Blockbusters take to new Birmingham stage

Published: 8 September 2012
Reporter: Steve Orme

Birmingham Hippodrome interior Credit: Martin Pickard

Musical blockbusters The Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King as well as “the world’s largest pantomime” are some of the attractions in the 2012-13 season at Birmingham Hippodrome.

Chief executive Stuart Griffiths commented, “2013 is going to be a particularly exciting year for musicals, with an eight-week spring season of Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera and the return of the much-loved West End production of Hairspray starring Mark Benton.

We’re also delighted to announce the first UK tour of Disney’s award-winning smash hit The Lion King which will be resident at the theatre for a three-month season from June until September.”

The Hurst Street theatre reopens on Wednesday 26 September after a month’s closure to replace its stage.

The £1 million development included lighting improvements, a refurbished orchestra pit and new foyer spaces.

The Hippodrome’s resident company Birmingham Royal Ballet will be the first to perform on the new stage with a programme called Opposites Attract (26 to 29 September).

Musicals in the season include Sister Act featuring Denise Black and Michael Starke from 9 until 20 October; the return of Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers from 22 October until 3 November; The Phantom of the Opera from 13 March until 4 May; a new production of High Society from 14 until 18 May; Hairspray from 21 May until 1 June; and The Lion King from 29 June until 28 September.

Brian Conley and Lesley Joseph will star in the panto Robinson Crusoe and the Caribbean Pirates from 15 December until 27 January.

Other highlights include a season from Welsh National Opera; the return of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Cinderella; and Matthew Bourne’s new production of Sleeping Beauty.

Full details are available at www.birminghamhippodrome.com.

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