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29/01/2025

Preview: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at Newcastle Theatre Royal

North East actor to star in classic children's story at the Theatre Royal

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Newcastle Theatre Royal

Tuesday 25 February – Saturday 1 March 2025


Marking the 75 th anniversary of the publication of C.S.Lewis’ novel and following its celebrated West End run, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, is set to enchant North East audiences when it visits Newcastle Theatre Royal as part of its 2025 UK tour.

Andrew Davison

Step through the wardrobe into the magical kingdom of Narnia. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and embark on the most magical of adventures in a frozen, faraway land where they meet Mr Tumnus the faun, talking beavers, Aslan (the noble king of Narnia) and the coldest, most evil White Witch.

Gateshead born actor, Andrew Davison is looking forward to returning to the North East with this production, playing several roles, including puppeteering Aslan. Davison, who lives in Seahouses, trained at SA Performing Arts Centre in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. He went to school in Alnwick and last appeared on stage at Newcastle Theatre Royal 10 years ago at the age of 17, in Matthew Bourne’s Lord of the Flies.  

Andrew Davison said: “I am loving every minute of appearing in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and can’t wait to bring the show to the Newcastle Theatre Royal.  The city means so much to me and it’s an honour to bring this amazing show to the North East in the year that we celebrate the 75 th  anniversary of the book. I am working alongside a brilliant cast of actors and musicians, who are all bringing CS Lewis’ magical story to life through dance, music and of course puppetry.  It’s the perfect treat for all the family.”

Joining Andrew on stage as The White Witch will be award-winning actress Katy Stephens, who said: “The level of talent on stage is incredible. I’ve been in awe of the stunning musicianship, beautiful dancing, and powerful performances. I’ve laughed, I’ve been moved, and I feel so privileged to be part of this production. I know the audience will feel the same way. Above all, it’s a beautiful, powerful, and truly magical show – the warmest, most enchanting spectacle you could imagine.”

The cast is completed by: Archie Combe (Mr Pope and Foxtrot), Andrew Davison (Mr Wilson Schroedinger, Jack Rabbit, Aslan Puppeteer and Head Cruel), Anya de Villiers (Mrs Beaver), Molly Francis (Mrs Pevensie, Aslan Puppeteer and Robin) Ruby Greenwood (Onstage Swing) Ffion Haf (Miss Gumley-Warmley and Phoenix), Rhiannon Hopkins (Miss Chutney and Blue Badger), Joe Keenan (Mr Granville, Spirit of the Moon and Red Squirrel), Oliver Magor (Onstage Swing), JB Maya (Onstage Swing), Luca Moscardini (Onstage Swing), Alfie Richards (Mr Tumnus, White Mouse and Badger), Kraig Thornber (The Professor, Father Xmas and Wise Owl), Ed Thorpe (Mr Beaver), Rhodri Watkins (Mr Brinkworth, March Hare and Aslan Puppeteer) and Shane Anthony Whiteley (Maugrim, Satyr and White Stag) and Stanton Wright as Aslan.

C.S. Lewis’ novel was first published in October 1950. Since then, over 85 million copies in 60 languages have been sold, making it one of the top ten best-selling books of all time. The stage adaptation of Lewis’ iconic book enjoyed a hugely successful West End run, loved by audiences and critics alike.

Photos: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

Tickets:

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe plays Newcastle Theatre Royal from Tuesday 25 February – Saturday 1 March 2025. Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.

28/01/2025

Preview: Fiddler on the Roof at Sunderland Empire

First tour on 12 years is heading to Wearside


Fiddler on the Roof

Sunderland Empire

Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 November 2025.

Following a triumphant sold-out season at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre last year, the “sublime” (The Guardian) critically acclaimed production of Fiddler on the Roof transfers to London’s Barbican Theatre this summer, followed by a major UK and Ireland tour visiting Sunderland Empire from Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 November 2025.

The major five-month UK and Ireland tour – the first UK tour of this classic musical in over 12 years – offers audiences around the UK and Ireland a rare opportunity to see this musical masterpiece in an acclaimed new production, direct from the West End.


Fiddler on the Roof is one of the greatest musicals of all time with one of the finest scores ever written featuring: ‘If I Were A Rich Man’, ‘Tradition’, ‘Matchmaker’ and ‘Sunrise, Sunset’, this classic musical of joy, revolution and community is an exuberant celebration of love and life.

This is a rare opportunity to catch this “exuberant” (The Standard) production, led by the powerhouse creative team of director Jordan Fein (Oklahoma, Young Vic), choreographer Julia Cheng (Cabaret) and designer Tom Scutt (Winner of the 2024 Tony Award for Cabaret). Casting will be announced soon.


