed phenomenal international success with THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ON ICE in 2005. Together with last year’s tour of Swan Lake on Ice, these stunning productions from The Imperial Ice Stars have garnered worldwide critical acclaim and been enjoyed by over two million people across five continents, from London to Sydney, Toronto to Cape Town and Tokyo to Moscow.

At a time when public interest in ice-dancing is at an all time high, UK audiences who missed out first time around now have the opportunity to see this captivating production, in an unforgettable setting.

For the first time, five of England’s Treasure Houses - Chatsworth, Castle Howard, Burghley House, Blenheim Palace and Beaulieu will host this outstanding international production in their private grounds.  Audiences will be able to enjoy spectacular views of

these grand historic houses and palaces while picnicking in the grounds or in The Tented Ice Palace Garden before the show commences.

The Tented Ice Palace will be the ultimate in luxury, with reserved seating cushioned for comfort, bespoke chandeliers and carpeted throughout. Regardless of the weather The Tented Ice Palace will be air-conditioned to the perfect temperature and encompass an entrance foyer, a spacious fully-licensed Ice Bar and the Grand Theatre marquee.

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ON ICE will be performed in the Grand Theatre marquee on a 15m x 13m theatre stage with a surface of real ice. The production has been re-choreographed by award-winning Artistic Director Tony Mercer, widely regarded as the world’s leading creator of theatre on ice, together with 2002 World Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist Ilia Averbukh, and international medallist Maria Orlova.

Set against a backdrop of sumptuous sets designed by Eamon D'Arcy, one of Australia's top scenic designers, and complete with full theatrical lighting, the company dazzles in more than 100 lavish costumes from renowned Russian costume designer Natella Abdulaeva.

“The Imperial Ice Stars give ice-skating a stamp of class. A great night out for the family “ THE DAILY TELEGRAPH (on Swan Lake on Ice)

This is a unique opportunity for all the family to experience the magic and magnificence of The Imperial Ice Stars.

Those who are unable to catch The Imperial Ice Stars Treasure Houses Tour can see The Sleeping Beauty on Ice at a number of theatres around the UK from 5th May until 13th July 2008.  Visit www.imperialicestars.com for further details.

Get your skates on and book now for a truly breathtaking spectacle! Tickets can be booked for The Imperial Ice Stars Treasure Houses Tour by calling See Tickets on 0871 230 7135, Group Bookings 0844 412 4650 or by visiting www.seetickets.com.

LISTINGS DETAILS

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ON ICE – TREASURE HOUSE TOUR DATES 2008

Friday 18 – Sunday 27 July                                                                       Chatsworth, Derbyshire

Wednesday 30 July – Sunday 3 August                                               Castle Howard, North Yorkshire

Wednesday 6 – Sunday 10 August                                       Burghley House, Lincolnshire

Wednesday 13 – Sunday17 August                                                      Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

Wednesday 20 – Sunday 24 August                                                     Beaulieu, Hampshire

TICKET HOTLINE: 0871 230 7135 - www.seetickets.com

GROUP BOOKINGS: 0844 412 4650

For more information please visit www.imperialicestars.com / www.treasurehouses.co.uk

THE IMPERIAL ICE STARS

The Imperial Ice Stars was formed in July 2004 as a joint venture between two leading producers of live entertainment, James Cundall and Tony Mercer, and businessman and former speed skater Vladislav Olenin. Originally collaborating on a production of The Sleeping Beauty on Ice in Hong Kong in 1998, James and Tony also produced The Nutcracker on Ice in Australia and New Zealand in 2003 before creating their own company The Imperial Ice Stars in 2004.

James Cundall is one of the top producers of live entertainment across five continents with over 80 productions to his name – musicals such as Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, Chicago, Singin’ in the Rain, Oliver, Cabaret, and We Will Rock You; spectaculars such as Cirque du Soleil’s Alegría and Riverdance; plays such as The Blue Room and Talking Heads; and solo performers such as Dame Kiri te Kanawa, Jose Carreras, Andrea Bocelli, Elaine Paige, Clive James and Jamie Oliver – The Naked Chef, to name just a few.

