Everything You Need to Know About Marie & Rosetta: Story, Cast, Reviews & London Performances
Published on 30 January 2026
Marie & Rosetta arrives in the West End this February for a limited season, bringing to life the electrifying story of gospel trailblazer Sister Rosetta Tharpe and her young singing partner Marie Knight. This critically acclaimed production combines history, music, and performance to tell a story that changed the course of popular music forever.
What is Marie & Rosetta About?
Set in Mississippi, 1946, Marie & Rosetta explores the unlikely partnership between Sister Rosetta Tharpe — the “Godmother of Rock ’n’ Roll” — and the classically trained gospel singer Marie Knight. Known for her pioneering electric guitar style and joyful stage presence, Rosetta pushes Marie beyond the safe, sacred walls of church singing and into a bold, rhythm-driven sound that helped reshape gospel, blues, and early rock ’n’ roll.
The play examines the tension between tradition and transformation, devotion and showmanship, as these two women navigate music, mentorship, and the societal challenges of the segregated American South. Marie & Rosetta isn’t just a story about music — it’s about courage, creativity, and the spark that set the stage for modern popular music.
Marie & Rosetta London: Beverley Knight Stars as Sister Rosetta Tharpe
For this West End transfer, Olivier Award-winner Beverley Knight again stars as Sister Rosetta Tharpe, joined by Ntombizodwa Ndlovu as Marie Knight. Audiences can expect live gospel music, soulful vocals, and a performance that captures both joy and defiance.
The production is directed by Monique Touko, winner of the 2022 Stage Debut Award for Best Director, with a creative team including Lily Arnold (set), Jodie-Simone Howe (costume), Tony Gayle (sound), and Shirley Teteh as musical director and guitarist.
Why Marie & Rosetta Is a Must-See
Marie & Rosetta has been celebrated for its energy, historical insight, and musical brilliance:
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “An absolute stonker of a show” – Daily Express
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Raises the roof” – Daily Mail
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Bursts with defiance, mischief and joy” – The Stage
By placing audiences at the crossroads of gospel, blues, and early rock ’n’ roll, the play offers a front-row seat to a musical revolution.
A Little More About Sister Rosetta and Marie Knight
Sister Rosetta Tharpe was already a household name by the mid-1940s, known for electrifying performances that broke the norms of gospel music. Marie Knight, her younger partner, brought a classical gospel purity that Rosetta encouraged to swing, creating a dynamic partnership that influenced generations of artists — from Elvis Presley to Little Richard. Find out more about the real-life story behind the show in our deep dive article: The Gospel Roots of Rock ’n’ Roll That Changed Music Forever.
Marie & Rosetta Reviews
Critics and audiences alike have praised the production for its thrilling performances, historical authenticity, and unforgettable live music. Beverley Knight’s portrayal of Rosetta has been singled out for its power, charm, and charisma.
Marie & Rosetta Tickets for a Limited West End Run
This production plays at @sohoplace in London, for a strictly limited season. Tickets are in high demand, so securing your seats early is recommended.
Marie & Rosetta FAQs
When is Marie & Rosetta playing in London?
The show runs from 28 February to 11 April 2026.
Where is Marie & Rosetta showing?
At @sohoplace London.
Who stars in Marie & Rosetta?
Beverley Knight plays Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu plays Marie Knight.
How long is Marie & Rosetta?
Running time is approximately 2 hours, including an interval.
Is Marie & Rosetta suitable for children?
The production is recommended for audiences aged 12 and over due to themes of racism, domestic abuse, and bereavement, as well as occasional period-specific discriminatory language.
What is Marie & Rosetta about?
The play tells the story of gospel pioneer Sister Rosetta Tharpe and her partnership with Marie Knight, highlighting the birth of a sound that would influence gospel, blues, and rock ’n’ roll.
Marie & Rosetta brings history, music, and live performance together in a way that’s thrilling, moving, and unforgettable. Book your tickets today to witness the roots of rock ’n’ roll and the story of two women who changed music forever.
By Hay Brunsdon
I've 15 years of writing and editorial experience, and starting working in the West End theatre industry in 2012. When not watching or writing about theatre I'm usually swimming, hiking, running, or training for triathlons in the Stroud valleys.