Half A Sixpence
Half A Sixpence
***Final Extension - 2 September 2017***
Following a stunningly successful run in Chichester, Cameron Mackintosh’s hit musical Half A Sixpence is playing at the Noël Coward theatre on London’s West End.
Adapted from H.G. Wells’ novel, “Kipps: The Story of a Simple Soul,” the musical is written by Julian Fellowes (Downton Abbey), with music composed by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, a top musical team put together by Mackintosh and previously responsible for the stage adaptation of Disney’s Mary Poppins. The exuberant score features several of David Heneker’s songs from the original production which he co-wrote with Beverley Cross, including ‘Flash Band Wallop’, ‘Money To Burn’ and, of course, ‘Half A Sixpence.’
Arthur Kipps is an over-worked orphan, working as a draper’s assistant in Folkestone at the turn of the last century. Kipps dreams of a better and more fulfilling world, but when he unexpectedly inherits a fortune, it turns his life upside down. Navigating his new identity does not come without challenges, and watching these conflicts are childhood friend Ann Pornick and the classy Helen Walsingham. Both of these women love Kipp, but who should he listen to?
As well as a profound observation on how the choices one makes can affect their life, Half A Sixpence is a joyous, exhilarating production that will have audiences on their feet every night.
Director Rachel Kavanaugh’s previous work at Chichester includes The Music Man (2008), Love Story (2010) and more recently Single Spies (2016).
★★★★★ 'The undoubted hit of the summer, perhaps even the year' - Evening Standard
★★★★★ 'So warm you feel you’re basking by the seaside. Pure gold. Bravo!' - Daily Telegraph
★★★★ 'High-kicking, heel-clicking, cartwheel-turning – sheer exhilaration' - The Times
★★★★ 'Flash, bang, wallop what a musical!' - Daily Mail
Click here to read our interview with Olivier Award Winner Anthony Drewe, who co-wrote with George Stiles the new songs.
Click here to read our review!
- Duration
2 hours 45 minutes
- Good To Know
Cast Holidays
Charlie Stemp will not be performing on the following dates, inclusive:Charlie Stemp will not be performing on the following dates, inclusive:
20th July 2017 (matinee)
26th July 2017
2nd August 2017
10th August 2017 (matinee)
14th - 16th August 2017
22nd August 2017The producers of HALF A SIXPENCE cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
The 7.30pm performance of Half A Sixpence on the 24th August will be filmed.
- Songs
‘Flash Band Wallop’, ‘Money To Burn’ and ‘Half A Sixpence.’
Additional Details & FAQ
- Cancellation Policy
No refunds or exchanges after purchase.
- How Does It Work
You will receive a confirmation email. If you have chosen collect at box office please print the confirmation and bring it on the day, a minimum of 30 minutes before the performance start time. You will also need to present the card used to purchase the tickets as valid ID. If you have chosen to receive tickets by post, the tickets will be dispatched approximately 2-3 days after purchase.
- Where Do I Go
Noel Coward Theatre, St Martin's Lane, London WC2N 4AU Tubes: Covent Garden, Leicester Sq, Charing Cross, Holborn Buses: Destination Leicester Sq.14, 19, 24, 29, 38, 176
Critic Reviews
Broadway World
Dec 2, 2016
A nostalgic charmer that looks set to be a flash bang wallop hit.
The Telegraph
Dec 2, 2016
This Half a Sixpence is the best London's ever seen
What's On Stage
Dec 2, 2016
All in all this is a charming night out that is certain to warm the chilliest of London evenings this winter. The musical of the year.
Reviews
Brian Mackie
Sep 2, 2017
Brilliant show
Blacksheep
Sep 1, 2017
Great show, lots of energy from the crowd and the audience alike. Very close to the film version although a faster paced delivery.
Kate
Sep 1, 2017
I didn't know anything about this show before I went, and what a great surprise it turned out to be. The quality of the singing, acting and dancing is unparalleled, and Charlie Stemp's performance is absolutely amazing. Perfect for all ages, you'll be singing the songs for days to come!
Ruff
Aug 29, 2017
I don't think Sixpence gets the recognition it deserves. Charlie Stemp plays the role of Arthur Kipp's role with soooo much joy and passion, it's just sooooo contagious. The energy and the enthusiasm of the whole ensemble is amazing, Sixpence will definitely leave a little smile on your face. Catch it while it lasts. One of the bests in West End at the moment!!!
Dorothy Roberts
Aug 26, 2017
We both thought cast, scenery and this story line was excellent and enjoyed this first class production.
