London has long been famous as the venue for new and innovative theatrical and musical events.  Nothing changes for the next few weeks sees the launch of both British and world ‘firsts’.  These new productions span the full spectrum of the cultural range.  So London as ever, offers something for everyone!   In this year of Jubilee and Olympic celebrations, the London cultural scene is positively bursting with activity.  So why not visit the following?

The National Theatre’s Lyttleton auditorium is the venue for the first ‘London first’.  ‘CAN WE TALK ABOUT THIS?’ arrives for its London premiere on March 12 after a world tour.  Time Out in Sydney wrote: ‘Every so often, a performance comes along that not only reconfigures the limits of the form, but also redefines and rearticulates how we see the world. Go.’  A co-production with DV8 Physical Theatre, the performance draws upon real voices and interviews with prominent authors, journalists, MPs and other high-profile names on major 21^st century events such as the ’89 Salman Rushdie book burning and the assassination of Dutch film maker, Theo Van Gogh.   This is a highly pertinent contemporary production at a time when so many long-held assumptions and beliefs are being questioned and re-examined.  Tickets from www.thenationaltheatre.org.uk.

Bohemian and cultural Bloomsbury is next off the block with the UCOpera’s first British production of an operatic gem.  French composer Jean-Philippe Rameau’s spectacular baroque pastorale héroïque masterpiece ‘ACANTE ET CEPHISE’ explores that most universal story, the creation of a new life. Originally written as a celebration of a new heir for the Bourbon dynasty, this production fizzes with a magnificent score and fabulous dancing.   Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be uplifted and entertained by this masterly production.  March 19^th, 21^st, 23^rd & 24^th with tickets from The Bloomsbury Theatre, Gordon Street, 0207 388 8822 or www.thebloomsbury.com.

A world premiere musical will soon hit the West Endstage. ‘TOP HATS’ is a new musical comedy based on the famous Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers 1930s New York Radio City Hall production.  An immediate sensation then, the dancing pair were nominated for four Academy awards and the production smashed all previous box office records.

This new production promises to reach the same acclaim having received rave reviews in its pre-West End tour.   A cast of 31 with a live on-stage band of 15 have been wowing audiences with such Irving Berlin classics as Cheek to Cheek and Top Hat White Tie and Tails.   This scintillating and rousing musical will be just the ticket to welcome in the early months of spring!  Previews from April 19^th at the Aldwych Theatre 0844 847 1712 or online with Ticketmaster.  NB this production is only suitable for 16+ years.

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