The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Southwark Playhouse Elephant
22 May – 1 July
‘Once in a while a new show comes along that quietly, unexpectedly, knows you sideways,’ wrote WhatsOnStage about this new play. Remember the moving story about a man who ages in reverse? Now, the folk-musical adaptation of Scott Fitzgerald’s tale returns to the stage with a twelve-strong cast led by the two-time Olivier Award-winning actor Jamie Parker. ‘It’s a show about time, and home, and love – things that have new meaning for most of us after these years of uncertainty,’ says playwright Jethro Compton. Book it.
Dear England
National Theatre
10 June – 11 August
Critically acclaimed actor Joseph Fiennes stars as Gareth Southgate in James Graham’s new play, which looks at the impact of the player-turned-England manager on the men’s national football team. Showing at the National Theatre, this play explores the struggles of why, when England gave the world the sport, the men’s teams have so long struggled to win their own game. This gripping play is a must-see for football supporters and Fiennes fans alike. Book it.
Macbeth
Donmar Warehouse
Until 10 February 2024
As the hotly anticipated last show in the Donmar Warehouse’s thirtieth birthday season, you can catch David Tennant starring as the Scottish King in Donmar Associate Director Max Webster’s production until early next year. Best known as the Doctor in Doctor Who, Tennant has graced the stage in many Shakespeare plays, and this could perhaps be his finest performance yet. Book now – you won’t regret it. Book it.
Operation Mincemeat
Fortune Theatre
Until 19 August 2023
Head over to Fortune Theatre for an eccentric performance that will leave you wanting more. This World War II-set musical comedy tells the true story of the foiling of Hitler by the British army. In 1943, the Brits used a dressed-up corpse to distract and trick the leader into sending his troops to Sardinia and Greece, allowing them to successfully invade Sicily. Not only will the Hamilton-esque music have you jiving in your seat, you will love the eccentric and glorious script. It’s all very, very British. Book it.
Australian Ballet Dance Jewels
Royal Opera House
2 – 5 August
This three-part Australian ballet masterpiece returns to London, but what to expect? First created in the Sixties, the iconic gemstone-themed ballet is both mesmerising and majestic. It promises to be one of the most glamorous events of London’s cultural calendar this summer. Book it while you can.
Accidental Death Of An Anarchist
Theatre Royal Haymarket
12 June – 9 September
An anarchist has fallen to his death from a police station window; did he jump or was he pushed? Following sell-out runs at Sheffield Theatres and Lyric Hammersmith, the wickedly hilarious farce Accidental Death of an Anarchist moves into central London for a limited season at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. Tom Baseden’s clever production, based on a real-life incident, highlights the incompetence and corruption of the Metropolitan police force as they scramble to avoid scandal after scandal. Book it.
By Annabel Jack
May 2023