James Cundall is also Chief Executive of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, based in the UK with subsidiary offices in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Award-winning Tony Mercer is widely regarded as the world’s leading ice director and choreographer, and has over 14 years’ experience in creating ice shows such as The Sleeping Beauty on Ice, The Nutcracker on Ice, Cinderella on Ice, Barnum on Ice, Phantom of the Opera on Ice, Peter Pan on Ice and Carmen on Ice.  With his new productions of The Sleeping Beauty on Ice (2004-06 and 2007-09) and Swan Lake on Ice (2006-08), performed by The Imperial Ice Stars, he has added a greater theatricality to the performances, creating a new genre of ‘Theatre on Ice’.

The Sleeping Beauty on Ice is produced by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, Tony Mercer, Vladislav Olenin and Ilia Averbukh.

For more information please visit www.imperialicestars.co.uk

THE TREASURE HOUSES OF ENGLAND

The Treasure Houses of England are nine of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today. Each has its own unique charm and all combine together to give a fascinating insight into life in England over the centuries.

One of the most compelling features of The Treasure Houses of England is that they all offer the visitor a living history. Most are still homes to the great families who have owned them for generations. Others keep their heritage alive by re-creating scenes and events that have dominated and shaped England from the 9th century to the present day.

Between them they house some of the most important art collections in the world with famous works from artists such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough. The connoisseur of fine furniture, porcelain and china will find priceless examples of Chippendale, Wedgewood and Meissen.

Each House is an architectural masterpiece surrounded by beautiful parklands and gardens. Visit each of The Treasure Houses of England to fully appreciate their own individualities.

For more information please visit www.treasurehouses.co.uk.

LAZY TOWN LIVE – ON TOUR

Great lively stage show based on Cbeebies and Nick Junior's TV hit Lazy Town.

Stephanie, an energetic girl with pink hair flies into Lazy Town for the holidays to stay with her uncle – The Mayor.  The story follows her adventures as she wakes up lazy town and helps, along with her new friends, save it from the lazy villain Robbie Rotten and his robot Robotacus.

A show full of action with good audience participation that kept the attention of the children right from the start. Great songs with an easy storyline for children which included powerful messages like healthy eating  and exercise is good for you. A particularly impressive acrobatic display from Sportacus with great sound effects.

A highly recommended show for families with children age 2 – 7 yrs.

My 7 yr old commented as the  show opened - “ Wow! It looks just like the real Lazy Town” then went on very excitedly to explain who  all the characters were.

My 5 yr old's favourite was the superhero Sportacus. He loved his entrance when he jumped out of his airship with leaps and flips to fly onto the stage then later when he taught the audience how to become a superhero – moves my son is still practicing at home!!!

Review submitted by Alice in Edinburgh

For full tour dates and booking information click here

JOKES, ECO-WARRIORS AND BIRD POO IN NEW MUSICAL FOR CHILDREN

The Onassis Programme for the Performance of Greek Drama at Oxford University is hatching a new musical comedy for children called Cloudcukooland in February 2008. Cloudcuckooland will tour to eleven theatres across the UK before going to the Edinburgh Festival in the summer.

Based on Aristophanes’ comedy The Birds, Cloudcuckooland is the hilarious tale of what happens when Swift and McFly become so fed up of where they live that they decide to build a perfect new city in the clouds with the Birds. But the Birds aren’t too happy with the human race. Humans have been destroying their habitat and it's time for revenge. Just how much damage can the strategic pooing of the entire bird community cause to mankind?!

The show will feature seven actor-musicians, who will play out the story using song, dance, clowning and music. It is aimed at 7 year olds upwards, but there will be plenty for all ages to enjoy, especially childish adults. The show opens at the North Wall Arts Centre in Oxford on 13 February and tours to venues including the Riverside Studios (Hammersmith), The Round (Newcastle), OMAC (Belfast) and Komedia (Brighton).

