Spoiler alert: the musical fans are gonna LOVE this

It’s that time of the year where it feels incredibly exciting in terms of theatre. There’s the announcements of all the upcoming shows and I sit there looking through them all feeling incredibly fortunate to have the position to be able to review so many amazing shows, filled with undeniable talent. I am so excited to see what this year of theatre brings.

Leicester is so lucky to have Curve, Leicester. It’s a welcoming theatre with plenty of free community outreach, wonderful family activities, and outstanding touring and Made at Curve performances bringing the glitz and glamour to any evening.

I’ve rounded up the shows that are coming to Curve this year, and I’m pleased to say that many of these I’ll be reviewing, so look out for those, in case you’re looking to hold out and then bag last minute tickets (though be careful, I think some of these will be a sell-out!). Further shows to be announced yet too so keep an eye out – these are just the shows announced on Curve so far!

Got a month in mind? Quick jump below:

January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

Your 2024 Guide to What’s On at Curve, Leicester

January

Sister Act – 31st January until 10th February

Everyone’s favourite nun, Deloris, is back on the run! Yes, your sweet prayers have been answered, thank the Lord above that Curve will be transformed into a nunnery and these nuns are ready to raise the roof with bangers like ‘Raise Your Voice’ and ‘Fabulous, Baby’.

Age Guidance: 7+

Running Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (including 20-minute interval)

Tickets: Sister Act – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

February

Jesus Christ Superstar – 12th February until 17th February

Welcoming back another Andrew Lloyd Webber spectacular, we’ll be blessed with Jesus’ presence as Jesus Christ Superstar is the revolution that changed the world and it promises to be a spectacular show. Featuring Ian McIntosh as Jesus, this production has received raving reviews so far in particular about the choreography and movement with West End Best Friend describing it as an “exceptional and thrilling production”. 

Age Guidance: 10+

Show Warnings: This show contains flashing lights and visual effects, pyrotechnics, theatrical smoke and haze, an onstage depiction of the crucifixion, imitation blood and glitter used by the performers.

Running Time: Approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes (including a 20-minute interval).

Tickets: Jesus Christ Superstar – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

My Beautiful Laundrette – 17th February until 24th February

Based on Hanif Kureishi’s iconic and Oscar-nominated screenplay and last brought to the stage in 2019 directed by Nikolai Foster, My Beautiful Laundrette is set in South London during the Thatcher years and tells the story of Omar. Expect a historically powerful piece which will highlight and explore cultural conflict, gender equality, class and generational strife all with a funky 80’s soundtrack with original songs by Pet Shop Boys’ Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe. There are social forces at play which threaten the laundrette and the relationships success, but can they overcome the power of hate?

Show Guidance: This production contains strong language and adult themes including violence and racism.

Age Guidance: 15+

Running Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes including a 20-minute interval.

Tickets: My Beautiful Laundrette – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Bonnie & Clyde – 22nd February until 24th February

Following two incredible seasons on the West End, the small-town kids who became the biggest folk heroes in America, Bonnie and Clyde are in town to bring adventure and powerful numbers. Winner of Best New Musical at the WhatsOnStage Awards 2023, the West End cult-sensation is set to be a banger of a show. It’s only on for a super short time, it would be criminal to miss out!

Running Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes (including interval)

Age Guidance: 12+

Show Warning: Contains mild scenes of a sexual nature and themes of violence.

Tickets: Bonnie and Clyde – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

March

Come From Away – 1st March until 9th March

If a remarkable true story packed with an uplifting tone following the catastrophic events of 9/11 sounds your kinda ticket, then look out for Come From Away with soaring music and a powerful storyline, it’s the winner of Best New Musical across the globe so this is one to watch!

This show is a celebration of hope, humanity and togetherness. It’s the show that reminds you to always look for the helpers. A show that reminds you to find the love in heartbreak and the peace in the hatred. It’s a show that I for one cannot wait for.

Age recommendation: 10+ – Contains some adult themes and infrequent, mild swearing.

Running time: 1 hour and 50 minutes with no interval.

Tickets: Come From Away – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Life of Pi – 12th March until 17th March

Based on the best-selling book by Yann Martel, the hit show continues the horrendous journey in Leicester this March. Winner of five Olivier Awards including Best New Play, follow Pi, the zookeeper’s son from Pondicherry who claims to have survived a shipwreck in a life-raft, complete with a Bengal tiger. Puppetry, outstanding visuals and exquisite stage and lighting design are all promised. I’m looking forward to seeing how this one plays out, especially the trauma and PTSD themes to be explored.