London Mel
Aug 26, 2017
Really enjoy the show. A perfect old fashioned proper song & dance musical. Charlie Stemp as Arthur Kipps is absolutely amazing!
AliasBJG
Aug 25, 2017
Thought that we should see the show before it closes. It was one of the best decisions ever. The cast as a whole was amazing with Charlie Stemp toping the lot. We have seen most of the big shows and this is up there with the best.
Mary Vaughan
Aug 24, 2017
Very slick production and excellent performers but just that extra something was missing - no sparkle maybe?
Jeannie L
Aug 23, 2017
Great show excellent family entertainment. All actors brilliant. Great routines and singing by all. Set wonderful too - we really enjoyed our evening. Lead actor marvellous.
M flannagan
Aug 21, 2017
Half a sixpence was really good. Choreography was brilliant - as was the singing. Saw phantom of the opera the next night - not as good as half a sixpence - much preferred this show. Would recommend people to see this musical.
Christine Blake
Aug 15, 2017
Very enjoyable show from beginning to end the cast keep you entertained with singing, dancing and a bit of comedy.
Ruth
Aug 14, 2017
I was lucky enough to attend 4 shows over 4 nights and Half a Sixpence was the most enjoyable of all. The cast were fantastic, the show and songs great and the finale left the whole audience on their feet shouting for more. Especially well done to Charlie Stemp who played Arthur Kipps - a class act and a young man with a big future.
Mrs Theatre
Aug 11, 2017
A great hit loved the energy of the Actors what an amazing cast the performance was so fresh !! Thanks for the spectacular show we left wanting to go back for more.
McCaffie
Aug 11, 2017
We thoroughly enjoyed this lively, nostalgic presentation. Though initially disappointed to be seeing Charlie Stemp's understudy, the standing ovation at the end was totally deserved. Dancing, acting and singing were all memorably good, and the staging and costumes most attractive and very clever.
Norman Lloyd-Edwards
Aug 11, 2017
The whole performance was one of happiness by the committed cast which boiled over to the enthusiastic audience. The costumes, settings, singing and dancing were brilliant The cheering at the end said it all. . A show my family and I shall remember for a very long time.
Elaine
Aug 9, 2017
Best show I've seen for years!
H
Aug 8, 2017
Loved it, great choreography and energy
Birthday guest
Aug 7, 2017
Absolutely amazing cast especially Devon Johnson. This show is fantastic and makes a very enjoyable evening's entertainment.
John T
Aug 6, 2017
You can't fault the cast of Half a Sixpence. Each and everyone of them gave a world class performance. Great entertainment.
Visitors from Derby
Aug 2, 2017
What a fantastic show!! The singing, dancing and orchestra was amazing. The effort the cast put into the show, especially Charlie Stemp who plays Arthur Kipps was outstanding. It got better and better as the show went on. We came out feeling great, dancing and singing all the way home. So glad we choose this show as it finishes in London soon.
Lm
Aug 1, 2017
Classic musical, Nice dancing, easy to understand for foreigners.
Kaye
Aug 1, 2017
Last night I watched Half a Sixpence.....for the 4th time! Charlie Stemp is just amazing. He IS Arthur Kipps and he plays the part to perfection. That said I have also seen this show with his understudy, Sam O'Rourke, and he was brilliant too. The cast are all brilliant. This show is energetic, entertaining and just has a real 'feel good' quality about it. It closes on the 2nd September which I find baffling so if you want to see pure gold I would book tickets and go while you still can. You will be entertained from start to finish.
Alf Bones
Aug 1, 2017
Very entertaining and uplifting in this crazy world of violence
Leo
Jul 29, 2017
Having been in an amateur version of the show I was interested how the new version stood up to it. I wasn't disappointed as it was head and shoulders above. The scenery was innovative, beautifully done and seamless as you would expect from a west end show . Then there were the performers performing excellently crafted songs accompanied by slick and in some cases balletic dance routines with an eye watering finale. Styles and Drew must be congratulated on taking an old favourite of the stage and making it fresh new and exciting for old and young audiences alike. My final words though are for the young lead . He was terrific!!
Denis Collins
Jul 25, 2017
It was the most enjoyable night I have had in the theatre for a long time, amazing sets, dancing, acting and singing. Thank you for a great evening.
Mrs Jane Morris
Jul 24, 2017
this show was amazing full of energy well worth seeing
Ali
Jul 23, 2017
Such an energetic and lively show, really enjoyable .
