Crisis in Theatreland

Is London’s theatreland on its last legs? As the fringe flourishes and venues like the Donmar and Almeida score hit after hit, West End box-offices are in a state of crisis. With three new musicals about to be unveiled Lynn Barber and co are busy sharpening their swords and searching for a new word for ‘flop’.

Their creators hope Andrew Lloyd Webber's latest outing ,The Woman in White, the much hyped Producers and family favourite Mary Poppins will inject some much needed energy back into London’s theatreland. The danger is that with 22 musicals already playing in London, the market may be approaching saturation. Surely the West End needs a serious shake up not just more of the same?

But is the situation really as bad as the media would have us believe? Classic crowd-pleasing shows continue to pull in the punters. Mamma Mia, Lion King, Chicago, Phantom are all still box office earners. Phantom regularly plays to near full capacity and has an advance of £1 million.

Critics may slate musicals as second-rate entertainment for the masses but they have proved to be a constant source of funds and fame for the West End. It's time the critics recognised this and gave musicals the credit they deserve for putting London’s West End on the map in the first place.

Cultural condescension is at the core of these attitudes. Critics will pile eagerly into the front rows of these three new shows filled with preconceived negative criticisms. They will be ready to slice them open, pull out their insides and smear the remains across every broadsheet and magazine in the country. Hopefully the rest of us will approach the performances with an open mind, revel in their sheer fun factor and leave the theatre with our spirits lifted.

Who Let the Dogs Out?

Alain Platel brings his outlandish dance company Les Ballets C de la B to London this month. ‘Wolf’ will redefine the boundaries of performance dance using 19 musicians, 3 singers, 10 dancers and 14 dogs in a thrilling mix of concert, circus and theatre. Set to Mozart arias performed by Vienna’s legendary Klangforum Orchestra, this show promises to be a musical treat.

A Royal Scandal

Royal Academy Trust Director John Nickson has denied the RA is in crisis following the sudden resignation of Professor Brendan Neiland. Professor Neiland was found to have a private bank account containing £80,000. The RA denies any hint of scandal although Professor Neiland was initially arrested. Mr Nickson said: “It was his private pot. It had nothing to do with the Royal Academy's own funds or the Royal Academy's donors.”

Instant Opera

This month commuters in one of London’s train stations will be surprised when an ‘instant opera’ strikes up on the main concourse. Professional musicians will take part alongside a chorus made up of members of the public invited by text on the day. The event is being organised by the BBC and the corporation is working with rail authorities to minimise disruption and maximise enjoyment for commuters.

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