Parental guidance advised: The Show contains flashing lights and haze.

Running time: 2 hours, 10 minutes (incl. interval)

Tickets: Life of Pi – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

The Lion Inside (family show) – 14th March until 17th March

Mouse wishes he could roar like Lion. But, as he discovers, even the biggest, bossiest people are scared sometimes … and even the smallest creatures can have the heart of a lion! Based on the bestselling story by Rachel Bright & Jim Field, this brand-new adaptation for the stage is directed by Sarah Punshon (The Jungle Book), with music and lyrics by Eamonn O’Dwyer (Brief Encounter).

Age Guidance:  3+, but all ages are welcome

Running Time: 60 minutes (with no interval included)

Tickets: The Lion Inside – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Drop The Dead Donkey: The Reawakening 19th March until 23rd March

30 years since the launch of the trailblazing, smash-hit TV series, the Globelink News team are back and now live on stage for the very first time. The original show was awared best comedy series at the 1994 BAFTA’s and Best New TV Comedy in the 1990s British Comedy Awards. so if you’re looking for some laughs during Spring then this could be you. Fans of the original TV show will be pleased to know it stars the original cast members: Susannah Doyle, Robert Duncan, Ingrid Lacey, Neil Pearson, Jeff Rawle, Stephen Tompkinson, and Victoria Wicks.

Running Time: Approximately 2 hours (including a 20-minute interval)

Tickets: Drop the Dead Donkey: The Reawakening! – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

The Gruffalo’s Child – 26th March until 28th March

We love a Julia Donaldson book in our house, but what we love even more is… a Julia Donaldson show! The Gruffalo’s Child ignores her Gruffalo family and ventures out to look for the Big Bad Mouse… but he doesn’t exist… does he?

Age guidance: 3+

Running time: 55 minutes (no interval included)

The Gruffalo’s Child – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

The Full Monty – 26 March until 30th March

The Full Monty proves to us that despite being written decades ago, it’s still relevant to its day with a group of lads finding themselves in hard times due to a financial crisis. Tackling issues such as unemployment, inequalities, suicide, body image, and homosexuality, it’s a play that will make you laugh and then cry and then laugh again. The lads are here to bare more than they ever thought before but… they can leave their hat on! Psst Ladies… Gaz is played by Jake Quickenden.

Show warning: This production contains adult themes, depiction of suicide and partial nudity’

Tickets: The Full Monty – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

April

Giovanni: Let Me Entertain You – 1st April

The Strictly Come Dancing champion and BAFTA winner is the epitome of live entertainment.Giovanni will be joined by a world class cast of professional dancers and West End performers to bring you an unforgettable experience for one night (and matinee!) only at Curve. Leicester. There’s also meet and greet options available!

Age recommendation 8+ – Please note: This show may contain haze, smoke, pyrotechnics and flashing lights.

Running time: Approximately 2 hours (including a 20-minute interval)

Tickets: Giovanni: Let Me Entertain You – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Peter Pan Goes Wrong – 2nd April until 7th April

Following their multi award-winning sell-out success with The Play That Goes Wrong, the members of the Cornley Drama Society are back on stage, battling technical hitches, flying mishaps, and cast disputes as they attempt to present J.M Barrie’s much-loved tale. But will they ever make it to Neverland? It’s time for an awfully big adventure… but is the emphasis on big… or awful?

Age Guidance: 8+

Show Warnings: This show contains smoke, the popping of a balloon, pyro, and a small fire which is extinguished within the action of the show.

Running Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (including a 20-minute interval)

Tickets: Peter Pan Goes Wrong – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Unfortunate – 8th April until 9th April

After smashing it on a sell-out run at Edinburgh Fringe, Unfortunate is the chance for Ursula to dish the dirt on what really went on under the sea. It’s a night that promises to be a killer night out, with filthy humour and complete with an original hot pop soundtrack. This plus-size queer queen is ready to tell all, in this twisted delight of sex, sorcery and suckers. Team Ariel or Team Ursula? You decide.

