2016's Top 12 Current And Upcoming Theatre

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2016 promises to be a great year for London theatre. Here's a quick peek at what to see. Some are current shows and you'll have to catch other before they leave the West End stage!
 

1. Aladdin at the Prince Edward Theatre

The Disney classic is making it’s way to the Prince Edward theatre in June. It promises to be full of the magic, wonder and spectacle that makes the film a firm family favourite.

2. Guys and Dolls at the Savoy

This is the first of the Savoy’s appearance on this list. The Chichester transfer stars David Haig and Sophie Thompson (I last saw them in The Madness of King George and She Stoops to Conquer respectively.) While the musical isn’t one of my favourites, the chance to see Haig on stage again is a big draw.

3. Mr Foote’s Other Leg at the Theatre Royal Haymarket

I need to be quick with this one. Only at the Theatre Royal Haymarket until January 23rd, this tells the tale of a Georgian theatrical personality. This transfer from the Hampstead theatre stars Simon Russell Beale.

4. Miss Saigon at the Prince Edward Theatre

Before this phenomenon flies out of the west end in March, I need to make sure I get along to the Prince Edward and catch Schonberg and Boubil’s masterpiece.

5. Funny Girl at the Savoy Theatre

This will be my second trip to the Savoy. This musical starring Sheridan Smith is transferring from the Menier Chocolate Factory where it has enjoyed a sell out run. It comes to the West End in April and has already extended its booking period.

6. The Maids at Trafalgar Studios

This Genet play is opening at the Trafalgar studios in February. A wonderful physiological drama, the play is perhaps known for the film starring Glenda Jackson and Susanna York.

7. Mrs Henderson Presents at the Noel Coward Theatre

This wartime tale comes to the Noel Coward in February after a tour of the provinces. This adaptation of the film that starred Judi Dench and Bob Hoskins looks set to become one of the hottest tickets in town.

8. Cleansed at the National

This Sarah Kane play marks the first time the late playwright’s work has been presented at the National Theatre. Her work is rarely performed and this will provide a wonderful opportunity to see this play in London.

9. Sunset Boulevard at the London Coliseum

For a very short run, Glenn Close is playing Norma Desmond at the ENO. This show marks another popular musical being presented at the Coliseum as part of their wider engagement programme and with Close reprising her role, it looks to be one of the theatrical events of the year.

10. Threepenny Opera at the National

Simon Stephens is presenting a new adaptation of this classic Brecht play at the National. With a great writer and the backing of the National, this looks set to be a seminal production and is expected in May.

11. The Entertainer at the Garrick Theatre

John Osborn’s play was originally written for Laurence Olivier. It is being presented in August as part of the Kenneth Branagh season at the Garrick with Brangah taking the role of Archie Rice.

12. The Caretaker at the Old Vic

This Pinter Classis is part of Matthew Warchus inaugural season at the Old Vic. Starring Timothy Spall in the eponymous role, this show opens in March.


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By Harrison Fuller

Theatre manager, writer, maker.