Some of spring’s most exciting theater is inspired by stories you may already know and love. From literary classics to a cult cinematic favourite, these latest adaptations show how familiar tales can take on a whole new life on stage. By Sam Rogg.
Spirits are stirring at the Prince Edward Theatre where Beetlejuice the Musical makes its long-awaited West End debut on 20 May. Based on Tim Burton’s cult 1988 film, the show follows Lydia Deetz, a self-styled outsider who finds herself sharing her home with a recently deceased couple – and one extremely unruly ghost. After multiple Broadway runs and an extensive US tour, the original creative team reunites for London under director Alex Timbers. Expect irreverent humour, inventive stagecraft and a sensational score by Eddie Perfect. As producer James Lane puts it: ‘There is nothing else quite like this show… audiences really are in for a terrifyingly hilarious treat.’
From the mischievous to the mysterious, Sherlock Holmes takes to the stage at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre (2 May-6 Jun). Written by Joel Horwood and set in 1890s London, this new play follows the famous detective as he is drawn into a dangerous conspiracy after the arrival of an intriguing jewel, and it’s all staged in one of the city’s prettiest Royal Parks. Established in 1932, the theatre seats more than 1,300 people and is renowned for combining large-scale productions with its picturesque setting – just be sure to dress for the weather as seating is uncovered.
Finally, for something that tugs a little harder at the heartstrings, War Horse returns to the National Theatre from 16 May to 30 July. Adapted from Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, this production has become one of the venue’s biggest success stories since its 2007 premiere, playing to nearly nine million people worldwide. Set during World War I, the story follows young Albert’s journey from rural Devon
to the trenches of France in search of his horse, Joey – brought to life on stage by the Handspring Puppet Company in a remarkable feat of theatrical engineering. Catch the Tony Award-winning global sensation back where it all began, nearly two decades after its debut.
From page and screen to stage, these productions prove that great stories never fade – they simply find new ways to captivate.
