HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD new London cast And Exciting Changes for MAMMA MIA! at London’s Novello Theatre | Review

Exciting Changes and Extensions for MAMMA MIA! at London’s Novello Theatre

In the vibrant world of London’s West End, musical enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as the smash hit musical, MAMMA MIA!, announces thrilling news. From Monday, October 9, 2023, the show will welcome a new cast, while also extending its booking period until Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the renowned Novello Theatre. Additionally, the production has an even more significant milestone on the horizon, as it approaches its 25th anniversary, set to be celebrated on April 6, 2024.

The Stalwart Cast Members

The heartwarming tale of MAMMA MIA! will continue to be brought to life by the talented London cast. Mazz Murray will reprise her role as Donna, with Jennifer Adab occasionally stepping into the spotlight as Donna in select performances. The cast remains strong with Christopher Dickins as Harry, Stephen Beckett as Bill, Meg Hateley as Sophie, Miles Henderson as Sky, and Jessie Odeleye, transitioning from the ensemble to play the role of Ali.

New Additions to the Cast

Adding to the excitement, a fresh lineup of cast members will join the production on Monday, October 9. Kate Graham will take on the role of Tanya, while Nicola-Dawn Brook steps into the shoes of Rosie. Haydn Oakley is set to portray Sam, Olivia Brookes as Lisa, Chay Wills as Eddie, and Arcangelo Ciulla as Pepper.

Sinéad Courtney and Lawrence Guntert, existing cast members, will continue to contribute their talent to the show. They will be joined by a stellar ensemble, including Aaron Archer, Amy Barker, Matthew Barrow, John-Paul Birss, Daniel J Brian, Izzy Cross, Ellis Dackombe, Lauren Dawes, Léa Desjacques, Samantha Ivey, Jennie Jacobs, Luke Jasztal, Nicole Lupino, Flyn Mullins, Hayley-Jo Murphy, Bradley Perret, Jacob Ritzema, and Ella Tweed.

A New TV Show: MAMMA MIA! I Have a Dream

In a delightful twist, fans of MAMMA MIA! can look forward to a new television show titled “MAMMA MIA! I Have a Dream.” This show, set to be broadcast on ITV1 later this year, is produced by Thames, a label under Fremantle, and Littlestar. The competition within the show will culminate in a live grand finale, beaming from a prestigious West End theatre in London. Here, two talented winners will be crowned, earning the coveted roles of Sophie and Sky in MAMMA MIA! at the Novello Theatre, just in time for the production’s 25th-anniversary celebration.

MAMMA MIA!’s West End Journey

MAMMA MIA! has etched its mark in West End history since its original London debut on April 6, 1999, at the Prince Edward Theatre. Its enduring popularity prompted transfers to the Prince of Wales Theatre in 2004 and later to the Novello Theatre in 2012. The production’s ability to captivate audiences for over two decades attests to its timeless appeal.

Now, as the show prepares to welcome a new cast and extend its booking period, the enchanting story of love, laughter, and the timeless music of ABBA continues to flourish on the West End stage.

---

The Magical Continuation of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

While the world of ABBA’s music takes center stage, another beloved franchise is making waves in London’s Palace Theatre. “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” the magical continuation of J.K. Rowling’s iconic series, recently marked seven enchanting years at the Palace Theatre, where it has enchanted over 1.5 million patrons. With this milestone, the production introduces a new cast starting on October 17, 2023.

Meet the New Cast

The enchanting world of wizards and witches will be portrayed by a fresh cast, bringing their own magic to the stage. The new lineup includes:

• David Ricardo-Pearce as Harry Potter
• Polly Frame as Ginny Potter
• Ellis Rae as Albus Potter
• Thomas Aldridge as Ron Weasley
• Jade Ogugua as Hermione Granger
• Taneetrah Porter as Rose Granger-Weasley
• Steve John Shepherd as Draco Malfoy
• Harry Acklowe as Scorpius Malfoy

These talented actors will be joined by a supporting ensemble of equally skilled performers. The team includes Ishmail Aaron, David Annen, Nairn Archer, Darrell Brockis, Sabina Cameron, Robert Curtis, Toby De Salis, Odelia Dizel-Cubuca, Rory Fraser, Jemma Geanaus, Harry Goodson-Bevan, Jemma Gould, Kelton Hoyland, David Ijiti, Chris Jarman, Sally Jayne Hind, Emma Louise Jones, Kathryn Meisle, Ian Redford, Abigail Rosser, Clancy Ryan, Tonny Shim, Adam Slynn, Sara Stewart, Benjamin Stratton, Maia Tamrakar, Alex Tomkins, Jake Tuesley, Sam Varley, Jess Vickers, Wreh-asha Walton, Katie Wimpenny.

Furthermore, Benedict Archer, Jonah Haas, Honor Hastings, Delilah O’Riordan, Jude Parry, Jojo Perez Hoadley, and Isabella Woodman will alternate two children’s roles, completing the impressive 47-strong company.

A New Adventure at Hogwarts

As the original trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione embark on another extraordinary journey, a new generation of wizards and witches joins the legendary Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The story promises spectacular spells, a breathtaking race through time, and an epic battle against mysterious forces, all while the future of the wizarding world hangs in the balance.

The original two-part, multi-award-winning production of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” is currently booking performances until May 19, 2024, at the Palace Theatre.

Access Performances

To ensure that everyone can enjoy the magic of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” the production offers access performances, including:

• Audio Described Performances on Saturday, September 9, 2023, and Saturday, March 16, 2024.
• British Sign Language Performances on Saturday, November 4, 2023, and Saturday, March 23, 2024.
• Captioned Performances on Saturday, January 27, 2024, and Saturday, May 11, 2024.

---

The Review: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child as One Long Show

As “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” continues to dazzle audiences with its magic, some fans have raised an intriguing question: Does the production work better as one long show rather than two parts? This query stems from the unique format of the play, which is presented in two parts, meant to be seen on separate occasions.

The choice to divide the story into two parts allows for a deeper exploration of the plot, characters, and the intricacies of the wizarding world. It also provides a more immersive experience, akin to reading the original Harry Potter books. However, it requires viewers to commit to two separate performances, which can be logistically challenging.

Those in favor of experiencing “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” as one long show argue that it allows for a more continuous and uninterrupted storytelling experience. They believe that this format minimizes the need to recap events from the previous part and maintains the momentum of the narrative.

On the other hand, proponents of the two-part structure appreciate the anticipation and suspense that builds between performances. It gives them time to reflect on the story, discuss theories, and savor the magic over a more extended period. The two-part format also mirrors the original release of the Harry Potter books, which were eagerly awaited by fans between installments.

Ultimately, whether “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” works better as one long show or two parts may come down to personal preference. Some may prefer the convenience of a single, extended viewing, while others relish the anticipation and engagement that the two-part format offers. Regardless of how fans choose to experience it, one thing is clear: the magic of the wizarding world continues to thrive on the London stage.

In conclusion, both MAMMA MIA! and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child have exciting developments in store for London’s West End. With fresh casts and extended booking periods, these beloved productions promise to continue enchanting audiences for years to come. Whether you’re a fan of ABBA’s timeless hits or Harry Potter’s magical adventures, there’s something captivating for everyone in the world of London’s theatre.