Search Results

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical is a vibrant and empowering jukebox musical that chronicles the troubled life and extraordinary career of the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. It's through Tina's eyes that we relive her tumultuous road to stardom. From Anna Mae Bullock in Nutbush, a talented child singer in her dad's church battling a difficult relationship with her mother, to being discovered by her future husband Ike Turner and eventual reinvention as a solo artist. The set is so simple but works so well and the large screen at the back frequently enables so many different locations to be visualised as you go on the life journey with Tina. The use of the screen is so effective when it’s either quite empty or plain and the talented cast are using their silhouettes to create such wonderful shapes with their bodies to deliver visual splendour. It's the music that has drawn many people in and with a live band, the songs sounded great and the whole cast add to that. The hits keep rollin' through from across the decades. The stand out rendition for me, was the breathtaking version of River Deep Mountain High. But there were many more of her glorious hit featured. The actress playing Tina, Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi, gave a stunning performance, not just her voice, but her passion and soul were evident throughout the production. To sum up, The Tina Turner Musical, it’s an emotionally engaging spectacle that will not disappoint. https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/tina-the-tina-turner-musical/milton-keynes-theatre/

The highly acclaimed Dear England kicked off its run at MK theatre chronicling the real-life journey of Gareth Southgate’s leadership of the England men’s football team. Football is often quoted as writing its own scripts, the drama, tension and excitement of the beautiful game is downright emotional Trying to transfer those traits from a pitch to a stage is a huge task, but Dear England does so with aplomb. Football meets theatre? It’s not a combination you’d expect and that’s exactly why it works so effectively. It’s not about goals and glory; it’s about identity, pressure, masculinity, and the weight of a nation’s expectation. The Lions roar in James Graham’s play, directed by Rupert Gold it engagingly portrays Gareth Southgate and his heroic nearly men of England.   The set design by Es Devlin is a brilliant combination of being modern, very simplistic and very effective. Most scenes take place on a football pitch or behind closed doors at training sessions and in pre- and post-game moments.   And take it from me, having spent over 20 years in professional football, the play’s boot room banter, boardroom politics and emotional turmoil are spot on.   As in football, you do need stars to shine and David Sturzaker as Gareth Southgate was brilliant, but like any manager he was backed up superbly by his team. Ie in this case all the cast and crew.   It is a remarkable play on so many levels. Like the game it so brilliantly portrays, it takes risks, possesses real tangible tension, celebration and emotional devastation. In doing so, it reminded me why I love football, love my dear England and love theatre! In a word: Glorious! https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/dear-england/milton-keynes-theatre/

FRIENDS! The Musical Parody is in town at the Milton Keynes Theatre and provides a nostalgic night of live entertainment. For a generation, Friends wasn’t just the 90s, but THE 90s! Millions loved Central Perk’s Friday night take away and wallowed in their weekly exploits. Now, thanks to this live theatre production you can personally enjoy the company of Rachel, Phoebe, Monica, Chandler, Joey and Ross. In short, FRIENDS! The Musical Parody is Friends greatest hits. Cheesy and twee, you bet it is! The parody’s plot spans all ten series of the show, condensing years of twists, romances, and sitcom shenanigans into a whirlwind two-hour performance, packed with non-stop jokes, musical numbers, and small details which are sure to delight any serious Friends fans. Once warmed up, the show builds steadily, layering musical numbers with running gags and affectionate character digs. Chandler and Monica’s portrayals are very good in capturing the chemistry that made their on-screen relationship so enjoyable The script and songs are peppered with nods to the audience, breaking the fourth wall and milking every nostalgic reference for all it’s worth. The cast were engaging throughout the show and provided a warm ambiance that made the TV series so popular. In a nutshell, if you like Friends, you will love this show. FRIENDS! The Musical Parody Milton Keynes Theatre - Tue 13 Jan - Sat 17 Jan 2026 https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/friends-the-musical-parody/milton-keynes-theatre/

