The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has announced a new season for its 130th birthday. This season is crammed full of adaptations that are breathing new life into treasured classics. Whether you love a traditional Shakespeare or a 1980’s musical, there is something for everyone. Make sure to check out the whole season at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre website.
Play On! 28 January- 22 February
Play On! first found its success in late 90’s after it’s Broadway Debut. More recently, the production by the Talawa Theatre Company is currently on tour in UK. Their final stop is at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre in early 2025. Written by Sheldon Epps and Cheryl L West and featuring music by Duke Ellington, this jazz interpretation of a Shakespeare classic is not to be missed. The production is a retelling of the Shakespeare Play The Twelfth Night. The musical tells the story of Vy, a songwriter trying to make their mark on the 1940’s music scene while being a woman in a man’s world. This jam-packed musical has everything you would ever need. Whether you’re a fan of Shakespeare, jazz or anything in between, make sure to grab your tickets before they sell out.
Macbeth. 28 February- 29 March
Another adaptation of a Shakespeare classic is due to follow. The “Scottish Play” is coming to the Lyric Hammersmith. Filled with themes of betrayal, ambition and tyranny, this production is sure to breathe new life into the original. Directed by Richard Twyman, expect a visceral and contemporary new production that speaks to a world we find ourselves living in now, asking why Macbeth has haunted our fears and nightmares for centuries. This production is being performed by the English Touring Theatre (ETT), who have been on the scene for over 30 years. They have produced 110 productions to millions of people.
Ghosts. 10 April- 10 May
The original Henrick Ibson play, Ghosts, is being reimagined by Irish writer, Gary Owen. The contemporary adaptation is being directed by Rachel O’Riodan, who was appointed the artistic director of the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre in February 2019. Her directional debut at the Lyric was A Doll’s House and she has continued to direct successful productions ever since. The play follows Helena, who is a determined widow on the verge of honouring her late husband’s legacy through the opening of a children’s hospital in his name. However, plans face unexpected turmoil when their son, Oz, returns home. This is a story of ambition, loyalty, and the cost of hidden truths unfolding against the backdrop of an emotional family reunion.
Marriage Material. 22 May – 21 June
This new play by Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti is based on the 2013 novel by Sathnam Sanghera, which is another retelling of Arnold Bennett’s The Old Wives’ Tale. This new adaptation centres on the Bains’ corner shop in Wolverhampton, a family hub for three generations. In 1969, Mrs. Bains juggles running the shop, caring for her ailing husband, and managing the high expectations of her two spirited daughters. Decades later, a family tragedy draws Arjan Bains back from his life in London, reconnecting him to his roots. The play is a compelling exploration of time, family bonds, and the enduring power of togetherness.
Sing Street. 8 July- 23 August
Sing Street is a musical featuring music and lyrics by Gary Clark and John Carney, with a book by Enda Walsh. Based on Carney’s 2016 film of the same title, the stage adaptation premiered at New York Theatre Workshop. This new production by the Lyric Theatre is being directed by Rebecca Taichman and choreographed by Sonya Tayeh. The play is set in 1982 in Dublin and follows Connor who has a troubling home life. His life begins to turn around when he meets Raphine, a mysterious, effortlessly cool girl aspiring to be a model. Eager to impress her, Conor asks her to star in a music video for his band (that he doesn’t have yet). With a score that embraces the new wave sounds of the 80s, Sing Street is an ode to the thrill of young love and a celebration of the power of music to lift us up.
Dracula. 11 September- 11 October
A new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel is coming to the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre. Mina Harker has a story she needs to tell. Equipped with her husband’s diary, a collection of old letters, and her intellect, she starts solving the mystery of Count Dracula’s journey to England. But is her story just a memory, or does it have the power to raise the dead? In this striking new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic horror, Morgan Lloyd Malcolm (Emilia) brings forward the powerful female voices within the tale. Directed by Emma Baggott (A Taste of Honey), this is a theatrical thriller not to be missed.
Words by Gemma McDonald
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