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Review of Fantasia Orchestra’s ‘From Mahler to Manhattan’: “Tribute to golden classics shines with its own gilt”
It’s hard to describe beauty when it transcends words. And that’s the ongoing struggle that, as a critic, I often face when reviewing a classical music concert — especially when there’s so much brilliance in it. As my second encounter with the young but fast-growing Fantasia Orchestra, my expectations for high quality were reasonably cemented.…
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In the launch of Billy Elliot’s 20th anniversary production
Two decades after its message of individuality and self-belief took its first steps (and pirouettes) on the London stage, the musical returns in a brand new production touring across the country before landing in the West End. Join us as we meet the talent bringing this iconic story back to life, featuring a special appearance…
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Review of ‘Hot Mess’: “Earthy musical is hardly out of this world”
It’s somewhat ironic to find myself writing a review about a musical denouncing global warming while suffering the suffocating effects of the current heat wave. You would think that would have resulted in an instant click between the show and me. A genuine connection. And a desire to let the crowds know. But it hasn’t.…
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Review of ‘Dark of the Moon’: “Wizard-themed musical is far from bewitching”
It doesn’t matter if the protagonist has magical powers. This show simply doesn’t do the trick. There’s nothing charming about it. And there’s not enough sorcery in this world to erase the boredom, disappointment, and ultimate despair audiences are put through in Dark of the Moon, a new musical based on the 1940s play by…
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Felicity Kendal talks new revival of ‘High Society’: “We need less criticism and less disaster”
Considered one of the most prominent actresses of her generation, reunites with Cole Porter and musical theatre after her 2021 debut in Anything Goes, once again bringing back the glitz and glamour of old Broadway, accompanied by a star-studded cast. Guillermo Nazara chats with her during rehearsals to learn more about this new take on…
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Review of ‘The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind’: “Airy musical has power but no electricity”
I wish it had succeeded. Much like I wished to root for its main character. It’s not that I didn’t want the kid to build the wind generator and save his family from famine. I just wanted to be part of his journey, his struggles, and his eventual triumph. It’s surprising how a musical involving…
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Performer and producer Tanya Truman talks upcoming Nigella Lawson-inspired musical: “This show could absolutely build a strong community following”
London’s Upstairs at the Gatehouse gets a taste of Britain’s sweetest (and somewhat spiciest) culinary author with this new musical honouring her legacy through laughter, tears, and home-cooked meals. Guillermo Nazara chats with the actress portraying the iconic TV personality to learn more about the show’s development and how it will stir the pot in…
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Review of ‘Avenue Q’ (2026, West End): “Carefully puppeted revival keeps every string attached with its predecessor”
London’s Shaftesbury Theatre presents the much-anticipated return of Lopez and Marx’s musical comedy hit. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show to let us know if this ironic portrayal of adult life still has purpose or anything special to it. I still think Wicked should have won the 2003 Tony for Best Musical. And…
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Review of ‘Dear Jack, Dear Louise’: “Letter-based romance doesn’t correspond with its potential”
London’s Arcola Theatre presents the revival of Ken Ludwig’s epistolary two-hander. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show to let us know if this post-depression love story suffers from any delivery fails. Love. Love changes everything. Don’t worry. It’s not that show. Thank goodness it isn’t. There will be romance, though. Actually, that’s the…
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Review of ‘Flyby’: “Intricate score shoots for the stars despite narrative black hole”
London’s Southwark Playhouse presents the world premiere of Theo Jamieson’s romantic musical, featuring a cast of A-list West End performers. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show to let us know if, like its protagonist, this unusual recount has left him lost in space. Here comes another musical about love. And just like many…
