{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/662654e288ff1d0012631baa/662654e6a3823600128b50b0?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Stage delights: Wishmas, Hamnet, Sondheim's Old Friends & More","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/662654e288ff1d0012631baa/662654e6a3823600128b50b0.jpg?height=200","description":"<p>Embark on a magical journey into the heart of Christmas with <b><em>Wishmas</em></b>, where wishes take flight in an enchanting realm filled with Wishkeepers, Robins, and the iconic Father Christmas. This festive adventure, featuring stellar performances is a delight for children of all ages and anyone who believes in the magic of the holiday season.</p><p> </p><p>Meanwhile, the <b><em>Royal Shakespeare Company&apos;s</em></b> highly anticipated production of <b><em>Maggie O&apos;Farrell&apos;s</em></b> <b><em>Hamnet</em></b>, now playing at London&apos;s Garrick Theatre following a sold-out run in Stratford-upon-Avon, boasts captivating performances from <b><em>Madeleine</em></b> <b><em>Mantock</em></b> and <b><em>Tom Varey</em></b>. Adapted by the award-winning playwright <b><em>Lolita Chakrabarti</em></b>, the play unveils the untold story of <b><em>William Shakespeare</em></b> and his wife, Agnes, offering a captivating glimpse into the life of the literary genius.</p><p> </p><p>For a different kind of Christmas tale, join <b><em>David Horovitch</em></b> and <b><em>Greta Scacchi</em></b> and have Christmas at Hardcastle Hall in <b><em>She Stoops To Conquer</em></b>. OT Artistic Director <b><em>Tom Littler</em></b> with <b><em>Francesca Ellis</em></b>, directs an all-star cast including <b><em>Tanya Reynolds, Freddie Fox, Sabrina Bartlett</em></b>, and <b><em>Robert Mountford  </em></b>supported by a community ensemble in the 250th anniversary production of Oliver Goldsmith’s glorious comedy of misunderstanding. </p><p> </p><p>In the heart of the West End, <b><em>Stephen Sondheim&apos;s</em></b> <b><em>Old Friends</em></b> has become a sensation. This grand Broadway show, celebrating the life and work of the legendary Sondheim, features a stellar cast led by <b><em>Bernadette Peters, Lea Salonga, Christine Allado, Clare Burt, Janie Dee, Damian Humbley, Bradley Jaden, Bonnie Langford, Gavin Lee, Jason Pennycooke, Joanna Riding, Jeremy Secomb, Jac Yarrow, Marley Fenton</em></b>, and <b><em>Beatrice Penny-Touré</em></b>. The company also includes <b><em>Harry Apps, Bella Brown, Richard Dempsey,</em></b> and <b><em>Monique Young</em></b>, completing a cast that is truly the best of the West End and Broadway.</p><p> </p><p>Lastly, experience the uproarious antics of disgraced actor Garry Starr in <b><em>Garry Starr Performs Everything</em></b>. Defying critics and saving performing arts from extinction, Starr fearlessly traverses every theatre style imaginable, offering a &quot;masterclass in mockery.&quot; With an exclusive interview with star and creator <b><em>Damien Warren-Smith</em></b>, this is a unique and entertaining exploration of the world of theatre. Don&apos;t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary performance that leaves no genre unturned.</p>","author_name":"Natalie Maher & Darren Murphy"}