It’s 1905 in the tiny village of Anatevka where Tevye, a Jewish milkman, lives his life by their proud traditions. For his five daughters, that means a visit from the matchmaker. As each daughter challenges his beliefs, against the backdrop of a changing world, can Tevye hold on to his roots, or must he bend to the will of his children and learn to embrace the unfamiliar?

Howard Panter, producer, said: “I saw this incredible production last summer and was immediately blown away. I'm delighted – with our partners – to bring this masterpiece to the Barbican and on tour for what will be one of the major cultural highlights of the year.  It was completely sold out during its Regent’s Park run, so this new production will give many more people the chance to see musical theatre at its very best.”

Drew McOnie and James Pidgeon, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Chief Executives, said: “As part of an ongoing commitment to the touring of our work beyond Regent’s Park, we could not be more thrilled that our production of Fiddler on the Roof, created by a visionary team under the leadership of Jordan Fein, is getting a further life following it’s record-breaking run at the Open Air Theatre last summer. We’re really looking forward to working with our producing partners to take this wonderful production to even more audiences across the country.”

Photos: Marc Brenner

Social Media:

Website: www.FiddlerOnTheRoofUK.com 

X: @FiddlerRoofUK

Facebook: @FiddlerOnTheRoofUK

Instagram: @FiddlerOnTheRoofUK


Tickets:

Fiddler on the Roof will hit Sunderland Empire’s stage from Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 November 2025. Tickets will be on sale soon.


Running time: Approx 2 hours 40 minutes (inc. interval)

Age guidance: 12+  

Interview: Scottish Ballet Principal dancer Marge Hendrick - Newcastle Theatre Royal


Bringing the magic of the nutcracker to life - An interview with Scottish Ballet Principal dancer Marge Hendrick

Scottish Ballet - The Nutcracker 

Newcastle Theatre Royal

Thursday 6 – Saturday 8 February 2025

Experience the wonder of The Nutcracker when Scottish Ballet bring this enchanting classic to Newcastle Theatre Royal. Known for her captivating artistry, Principal dancer Marge Hendrick has performed many unforgettable roles since joining the company in 2014. However, few are as iconic - or as challenging - as the Sugar Plum Fairy. In this interview, Marge shares her insights into what it takes to bring the magic of The Nutcracker to life on stage...


Tell us about your first experience of seeing The Nutcracker?

It was with Scottish Ballet in 2014. I had actually never seen it prior to joining the company as a dancer, aged 19. At the time, Sophie Martin (former Scottish Ballet Principal) was performing the Sugar Plum Fairy. I remember being amazed by her performance, and how she made everything look so easy. Now that I’m performing it... I know that it’s certainly not easy!


When was your first experience performing the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy?
It was in 2021, the first winter after my promotion to Principal. I felt a lot of pressure as it was the most difficult role I’d ever performed. Everything looks nice, pretty and cute... but in reality, it’s really very tough. Between each section of choreography you just don’t stop. There’s about a minute during the Prince’s solo when I can quickly catch my breath!
 


How do you feel when performing this role?
I get particularly emotional when performing the pas de deux. My Partner, Principal Evan Loudon, and I have great chemistry and he makes me feel so at ease that I can let go and lose myself in the moment. We often exchange a few moments of eye-contact in the wings opposite each other just before we go on. It’s just a small silent nod of encouragement, but an important moment we share to ease our nerves. When stepping off stage I feel such a sense of relief, I’m exhausted but also feel so much joy and a sense of achievement.

What is your favourite part of performing as the Sugar Plum Fairy?
I really like how the costume makes me feel, it’s very regal. The necklace and the crown just complete the look, the way they sparkle is super pretty. I’m excited to perform the pas de deux in my costume to that iconic music again, it is all so beautiful.



What are the challenging aspects?
Definitely the level of endurance required, but now that I’ve done it before, I feel somewhat prepared — it’s in my DNA. I think everyone who performs Sugar Plum can relate to the moment when you hear the final notes of ‘The Waltz of the Flowers’ which go ‘Duh, duh, de, duh... ’ (Marge laughs) — you can really feel your guts turning. In that moment I try to really focus and tell myself, ‘you’ve got this’.

With its breathtaking choreography, Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, and stunning performances by Scottish Ballet’s world-class dancers, The Nutcracker is a magical experience for audiences of all ages. 

Photos: Andy Ross

Tickets:

The Nutcracker plays Newcastle Theatre Royal Thursday 6 - Saturday 8 February 2025. Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.


