The Biggest Theatre Shows of 2017


Learn more about the hottest shows on the horizon

As a theatre transport company, Stagefreight has been involved in some breathtaking stage shows over the years.

There’s nothing quite like seeing someone tread the boards first hand.

That’s why we’re highlighting some of the most exciting theatre shows around the UK.

The Tempest (Barbican Theatre)

The Shakespearean play of magic and misdirection needs no introduction. However, it’s never been performed quite like this; with an actor in a state-of-the-art motion capture suit.

Starring as Ariel in the Barbican Theatre’s production, Mark Quartley’s suit generates a digital avatar that mimics his movements.

The suit’s intricacies are explored in this article, but the lavish sets may be enough to turn your head.

This play is an excellent introduction to Shakespeare for younger theatre-goers. Book your tickets from Barbican here.

Mark Quartley and Simon Russell Beale in The Tempest at the Barbican Theatre (Photo: Topher McGrillis, RSC)
Mark Quartley and Simon Russell Beale in The Tempest at the Barbican Theatre (Photo: Topher McGrillis, RSC)

Hamilton (Victoria Palace Theatre) 

This sung-through musical has exploded in popularity during its American tour. It tells the life story of Alexander Hamilton- immigrant, statesman and Founding Father- via music influenced by both classic theatre shows and contemporary hip-hop.

Shining a light on a vital chapter of American history, the work has received numerous awards including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It was written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, an American composer and actor whose career spans 15 years and numerous awards. He also co-wrote the songs for Moana, Disney’s latest animated musical.

Hamilton is coming to the UK for the first time this November. Playing to sold- out venues across the USA, this is one history lesson you can’t afford to miss.

Visit Ticketmaster for more details and tickets.

Hamilton Musical Poster Victoria Palace Theatre
Hamilton Musical Poster Victorian Theatre

Pagliacci 

If you’re looking for a legend among theatre shows, the new production of Pagliacci may be just what you’re looking for.

This classic Italian opera is a tragic tale of murder and jealousy in two acts.

Combining both tragic and comedic moments, the opera contains some of the medium’s most famous musical pieces.

This production stars Peter Auty as Canio, the original singer of ‘Walking in the Air’ from The Snowman.

Performing at venues across the country including Leeds, Hull and Nottingham, this production has been organised by Opera North.

We’ve pleased to work with them as a theatre transport company, and we heartily recommend this new show.

Book tickets at the Opera North website: https://www.operanorth.co.uk/productions/pagliacci

Also, read all about our work with Opera North in our case study.

Pagliacci Opera North
Pagliacci (Photo:Opera North)

Ghost Dances 

This contemporary dance piece is returning to British stages for the first time in 13 years. Written by Christopher Bruce and first performed in 1981, the theatre show is a tribute to the people of South America and the trials they have endured.

Written by Christopher Bruce and first performed in 1981, the theatre show is a tribute to the people of South America and the trials they have endured.

It also takes inspiration from Day of the Dead imagery and Latin American music.

Ghost Dances’ haunting costumes and powerful emotional themes mean seeing it now is a rare opportunity.

The piece was performed several times in the past through the 80s and 90s. It garnered positive reviews from many different publications including the New York Times, Independent and Evening Standard.

This time the piece is being performed by Rambert, a London-based contemporary dance company. However, they are performing at several venues nationwide; you can buy tickets from their website.

Miguel Altunaga, Carolyn Bolton in Rambert's new revival of Christopher Bruce's Ghost Dances (2016)
Miguel Altunaga, Carolyn Bolton in Rambert’s new revival of Christopher Bruce’s Ghost Dances (2016)

The Sleeping Beauty

This lavish stage production is inspired by the classic Charles Perrault fairytale.

The timeless story of fairies, princesses and spinning wheels has seen countless adaptations. However, this show from the Birmingham Royal Ballet might be one of the most lavish yet.

Featuring elaborate costumes, gorgeous sets and rave reviews from the Guardian, Times and Sunday Telegraph, this is an exciting yet family-friendly night out.

Book tickets now at the Birmingham Royal Ballet website.

Birmingham Royal Ballet Sleeping Beauty
Sleeping Beauty (Photo: Birmingham Royal Ballet)

These are just a handful of theatre shows you can look forward to in the UK.

We can’t wait to see what the theatre transport side of our business sends our way next!

Don’t forget you can read more about our prior theatre jobs on the Our Work page of the website.

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