Not seen in London for nearly 20 years, Sheffield Crucible’s acclaimed revival of an early musical classic arrives with aplomb! Meet the all-singing all-dancing actors, dancers, engineers and crew of the Cotton Blossom, a travelling show boat in the Deep South of America, way back in 1887. See the hopes, dreams, loves and heartache of a whole slice of society as they travel along Ol’ Man River, now at the New London Theatre.
Since December 2015, this production of Show Boat has collected piles and piles of 5* reviews from the national press. Expect the Crucibles’ production to be uplifting yet uncompromising, covering everything from racism to women’s rights to gambling addiction with an incredibly soulful sincerity. Show Boat theatre breaks mean that you can see David Evans’ final production as artistic director of the Crucible in the majesty of London’s West End! Book and lyrics are by legendary librettist Oscar Hammerstein II, and some of the most memorable tracks from the show include Ol' Man River, Make Believe, and Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man.
From budget 3* hotels to luxurious 5* and everything in between, combine tickets with a hotel to make a glorious Show Boat theatre break! And why not add on our discounted train tickets to make sure that your Show Boat theatre break starts and ends in style and comfort.
“It is the kind of show that leaves you feeling choked, shivery and on an absolute high.” *****, Claire Allfree, The Telegraph
“Daniel Evans’s production of the 20th-century musical classic is unmissable.” *****, Clare Brennan, The Guardian
“An evening of sweeping magnificence that soars in every department.” *****, Mark Shenton, The Stage
Show Boat premiered at the now-destroyed Ziegfeld Theatre in New York in 1927, and was almost the first musical performed there – just edged out by Rio Rita. Show Boat was the theatre’s most famous show.
Due to rapidly changing sensibilities over the 20th century, Show Boat has often had its lyrics modified or particular songs swapped in and out. This production uses the Goodspeed Musicals version.
The musical is based on Edna Ferber’s 1926 novel of the same name.
The New London is a very wide theatre, so if side views aren’t a problem, pick the cheaper seats in the side Circle.
Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm
Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm
Running time - 2 hrs 40 mins
Booking until - 27/08/2016