Cloudcuckooland is being written by playwright Stephen Sharkey and composer Alex Silverman. Stephen is the author of acclaimed adaptations of Euripides and Dickens, as well as Everything Must Go for Southwark Playhouse and a musical re-telling of Cinderella called The Glass Slipper. His play The May Queen had a triumphant run at the Liverpool Everyman earlier this year, and his brilliant new adaptation of A Christmas Carol for Northern Stage has been getting rave reviews this Christmas. Alex has written music for Much Ado about Nothing at Shakespeare's Globe, for Total Theatre Award-nominated Crunch! in the West End, and for the national tour of Pete and Dud: Come Again. His work in musical theatre includes Hamlet! the Musical, which has toured nationally and internationally, and The Rise and Fall of Horatio Bottomley.

Director Helen Eastman has directed a fun-filled new children’s opera, Bug Off!, for Opera Theatre Company (Ireland), and a number of critically acclaimed plays including The Cure at Troy, Fair (which transferred to London’s West End after a sell-out fringe run) and Verity Bargate Award-winning Felt Effects.

To celebrate the opening of Cloudcuckooland, the Onassis Programme invited children to design their own perfect city. Entries could be pictures, poems, stories, or descriptions of their imagined city, and a judging panel including much-loved TV artist Tony Hart chose winners in three age groups: 5-7, 8-10 and 11-13.

All images supplied by Anthony Ellis.

For details of Cloudcuckooland schools’ workshops, please call 020 7249 6071

For more information about the Onassis Programme, visit www.onassis.ox.ac.uk

Komedia, Brighton                                                                     www.komedia.co.uk

27 April at 2pm

Box Office 01273 647100                                      

Tickets £7, concessions £5

Watercolours

By Shaun Prendergast.   The review was sent to us by Isabelle Holland and Ivan Spence (both aged 12 years). Showing Nationally.

Watercolours is a story about a boy called Charlie who is moving house and an old woman called Cressida going blind, and how they help each other.  Charlie, an 8 year old boy doesn’t want to move house, while his mother is moving the furniture to their new house Charlie goes to stay with his grandparents; it shows the relationship with his mother which is the same to most relationships between mother and son. Cressida is an old woman who is going blind and used to work as a photographer and loved it but now as she’s going blind she can’t take anymore pictures and so can’t do what she loves; she is staying in the attic of Charlie’s grandparents. Charlie makes friends with this monster in the attic? As he listens intently to Cressida as she tells him stories of her great adventures as a photographer. They help each other out on their problems and help each other get over fears.

This show is set for 5-8 year olds but I think it could be a 5-10 year old play. We loved the lights in the background and the colours in the pictures. The live paintings being painted in front of us and the singing is fantastic. When the main song started we wanted to get up and start dancing. We spoke to a few children after the play and asked them what they think and they said they especially liked the swimming and singing and the characters too. With the funniness of Splosh (imaginary fish friend of Charlie’s) and Splash (imaginary painter friend of Charlie’s), the kindness of Grandma and Grandpa, the darkness Cressida, the stressedness of mum Jenny and the painting fun with Charlie this show just Watercolour couldn’t get any better.

Little Shop of Horros

Little Shop of Horrors at the Duke of York’s Theatre, St Martin’s Lane London WC1

The advertising board outside quotes the Times as saying The Little Shop of Horrors is “the finest comedy horror musical you’ll ever see”.   Well that’s a pretty small field but the show’s certainly great fun.   Think 50’s style rock ‘n’ roll with the local girl layabouts forming a Ronnettes style backing group to most of the numbers.   A down at heel florists, run by an exploitative owner and two employees Seymour and Audrey, on Skid Row forms the backdrop to the rise and rise of a carnivorous plant, Audrey II, with a good line in RnB, a taste for human blood and ambitions for world domination.  

The show really comes alive when one of the two Audreys (Sheridan Smith, best known from “The Royle Family” and “Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps”, and Mike McShane as the voice of the plant) are on stage and towards the end of the first act when Alistair McGowan appears in the first of a series of cameos as a manic bike riding dentist it takes off.   If your Dad (or you) are a dentist then you really must see this but if you have a dentist’s appointment in the next week, then well…

Little Shop of Horrors is described as suitable from ages six and up and it’s pretty well guaranteed to appeal to anyone with a sense of fun.   Forget the film, the musical stage is where Little Shop of Horrors belongs.   However, if you’re alone in a room with just the houseplants and you hear a voice saying “FEED ME”, then you’d better watch out.

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