Age Guidance: 16+

Show Warnings: Contains strong language, partial nudity, scenes of a sexual nature and flashing lights

Tickets: Unfortunate – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Showstopper: The Improvised Musical – 5th April until 6th April

Spontaneous musical comedy at its absolute finest – direct from the West End and now heading to Leicester!  With fourteen years as an Edinburgh Fringe must-see phenomenon, a BBC Radio 4 series, a  critically acclaimed West End run, and an Olivier Award to their name, The Showstoppers have delighted audiences across the globe with their ingenious blend of comedy, musical theatre, and spontaneity.

A brand new musical comedy is created from scratch at each performance of this award-winning show as audience suggestions are transformed on the spot into all-singing, all-dancing productions with hilarious result.

Age guidance: 12+

Running time: 1 hour and 50 minutes including a 20-minute interval.

Show Warning: Due to the improvised nature of this show, performances may contain strong language.

Tickets: Showstopper! The Improvised Musical – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Graziano di Prima: Believe – 12th April

After watching Graziano’s choreography for La Bamba, and seeing his exuberating passion and style on stage, this is a show that is unmissable for Strictly fans. You’re promised an electrifying evening of Latin and Ballroom dance as he pays tribute to his Italian heritage and honours the unwavering support of his family, who never doubted his dreams.

Age guidance: 7+ (Younger Audiences at the discretion of the parent or guardian).

Running time: 1 hour and 55 minutes (including a 20 minute interval)

Tickets: Graziano di Prima: Believe – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Sir Tim Rice: My Life in Musicals – I Know Him So Well – 18th April

Sir Tim Rice, the multi-award-winning, internationally renowned lyricist, will return to theatre stages across the UK this year with a very special live musical theatre event – My Life in Musicals: I Know Him So Well.

Sir Tim Rice is a name I think we all so quickly recognise. Regarded by many as one of the world’s greatest lyricists Tim Rice, it’s hard to pick which of his songs he’s best known for. Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, Any Dream Will Do,  A Whole New World, Can You Feel The Love Tonight, I Don’t Know How To Love Him, Circle of Life, Hakuna Matata, Another Suitcase in Another Hall. It’s a list of some of the greatest songs in theatre history. Theatre fans, don’t miss this one! (P.S personal reminder to buy my tickets!)

Running Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes (including a 20-minute interval)

Age Guidance: Suitable for all ages

Tickets: Sir Tim Rice: My Life In Musicals – I Know Him So Well – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Blood Brothers – 23rd April until 27th April

If you loved me, you’d let me go out… TO BLOOD BROTHERS! Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. This is one of my absolute favourite shows, having fond memories of going on a London trip with school to watch it on the West End all those years ago. It was a show that really ignited my love for theatre.

I cannot wait to hear Marilyn Monroe, Kids Game, Shoes Upon the Table, and Tell Me It’s Not True again.

Suitable for ages 12+

Show Warning: The show will include firearms, gunshots, haze, and depictions of mental illness.

Running Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes (including a 20 minute interval)

Tickets: Blood Brothers – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

May

SIX – May 2nd until May 12th

History is getting overthrown again this year in Leicester, and I cannot wait to make Six! my entire personality for the month of May. Hear from the those six wives who are DONE with just being a name in a stupid rhyme. These women come with punch, and attitude and they’re ready to settle the score on what went down with King Henry VIII.

The soundtrack is EPIC. The Tudor Queens come Pop Princesses certainly know how to deliver a performance in this 80-minute show. Divorced. Beheaded. LIVE!

Age Guidance: 10+

Show Warnings: Flashing lights, haze, loud music, and strobe effects.

Running Time: 80 minutes (no interval)

Tickets: Six – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Mr Toad (family show) – 9th May until 11th May

The story is based on Kenneth Grahame’s ‘Wind in the Willows’, and includes appearances from the story’s exquisitely drawn characters including: Badger, Ratty and Mole.

A show filled with love, laughter and heart-warming lessons in friendship, MR TOAD is the perfect family treat.

The production features puppetry designs by Matthew Forbes, Associate Puppetry Director, of the National Theatre’s award-winning productions WAR HORSE.

Age guidance: 3+

Running time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (including 20 minute interval)

Tickets: Mr Toad – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

Johannes Radebe: House of Jojo – 15th May until 16th May

Another one for the Strictly fans this year at Curve, as Johannes Radebe returns to Leicester with what’s promised to be another spectacular, colourful celebration of dance. Johannes is a stunning dancer, and this theatrical celebration is a house full of roof-raising music, sparkling costumes and world renowned dance. The door is open to Jojo’s house… come on in!