27/01/2025

REVIEW: The Rocky Horror Show at Newcastle Theatre Royal

The Rocky Horror Show 

Newcastle Theatre Royal 

Monday 27 January – Saturday 1 February 2025

If ever there was a musical that thrived on being slightly mad, irresistibly camp, and completely unforgettable, it’s The Rocky Horror Show. A show that has been thrilling audiences for over 50 years, it’s hard to believe that the production still holds the same outrageous charm it did when it first hit the stage in 1973. Currently playing at the Newcastle Theatre Royal until Saturday 1st February 2025, the show’s latest iteration, starring the legendary Jason Donovan as Frank ‘n’ Furter, proves that even after decades, the show remains as fresh, bold, and exciting as ever.

For those unfamiliar with the show’s roots, The Rocky Horror Show was born out of the mind of Richard O’Brien, who wrote both the book, music, and lyrics. Originally conceived as a spoof of horror B-movies, sci-fi tropes, and rock ‘n’ roll musicals, the show’s unconventional storyline and queer-centric themes captured the counterculture movement of the 1970s. What was intended to be a campy comedy soon became a cultural phenomenon, with Tim Curry’s legendary portrayal of Frank ‘n’ Furter in the 1975 film adaptation cementing the character as an icon. Over the years, The Rocky Horror Show has built a loyal fan base, attracting new generations of theatre-goers, and is regularly performed across the globe.

What makes the show so unique—and continues to fuel its success—is its invitation to the audience to embrace the unexpected. Part musical, part rock concert, and part interactive experience, The Rocky Horror Show plays by its own rules. It’s a celebration of sexual freedom, individualism, and the quirky nature of humanity. And while the show has gone through minor tweaks and updates over the years, it still maintains the same eccentric charm that made it a sensation all those years ago. 

This time around, however, there is an added twist for Newcastle audiences: Jason Donovan, the Australian singer-actor famed for his roles in Neighbours, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, takes on the iconic role of Frank ‘n’ Furter. From the moment Donovan steps onto the stage in his signature stilettos and corset, there’s no question that this Frank is something special.

Donovan brings a fresh energy to the role, blending the campy charisma and seduction we’ve come to expect from Frank with an undercurrent of emotional depth that gives the character a new edge. His Frank is both a master manipulator and a vulnerable, lonely soul seeking connection. In the show’s most iconic number, Sweet Transvestite, Donovan channels the seductive, larger-than-life aura of Frank ‘n’ Furter while also grounding the character with a genuine sense of longing and desire. 

His vocal performance is often fabulous, his rendition of I’m Going Home standing out as one of the most emotionally resonant versions we’ve heard. His voice is full-bodied, with a warmth and richness that heighten Frank’s internal conflict between indulgence and isolation. He also effortlessly commands the stage with his physicality—his every move as precise as it is exuberant. Donovan’s Frank ‘n’ Furter feels like both an iconic figure and a reinvention all at once, a balance that demonstrates his star power and acting skill.

The chemistry between Donovan and the rest of the cast is another highlight. The interactions between Frank and his “creations,” Rocky (Morgan Jackson) and Eddie (Edward Bullingham), are brimming with electricity, while his playful and often antagonistic relationships with Brad (Connor Carson) and Janet (Lauren Chia) add a delightful sense of tension and unpredictability. Every scene Donovan is in radiates a kind of magnetic energy, reminding us why *The Rocky Horror Show* is so beloved by fans around the world - and you will have picked up, that includes us too.

While Donovan frequently steals the show, he is by no means alone in delivering an unforgettable performance. The entire ensemble brings their A-game, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that propels the show forward. The Narrator (played by the wonderfully charismatic comedian Nathan Caton) sets the tone from the outset, guiding the audience through the plot with wit and dry humour. He was able to use his experience of gigging to deal with the random and not so random heckles from the audience. Meanwhile, the “frightfully delightful” characters of Riff Raff (Job Greuter), Magenta (Natasha Hoeberigs), Columbia (Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli), and Brad and Janet are all portrayed with infectious enthusiasm, adding layers to the already dynamic experience.


Each performance is elevated by the strong ensemble, who tackle the show’s playful, wild choreography with enthusiasm. The dance numbers—particularly during Time Warp and Hot Patootie—Bless My Soul —are a riot of colour, energy, and joy. It’s clear that the cast is thoroughly invested in the production, and their chemistry with Donovan is undeniable. There’s a sense of camaraderie that shines through, making the show feel like a true ensemble effort. Director Christopher Luscombe and choregrapher (Nathan M Wright) have done a grand job bringing Richard O'Brien's tale to life.


