Stage Lights Up, Curtains Down: New Shows and Final Bows
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
As new productions arrive, final curtain calls approach for favourites such as Starlight Express and Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.
THE CURTAINS RISE...
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
This bold new musical, transferring to London’s West End at Soho Place this month, tells the inspiring true story of William Kamkwamba, a young inventor from Malawi whose dream and ingenuity transform his drought‑hit village. Based on his memoir and the 2019 film adaptation, the show combines heart, hope and vivid music and lyrics to trace William’s journey from scepticism to triumph as he builds a windmill from scraps to bring energy and optimism to his community.
Opens: 29 April to 18 July.
Grace Pervades
David Hare’s new play arrives at the Theatre Royal Haymarket after earlier runs, unfolding the rich lives and complex creative partnership of Victorian theatre pioneers Sir Henry Irving and Ellen Terry. With wit and historical depth, Grace Pervades explores how their personalities, ambitions and theatrical philosophies shaped the dramatic arts. The production serves as a warm, thoughtful tribute to stage history, with vivid characterisation and intelligent storytelling bringing the era’s giants vividly to life.
Opens: 24 April to 11 July.
To book: https://trh.co.uk/whatson/grace-pervades.
NEWSFLASH!
Having announced last month that Vanessa Williams would take her final bow as Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical on 18 April, it has now been confirmed that both her run and the show have been extended.
The show, at the Dominion Theatre, will now run to 6 February 2027, while Vanessa will continue her role as the formidable editor Miranda, until 17 October.
Dates: Extended to 6 February 2027.
To book: www.devilwearspradamusical.com.
CLOSING NIGHT CALLS...
Alice in Wonderland
Don’t be late for this final tumble into Wonderland. This imaginative stage adaptation of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland at Riverside Studios brings the classic tale vividly to life, following Alice as she shrinks, grows and encounters a host of curious characters. From the mischievous Cheshire Cat to the formidable Queen of Hearts, every moment is packed with colour and charm. With enchanting puppetry, an original score and “gorgeous costumes”, it’s a magical treat for all ages – and a perfect last chance outing before it disappears.
Ends: 12 April.
Paranormal Activity
If you’re yet to brave Paranormal Activity, now’s the moment — the current run of this chilling production is closing soon at the Ambassadors Theatre. Starring Patrick Heusinger and Melissa James, the show has earned praise for its genuinely unnerving atmosphere and inventive staging. Inspired by the hit film series, it delivers edge-of-your-seat tension with a fresh storyline. With its final performances approaching, this is one for thrill-seekers looking for a truly spine-tingling night out.
Ends: 25 April; returning 8 August to 3 October.
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry
Time is running out to catch The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. Starring Mark Addy and Jenna Russell, this heartfelt musical brings Rachel Joyce’s beloved novel to life with a moving score by Passenger. Warm, uplifting and quietly profound, it follows an ordinary man’s extraordinary journey across England. If you’re after something genuinely touching with plenty of heart, this is a beautiful final chance to experience it.
Ends: 18 April.
To book: www.HaroldFryMusical.com.
Starlight Express
Racing out of Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre on 3 May, Starlight Express is your last chance to catch Andrew Lloyd Webber’s high-octane spectacle. A childhood train set springs to life as engines compete to be the fastest, with underdog Rusty chasing glory. Performed on skates, the cast whizzes around and above the audience in a dazzling, immersive experience set to iconic songs including AC/DC and Light at the End of the Tunnel. Seen by more than 30 million worldwide, this is a closing run worth catching.
Ends: 3 May.
To book: https://www.starlightexpresslondon.com.
