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/

Arguably one of the most important theatre shows of all time arrived at MK Theatre this week.  A show that needs little introduction: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.   From humble beginnings as an ambitious school concert in London’s Colet Court, Joseph and his coat of dreams went on to be released as a concept album in 1969. It was then followed by a full-blown theatre version duly receiving critical and public acclaim and became one of the world’s most beloved family musicals.   In doing so, Joseph launched Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber into the world of theatre and they have gone on to be one of the most successful and acclaimed musical partnership of all time.   This new 2025 production, directed by Laurence Connor, with choreography by Joann M. Hunter has been given a millennium make over. Not an easy thing to do when you are dealing with such an iconic and publicly much-loved show. In a word, if it isn’t broken, why tinker with such a proven production.   Thankfully, despite bizarre introductions of children with beards, can-can dancers, a country a western hoedown and Elvis being in the room, Joseph is still what Joseph is: A bizarre and baffling musical show armed with marvellous melodies and a story line that defies any logic.   I personally have no idea as to why it resonated with audiences so positively in 1969, and why it still does to this day. But going by tonight’s sell -out and ecstatic audience reaction, it will do so for many years to come.   https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/joseph-and-the-amazing-technicolor-dreamcoat/milton-keynes-theatre/

UNITY PLACE WELCOMES FAMILIES THIS AUGUST WITH FREE FUN, CREATIVE WORKSHOPS AND TASTY TREATS   Milton Keynes, 1st August 2025 – Unity Place, the dynamic co-working and community hub in the heart of Milton Keynes, is opening its doors to families this August with a fantastic line-up of activities designed to keep children entertained, and parents sane, during the school holidays.   With fun-filled adventures, interactive games, creative workshops, and special offers, Unity Place is proving it’s more than just a workplace. Whether you're a local family, or a working parent looking for ways to keep the kids busy while you grab a coffee, there’s something here for everyone.   Eco Explorers Digital Treasure Hunt When: Monday 11 – Friday 29 August (Weekdays Only) 10:00am – 2:00pm Where: Unity Place Price: Free!   Join us for a sustainability-themed digital treasure hunt around the ground floor of Unity Place! Kids can explore and discover our eco-friendly features while tracking down hidden cow icons (a playful nod to Milton Keynes’ iconic concrete cows).   Start your adventure by collecting a trail sheet from Rye’s Deli, then follow the clues. Once completed, return your sheet to claim a small prize!   Family-Friendly Henna Workshop When: Wednesday 20th August | 11am – 12:30pm Where: Urban Food Market, Unity Place Price: Adults £8, Kids £6   Unwind and ignite your creativity in our Henna Candle Decorating Workshop, perfect for families and craft lovers aged 5 and up. You’ll learn how to embellish plain candles with intricate, henna-inspired designs.   Games, Creativity & Entertainment All Month Long Throughout August, the Urban Food Market will be buzzing with energy, offering a range of giant games and creative corners to keep the fun going for families. Kids can challenge each other to a round of Giant Snakes & Ladders, test their skills with Giant Connect 4 and Giant Jenga, or unleash their imagination at the Drawing Station for budding young artists.   Refuel After the Fun Whether your little ones have been busy exploring the Eco Explorers trail, getting creative in a workshop, or playing giant games in the Urban Food Market, treat them to our Kids’ Meal Deal – the perfect way to recharge. For just £6.50, children can enjoy a freshly made pizza, a mini muffin, and a refreshing drink. It’s a delicious and great-value option for families making the most of summer at Unity Place.   Exclusive August Offer from ROK Barbers Pop in for a fresh trim! ROK Barbers, located onsite at Unity Place, are offering 10% off all children’s haircuts throughout August. Simply quote UNITYKIDS10 when booking or at your appointment.

Calamity Jane pulled into MK Theatre and provides an uplifting, whip-crackin’ show that will not disappoint audiences of any age.    Armed with Carrie Hope Fletcher in the title role, this revival has received a modern-day makeover while remaining respectful to its classic heritage.   With an endless musical score of sing a long-tunes, brilliant lighting design and creative staging, the current production proves that watching Jane go through her misfortunes are as entertaining and engaging as ever.   For many like me, when Calamity Jane is mentioned, the legendary whip cracking actress Doris Day from the classic 1953 film enters the brain. But after seeing this superb stage production, Carrie Hope Fletcher could well come to mind as well.   She was superb throughout the show, full of charm and confidence. Her ability to portray her tomboy bravado and her female vulnerability with equal aplomb proved why she is so revered.   You have to also mention the entire cast who collectively make this show so enjoyable. Add the aforementioned stage sets, lights, and live musicians on stage, it is no surprise the current UK tour is so popular.   This is a nostalgic theatre production; the directors Nikolai Foster and Nick Winston have kept the feel of the original but subtly added some updates that keep it fresh and the tempo throughout the show ensured the audience’s attention.   So, saddle up for a show full of laughs, romance and loveable songs.   Calamity Jane Tue 29 Jul – 2 Aug  - MK Theatre  Tickets: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/calamity-jane/milton-keynes-theatre/

