This episode, we journey from the supernatural world of a Japanese manga phenomenon to one of America’s most notorious murder mysteries, before gathering under the Jellicle moon for a bold new production of a musical theatre classic.
We review Death Note: The Musical at the Barbican, the true-crime musical Bury the Hatchet at Southwark Playhouse and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS, reimagined for the magical outdoor setting of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.
Death Note: The Musical
The globally successful manga thriller comes to the London stage in an exhilarating new musical. When brilliant student Light Yagami discovers a mysterious notebook that gives him the power to decide who lives and who dies, his determination to create a better society quickly descends into obsession.
His actions attract the attention of the brilliant and elusive detective L, beginning an increasingly dangerous battle of intellect, justice and morality. Created in collaboration with the original Japanese producers HoriPro, the musical features a score by Frank Wildhorn, lyrics by Jack Murphy and a book by Ivan Menchell.
Bury the Hatchet
On 4 August 1892, Andrew and Abby Borden were brutally murdered in their Massachusetts home. Andrew’s daughter, Lizzie Borden, became the prime suspect - but was she really responsible for one of history’s most infamous crimes?
A spirited company of three actor-musicians re-examines the case through a lively mixture of true crime, courtroom drama, dark comedy and live folk music. Familiar bluegrass songs, irreverent commentary and sharply performed storytelling give the legendary tale a fresh and thought-provoking theatrical twist.
CATS
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s global musical sensation receives a bold new production in the magical surroundings of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.
Inspired by T.S. Eliot’s *Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats*, this reimagining brings together the strays and rebels of London beneath the Jellicle moon. Each hopes to be chosen for a new life as they introduce themselves through some of musical theatre’s most famous songs, including Macavity: The Mystery Cat**, Jellicle Ball** and the chart-topping Memory.
Directed and choreographed by Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Artistic Director Drew McOnie, this fresh take on CATS promises to be one of the major theatrical events of 2026.
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