If you are looking for a perfect pantomime, then head to Milton Keynes Theatre for the superb Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Pantomime legend Brian Conley returns as Billy Barnum to lead this year’s cast. He’s joined by his daughter Lucy Conley, who stars as Goldilocks along with renowned dame David Robbins as Dame Betty Barnum. Add the traditional villain Gary Milner as Baron Von Blackheart, magician Phil Hitchcock as the Magical Mysterioso, and The Timbuktu Tumblers and you have a magical show that all the family can enjoy. The theatre stage is set as a sensational circus, where everything is possible, and anything could and does happen. This enjoyable extravaganza is packed with hilarious comedy, brilliant special effects, mind blowing stunts, and awe-inspiring circus acts that collectively make it a panto fit for the millennium. The plot is based on Goldilocks’ circus coming under threat from an evil rival circus owner and with the help of their circus friends, they battle to rescue their Big Top from ruin. The storyline is enhanced by a wide range of spectacular sets, stunning dance routines and a collection of top tunes. The tempo is very fast paced, an important trait when taking children to live shows, in short from what I witnessed from my own clan and other children in the stalls; they loved every second of the production. Brian Conley is worthy of his acclaimed status of being a pantomime legend. His enthusiasm to entertain, speed of ad libs and comic timing is superb throughout the show. But to be fair, it was the collective efforts of a brilliant back stage team, especially the wonderful wardrobe and light techs, live musicians and the huge cast that made this Goldilocks a must-see show. And it is a show you must see.   Goldilocks and the Three Bears runs at Milton Keynes Theatre from Sat 6 Dec 2025 until Sun 11 Jan 2026. Book your tickets today at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes and be swept away by a pantomime spectacular that’s just right! The official charity partner for this year’s pantomime is the Milton Keynes Community Foundation (MKCF), which means that the generous donations made during the panto season will go directly into MKCF’s Community Fund , ensuring that local charities and community groups across Milton Keynes benefit through vital grant opportunities.

Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s lavish new UK tour production of the multi award-winning musical Mary Poppins has landed at Mk Theatre for a highly anticipated run. The new stage version of Mary Poppins is an impressive achievement; it takes a very much-loved and iconic film as it’s starting point, retains everything that made the film so wonderful, and somehow gives you so much more. And take it from me, this memorable family show lived up to its reputation and hype! This is a big, big show.  Beautifully designed sets, breathtaking magical effects and brilliant tunes. Add the sheer scale and the imaginative complexity and imagination you will find it hard to see a touring show that can match such live theatrical grandeur as Mary Poppins. Armed with jaw-dropping sets, exquisite dancers, a timeless score and more than a hint of magic, this stage adaptation of the classic tale of the world's most extraordinary nanny is one of the most sensational live productions I’ve witnessed.   For those who haven’t come across Mary’s exploits before; Jane and Michael Banks are in need of a new nanny, but they have some very exacting requests. The nanny must be kind and funny, sing songs, take them on outings, never be cruel nor even smell bad.   When the mysterious Mary Poppins appears seemingly out of nowhere, she teaches the children and the adults of the Banks family a lesson or two, whist taking them on adventures far beyond their on your wildest dreams. The score is performed by a brilliant live orchestra. The quality of the sound, the sheer nostalgia and stellar performances of these much-loved songs was downright emotional. These timeless Mary Poppins tunes include some of the greatest pop songs ever made. We are talking about the likes of Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, Let's Go Fly a Kite and Feed the Birds. The entire cast were collectively superb and the choreography on display is nothing short of spectacular. I will refrain from mentioning the special effects, as they are so special they need to be seen in person to be believed. So, see it, and like me and my five-year-old granddaughter, you will love it and yes you will be asking Santa for a Kyte!   https://www.dowhatinmk.co.uk/event-details/mary-poppins

Based on the much-loved Oscar-nominated Warner Bros. movie starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, The Bodyguard, arrived in Milton Keynes for a highly anticipated run. The aforementioned film is one of the most iconic rom – coms ever made. So, the producers were under pressure to match the celluloid magic on stage. Which they did. To date, the theatre show has played to over 3.9 million people in 15 countries and 45 US cities. Countries include the Netherlands, Germany, South Korea, Canada, Italy, Australia, Spain, France, the US, Austria and Japan and now here in Milton Keynes. This award-winning musical tells the story of former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, who is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker but, as you'd expect with two big personalities, each of them expects to be in charge - but what they don’t expect is to fall in love.   The original film is remembered for its amazing soundtrack and the stage show is equally enjoyable featuring some of the biggest hits of the 90s, including Queen of the Night, I Wanna Dance With Somebody, I’m Every Woman and of course the iconic I Will Always Love You. The show is fast-paced and doesn’t lag at all throughout the two acts. Smooth scene and incredibly quick costume changes and top-class choreography ensure this production never tires. The staging, lighting and effects are on a west end level, especially the opening number that visually pushes the boundaries of musical theatre on a touring show level. If you love musicals, you will love this show. https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-bodyguard/milton-keynes-theatre/

