Theatre Shows 2021: 11 productions to watch across the UK including London’s West End as venues open

Theatres and playhouses have reopened their doors again after being shut for over a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Venues are adhering to Covid-19 guidelines including social distancing in intervals and increased ventilation - although make sure to check out individual theatres for any specific requirements.

Here, we have rounded up some of the best shows to watch this coming month.

East is East

East is East returns to Birmingham to commemorate its 25th anniversary at the very place it premiered in 1996, The Birmingham Rep Theatre.

This classic play centres around the Khan family who attempt to raise their children following Pakistani culture in 1970s Salford. This comedy-drama is the best way to re-immerse yourself into those fun, cultural nights out.

• The Birmingham Repertory Theatre
• 03 September – 25 September 2021
• Tickets from £12.50

Six

This sell-out international smash hit musical has taken the world by storm. The show, which has been nominated for 5 Olivier Awards including Best New Musical, follows the story of the six wives of Henry VIII told through a format you’ve never seen before. Act now as tickets are selling out fast.

Some performances are available with British Sign Language (BSL).

• Birmingham Hippodrome
• 14 September – 18 September 2021
• Tickets from £27

Message In A Bottle

For one night only, the Birmingham Hippodrome is hosting a night of dance, with the choreography set to the 17-time Grammy Award-Winning artist Sting.

You’ll hear all of his biggest hits, including Every Breath You Take. There are two performances on the day at 2:30pm and 7:30pm.

• Birmingham Hippodrome
• 24 September 2021
• Tickets from £15

9 to 5

Edinburgh Playhouse will be staging this classic musical for four nights later this month. The show follows the story of three workmates who plan to kidnap their sexist and egotistical boss only to have a surprise visit from the CEO. This musical is set to the songs of Dolly Parton – need I say anything more?

• Edinburgh Playhouse
• 14 September -18 September 2021
• Tickets from £13

Chicago

For one week only, the Edinburgh Playhouse is hosting the Multi-Award Winning musical. Set almost 100 years ago, Chicago follows the story of housewife and nightclub dancer, Roxie Hart, who murders her lover. Loved by all who’ve seen it, Chicago is the perfect musical to re-start your love for theatre.

• Edinburgh Playhouse
• 27 September – 2 October 2021
• Tickets from £13

Dracula: The Untold Story

If it’s a unique experience you’re seeking, Dracula: The Untold Story unfolds on stage as a live graphic novel. The play follows the story of a young woman admitting to a brutal murder. But here’s the twist, she claims to be Mina Harker - who hasn’t been spotted for 70 years. Catch this gothic horror remake as an early Halloween treat.

• Leeds Playhouse
• 25 September – 9 October 2021
• Tickets from £14

Freedom Project

The Leeds Playhouse is reopening its Theatre of Sanctuary Programme, with an interactive hour divulging the stories of refugees Mo and Hossein as they left their dangerous homes to seek sanctuary in the UK.

These young performers reveal their journeys and ask the audience to consider what life is like for children fleeing danger and seeking a new home. A moving and informative option for anyone interested in refugee life.

• Leeds Playhouse
• 10 September – 18 September 2021
• Tickets from £14

Oliver Twist

This month-long Dickens’ classic is a must-see, dubbed “fluid and seamless” by the Yorkshire Post. With all performances containing captions, subtitles and a BSL interpretation – this inclusive and well-revered show is one to consider. Oliver Twist follows the classic story of an orphan escaping the workhouse for a life of adventure.

• Leeds Playhouse
• 25 October – 20 November
• Tickets from £15

Back To The Future: The Musical

Back to the Future is a timeless film but now, after being delayed by Covid-19, it takes to the stage as a musical. Watch as Marty McFly travels to the 1950s with Doc Brown using the renowned DeLorean. Following the plot of the first film, this musical is one to see.

• Adelphi Theatre, Strand (London)
• 01 September 2021 – 13 February 2022
• Tickets from £19.50

2:22: A Ghost Story

Believing her new home is haunted, Jenny (Lily Allen) argues with her husband and dinner party guests over the strange noise heard in their house. Could it be ghosts? This supernatural thriller leaves you second-guessing what happens next and is perfect for Halloween.

• Noël Coward Theatre
• 13 August – 16 October 2021
• Tickets from £10

Witness For The Prosecution

This thrilling remake of Agatha Christie’s “Witness for the Prosecution” - nominated for an Olivier award for Best Revival – is filled with suspense, thrills and shocking twists. It follows the story of Leonard Vole, who befriends a rich old lady just before she’s murdered. Vole pleads his innocence, but will he be found guilty?

• London County Hall
• 14 September 2021 – 20 March 2022
• Tickets from £15

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