Sir Michael Palin joins us to talk about how he’s working to save theatres in lockdown. The Monty Python star tells us what life in lockdown has been life for him and his family, and how he has been coping since fellow Python Terry Jones passed. Broadcast on 26/06/20
THEATER
Theatre stands on the brink of ruin
The West End producer says 70 per cent of performing arts companies will close by Christmas if there is no government rescue package
British theatre is on the brink of total collapse. All the performing arts – theatre, dance, opera, comedy, theatre in education, Christmas pantomime, community shows – are facing the real possibility of complete obliteration. I know it sounds melodramatic. It beggars belief – but it is a statement of fact.
Without an urgent government rescue package, 70 per cent of our performing arts companies will be out of business before the end of this year. More than 1,000 theatres around the country will be insolvent and might shut down for good.
Continue at THE TELEGRAPH: Theatre stands on the brink of ruin
Video: The making of Local Hero – the musical stage production
The Scotsman’s Joyce McMillan talks to David Greig, artistic director at The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh, about the making of the stage musical adaptation of the cult film Local Hero.
Source: Video: The making of Local Hero – the musical stage production – The Scotsman
The Best Plays in London
What to see where and until when: theartsdesk’s stage tips
London is the theatre capital of the world, with more than 50 playhouses offering theatrical entertainment. From the mighty National Theatre to the West End, the small powerhouses of the Donmar Warehouse and the Almeida and out to the fringe theatres, it’s hard to know which to turn. Our guide is here to help you sort the wheat from the chaff. Below is our selection of the best plays on in London right now, with links to our reviews for further elucidation.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Bridge Theatre ★★★★ Nicholas Hytner’s vivacious 21st-century take is a gender-juggling romp. Until 31 Aug
Barber Shop Chronicles, Roundhouse ★★★★ Must-see transfer from the National is riotous theatre at its best. Until 24 Aug
Equus, Trafalgar Studios Lean and hungry brilliance in Ned Bennett’s production of Peter Shaffer. Until 7 Sep
Europe, Donmar Warehouse ★★★★★ Magnificent revival of David Greig’s 1990s visionary classic is both tough and tender. Until 10 Aug
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Palace Theatre ★★★★★ The continuing story of JK Rowling’s witches and wizards works its magic onstage
Peter Pan, Troubadour White City ★★★★ New West London venue opens with a zestful spectacular to suit all ages. Until 27 Oct
The Lehman Trilogy, Piccadilly Theatre ★★★★★ Stunning chronicle of determination and dollars. Until 31 Aug
The Night of the Iguana, Noël Coward Theatre ★★★★ Clive Owen and Lia Williams burn bright in a terrific revival of Tennessee Williams’s last masterpiece.Until 28 Sep
More at THE ARTS DESK: The Best Plays in London