My pick of musicals to replace those closing in 2019
Updated on 14 September 2018
As Summer draws to a close, and the first countdown-to-Christmas posts start appearing on Facebook (way too soon!), it seems like a good time to look at what we can expect from the West End in 2019, especially since we are going to be losing some pretty big musicals.
In fact, we've already lost Young Frankenstein, and The King and I is closing in September. Next year will see even more closures, including Dreamgirls, Motown: The Musical and (the saddest loss, in my opinion) Kinky Boots.
On the upside, Waitress will be replacing Kinky Boots at the Adelphi Theatre in February, and Dear Evan Hansen is on its way to London in the not-too-distant future. But what else could replace the fantastic musicals that will be closing next year? Well, here are my suggestions.
Pictured: The fabulous confections of Waitress which comes to the Adelphi in February 2019.
Something old: Mary Poppins; Into the Woods; Singing in the Rain; Avenue Q
It is perhaps easiest to look at musicals which have already been successful in the West End, and hope for revivals. These may not be the 'freshest' productions to hope for, but you can pretty much guarantee that they would be popular (I know I would want to see them), particularly if they were to feature some exciting West End names, and perhaps even a few original twists.
Something new: New writing?!
That said, it would also be great to see some new writing. It seems increasingly rare that a musical opens in the West End which is new and not a transfer from Broadway. Surely after this year's highly successful Edinburgh Fringe, there is scope for some new writing to make its way into the West End? I certainly hope so.
Something borrowed (from Broadway): Pretty Woman; Anastasia
That's not to say that these Broadway musicals don't look pretty great though. Pretty Woman has just opened in Broadway, with the legendary Samantha Barks in the leading role of Vivian, and I'm sure many fans of the film are already hoping to be able to see this soon in the UK. Anastasia has been in Broadway a little longer, since 2017, and remains extremely popular.
Something true (ish): Sunny Afternoon; Jersey Boys
'True' might be a stretch … But I do enjoy a jukebox musical, and these two have been my personal favourites. It may not have been long since they were last in London, but I still think they would be popular choices … at least for a limited runs.
There are so many musicals out there which would be great to see in the West End, and these are just a few of my personal picks. Would you have chosen differently? Tweet us at @theatre_direct and @thespian_blog with your ideas.
UPDATE: It's just been announced that Aladdin will be ending its run at the Prince Edward Theatre and is to be replaced by MARY POPPINS in Autumn 2019! I guess wishes do come true! Be sure to book your Aladdin tickets before they disappear keep an eye out for everything you need to know about Mary Poppins.