Running Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (including a 20-minute interval)

Show Warnings: Contains smoke, haze, and flashing lights.

Tickets: Johannes Radebe: House of Jojo – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

The Magic of The Beatles – 27th May

Celebrate the music of The Beatles in style with Beatlemania as they play to sell-out audiences across the UK. Get ready to hear classics such as ‘ She Loves You, A hard day’s night, Help, I Feel Fine, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Hey Jude, Here Comes The Sun, Get Back‘. Promising a night of a cast that look and sound like John, Paul, George, and Ringo, they also promise the well-loved incredible excitement and unique sense of humour too.

Please note: This is a tribute show and is in no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

Show Warning: This show will contain Haze

Running time: Approximately 2 hrs and 20 mins including interval

Big Girls Don’t Cry – 28th May

Enjoyed Jersey Boys? A Frankie Valli fan in the family? Then, you’ll love this tribute act coming to Curve which celebrates Frankie’s incredible falsetto, and features solo hits like Grease, Working My Way Back to You, Beggin’, and I’ve Got You Under My Skin.

Please Note: This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

Running Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (including a 20-minute interval)

Show warnings: This production features hazes

Radio GaGa – 29th May

This is real life, it’s not fantasy… Freddie Mercury is coming to Curve!!!! Kinda…

Break free and celebate like a champion as Radio GaGa celebrates two magical hours of Queen live on stage. Featuring all the best hits including: Don’t Stop Me Now, I Want to Break Free, We Are the Champions, We Will Rock You, Bohemian Rhapsody and many many more.

Please note: This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

Show Warning: This show will contain Haze

Running time: Approximately 2 hrs and 10 mins (including a 20 minute interval)

Cirque – 30th May until 2nd June

Enter the magical world of Cirque, the land where theatre and the circus collide. Anybody else getting The Greatest Showman vibes? A world that explodes into colour as everyone’s favourite West End and Broadway hits combine with breath-taking, amazing performances, incredible contortionists, and thrilling feats of agility and flair.

Age Guidance: This performance is a Family Friendly Show.

Running Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (including 20-minute interval)

Show Warnings: Please note that Haze is used during the performance. There is no strobe lighting but flashing lights are used. Special Effects are used including cold sparks and vertical smoke machines along the front of the stage. 

June

Leicester Amateur Operatic Society: RENT – 4th until 8th June

It’s the season of…RENT!

Based loosely on Puccini’s La Bohème, Jonathan Larson’s iconic rock musical follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, in the midst of the AIDS crisis.

One of my favourite theatre songs is “Seasons of Love” from Rent, so it’s on my radar to catch this show!

Age Guidance: 12+

Show Warnings: This show contains adult themes and language and may include flashing lights.

Running Time: Approximately 3 hours (including 20 minute interval)

Tickets: Leicester Amateur Operatic Society: Rent – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

A Chorus Line - 28th June until 13th July

Remember how I said musical fans are gonna love the line up this year? Yep, target audience right here. It’s hard to say which of the shows I’m most excited for is A Chorus Line. This production celebrates the chorus dancers, the ones who are over-dedicated, underpaid and highly trained – the ones who back up the star to make them look even more exceptional.  The musical is centred on seventeen Broadway dancers all auditioning for spots on a chorus line.

Show guidance: This production contains moderately strong language and discussions of sex. This production contains some references and language that may be unsuitable for younger children.

Running time: 1 hour 52 minutes with no interval

Tickets: A Chorus Line – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

July

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie – 15th July until 20th July

Described as a not to be missed musical sensation, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is a critically acclaimed musical that has just had a record-breaking three-year West End residency and a sold out UK & Ireland Tour so, going on that, this returning to Curve show is not to be missed!

Centred around Jamie New, a sixteen year old living on a Sheffield council estate, Jamie doesn’t quite fit in. He’s terrified of his future… but he’s going to be a sensation! With love and support from his amazing mum and wonderful friends, he overcome prejudice, bullies and steps out of that darkness and into the bright lights. It’s time for dreams to become a reality.

