Wild Party
Wild Party
Don’t miss the hugely acclaimed The Wild Party as it makes its UK premiere as the inaugural production of The Other Palace, formerly St James Theatre, when it reopens in February 2017.
Directed and choreographed by 2016 Olivier-Award winner Drew McOnie (In the Heights) and starring the Tony Award-winning Frances Ruffelle (Les Miserables), this sizzling new production of the Tony-Award nominated sensation features music and lyrics by Michael John LaChiusa, who received a Grammy nomination for the original Broadway production in 2000.
A glittering, razor-sharp, blackly comic musical of Manhattan decadence and 1920s excess, The Wild Party tells the story of Queenie and Burrs, a vaudeville showgirl and vaudeville clown, who decide to throw the party to end all parties in a bid to save their toxic relationship. But as the gin flows, the jazz swings and the sexual tension smoulders, debauchery soon turns to tragedy, as even the wildest of parties can’t last forever.
- Booking Information
Please note the front two rows may have extremely restricted views, especially the tickets priced at £5.75.
- Cast
Frances Ruffelle (Éponine in Les Miserables) is starring as Queenie
John Owen-Jones (Jean Valijean in Les Miserables & The Phantom of the Opera) stars as Burrs
Donna McKechnie (Cassie in A Chorus Line) stars as Dolores
Victoria Hamilton-Barritt (Diana in A Chorus Line, Rizzo in Grease & Lisa in Mamma Mia!) is playing Kate
Simon Thomas as Black
Dex Lee as Jackie
Ako Mitchll as Eddie
Glorira Obianyo and Genesis Lynea as The D'armano Bros
Melanie Bright as Sally
Lizzy Connolly as Mae
Steven Serlin as Gold
Sebastian Torkia as Goldberg
Bronte Barbe as Nadine
Tiffany Graves as Madelaine- Good To Know
The Wild Party will be directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie, who received the 2016 Olivier Award for Best Theatre Choreographer for his work on In The Heights (King’s Cross Theatre). Drew will direct and choreograph the European Premiere of Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom at West Yorkshire Playhouse this Christmas, with other recent choreography credits including Jesus Christ Superstar (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), Bugsy Malone (Lyric Hammersmith), The Lorax (The Old Vic) and Hairspray (UK Tour). Drew is also the Artistic Director of The McOnie Company, for which he recently created a new dance-thriller version of Jekyll and Hyde at The Old Vic.
Based on Joseph Moncure March’s narrative poem of the same title, The Wild Party originally opened on Broadway in 2000 with a cast including Toni Collette, Mandy Patinkin and Eartha Kitt. The production received 7 Tony Award nominations, and a Grammy Award nomination for its composer and lyricist Michael John LaChiusa. LaChiusa is one of the most prolific writers for the American musical stage, with works including Hello Again (1994), Marie Christine (1999), The Wild Party (2000) and See What I Wanna See (2005). He was nominated for Tony Awards for his score and book for Marie Christine, and for his books for The Wild Party and Chronicle of a Death Foretold.
The Wild Party is produced by Paul Taylor-Mills, [Artistic Director of The Other Palace and Advisory Producer at Really Useful Theatres Group]. Paul’s recent productions include In The Heights (Kings Cross Theatre), The Last Five Years (St. James Theatre), Side Show (Southwark Playhouse) and Carrie: The Musical (Southwark Playhouse).
The Wild Party has music and lyrics by Michael John LaChiusa and a book by George C. Wolfe and Michael John LaChiusa. It is directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie with musical direction by Theo Jamieson (Funny Girl, West End), set and costume design by Soutra Gilmour (Dr Faustus, Urinetown, The Commitments, West End) and lighting design by Richard Howell. Casting is by Will Burton. It is presented by Paul Taylor-Mills by arrangement with R&H Theatricals Europe.
Additional Details & FAQ
- Cancellation Policy
No refunds after booking.
- How Does It Work
Please print your confirmation email and bring this along on the night day of the show.
- Suitable For Children
Suitable for ages 16+
- Where Do I Go
THE OTHER PALACE
12 Palace Street,
London, SW1E 5JA
United Kingdom
The nearest tube station is Victoria. We are situated within a 5 minute walk of the station.
Victoria Station is easily accessible from the following lines
District, Circle, Victoria
Reviews
Rob
Apr 1, 2017
As you would expect from the director, the production overall is quite decent. He has capitalised on the high points of a very mediocre musical. The composer had coasted on the risque nature of the story, but ultimately wrote some very flat songs and caricature characters. The cast did their best. But what lets this show down the most is how much the cast are shouting over the band. It's obvious they're struggling. It's a wonder they can hear other. The band above them onstage are simply too loud. I won't be rushing back to this venue if this is how every show is.
Lisa
Mar 31, 2017
Amazing performances by all, and a chance to see some true legends in an intimate setting.
