The London stage has won international acclaim, with roots stretching back hundreds of years and a keen eye on maintaining this success in the years to come. This summer marks the start of a particularly exciting time for London’s theatre scene, with many big and small screen stars transitioning to the capital’s famed stage to flex their dramatic muscles and hone their craft in front of a live audience. Here’s our pick of the stars to see this June…
Aidan Turner in The Lieutenant of Inishmore
Until 8th September – Noel Coward Theatre
The star of BBC’s Poldark is returning to the stage in this dramatic retelling of the early days of the IRA, playing Mad Padraic, a member who was considered too extreme for the group. The play has already premiered in Stratford-upon-Avon during the early noughties, and now comes to London after a formerly successful run at the Garrick Theatre. Directed by Michael Grandage, this promises to be a high-stakes drama to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, and would make the ideal evening out for drama-loving guests at the Park Grand London Kensington.
Alfred Molina in Red
Play Red Wyndham’s Theatre | West End Closes 28 July 2018
Having previously been nominated for a Tony Award when Red hit Broadway in 2009, Alfred Molina is back to reprise his role as acclaimed artist Mark Rothko as he struggles to create several murals for the Four Seasons restaurant. The production has been well-received during its previous run and is sure to provide a fantastic evening’s theatre for fans of the stage. For a relaxed afternoon prior to the show, be sure to try afternoon tea at our Kensington hotel.
Ken Watanabe in The King and I
The King and I London Palladium to Saturday, 29 September, 2018
This lavish retelling of The King and I brings famed Japanese actor Ken Watanabe to the fore with a role sure to rival his performances in films such as The Last Samurai and Inception. The performance this summer marks Watanabe’s debut on the London stage, and this production follows on from director Bartlett Sher’s success with his play Oslo in London’s West End last year. For a quintessentially British evening of theatre, opt for the best breakfast in Kensington at the Park Grand before spending the day exploring and heading to the theatre for a show not to be missed!
Will Young in Strictly Ballroom
until 28th July – Piccadilly Theatre
Singer Will Young is returning to the stage with an adaptation of created by Baz Luhrmann’s film classic Strictly Ballroom at the Piccadilly Theatre until 28th July. Young first made a name for himself as a finalist in one of the UK’s most famous talent shows, Pop Idol. Following a glittering musical career, he subsequently carved out a name for himself in musical theatre, earning an Olivier Award nomination for his role in Cabaret along the way. He now takes on a role as a band leader in this popular stage show.