One of the defining features of The Rocky Horror Show is its unchanging production values. From one tour to the next, the set design, costumes, and props remain largely the same: the iconic lab and entrance lobby that have become synonymous with the show. While some may view this as a lack of innovation, there’s an argument to be made that the predictability of the set is part of the show’s charm. It’s a comfort to know that no matter where you see The Rocky Horror Show, certain familiarities will always be present. The campy, retro aesthetic is timeless, and the elaborate costumes and props remain as much a part of the experience as the performances themselves.

What truly keeps the show fresh is the ever-changing cast. Each new iteration of The Rocky Horror Show brings a unique energy to the stage. The audience is treated to new interpretations of classic characters, and even though the musical numbers and script remain the same, the dynamics between the actors feel different each time. The cast is what makes each performance a new experience, breathing life into the familiar script with their fresh takes on the iconic roles.

Ultimately, The Rocky Horror Show remains a bold, unrelenting celebration of all things weird and wonderful. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned “Rocky Horror” veteran, this production makes a welcome return to Tyneside. Jason Donovan’s Frank ‘n’ Furter is a triumph, blending irreverence with genuine depth, and the entire cast brings sparkle to every moment. While the production may stay true to its roots, the cast’s individual flair and chemistry make this show feel as thrilling and unpredictable as it was in its original incarnation.

If you don’t want to miss out on this chance to see this night of fun, fantasy, and fabulousness at Newcastle Theatre Royal then you may find tickets a challenge to obtain as, even on a Monday night, it looked fairly full apart from perhaps the back of the gallery. The Rocky Horror Show continues to be a unique theatre experiences around, and with Jason Donovan leading the charge as Frank ‘n’ Furter, this is one production you’ll be talking about long after the final curtain falls. 

Review: Stephen Oliver 

Photos: Daniel Boud


Tickets:

The Rocky Horror Show plays Newcastle Theatre Royal. Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.

 



26/01/2025

Interview: Jason Donovan on his return to The Rocky Horror Show (Newcastle Theatre Royal)

 Jason Donovan on his return to The Rocky Horror Show ... 

Jason Donovan is making a much-anticipated return to one of his most famous roles: playing Frank-N-Furter in Richard O’Brien’s anarchic musical, The Rocky Horror Show when it visits Newcastle Theatre Royal this week.


When asked about taking on the iconic role he says, “In a nutshell, I’m a fan. I love the show; I love the music; I love the character. I was touring my own show about five years ago and included ‘Sweet Transvestite’ from Rocky as a key moment in my musical career. It went down a storm.”

The Rocky Horror Show tells the story of a newly engaged, clean-cut couple getting caught in a storm and coming to the home of a mad transvestite scientist, Dr Frank-N-Furter, who unveils his new creation, Rocky, a Frankenstein-style monster in the form of an artificially made, fully-grown, physically perfect muscle man complete with blond hair and a tan.

The show ran for a total of 2,960 performances in London after it opened in 1973 and since then has been performed in 20 different languages and seen by 30 million people globally.

Jason first took on the role of Frank-n-Furter in 1998; he's the same performer now but how does Jason feel about tackling the role over 25 years later? “I don’t feel uncomfortable, playing Frank at 56 – and, of course, I have personal reasons for being grateful to the show.”

 

The stage manager on that late 90s touring production was a young woman called Angela Malloch. “I’d be backstage waiting to go on,” recalls Jason, “and I’d get chatting to Ange.” The blossoming friendship turned into romance and the couple finally married in 2008. They now have three children: Jemma is 24 and an actress; 23-year-old Zac is a TV producer in Australia and Molly, 13, is still at school. 

 


In the meantime, their father has graduated from small-screen fame as Scott in the long-running Australian soap, Neighbours, to chart-topping pop stardom and now, among much else, as a stalwart of theatre in a diverse number of productions.


During his varied theatre career, Jason has starred in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang as eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, drag artist Mitzi in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Joseph in the original production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. He most recently visited Newcastle Theatre Royal as Pharaoh on tour with Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in 2022. 

 

But it is Dr Frank-N-Furter who occupies a special place in his heart. “One of the reasons I love Rocky is because it’s a short show.” And nor is he joking. “It says everything it needs to say and nothing more. There’s no unnecessary padding. It means nobody gets bored and you leave them wanting more.”

