Musicals Magazine

30 May 2024

Sarah Crompton talks to the all-singing, all-tapping Charlie Stemp about the enduring thrill of Golden Age classics – first encountered when he was an energetic child growing up in South East London – ahead of starring in the revival of Kiss Me, Kate at the Barbican this summer. To celebrate 40 years of the iconic musical-on-wheels Starlight Express, Editor Sarah Kirkup speaks with members of the original cast and creatives to uncover the key to the show’s cult following, and also looks ahead to what the new, Luke Sheppard-directed London revival has in store. From Heathers to Legally Blonde, Hairspray to High School Musical, Jack Pepper explores the ever-relatable varsity setting in Musical Theatre ahead of Mean Girls opening in the West End this summer. Musical Theatre legend Elaine Paige returns to our pages with her regular column celebrating the shows that revolutionised Musical Theatre. This time, it’s Kander and Ebb’s dark and subversive Cabaret. MJ The Musical, Opening Night, Police Cops, London Tide and the touring production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang feature in our UK show reviews – and don’t miss our US show reviews, including The Wiz, The Outsiders and the Broadway transfer of Rebecca Frecknall’s Cabaret. From across the pond, cast recordings of Gutenberg! The Musical, Water for Elephants, White Rose and White Girl in Danger are included in our expert recording reviews.