Saturday, 16 March 2013

Editor's Blog: Five shows you need to see this month

There are so many shows to see that planning a trip to the theatre can become slightly overwhelming! Below are five shows that you should try to see this month, including snippets from my recent reviews plus details of special offers and how to book tickets!

A Chorus Line
at the London Palladium

This is the first time A Chorus Line has been seen in the West End since the original London production which opened in 1976 at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. The show simply takes a behind-the-scenes look at 17 hopefuls auditioning for just eight places in a new Broadway musical. With no interval, A Chorus Line is two hours of 'proper', intense musical theatre. If you love theatre you must see this show.

West End Frame's rating: 4/5


at the Theatre Royal Haymarket

I have seen quite a few comedies in the West End over the past couple of years, but none as exceptional as One Man, Two Guvnors. The whole show is ridiculous yet intelligent and at moments spontaneous. I guarantee that no matter how miserable or grumpy you feel when arriving at the theatre, you will leave laughing into the night. Richard Bean's play is incredibly unique. One Man, Two Guvnors is the best of the best.

West End Frame's rating: 5/5

at the Shaftesbury Theatre
Special Offer: Save £13 on Top Price seats (excluding Saturdays) until 31st March

Burn The Floor is electrifying. Not once did I spot a dancer not giving 100%. Burn The Floor is very passionate and exhilarating, making it the ultimate dance show. Ray Klausen's set design is minimalistic which is perfect as it means the show purely focuses on the talent of its incredible cast. If you have any sort of interest in ballroom dance you must see Burn The Floor. It is one thing to watch it on television, but to watch it in front of your very own eyes is something else.

West End Frame's rating: 5/5


at the Apollo Victoria Theatre
Special Offer: No booking fee until 28th March (excludes Saturdays)

Although Wicked is set in the magical world of Oz, it somehow manages to be one of the most touching, relatable musicals of all time. Unfortunately there are not enough stars which I can give to this spellbinding show. Wicked has it all - stunning costumes and tremendous sets, but what makes Wicked stand apart from the rest is its extremely clever story and its breathtaking score. You will never be able to watch The Wizard of Oz the same way again! If you have not seen Wicked since it opened in 2006, it should be at the top of your list of shows to see. Even after several visits to the show I still left the Apollo Victoria Theatre feeling inspired and blown away. The majority of the cast give world class performances and nearly every single detail is perfect. 

West End Frame's rating: 5/5


The Tailor-Made Man 
at the Arts Theatre
Special Offer: Top price seats reduced to £25 (valid all performances)


The Tailor-Made man is a delightful show. The stylish set and costumes instantly transport you back to a magical era, allowing you to forget about your troubles of the 21st century for a few hours. Duncan Walsh Atkins and Adam Meggido's score (with lyrics by Adam Meggido) is very pleasant. The Tailor-Made Man makes a very powerful point but in a subtle way. Also, the fact that it is a true story makes it that extra bit special. A lovely night out at the theatre!

West End Frame's rating: 4/5


Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
andrew@westendframe.com