Some plays are timeless, aptly proved at MK Theatre with the arrival of Agatha Christie’s Death On The Nile. Remarkably, originally written by Agatha Christie back in 1937, Death On The Nile has thrilled audiences in the following decades, with various adaptations on radio, film, TV and of course in the theatre. And going on tonight’s top performance it will continue to do so for many years. There is something warm and wonderful when walking into a theatre knowing that you are set for an evening of murder, romance, jealousy and betrayal. Armed with a superb stage setting onboard a luxury steamer on the Nile, and the loveable Hercule Poirot at the helm, you know you are in for a classic night of traditional theatre. With everyone on the ship having a motive for the murder, you wonder if Poirot can untangle the web of lies and figure out who the killer was, and why they did it? Ken Ludwig’s adaptation beautifully translates this for the stage. The entire cast were engaging and believable throughout the play.  Each character adding to the drama that ensures Death On The Nile is a thrilling ride from start to finish.   If you love your murder mysteries, you will love this current production. https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/agatha-christies-death-on-the-nile/

Armed with some the greatest songs of all time, enchanting choreography and gorgeous costumes Top Hat is a thoroughly charming and nostalgic show. With the arrival of the new stage version of famous 1930’s cinematic musical, MK Theatre proved class is timeless. Emotional, elegant and exhilarating – Top Hat is a wonderful romantic comedy full of brilliant dance routines, lavish sets and the most glamourous costumes. The live band playing Irving Berlin’s irresistible score included many of the legendary Hollywood musical master’s most memorable songs: Cheek to Cheek, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Top Hat White Tie and Tails and of course Puttin’ on the Ritz. When Broadway star Jerry Travers arrives in London to open a new show, he crosses paths with model Dale Tremont, whose beauty sleep is rudely interrupted by Jerry tap dancing in the hotel suite above hers. Instantly smitten, Jerry vows to abandon his bachelor life to win her heart – but the path of true love never does run smooth. Especially since Dale has mistaken Jerry for his hapless producer Horace, who’s trying to avoid the wrath of his formidable wife Madge, and Dale’s own fiery Italian admirer is planning a trip to Venice for her to showcase his couture gowns. The simple story line is easy to follow, and the show really comes alive when the characters collectively start dancing and provide the reason why so many people refer shows and films like this as the golden era of entertainment. The brilliant stage set, lights, band and entire cast were a befitting tribute to the acclaimed brilliance of the original Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers exploits. Proving, somewhat remarkably, ninety years on, Top Hat is still an unmissable show, so don’t miss it! https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/top-hat/milton-keynes-theatre/

Spooky live theatre is difficult to achieve. Without the aid of cinematic special effects, you could say an impossible challenge. But 2:22 A Ghost Story at MK Theatre proves it can be done and done extremely well.  The key is ambience, create a scary atmosphere and you're half-way there. 2:22’s simple staging sets the tone perfectly. With dark corners, big glass doors and a haunting visable clock collectively create the perfect setting.  The play starts in the new house of Jenny and Sam. With a fresh lick of paint and Ikea furniture, it appears to be the perfect start for them and their new family - but Jenny (Stacey Dooley) is convinced that the house is haunted.  Others are not convinced and during a dinner party with friends, Lauren and Ben, they argue their scepticism. So, they all decide to stay up to 2:22am to witness it once and for all. The tempo of the conversations are fast paced and humorous, this leads us into comfort zones before shocking us with unexpected ghostly surprises.  Armed with an emotionally effective soundtrack, plus with the aforementioned sudden shrieks and blackouts, the play never failed to scare the audience and you could feel the tension running through the auditorium. Ultimately, the final reveal (no spoilers allowed) was a befitting end to a very good play.  So, to sum up; 2:22 A Ghost Story is a seriously spooky, spooky do! https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/2-22-a-ghost-story/milton-keynes-theatre/