Armed with on stage musicians, a great cast and breathtaking sets, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe provides an enchanting, enthralling and engaging night at the theatre.   The show is a collective effort. Yes, all the actors are superb, but tech team, musicians, lighting and costume are equally as important and together they produce a spectacle that has to be seen to be believed.   The show’s lighting and staging are all masterfully executed. Moody, dramatic and mysterious, the lighting cleverly draws your attention to the action and detail throughout.   The show’s director Owain Gwynn has brilliantly ensured the tempo of the production never drops and you have to also mention the puppets. The expert puppeteering was one of the most magical elements of the whole show.   The result of the collaboration both on and off the stage provides an evening of classic theatre. The on-stage musical ensemble, singing, choreography and use of visual effects are breathtaking brilliant.   The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe, has captured the imaginations of children and adults for many generations.  This current tour marks 75 years since CS Lewis’ original publication, proving quality and class are timeless.   Don’t miss this show.   The spectacular UK & Ireland tour of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe stops off in Milton Keynes Theatre for performances from Tue 22 - Sat 26 Jul.   Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*

A  brilliant play proves great comedy is timeless.   The Last Laugh has arrived at MK Theatre celebrating the legacy of three comedy legends: Eric Morecambe, Tommy Cooper and Bob Monkhouse.   This brilliant show by Paul Hendy revolves around the comedy trio sharing a dressing room, chatting about gags, personal tales of jokes that failed and the never-ending question of just what is great comedy.     With brilliant timing, the three shared yarns, observations and stories of their personal career highs, lows and the pressures of being a comedian.   The different comic styles of all three was engaging, and brilliantly acted, you felt privileged to be a sharing the room with such legends.   Damian Williams is totally believable as the iconic figure of Tommy Cooper. He as many comedians do, is forever plagued by a lack of confidence, but forever finds solace with his sharp wit.   Bob Golding provides the presence and warmth of Eric Morecambe and reminds those of us who were lucky enough to witness he and Ernie’s fame, just how much comedy has changed and just how much we loved them. And still do!   Simon Cartwright is the more subdued presence of Bob Monkhouse, a studied rather than a natural comic like the other two, yet equally as brilliant.     Each actor’s performance was delivered with a sense of real love and respect for their individual comedy giant. Their interactions feel natural and spontaneous and collectively they created a wonderful warm ambience.   I dare say, younger and especially post millennium generations may feel such nostalgic comedy has had its day. They could be right, but on tonight’s evidence this brilliant play proves great comedy is timeless.   So do make time to see it.

Buckingham LitFest is Back! Join us in Buckingham (Friday 6 June – Thursday 26 June) for more bestselling authors and more events, as we celebrate the eighth BuckLitFest.  This year's festival is bigger than ever with more than 30 events from more than 45 writers and performers including international icon Katie Piper OBE on aging, award-winning comedian Robin Ince with his new book on neurodivergence, art expert Robert Cumming, science writer Brian Clegg on 'brainjacking', bestselling crime writers Jo Callaghan and Daniel Aubrey, award-winning food writer and gardener Kathy Slack and historian Dianne Purkiss on witchcraft and feminism. Political discussion will span Malcolm Rifkind, Rafael Behr and Patrick Maguire to the literature and politics of Ukraine with Andrey Kurkov. Polymath and serial entrepreneur, Ajay Chowdhury, will discuss guiding the next genenation of tech pioneers, while Ed Tudor Pole will share tales of the outrageous from his autobiography of a punk rocker (The Pen is Mightier). Buckingham's Chantry Chapel will host a special collaboration between leading poet Chris Tutton and harpist Anne Denholm-Blair, and Jon Harvey (The Mayor's Bear) will lead a cosy storytelling event for young readers. Also included in this year's expanded programme are workshops with Claire Steele and live jazz with Jez Cook. All of this and much more! Click here for the full programme of events: https://www.bucklitfest.org/