When Panto Goes Wrong: Actors' Most Painful On-Stage Moments
As pantomime season hits full swing, UK actors reveal the explosive, painful and hilarious reality behind the magic – from pyrotechnic accidents to mid-air breakdowns.
Category : Search result: theatre critics
Review: Sam Grabiner's 'Christmas Day' at Almeida Theatre
Sam Grabiner's fearless dark comedy 'Christmas Day' explores a dysfunctional London Jewish family's festive clash. Now playing at the Almeida Theatre, Islington until 8 Jan 2026.
Review: Little Bulb's 'The Nutcracker' at St Martin's Theatre
A wildly imaginative, Olivier-nominated spin on the Christmas classic for children, featuring sword fights, crooning mice and cheesy gags. On until 4 January in London.
Little Bulb's Nutcracker: A DIY Christmas Spectacle
Olivier-winning theatre company Little Bulb presents a playful, interactive adaptation of 'The Nutcracker' for families in London this Christmas. Runs 17 Dec 2025 - 4 Jan 2026.
Windrush-themed Dick Whittington panto reviewed
A thoughtful Windrush-themed take on Dick Whittington at Catford's Broadway Theatre is entertaining but lacks the oomph of London's top pantos. Runs until 31 Dec 2025.
Stoppard's Indian Ink Revival at Hampstead Theatre
Tom Stoppard's lesser-known play 'Indian Ink' is revived at Hampstead Theatre, featuring Felicity Kendal in a poignant tribute to the late playwright. Running until 31 Jan 2026.
Felicity Kendal in Stoppard's Indian Ink at Hampstead
Felicity Kendal delivers a formidable performance in the first London revival of Tom Stoppard's Indian Ink since the playwright's death. A moving epitaph at Hampstead Theatre.
Paranormal Activity Stage Show Review: A West End Fright
The Paranormal Activity stage play at London's Ambassadors Theatre delivers masterful horror, leaving audiences terrified and awestruck. Read our full review.
Paranormal Activity Stage Show Terrifies West End Audiences
The West End stage adaptation of 'Paranormal Activity' at the Ambassadors Theatre is a masterclass in horror, directed by Felix Barrett of Punchdrunk. ★★★★ review.
London Film Awards: 'One Battle After Another' Dominates
Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another' sweeps the London Critics' Circle Film Awards nominations with nine nods. Discover the full list of contenders and the celebration of human creativity over algorithms.
Into the Woods Review: London's Must-See Christmas Show
Jordan Fein's stunning production of Sondheim's 'Into the Woods' at the Bridge Theatre is the perfect festive alternative to pantomime. A masterclass in musical theatre with a flawless cast.
London Critics' Circle Film Awards Nominations Announced
Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another' starring Leonardo DiCaprio leads the London Critics' Circle film awards with nine nominations. Discover the full list of contenders.
RSC's Ambitious Forsyte Saga Adaptation Premieres
The RSC launches a monumental two-part adaptation of The Forsyte Saga at Stratford's Swan Theatre. Discover our review of this ambitious seven-hour theatrical event.
Singin' in the Rain Review: Royal Exchange's Splash Hit
Read our review of the dazzling new production of 'Singin' in the Rain' at Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre, where classic Hollywood meets innovative stagecraft. Book your tickets now!
Pinocchio Musical Review: Shakespeare's Globe
Charlie Josephine and Jim Fortune's new family musical 'Pinocchio' swaps Collodi's darkness for humour and heart at Shakespeare's Globe, London, until 4 January.
James Graham's 'The Fatal Punch' Grips Young Audiences on Tour
James Graham's powerful new play 'The Fatal Punch' is touring UK schools, engaging younger audiences with its story of a single act of violence. Discover how theatre is tackling urgent social issues.
Before the Millennium review: A powerful theatrical reckoning
A powerful new play at Oxford's Old Fire Station explores the legacy of Section 28 and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Discover this must-see theatrical reckoning.
Dog Man Musical's London Debut & Adapting Children's Classics
Dog Man: The Musical is set for its London debut at the Southbank Centre next summer. We explore how theatre makers successfully adapt beloved children's books for the stage, from The Gruffalo to My Neighbour Totoro.
Australian Theatre Legend Toni Lamond Dies Aged 93
Australian stage icon Toni Lamond has died at 93. A critic recalls how a VHS tape of 'The Pirates of Penzance' revealed Lamond's genius, shaping a lifelong love of theatre. Read her tribute.
Fallen Angels Review: Noël Coward Revival in London
Noël Coward's 'Fallen Angels' receives a witty, champagne-fuelled revival at London's Menier Chocolate Factory. Read our review of the hilarious battle of wits.
Snow Mice: A Triumph of Puppetry at Bath's Egg Theatre
Read our review of 'Snow Mice', the enchanting Christmas puppet show captivating families at Bath's Egg Theatre. Discover the magic of this festive must-see.
Alice: Return to Wonderland review – Sherman theatre, Cardiff
Hannah McPake's intelligent new Christmas musical at Cardiff's Sherman theatre whisks a grown-up Alice back to Wonderland. A playful lesson in cherishing your inner child. Catch it until 3 January.
Pop-up theatre planned for Marble Arch Mound site
A temporary 500-seat theatre made from recycled fabric and timber could open on Marble Arch island in 2026. Westminster Council is set to decide on the plan.
Guardian Readers' Favourite Stage Shows of 2025
The Guardian invites theatre lovers to share their top stage productions of 2025. Discover the standout shows that defined the year in British theatre.
Cyber Monday: Up to 50% off 70+ London Theatre Shows
London Theatre Direct's massive Cyber Monday sale offers discounts of up to 50% on over 70 West End shows, including Hamilton and Stranger Things. Act fast to secure these limited-time deals.
Santa's Chimney Adventure Charms at Unicorn Theatre
The Unicorn Theatre's festive show 'How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?' delights families. Discover the magic, puppetry, and why it's a must-see this Christmas season in London.
Best New London Theatre Shows in December 2025
Discover the top new theatre openings in London this December 2025, from Broadway transfers to major revivals and festive dark comedies. Book your tickets now.
Hampstead Theatre 2026: Stanley Tucci Directs New Play
Hampstead Theatre announces a bold 2026 season featuring a directorial debut from Stanley Tucci and the UK premiere of a Tony-winning musical, signalling a strong recovery for the north London venue.
Paddington Musical: Critics Hail 'Exquisite' West End Show
Critics are raving about 'Paddington: The Musical' at London's Savoy Theatre, praising its animatronic bear, heartwarming story, and stunning design. Booking until 25 October.
Best Theatre to Stream: Jaffa Cake Musical & More
Discover the top theatre shows streaming this month, including the hilarious 'A Jaffa Cake Musical' revisiting a famous VAT dispute, rock pantos, and John C Reilly's vaudeville act. Start streaming now!
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