World Theatre Day is celebrated worldwide on the 27th of March. As someone who enjoys watching plays and musicals at the theatre, it is important to celebrate everyone who is involved in theatre, both the on-stage cast and off-stage production crew, alongside everyone else involved in making theatre shows. Since the COVID pandemic, the arts have been massively underappreciated and underfunded by the Government, so now that theatre is available again, it is important we support them where possible. Going to the theatre is an enjoyable experience for everyone – whether that be a solo trip alone, with friends or with family.
In this article, I am going to discuss my top five favourite theatre shows I have seen – either locally in Peterborough or London’s West End!
&Juliet
&Juliet is a coming-of-age musical that considers what would happen if Juliet did not die in Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. The musical explores many themes such as feminism, friendship and independence. It includes well-known pop songs such as “Domino” and “Baby One More Time.” It also explores the emotions of non-binary individuals through the character of May. This musical is emotional and uplifting, it will make you laugh and cry! The West End run in London is unfortunately over, however, you can catch & Juliet on the UK tour this summer/autumn. You won’t want to miss it!
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie explores the life of Jamie, a 16-year-old gay teenager who wants to be a drag queen. This musical explores themes such as sexuality, family, friendship and education. Jamie’s classmates plan their careers, but Jamie wants to follow his dreams and become a drag queen. This musical is fun, emotional and captivating. You can catch the current tour cast – notably the cast is coming to Norwich and Leicester, which are accessible near Peterborough.
Six
Last June, Peterborough were very lucky to have the Six the Musical touring cast visit the New Theatre Peterborough. Recently, the New Theatre has had many West End shows tour to Peterborough, such as Six, Heathers and Mamma Mia. This is incredible for people who are unable to travel far, seeing a show at a local theatre gives local people access to the joy of the arts. Therefore, being able to see Six at my local theatre last summer was incredible! Six is a modern musical that re-tells the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives. It explores each of their stories in a pop concert format, which is amazing to watch. This musical explores female independence, female friendship and individuality, as the wives can consider their identities as themselves, instead of their connection to Henry.
Heathers
Heathers is a dark comedy musical that explores themes of teenage life, such as bullying, suicide, sexual assault and school violence in America. The musical is based on the Heathers film. Last March, Heathers came to the New Theatre in Peterborough. This was the first theatre show I saw locally; it was a pleasure to have a show so close to my doorstep! Heathers will embark on another UK tour towards the end of this year, with more dates to be announced soon.
222 Ghost Story
Whilst the top four so far has focused on musicals, my final suggestion is a play. I recently saw 222 Ghost Story in Cambridge, which is local to Peterborough. 222 Ghost Story explores the characters trying to find out if their house is haunted by ghosts. It is a gripping and frightening play, with moments that will have you on the edge of your seat! It is a must-see, which is currently touring around the UK.
Overall, visiting theatre shows such as musicals or plays is an immersive experience for audience members to enjoy. There are so many more plays and musicals that I could have mentioned as there are so many out there that are incredible! Supporting the arts is so important and it is something we should all consider. I would encourage you to check local theatre websites, such as the New Theatre and the Key Theatre, to see what shows are on locally to support them. Furthermore, you can even support the arts from the comfort of your own home – via the Digital Theatre and website, you have access to many shows! You can access Digital Theatre and with your UCP login via the Library resources.