September may be nearing its end, but it’s time for a ‘better late than never’ monthly theatre update! Thanks to train strikes and technical sound issues, I didn’t get to see quite as many shows last month as I had planned, but fortunately I still went to see a few shows and would love to share my thoughts about them with you…
The SpongeBob Musical – Southbank Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hall
Broadway favourite The SpongeBob Musical made its London debut at the Southbank Centre in August as part of its national tour. With a soundtrack written by a bunch of brilliant artists including John Legend, Sara Bareilles and Panic! At The Disco, the music was actually pretty brilliant, as was many members of its cast, especially Lewis Cornay as SpongeBob and Tom Read Wilson as Squidward. Unfortunately, the production value wasn’t up to scratch and it seems a bit confused about who its target audience is, but it has potential to be a good show.
Dear England – National Theatre, Olivier
Tracking the journey of England’s national football team under the managerial watch of former player Gareth Southgate, the plot of James Graham’s latest play didn’t initially appeal to me as someone with no interest in sport, least of all football. But upon reading glowing reviews, I thought about how much I enjoyed Ted Lasso (a sitcom about a football team) and booked a ticket on a whim. I am so glad I did because Dear England is a serious force to be reckoned with.
Although rooted in football, it’s a brilliantly clever and witty social commentary of modern England, from national politics to players’ personal endeavours. Its pacing, brought to life with music excerpts and a set constructed by moving changing-room lockers, is absolutely genuis and makes its 2h50 running time fly by. It’s transferring to the West End’s Prince Edward Theatre this October (the first play to run in the musical-dominated theatre since 1946!) and is a must-see.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! – Wyndham’s Theatre
As it closed on 2 September, I had to see the current production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! one last time. Previously starring Arthur Darvill as Curly (for which he won the Olivier Award for Best Actor In A Musical), this time round I saw Sam Palladio take on the role, and was surprised to say I was maybe even more impressed by him! I adored this production of Oklahoma! both at the Young Vic and on the West End – its minimal set and bold lighting really set it apart from other musicals currently playing.
The Crown Jewels – Garrick Theatre
On the final day of August I went with my family to see The Crown Jewels, a new comedy play written by Simon Nye and directed by Olivier Award winner Sean Foley. With a stellar cast list including Al Murray, Mel Giedroyc and Joe Thomas, it certainly had potential but unfortunately suffered from the same problem I witnessed at Bleak Expectations the month before – the improv by the stand-up comedian was far funnier than the ‘comedy’ writing! The Crown Jewels persuaded me that Al Murray is a very talented stand-up comic, but the unfortunately play didn’t win me over.
I also went to see a couple of comedians this month; James Acaster at the Roundhouse in Camden, and Peter Kay a week later at the O2 Arena. Both were really hilarious nights out and I’d recommend trying somehow to get a ticket to their sold-out tours!
Overall, In August it was Dear England that really stood out to me as one of the best shows I’ve seen all year, and highly recommend getting a ticket to its West End run at the Prince Edward Theatre. I’ll catch up with you next month to share the shows I’ve seen in September!