For those like me who mourned the end of the brilliant Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton’s BBC anthology series Inside No 9 will be relieved to know their brilliance can now be enjoyed via the world of live theatre. It would appear by the advance sell out run at MK Theatre, their popularity hasn’t diminished since their TV departure and going the by standing ovation given at the final curtain by those lucky enough to secure a ticket were delighted to see them. The show has everything you love from the TV production: accents, slapstick, wigs, false teeth and moments of shock. The pair’s talent for surprise is intact and is put to service for some hair-raising shocks throughout the production. After the brilliant sarcastic opening scene-setting overture about irritating theatre audience members you are thrown straight into scenes that lovers of No 9 classic sketches will recognise. The producers have asked not to give too much away in reviews, so I will not. What I will say though, is Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton’s comic brilliance and genuine warmth is evident throughout. Yes, as it proclaims on the poster, there’s plenty of stage fright. Well actually, not that scary, more of being shocked when you least expect it. But it collectively adds to the enjoyment, and trust me you will enjoy this show. If there’s a chance you can actually get some tickets, grab them with both hands. In a word: Brilliant! https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/inside-no-9-stage-fright/milton-keynes-theatre/

Anyone seeking modern day theatrical escapism, should head for MK Theatre this week for the brilliantly staged production The Lightning Thief. It’s a fast paced, enjoyable and an exciting show with twists, surprises, special effects and infectious music for all ages to enjoy. Since Rick Riordan first conceived his story about a “half-blood” son of a Greek god with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and dyslexia, the Percy Jackson phenomenon has grown bigger and bigger. Based on the beloved book series (with over 180 million copies sold worldwide), Percy Jackson’s story has been adapted into both films and a major hit TV series for Disney+. The musical first premiered off-Broadway in 2014 to rave reviews and went on to have two US tours. This bold musical is reprising the first story in the series, in which Percy discovers that his absent father is Poseidon, the god of the sea. After being sent to a camp for young demigods, he sets off on a quest to retrieve Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt. Leading the charge (and wielding the lightning bolt!) is Vasco Emauz as the one and only Percy Jackson, joined by Kayna Montecillo as the wise and fearless Annabeth, and Cahir O’Neill as everyone's favourite satyr sidekick, Grover. The staging and production design is superb. Cleverly bringing mythical creatures to life, especially the Minotaur, was great. And the illusion of Hermes’ flying shoes was very clever, impressive and effective. As you would expect with a show of this quality, the lighting and set worked together with ease. Plus, the live band gave the production genuine warmth. If you are like me, and have not come across Percy’s plight before, you will at times find the overall plot hard to follow. But the the spectacle and the narrative style of songs kept you up to speed and the entertainment levels high. Theatre needs new shows to attract new audiences and The Lightning Thief meets the brief and provides a welcome bolt of modern-day theatre. https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-lightning-thief-the-percy-jackson-musical/milton-keynes-theatre/

Any musical that lasts over 40 years has to be good and Willy Russell's Blood Brothers isn’t just good but rightly revered as one of the best theatre productions of all time.   \ From the first minute to the last few seconds, this new show is emotionally captivating. The story is about twin brothers soon separated after birth that creates them to lead two totally different lives. Their lives are at opposite ends of the social scale, one living with wealthy parents and the other in poverty. Occasionally their lives cross and they become close friends and make a blood brother pact when they find they are born on the same day. In their teens the story tells their life growing up and then they both fall in love with the same girl and tragedy strikes. Armed with Willy Russell’s superb script, the plot is full of scouse wit, genuine warmth yet cleverly poignant on society’s social indifferences that were prevalent when originally written and sadly still so today. One of the best traits about this remarkable show is how it cleverly emotionally pulls you in so many different directions. The songs perfectly fit the narrative and enhance the drama. Not an easy thing to do as I have witnessed too many musicals that place songs either as fillers or just an excuse to use a well- known tune that has nothing to do with the plot. What this current production proves is that a story of brotherhood, motherhood, friendship, love, superstition, jealousy and depression will always be relevant. In a word, timeless. However, I have to say that I found the adult cast playing the parts of 7 year old children and teenagers a very difficult watch. It just looked daft and somewhat embarrassing.  Yes, I accept theatre has always stretched the imagination, but it just didn’t work. The other minor criticism is some of the play’s humour has become dated and the length of the production is too long.  To respect the brilliance of Russell’s script, that’s a bit like asking Paul McCartney to shorten Hey Jude, but if Blood Brothers is to continue in the Millenium, I do feel it will have to adapt. On a more positive note, the entire cast, lights and tech are on a West End level and the brilliant live band played faultlessly throughout the show. It is a great example of a cohesive and collective production and thoroughly deserved the standing ovation given by the audience. If you haven’t seen it, you should.   https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/blood-brothers/milton-keynes-theatre/