So, firstly the show.
It is an absolutely amazing show. The cast are so talented and the sets and projections used on the show are totally mesmerising. This is quite possibly the best theatre show in London, if not the world. The whole production is first class from top to bottom. This is a must see show for everyone. Adults as well as children.
But this brings me to the reason for the 1 star review. The actions of the audience members is just thoroughly disrespectful to not only other audience members but to the hard working proffesional cast giving their all.
These are some of the poor things we had to contend with while in attendance
Children talking loudly ALL the way through the show. (With the parents not once telling them to shush) completely spoiling the show for everyone else, as well as being distracting for the cast.
Adults of above children constantly talking loudly with their kids having full on conversations instead of telling the kids to be quiet.
People turning up 30 minutes late, disrupting the audience trying to watch the show.
One couple in the middle of the front row bringing in a 2 year old and subsequently playing videos on a tablet for the child while the show was going on. I kid you not- thankfully the staff had to intervene!
Adults bring in a full picnic into a west end theatre and then proceeding to have said picnic all the way through the show. Rustling of rappers, Delving into bags, asking each other what crisps they want (loudly) then eating said crisps loudly.
Constant noise and disruption from unruly children. Whose parents refuse to either acknowledge the problem nor rectify it
People sat on their phones through the show
People getting up and going to the toilet in the middle of a scene
All the above completely spoil the show for decent people who have paid £100+ to actually see the show.
SO MY ADVICE.
If you are a parent who is thinking about bringing young children - If you do not think they can sit still and quiet for a couple of hours, or you lack the parenting skills to ensure they do, then please do not bring them to this fabulous show. And Parents, if you do not know how to act in a West end theatre, or have no self awareness to realise that there are another 2000 other paying guests who want to sit and enjoy the show..also, please don't attend.
EVERYONE - Please be aware this is a professional West End show, with a highly talented cast who deserve the respect to do their job without being distracted by unruly patrons in attendance. This show is not a sing a long, nor a pantomime.
With the above aside, this show is a must see for anyone who wants to see a massive spectacular show that they will never forget.
The shows ends in September, so do yourselves a flavour and see this before...
Read moreREVIEW: Much Ado About Nothing – Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
We were incredibly lucky to have seats in the stalls for Jamie Lloyd's Much Ado About Nothing, and from the moment we walked in, we knew this would be no ordinary Shakespearean experience. Pump Up The Jam blasted through the theatre, while LED strip lights danced around, setting the scene for an electric atmosphere filled with anticipation.
The show opened with the phenomenal Mason Alexander Park performing Tell It To My Heart, their voice soaring through the theatre and kicking things off with an unforgettable energy. Fronted by the incredible Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell, the cast was nothing short of electric, delivering a fresh and exhilarating take on Shakespeare’s classic comedy that felt accessible to all ages.
The set was kept minimal—a scattering of everyday chairs, the occasional prop, a massive inflatable heart at the rear of the stage, and an ongoing shower of pink tissue paper confetti. It was impressive to see the full depth of the Theatre Royal’s stage used so effectively. However, as someone who has directed plays myself, I can't help but feel a little disappointed that more and more productions are moving away from elaborate sets. While this approach places full focus on the actors, I do miss the craftsmanship of a well-designed set, which helps transport audiences to another world.
Musically, the show felt like one giant party, packed with all the 90s dance anthems that Vinnie and I regularly play when we’re out gigging. It blurred the line between theatre and nightlife in the best possible way, making for a vibrant, energetic, and immersive experience.
The only downside to the night was that I’m ill again with yet another chest infection and felt absolutely awful throughout. If anything, it’s a testament to the sheer energy of the production that I still managed to enjoy it while feeling like I’d been hit by a truck.
One unexpected highlight was encountering a few members of the ensemble after the performance. In particular, I was thrilled to meet Forbes Masson, who appeared in one of my favourite comedy series as a teenager in the early 90s, The High Life, alongside Alan Cumming. He was kind enough to sign my programme, which was a lovely full-circle moment for me.
Bold, colourful, and unapologetically modern, Jamie Lloyd’s Much Ado About Nothing was a unique, high-energy triumph that left the audience buzzing. A theatrical rave with Shakespeare at its heart—what’s not to love?
#MuchAdoAboutNothing #JamieLloyd #TomHiddleston #HayleyAtwell #TheatreRoyalDruryLane #ShakespeareReimagined #LondonTheatre #WestEnd #90sNostalgia #ElectricEnergy #TheatreMagic #LivePerformance #ChestInfectionWontStopMe #TheHighLife #ForbesMasson #AlanCumming...
Read moreTLDR: An excellent 5-star review! I've broken this appraisal into two sections; the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane and the performance of Disney's Frozen.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
The Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London epitomises grandeur and elegance, a true gem among the city's iconic landmarks. Stepping into this magnificent venue was like entering a fairytale with its rich history and exquisite architecture. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the gorgeous interior decorated with intricate details that evoked a sense of enchantment.
Upon entering, we were welcomed by the friendly and attentive team, who provided a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish. The comfy seats offered excellent views from every angle, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the magical world of Disney's Frozen. There were plenty of free cushions for the kids to get a great view. We sat towards the side in the stalls, and the view was incredible.
All in all, the venue itself is a 5-star.
Disney's Frozen.
The stage adaptation of Disney's Frozen at Theatre Royal Drury Lane Lane surpassed all expectations, delivering an awe-inspiring and exceptional experience. The show seamlessly brought the animated film to life, enchanting audiences of all ages with its captivating storytelling, mesmerising performances, and breathtaking visuals. We've seen the show twice; both times were incredible and, if anything, improved. The amount of energy the cast put in is just beyond words.
Samantha Barks (as Elsa) gives a stunning performance, and Olaf is just as brilliant.
But credit to all of the cast, whose talent was simply remarkable. Anna was also phenomenal, giving a powerful and believable performance.
The production's attention to detail was impeccable. The set design was a true masterpiece (no spoiler alert, but we're still trying to work out the bridge)! The clever lighting and projections created an exciting winter wonderland that left us in awe.
The choreography was thrilling, with detailed and enthusiastic dance numbers that brought the stage to life. The music, of course, was one of the show's highlights. The iconic song "Let It Go" must be seen to be believed. If you've never seen the show before, you're in for a real treat, and for those who know, that BIG moment is incredible. On both occasions we saw the show, the audience went wild! I don't want to spoil it for those who haven't seen it before - but there's an incredible moment in the song that is honestly nothing short of magical (for adults and kids!) :)
The orchestra, tucked away in the orchestra pit, also played their hearts out!
In conclusion, Disney's Frozen at Theatre Royal Drury Lane Lane is a theatrical...
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