Set to an original catchy pop tune soundtrack, this is promised to have you feeling good. Starring West End sensation Ivano Turco as Jamie, Strictly Come Dancing legend Kevin Clifton as Hugo/Loco Chanelle and Leicester’s very own X Factor winner Sam Bailey as Miss Hedge.

Parental discretion is advised- Contains some strong language, mild sexual references, and strobe lighting.

Tickets: Everybody’s Talking About Jamie – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

101 Dalmatians – 23rd July until 27th July

I just know my toddler is going to LOVE this one. The classic story is brought to life with puppetry, choreography, and songs. Direct from London comes the smash hit family musical 101 Dalmatians.

Age Guidance: 6+ Suitable for family audiences – Babes in arms (Under 2’s) will not be permitted for this show

Running Time: 2 hours (including a 20 minute interval)

Tickets: 101 Dalmatians – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

August

The Lion Inside – 6th August until 11th August

If you’re unable to make The Lion Inside in March, good news it’s back in August! Based on the bestselling story by Rachel Bright & Jim Field, this brand-new adaptation for the stage is directed by Sarah Punshon (The Jungle Book), with music and lyrics by Eamonn O’Dwyer (Brief Encounter).

Age Guidance:  3+, but all ages are welcome

Running Time: 60 minutes (no interval)

Tickets: The Lion Inside. – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

An Officer and a Gentleman – 12th August until 17th August

LOVE LIFT US UP WHERE WE BELONG!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I assume we all sang that one? I am SO excited to hear and see An Officer and a Gentleman, it’s another one I’m super buzzing for. Get ready to be whisked up in the air and off your feet with An Officer and a Gentleman The Musical, based on the award-winning 80s movie. Set to a smash-hit soundtrack featuring the songs of Madonna, Bon Jovi, Cyndi Lauper, Blondie, and many more.

Age Guidance: 12+

Show Warnings: Contains themes of an adult nature and strong language.

Running Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including 20-minute interval.

Tickets: An Officer and a Gentleman – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

September

Pretty Woman – 16th September until 21st September

Pretty Woman: The Musical is stopping off at Curve in September as part of its UK and Ireland tour – so get the girls together to see Hollywood’s ultimate rom-com, live on stage complete with a powerful rock score by Grammy® winners Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance (‘Summer of ’69’, ‘Heaven’), and direction and choreography by Tony Award® winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots, Hairspray). This is another that I’m very much looking forward to reviewing this year.

Running Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes (including 20 minute interval)

Age Guidance: 12+ (contains moderate sexual references)

Tickets: Pretty Woman – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

October

Dear Evan Hansen – 1st October until 5th October

It’s going to be a good day, no wait, a good year. And here’s why… Because another smash hit musical is making its way to Curve! Am I ready? Absolutely!

With heaps of awards under its belt such as Tony® Award for BEST MUSICAL, Olivier Award for BEST NEW MUSICAL, Grammy® Award for BEST MUSICAL THEATER SCORE, it’s a show that is going to bring incredible entertainment on an October evening as Evan has a reckoning with himself, and everyone around him!

YOU WILL BE FOUND at Curve this October!

Age guidance: 12+

Running times: 2 hours and 40 minutes (including 20 minute interval)

Show warnings: This production contains some adult themes, including discussions of suicide

Tickets: Dear Evan Hansen – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

November

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – 5th November until 9th November

The most fantasmagorical stage musical in the history of forever is coming to Curve in November and you’re not going to want to let this motor car take flight without jumping onboard and strapping yourself in for the ride!

This brand-new production of the firm family favourite, directed by Thom Southerland (Titanic, Parade), choreographed by Karen Bruce (BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, The Bodyguard) and designed by Morgan Large (Newsies, Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat) this award-winning musical is bound to soar with unforgettable songs by the Sherman Brothers including Toot Sweets, Hushabye Mountain, Truly Scrumptious and of course the Academy Award-nominated title-song, that we all adore, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Age Guidance: 5+

Running time: 2 hours and 20 minutes, including a 20-minute interval

Show Warning: May contain haze effects

Tickets: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – Curve Theatre, Leicester (curveonline.co.uk)

December

*To be announced*

What a wonderful year of theatre we’re set to have here in Leicester. Be sure to check back as I will update as shows are announced, and keep an eye out for further guides of what’s on at other venues, and other what’s on for families in Leicester!