What’s opening in London theatres this month? (February 2024)
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| By
Kevin Thomas
Just like Marmite, people either love or hate February. It's a month that can be perfect for snuggling up on the couch with a hot beverage in hand, wrapped in the warmth of a snuggie. On the other hand, the chill of the season might not be everyone's cup of tea. But let's agree on one thing: February over January any day! The reason? We're more inclined to actually leave the house. Post-New Year's relaxation and the promise of brighter days are ahead. So, as we regain our energy and enthusiasm, let’s take a look at the list of the top theatre shows opening in February.
An Enemy of The People (6 February)
Henrik Ibsen's compelling drama An Enemy of the People explores the rapid spread of doubt and the ever-changing dynamics of truth in a society driven by power and greed.
The plot centres around Dr. Stockmann's groundbreaking revelation regarding the hazardous and bacterially-infested waters of the town's popular tourist spa. This discovery places the destiny of the town squarely in his hands. However, his findings are met with staunch resistance and denial from those who stand to lose the most.
In this modern rendition by Ostermeier, the play transcends the issue of polluted waters, serving as a powerful reminder of the persistent struggle within society and the importance of breaking down societal barriers.
Standing At The Sky’s Edge (8 February)
Standing at the Sky's Edge masterfully explores the lives of three different generations, encapsulating a wide range of human emotions. The plot follows Poppy, who aspires to leave her past in London behind and start anew. Meanwhile, Joy and Jimmy are determined to spend their twilight years together, and Rose and Harry are in pursuit of a fresh start, one filled with promises.
This production is a tribute to Sheffield, offering a glimpse into the history of modern Britain through the lens of an emblematic estate. It traces the aspirations and challenges faced by these families over sixty eventful years.
Having been awarded the title of Best New Musical at the 2023 Olivier Awards, the show now eagerly awaits its debut in the West End, bringing its much-awaited narrative and performances to a larger audience
Hadestown (10 February)
Hadestown merges elements of ancient Greek mythology with a soundtrack inspired by folk and blues to depict the intricate romance of Orpheus and Eurydice set against a dystopian backdrop.
In this story, Orpheus, a gifted musician, falls deeply in love with Eurydice, a young woman yearning for a life beyond her current means. They dream of departing the grim, industrial world of Hadestown for the surface, aspiring for a future filled with joy and abundance. However, Eurydice faces a challenging decision when Hadestown's ruler offers her a job, luring her with the promise of stability and comfort. This decision leads her to accept it, much to Orpheus's despair. Heartbroken, Orpheus embarks on a quest to Hadestown to save her. The story unfolds around whether Orpheus can triumph in his quest for love and liberation or if his aspirations and romance are doomed to fade away.
The Merchant of Venice 1936 (15 February)
Following a critically acclaimed sold-out UK tour, the award nominated Merchant of Venice 1936 explodes on to the West End stage.
A fierce and fascinating reminder of a key moment in recent British history, this timley adaptation of Shakespeare's classic follows the political unreset in London's East End. Set in the 1930s, this powerful production follows Shylock (Tracy-Ann Oberman), a Jewish single mother as she attempts to survive under the British Union of Fascists ascent to power. A refugee from Russia, Shylock is desperate to protect her daughter and give her a future she deserves, and she knows that money is the only means of survival. So, when the charming merchant Antonio comes to her for a loan, a high-stakes deal is struck.
Tracy-Ann Oberman is the first woman in the plays 400-year history to play the role of Shylock, don't miss your chance to see this vivid, visionary adaptation. Playing for a strictly limited run, book your tickets now!
For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy (29 Febuary)
Following three critically acclaimed sold-out runs For Black Boys... makes it's highly anticipated return to the West End!
A mixture of euphoric fantasy and brutal reality, For Black Boys... see's six strangers let their hearts and imaginations run wild. Meeting in group therapy, the men escape to their own world steeped in music, movement, storytelling and verse. In a desperate bid for survival the unlikley gang talk openly about their hopes and fears, finding meaningful connections through lost loves, father figures and jollof rice.
Sparking much-needed discussions through delicate convesations, the multi award-winning production examines the meaning of masculinty in modern day Britain. Don't miss your chance to see this punchy and powerful play.
Frank Skinner - 30 Years of Dirt opens at Gielgud Theatre on 5 February 2024
The Frogs opens at Kiln Theatre on 8 February 2024
Everybody's Talking About Jamie opens at Peacock Theatre on 8 February 2024
Clueless opens at Churchill Theatre on 12 February 2024
Double Feature opens at Hampstead Theatre on 15 February 2024
The Merchant of Venice 1936 opens at Criterion Theatre on 15 February 2024
The Duchess of Malfi opens at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse on 17 February 2024
The Elvis Years opens at Dominion Theatre on 18 February 2024
We’ll Have Nun of It opens at Other Palace Studio on 22 February 2024