Catch up theatre for your Group!

Photo: Manuel Harlan

If you have seen MY NEIGHBOUR TOTORO***** go again! And if you have yet to see this marvellous production of the Japanese story, book tickets now for the Gillian Lynne Theatre, London (booking until 29 March 2026). Based on the Studio Ghibli’s 1988 film, the show was first performed at the Barbican theatre. 

It’s the story of two young girls who go to live in the countryside with their father because their mother is very ill nearby. They are amazed to meet with some fantastic creatures, including a Cat Bus, dust sprites, wobbly chickens and, most notably, the giant Totoro. The production has everything: fantastic scenic design overhead flying creatures, puppetry, lovely music, good acting and impeccable direction. Go see!

Very much worth catching, too, is MANHUNT**** at the Royal Court theatre, London (until 3 May). Telling the real life story of the 2010 hunt for Raul Moat, who shot his former partner, killed her lover and blinded a policeman. Using a lot of Moat’s own words, Robert Icke’s play, which he directs himself, is tense and dramatic, with an exceptionally powerful performance by Samuel Edward-Cook, who frequently addresses the audience and has us (almost) on his side. This vibrant production is given extra quality by evocative stage design and lighting. Riveting!

Gioia (Jewelle Hutchinson) and Marco (Jack Chambers).  Photo: Johan Persson 

A very different sort of play is on at the Charing Cross Theatre; STILLETO**** (until 15 June), a new musical by Tim Luscombe and Matthew Wilder. It is set in Venice in the 18th century. Marco (Jack Chambers) is a castrato (male castrated before puberty to keep his soprano voice). This was quite usual for very poor boys whose families expected to earn money from them. His patron, the Countess Azzura (Kelly Hampson) really fancies Marco, but he falls in love with the daughter of African slaves, Gioia (Jewell Hutchinsom), and recognises her outstanding voice. When Gioia is accused of murder and faces death, the musical becomes most exciting. Beautiful costumes, luscious music and singing and great lighting all add to the spectacle.

The Bush Theatre in Shepherd’s Bush, London, always gives us interesting plays. SPEED**** (until 17 May) , written by Mohamed-Zain Dada, shows three participants on a speed awareness course to enable them to hang on to their licences, along with their rather strange tutor. All four are Asian. Lots of humour and well-staged physical encounters. The set is amazing  – includes live goldfish in an aquarium and a real serving area with a vending machine.

Written by

CARLIE NEWMAN