 

What’s it like climbing into those fishnet stockings and high heels seven times a week? “In many ways, very easy, I put on the costume and there’s Frank all over again. I’m in touch with my feminine side but I come from a masculine sensibility. The character embraces both sides of me: a strength and a vulnerability as well as danger and denial.

 

“I come to the role as an actor. I always dreamed of fronting a rock band and this is about as close as I’ve got. When I put on those high heels, I become that rock ‘n’ roll star. It makes me feel powerful, tall, in charge. 

 

“And audiences love it. As I look out from the stage, I see a beautiful landscape of people wearing outrageous costumes. It’s not hard to see why: in many ways, Rocky is panto for adults. The costumes are just as much a part of the show as the characters and the music.”


Photo: Daniel Boud


Tickets:

The Rocky Horror Show plays Newcastle Theatre Royal Monday 27 January – Saturday 1 February 2025. Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.


25/01/2025

Interview: Martina Perfetto & Vittorio Scole from Varna International Ballet (Darlington Hippodrome)

 A look behind the scenes with Varna International Ballet

Varna International Ballet returns to Darlington Hippodrome in February with three of the most famous ballet titles – The Nutcracker, Swan Lake and Romeo & Juliet.


Prior to their visit to Darlington we caught up with two soloists from Varna International Ballet to get a glimpse of life behind the scenes. Martina Perfetto performs as Odette / Odile in Swan Lake, Marie (Clara) in The Nutcracker and Juliet in Romeo & Juliet. Vittorio Scole performs as Prince Siegfried in Swan Lake, Prince in The Nutcracker and Romeo in Romeo & Juliet.


Where did you train as a dancer?

Martina: I started my ballet classes at the age of five and when at thirteen years old I was admitted to the well-known Italian Academy Teatro di San Carlo I had no doubt of the career I wanted to follow. The profession is physically and emotionally demanding but the joy and happiness of performing on stage is a great reward of your efforts.


Vittorio: I received my ballet education at the famous Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg, where many famous dancers, such as Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov graduated from. I am grateful to the Varna International Ballet and its excellent ballet masters to work with us. They themselves were excellent artists in the past. Each year I realise that my professional level is rising from performance to performance.


Martina Prefetto 

Have you visited the UK before? What do you enjoy most about touring here?

Martina: I have toured with the Varna Ballet in the UK in the last two seasons. The ballet tour across the United Kingdom is a test for my professionalism. This may sound pompous, but I feel responsibility as an Italian dancer and a dancer representing Varna, the city of the first ever international ballet competition. When I come on stage, I feel the audience’s compassionate mood, which helps interpreting the role. The best performance is when the dancers and the audience breathe in unison.


Vittorio: I've had a good opportunity to perform for the British audience and I’ve always been amazed at how subtly the audience reacts and understand the slightest nuances in music and choreography. I was delighted to see the audience grasping my movements and emotions that I am trying to put into the roles.


How do you keep fit and healthy on tour?

Martina: Ballet dancers are used to limitations. As all Italians, I like pasta. After all those limitations in food, after a successful performance I indulge and have something I wouldn’t allow myself in days. Each dancer has her own revitalising elixir which gives you strength and suppresses appetite. Alongside fruits, my diet on tour is oat flakes which combine with everything and avoid monotony.


Vittorio: Our ballet masters always tell us that touring has nothing to do with tourism. Ballet tours are very intense responsible work. Therefore, for dancers, there is not even a question of how to keep fit. We must be fit and be in good physical form because it is very hard to find a last-minute replacement for the role if someone is unfit or gets sick. It is extremely important to have a good rest and relax when you can. We try to walk around your cities because each of them has amazing history. The tour schedule permitting, we try to taste local cuisine and unique British beer.


How do you relax when you're not working?

Martina: I love bakery. Even when I can’t have it before the show, I eat it with my eyes from the bakery’s window. You can imagine how much temptation I have got in Britain! Also, my favourite Italian tunes and melodies is a magic remedy. I choose music for my state of mind at the time, and it is a great relaxation.


Vittorio: We are lucky in the home city of Varna where you can find the best sea resorts in Bulgaria. Swimming gives us the best anti-stress therapy!


Vittorio Scole 


Apart from ballet, what is your favourite dance style?

Martina: I love and learn Latin American dance, where, like ballet, you can splash out your emotions. The union of the dancing couple is always very sensual.


Vittorio: I periodically fall in love with different ballet styles, because each has its own special energy. Now I am looking with interest at hip-hop, which is evolving in an extraordinary way.  


Tickets:

Varna International Ballet comes to Darlington Hippodrome from Saturday 8 to Monday 10 February. For full details or to book visit www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01325 405405