NOW That’s What I Call A Musical: A Journey Through the Hits to visit UK and Ireland

The stage is set for a thrilling new musical experience that promises to transport audiences through a nostalgic soundscape of chart-topping hits. “NOW That’s What I Call A Musical” is a brand-new British production penned by the acclaimed comedian Pippa Evans and brought to life through the visionary direction and choreography of Craig Revel Horwood. This article invites you to embark on a captivating journey that delves into the heart of this musical sensation, celebrating the enduring legacy of the iconic compilation brand “NOW That’s What I Call Music.”

A Musical for the Ages

Imagine a stage where the music of your life comes alive, where the melodies of your most cherished moments transport you through time. “NOW That’s What I Call A Musical” does precisely that, offering a spectacular medley of chart-topping hits that have graced the NOW Music compilations over the past 40 years. This production pays homage to a brand that has sold over 200 million copies worldwide, establishing itself as a musical institution.

The playlist, as varied as it is iconic, features a star-studded lineup including the likes of Whitney Houston, Wham!, Blondie, Tears For Fears, Spandau Ballet, and many more. The show is an auditory journey, weaving together a sonic tapestry that reflects the evolution of pop music through the decades.

The Nostalgic Appeal

The year is 1989, and Birmingham is the backdrop for the story of two school friends, Gemma and April. Engrossed in their teenage lives, they meticulously plan their futures based on quizzes from “Number One Magazine” and dream of one day locking lips with the heartthrob of the era, Rick Astley. Fast forward to 2009, and they face the most dreaded event of their lives – the school reunion. Drama, old flames, and receding hairlines intertwine as these friends reunite, and everything from the past starts falling into place. The burning question on everyone’s mind – what was with all that hairspray?

This tale of friendship and nostalgia brings to life the enduring charm of “NOW That’s What I Call Music.” The music of the past forms the backdrop to our lives, and this musical encapsulates the essence of our collective memories, weaving them together with timeless tunes that remain close to our hearts.

The Musical Journey – Tour Schedule

Let’s take a closer look at the exciting tour schedule for “NOW That’s What I Call A Musical.” The show is set to embark on a journey across the UK and Ireland, spreading the joy of its music and storytelling far and wide.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre (6 – 7 September)

The journey begins at Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre, where the show is set to make its world premiere. Audiences can expect an unforgettable experience as they dive into the captivating narrative and groove to the beats of timeless classics.

Sheffield Lyceum (10 – 14 September)

From Aylesbury, the musical extravaganza heads to Sheffield’s Lyceum. The steel city is in for a treat as the stage comes alive with the music that has shaped generations.

Canterbury Marlowe Theatre (17 – 21 September)

Canterbury’s Marlowe Theatre welcomes the production with open arms. The historic city is poised to resonate with the melodies that have stood the test of time.

Nottingham Theatre Royal (24 – 28 September)

Nottingham’s Theatre Royal is the next stop on this musical journey. The city’s rich cultural heritage blends seamlessly with the timeless tunes, promising a night to remember.

Norwich Theatre Royal (1 – 5 October)

The production then heads to Norwich’s Theatre Royal, where audiences can immerse themselves in a world of music and nostalgia.

Newcastle Theatre Royal (8 – 12 October)

Newcastle awaits, and the Theatre Royal is all set to host a spectacular showcase of music and storytelling.

Bradford Alhambra Theatre (15 – 19 October)

Bradford’s Alhambra Theatre provides a fitting stage for the production, adding to the excitement surrounding this musical journey.

Dartford Orchard Theatre (22 – 26 October)

Dartford’s Orchard Theatre is the next destination, where the magic of “NOW That’s What I Call A Musical” unfolds.

Cardiff New Theatre (29 October – 2 November)

The Welsh capital, Cardiff, plays host to the show at the New Theatre. The audience in Cardiff is in for a night of pure entertainment and nostalgia.

Truro Hall For Cornwall (5 – 9 November)

Truro’s Hall For Cornwall becomes the venue for the next leg of the tour. Cornwall’s picturesque landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a night of musical enchantment.

Milton Keynes Theatre (12 – 16 November)

Milton Keynes Theatre is the next stop on the journey, offering a modern and vibrant setting for the musical to captivate the audience.

Belfast Grand Opera House (19 – 23 November)

Belfast’s Grand Opera House is set to resonate with the melodies of “NOW That’s What I Call A Musical.” The show promises to be a memorable event in the heart of Northern Ireland.

Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre (14 – 18 January)

The new year kicks off with a visit to Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre, continuing the celebration of music and nostalgia.

Dublin Bord Gais Energy Theatre (21 – 25 January)

Dublin’s Bord Gais Energy Theatre provides a splendid stage for the Irish leg of the tour, ensuring that the magic of the musical reaches the shores of the Emerald Isle.

Manchester Opera House (28 January – 1 February)

Manchester’s Opera House welcomes the production, inviting audiences to bask in the nostalgia and musical brilliance of “NOW That’s What I Call A Musical.”

Hull New Theatre (4 – 8 February)

Hull New Theatre in Kingston upon Hull marks the next destination, offering a perfect setting for a night filled with music and storytelling.

Southend Cliffs Pavilion (11 – 15 February)

Southend’s Cliffs Pavilion is poised to provide a stunning backdrop for the show, allowing audiences to relive the soundtrack of their lives.

Glasgow Kings Theatre (18 – 22 February)

Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, is the next stop on the tour. The King’s Theatre awaits with open doors, ready to take the audience on a musical journey like no other.

Edinburgh Playhouse (25 February – 1 March)

Edinburgh’s Playhouse is set to host a series of shows, bringing the musical to the Scottish capital and adding to the nationwide excitement.

Liverpool Empire Theatre (4 – 8 March)

The production then moves to Liverpool’s Empire Theatre, where the timeless tunes of NOW Music will reverberate through the city.

Birmingham Alexandra (11 – 15 March)

Back to where the story began, Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre marks a special stop on the tour, and it’s bound to be a homecoming filled with nostalgia.

York Grand Opera House (18 – 22 March)

York’s Grand Opera House is ready to immerse the audience in the magic of “NOW That’s What I Call A Musical.” The historical city sets the stage for a memorable evening.

Oxford New Theatre (25 – 29 March)

The show then heads to Oxford’s New Theatre, where the audience can embrace the beauty of music and storytelling.

Bristol Hippodrome (1 – 5 April)

The tour culminates at Bristol’s Hippodrome, bringing a close to this remarkable musical journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “NOW That’s What I Call A Musical” is set to take audiences on a thrilling journey through the timeless hits that have shaped our lives. With a stellar cast and a narrative that resonates with nostalgia, this musical promises to be a celebration of music, friendship, and the enduring appeal of “NOW That’s What I Call Music.” As it tours the UK and Ireland, it brings the magic of the past into the present, reminding us of the power of music to transport us through time. Don’t miss the opportunity to relive the soundtrack of your life with this unforgettable production.