Podcast Summary: "Which Broadway Shows Are Coming to London? | Cancelled, Rumoured, and Unannounced West End Transfers"

Podcast Information:

• Title: MickeyJoTheatre
• Host/Author: MickeyJoTheatre
• Episode: Which Broadway shows are coming to London? | Cancelled, rumoured, and unannounced West End transfers
• Release Date: June 2, 2025

In this insightful episode, Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre delves deep into the intricate world of Broadway productions and their potential journeys to the West End. As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism, Mickey-Jo provides a comprehensive analysis of both past and current Broadway shows, exploring which ones might grace the stages of London in the coming years.

1. The Impact of the Tony Awards on Transatlantic Transfers

Mickey-Jo begins by highlighting the pivotal role the Tony Awards play in a show's success and its subsequent international ventures. He emphasizes that a Tony win not only celebrates theatrical excellence but also serves as a catalyst for increased box office sales and potential tours abroad.

"All of this is inevitably linked... the Tony Awards recognize a sort of brand." (00:00)

He explains that the visibility and prestige associated with the Tonys can make a Broadway show more attractive for international producers, including those in London's West End.

2. Past Announcements That Haven't Materialized

Mickey-Jo reviews several Broadway shows that were once slated for London transfers but have yet to make the journey:

• Jagged Little Pill: Initially announced for a 2021 transfer, the show only saw an Australian production in 2022 with no subsequent updates. Mickey-Jo muses on its uncertain future.

  "Jagged Little Pill may indeed be lined up for a theater, or perhaps we will never hear about it again." (09:00)

• Some Like It Hot: Expected in London for 2025, the show remains absent halfway through the year. Mickey-Jo speculates on potential venues like the Adelphi and the Savoy.

  "I do expect Paddington to be going anywhere for a really long time... but somewhere like the Savoy, or perhaps even the Barbican is always where I expected Some Like It Hot to go." (14:30)

• How to Dance in Ohio: Despite announcements for a UK regional production, uncertainties around production companies have stalled its West End debut.

  "It would be a fantastic opportunity, obviously, for many actors." (16:45)

• Job Last Summer: Although buzzed about Off Broadway, a London production remains unconfirmed. Mickey-Jo advocates for venues like the Young Vic or Donmar.

  "We have so many plays produced in London, far more than in New York. I don't see why we can't have a production of Job yet." (18:20)

• Shucked: Transitioned to Regent's Park Open Air Theatre after initial plans with Sir Cameron Mackintosh fell through, showcasing a non-traditional path to London.

  "There's still every possibility that Shucked will transfer to a commercial West End venue, but, you know, it's made it across the Atlantic in some capacity." (23:30)

3. Potential Transfers from Current and Recent Seasons

Mickey-Jo shifts focus to current Broadway productions that might find their way to London:

• Beetlejuice: Despite multiple attempts, the show hasn't bridged the Atlantic yet. Mickey-Jo remains optimistic about future transfers, especially with its international presence.

  "I think they're waiting for the right theater and that wait could take a long time sometimes." (32:15)

• Little Shop of Horrors: Praised for its rotating star casts and quintessential staging off Broadway, Mickey-Jo believes it has strong potential for a UK audience, particularly in venues like the Charing Cross Theatre.

  "I really love this production. I think it would do very well here in the UK again at the right venue." (34:00)

• The Outsiders: Despite its American-centric narrative, Mickey-Jo sees potential for London audiences, citing the consistent influx of American shows to the UK.

  "I don't think this would necessarily prevent the show from transferring over here." (37:45)

4. Revivals: A Mixed Bag for Transfers

Exploring the realm of musical and play revivals, Mickey-Jo assesses their likelihood of crossing over:

• Sunday in the Park with George & Evita: More likely to transfer due to their established success and recognition.

  "I'm anticipating that Evita, which is beginning in London, also probably will." (43:10)

• Gypsy & Floyd Collins: Viewed as less likely due to their specific adaptations and varying levels of recognition.

  "I find it unlikely musical revivals like Floyd Collins... that's not something that we're going to see in the UK." (46:00)

5. New Musicals and Their Transfer Prospects

Mickey-Jo evaluates brand-new Broadway musicals that might make their way to London:

• Happy Ending: As Mickey-Jo's favorite current musical, he speculates that with significant recognition and star power from Darren Criss, a transfer could be feasible.

  "It is my favorite musical, my favorite show currently running on Broadway... Darren Criss... then I think it could find a West End theater." (49:30)

• Buena Vista Social Club: Rooted in Cuban and Latinx culture, its universal musical themes make it a strong candidate for UK audiences.

  "Our audiences really get involved with stories like this. Our audiences always respond to great music." (52:00)

• Death Becomes Her: Receives particular attention for its potential West End appeal, with possible venues like the Adelphi and Harold Pinter Theatre being ideal homes.

  "I think it's definitely a show that I would love to see here in the UK at some point." (54:45)

6. Tony-Nominated Plays and Their West End Potential

Addressing plays nominated for Tony Awards, Mickey-Jo explores their chances of returning to London:

• Hills of California: Having initially transferred from London to New York, there's potential for it to return to the West End with its reworked storyline.

  "Would it at some point come back to the West End with its very different Broadway ending? There's every possibility." (57:15)

• Jerusalem, Purpose O Mary, & John Proctor as the Villain: Despite their American-centric narratives, the UK's vibrant theatre scene is well-equipped to handle such imports.

  "I could see Purpose going somewhere like the Young Vic or even to the National Theatre." (59:50)

• Oh Mary: Written and starred by Cole Escola, the host anticipates a UK transfer, potentially maintaining its original creative talent or reimagining with local UK stars.

  "I have it on very good authority that Oh Mary is eyeing a UK production." (1:02:00)

Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Transatlantic Theatre

Mickey-Jo concludes the episode by inviting listeners to share their thoughts on potential Broadway to West End transfers. He emphasizes the dynamic and uncertain nature of theatrical productions transitioning between continents, underlining the critical role of awards, star power, and cultural resonance in determining their success.

Notable Quotes:

• "All of this is inevitably linked... the Tony Awards recognize a sort of brand." (00:00)
• "Jagged Little Pill may indeed be lined up for a theater, or perhaps we will never hear about it again." (09:00)
• "I think they're waiting for the right theater and that wait could take a long time sometimes." (32:15)
• "It is my favorite musical, my favorite show currently running on Broadway... Darren Criss... then I think it could find a West End theater." (49:30)
• "I have it on very good authority that Oh Mary is eyeing a UK production." (1:02:00)

This episode offers a thorough exploration of the current state and future possibilities of Broadway shows making their way to London's West End. Mickey-Jo's expertise provides valuable insights for theatre enthusiasts eager to stay informed about the ever-evolving landscape of transatlantic theatre productions.