Autumn Preview: Theatre, Comedy, and Dance Highlights

Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the creative team behind the hit musical “Six,” return with a new comedic project titled “Why Am I So Single?” This narrative explores the lives of two best friends trying to comprehend their perpetual singlehood while simultaneously crafting the storyline for their next musical. You can catch this entertainment piece at the Garrick Theatre in London from 27 August 2024 to 13 February 2025.

Oscar-winner Adrien Brody makes his London stage debut in “The Fear of 13,” a true-life drama penned by Lindsey Ferrentino. This gripping tale centers on Nick Yarris, wrongfully convicted of murder and spending over twenty years on death row. The drama unfolds at Donmar Warehouse, London, from 4 October to 30 November.

Jamie Lloyd offers a fresh spin on Shakespeare with “The Tempest,” following his previous noirish rendition of “Romeo & Juliet.” The buzz intensifies as Sigourney Weaver steps into the role of Prospero, her first appearance on a London stage. This reimagined classic is set for the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London, from 19 December to 1 February 2025.

Seán O’Casey’s 1922 play “Juno and the Paycock” graces the stage with Mark Rylance and J Smith-Cameron under the direction of Matthew Warchus. The production recounts a Dublin family’s challenges during the Irish civil war. Spot this compelling piece at the Gielgud Theatre, London, from 21 September to 23 November.

Lorraine Hansberry’s pioneering play “A Raisin in the Sun” gets a revival under Tinuke Craig’s direction, highlighting its relevance in today’s social context. Presented by Headlong theatre company, this tale of family and racial adversity will be staged at Leeds Playhouse and later tour venues including Lyric Hammersmith, Oxford Playhouse, and Nottingham Playhouse from 13 September to 2 October.

“Becoming Nancy,” a new musical adapted from Terry Ronald’s coming-of-age novel, unfolds the story of a boy with an extraordinary voice cast in a traditionally female role in his school play. Directed and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell, it will grace Birmingham Rep from 2 October to 2 November.

“The History Boys,” Alan Bennett’s acclaimed play about eight academically gifted students aiming for Oxbridge, celebrates its 20th anniversary. Featuring a new production, it will tour across several venues in England and Scotland, commencing at Theatre Royal Bath from 3 September to 2 November.

“War Horse,” Nick Stafford’s adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, returns on a tour throughout the UK and Ireland. This touching story of a boy and his horse during the great war is celebrated for its imaginative puppetry. Catch this landmark production from 5 September to 8 November 2025.

“Odyssey ’84,” a new drama inspired by Homer’s classic, focuses on the 1984 miners’ strike. This story highlights a couple’s involvement in the strike and the pivotal role played by women in the confrontation. The show runs at Sherman Theatre, Cardiff, from 11 to 26 October.

“Enough of Him” explores the life of Joseph Knight, an enslaved African who became central in a landmark legal battle in Perthshire. Written by May Sumbwanyambe, this praised play returns with a new cast through a collaboration between the National Theatre of Scotland and Pitlochry Festival Theatre. It runs at Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh, from 22 to 26 October and will then tour Scotland and the UK.

Comedy genius Ben Elton, after a successful return to stand-up, hits the road again with his new show “Authentic Stupidity.” Performances kick off at Barbican, York, on 1 September before continuing his tour.

Mo Gilligan, who has been carving a name for himself in the US, brings his latest set “In the Moment” back to the UK. He will perform at Grand Theatre, Leeds, starting 5 September as part of his tour.

Nish Kumar, known for his intense and topical humor, addresses serious issues with a comedic touch. His new stand-up tour starts at Oxford Playhouse on 6 September before hitting other stops.

Rising comedy star Ania Magliano tours with “Forgive Me, Father,” exploring themes of commitment-phobia. The show runs at Soho Theatre, London, from 14 to 26 October before going on tour.

Natalie Palamides, famed for her unique comedic style, presents “Weer,” an unconventional rom-com where she plays both partners in the relationship. See her at Soho Theatre, London, from 6 to 30 November.

The Clod Ensemble returns with their vibrant production “The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady,” inviting audiences to dance along to the Nu Civilisation Orchestra performing Charles Mingus’s music. Enjoy this interactive experience at Barbican, London, from 19 to 21 September.

Birmingham Royal Ballet premieres “Luna,” the final installment in a ballet trilogy celebrating Birmingham. With an all-female creative team, this piece runs at Birmingham Hippodrome from 3 to 5 October and at Sadler’s Wells, London, from 22 to 23 October.

“BalletLorent: Snow White,” under the choreography of Liv Lorent, offers dual versions of the classic tale, one family-friendly and the other for adult audiences examining deeper themes. This performance runs at Northern Stage, Newcastle, from 31 October to 3 November.

Matthew Bourne’s game-changing “Swan Lake,” in which male swans replace traditional female roles, embarks on an extensive tour marking its 30th anniversary. The journey begins at Theatre Royal Plymouth from 11 to 16 November.

The Royal Ballet presents “MaddAddam,” a UK premiere by Wayne McGregor inspired by Margaret Atwood’s post-apocalyptic trilogy. This performance delves into themes like extinction and activism, showing at Royal Opera House, London, from 14 to 30 November.

Source: Guardian