Elena
Jul 22, 2017
What an amazing show! Took me back to my childhood days of watching Tommy Steele on TV. Really worth seeing-the cast is had such energy and the dancing and singing was brilliant. My girls (10 and 7 yrs) thought it was fantastic too!.
Kevin stevenson
Jul 22, 2017
What a performance credit to all who took part very enjoyable evening for my family
Margaret gray
Jul 21, 2017
Really enjoyed the show have seen it now twice and both times left with a 'feel good' factor vibrant and full of energy well worth seeing
Janette Woodman
Jul 21, 2017
Sam o'rourke and the cast were absolutely fabulous. He will go far.
Colin
Jul 20, 2017
Cracking show, seen a number of good Amateur performances, but this was extremely good, lots of energy and choreography was first rate. Lead characters excellent, and very good set. Music is excellent, and despite the 'updates' from the original version, a very good show. See it if you can before it closes.
RD
Jul 20, 2017
First class energetic performance. Most enjoyable
Sergio Mckellen
Jul 19, 2017
This is one of the best shows I have seen so far I've seen it twice and both time it had the same high energy dancing and positive atmosphere that you want from a musical it never failed to put a smile on my face.
Liam Warne
Jul 18, 2017
One of the best shows I have ever seen in the West end.. We loved it so much and gutted that it's closing soon
Vicky
Jul 15, 2017
We booked tickets for Half a Sixpence last minute after reading all the high reviews - half thinking it might be rather old fashioned. Not helped by the title and the images of the banjo playing lead on the posters. But we were so wrong! It was a fabulous high energy show with a heartwarming story and flawless performances from all the cast. What a debut for the talented Charlie Stemp. It was so good we have just booked to go see it again - this time with the children. Can't wait!
Janet
Jul 15, 2017
We booked for Half a Sixpence, unsure of what to expect, and this musical exceeded our expectations by far. We loved every bit of it, the costumes, the sets and the music. It was a gem and we would recommend it to anyone.
Pearlyqueen
Jul 13, 2017
Brilliant performance. My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We had excellent seats in the Grand Circle. Ticket prices very reasonable.
Helen & Dave - Lancashire
Jul 13, 2017
This is an oldish show in terms of musicals - but WOW what a revamp! My partner and I are both involved in amateur shows and expected the original version. The sets/revolves/costumes were all amazing and were kept in period. Charlie Stemp is a real find and the rest of the cast complemented him beautifully. As an ex dancer, it was a delight to see that the choreography was also in keeping with the period! The cast's energy, singing and dancing were a joy to watch, and whoever thought of them all playing banjos (yes really!) for the finale, was inspired! It was delight, and we were very surprised to see empty seats. We left, singing the original songs we knew and purchased a CD so we could listen again to the new songs. Huge congratulations to the entire cast. Would love to see the show again!
Robert Tavares
Jul 12, 2017
Full of energy Very upbeat musical numbers The star is Charlie Stemp Great voice Great dancer !! Will recommend highly to see this show Make sure Charlie is starring !!!
Mr B
Jul 11, 2017
We thoroughly enjoyed the show. A thrill from start to finish. My partner already wants to take her 3 girls (17-23) before the season ends.
Simon Hillier
Jul 11, 2017
Very enjoyable musical. Didn't have 5 stars as first half slightly drawn out and also some of the cast struggled to keep correct accents. However despite this would still recommend going to see it
Nelia
Jul 11, 2017
The best choreography that I have seen in years! Charlie Stemp was magnificent!
Joey
Jul 11, 2017
The production is wonderfully reworked with new book and songs and crackerjack direction. Charlie Stemp is simply brilliant--a real find. And only age 22!! The supporting cast is great. If you want a wonderfully entertaining evening at the theater....go!!
Gabbi
Jul 11, 2017
Great music, great acting and fabulous dancing! Had you singing a 'simple tune' all the way home.
Elena
Jul 7, 2017
Great actors, music and plot! Great for families and kids! The performance secured a standing ovation last night! Five stars!
Chris
Jul 5, 2017
Remembered the Tommy Steele and was not disappointed with the show Flash bang what a night
Nicko
Jul 5, 2017
Hugely energetic show, well performed, good choreography. A very pleasant change to American musicals. Theatre is well suited to this scale of production. A thoroughly enjoyable night out!
Jayne
Jul 4, 2017
Absolutely Fab. never a dull moment, fast paced all the way through.
John Roberts
Jun 30, 2017
This is an excellent show the cast were fabulous and the production first rate. Thank you