Douglas Bell
Mar 29, 2017
The Other Palace main auditorium is a great space and you are immediately involved with the set being so close. This was a very professional production which managed complex choreography. Energy levels from the cast were phenomenal. I enjoyed the second half more than the first as it was more musical (Simon Thomas - GREAT voice) and even operatic in some instances (Melanie Bright GREAT voice and John Owen- Jones) and there was more of a story. The first half is "the party" and it delivered in the sense that you really did feel that you were at a chaotic, reckless, hedonistic, messy o'clock party. Scary because of the characters back stories and inter related emotional involvement, not to mention business dealings, so you just knew something had to give, something was gonna go horribly wrong. But what/how? Great performances fro Ako Mitchell as Eddie Mackrel & Donna McKeelmie as Dolores. Amusing turns from Steven Serlin (Goldberg) and Sebastien Torkia (Gold). Post party they are in a mess and they know and fear what they have done but can only remember entering the front door at the start of the evening. Of the the brothers Oscar and Phil., I thought Genesis Lynca's was the sharper performance although Gloria Obiango had a sweet voice (Tabu). The Band was on top of the set which I love and they were FAB. Downside. I know it was a wild party BUT you need to HEAR the lyrics and the sound was so high right from the start the words were distorted and unfathomable. This is a shame because it impairs the actor's product. TURN IT DOWN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Charlotte Morris
Mar 19, 2017
My name is Charlotte morris and I'm a 3rd year at a college I went to see the show as abit of a look about for shows that I'd like to audition for when I graduate! And honestly this is one of the best shows iv ever seen, the performance from the characters were absolutely incredible I was in love with the songs and the story line!!!! I would 100% see it again.
Dimitar
Mar 19, 2017
A really nice performance where everyone was completely into their characters. Perhaps Kate was a bit stronger on stage compared to Queenie which disbalanced a bit my pre-expectations. Staging was really nice. Choreography 9 out of 10. Direction 7 out of 10. Generally great performance and very entertaining. Def. deserves attention.
Victor
Mar 19, 2017
If you want manic twenties style dance and music then this is for you. But we found music far too loud, unable to hear what was being said, recommend sitting near the back or better still don't waste your money.
Evie James
Mar 19, 2017
Overall, this show was a multi-sensory overload, (in good way!) The music was sensational, the performers were fantastic (it certainly didn't feel like a matinee performance) and the retelling of the original poem was characterful and exciting. The only criticism I'd say is there are, at times, so many things going on simultaneously which resulted in a couple of moments being missed or misunderstood. The music being so fast paced and intricate did result in some lyrics being lost. Which is a shame. However saying all of this, some of the choreography was so specific to each character that at times it could easily have been improvised! The direction/choreography was spell blinding. It's a stylish, explosive, vaudevillian treat. Definitely not suitable for children.
jo
Mar 18, 2017
great show would recommend. lovely funny and a times sad. really enjoyed
Diane Neve
Mar 17, 2017
What a great show! A stage bursting with talent displayed at its best by Drew McCoOnie's brilliant direction & choreography. There is so much to see as everyone plays out their own story. John Owen-Jones grasps this new role with both hands & clearly relishes it. I've seen it 7 times so far. Don't miss it
Lisa
Mar 16, 2017
We had a fantastic time! Every aspect was exciting and entertaining! The voices , especially Queen, where beautiful.
ablin
Mar 13, 2017
You'll get to see a wild party in action, be prepared for that! I liked the music and the band, good acting and production in general. Though it was too wild for me at parts... The theater is intimate, you'll get a good view from any seat.
william
Mar 13, 2017
a great show with a good story line easy to follow and fantastic signing and music I thoroughly enjoyed this show and the venue was very cosy almost felt part of the show
Jan
Mar 13, 2017
A very energetic performance from a strong cast. Wonderful to see JOJ again. He and Frances Ruffelle were fantastic in their lead roles. I struggled to understand some of the cast. I thought this might have been me but my children both said the same. Unfortunately, this led to missing sections of the story. I have to admit to having felt uncomfortable watching this show, the subject matter made me feel as if I were watching something I shouldn't. I also felt the topless scene was unnecessary (as did my son). I would say that this show is worth a watch but it may take you out of your comfort zone and in my opinion is not suitable for under 16s.
Ughetta
Mar 13, 2017
Me and my friends had a great evening, picking up the tickets at the box office was straightforward and quick! The production was good, the staging and choreography was the best part, the use of the space was incredible, specially in the very busy numbers.
Susie
Mar 12, 2017
Hugely talented cast but found first half long and I wasn't alone as there were quite a few empty seats after the interval. The second half was just plain uncomfortable.
yordrib
Mar 12, 2017
Overall enjoyed the show, cast were uniformly excellent, band was tight. First twenty minutes the tunes were a bit uniform and a little frenetic but it settled into a better rhythm as it progressed. Second half much darker as expected but the tunes whilst good became more "showy" at times and lost the jazz feeling. Despite early reviews saying the music often drowned out the lyrics, little had been done to turn it down a touch and I heard several comment on this. Would recommend this but it is deserving of its 16+ rating.
Jay Gilbert
Mar 11, 2017
Friday 10th March ... some great performances spoilt by poor sound from the mic's of the ensemble. Even Victoria's 1st song was hard to hear and we were in row c Stirling cast but rushed and frantic storyline !
Emil
Mar 8, 2017
At the performance of The Wild Party that I attended,I met two friends -one loved the show whereas the other loathed it.The entire cast gave committed performances,but my problem was the score-I can only remember one tune-nevertheless worth a visit
Cri Tenenbaum
Mar 8, 2017
I went yesterday evening with a few friends and I really enjoyed the show. It was finally something different and refreshing, compare the usual West End "safe shows". This was very dynamic, energetic and "wild". I especially love the musicians playing from the balcony, as they were part of the set too. Great music and great dances, even if the lead actress "queenie" didn't really shine above the others as it should have been. But overall I'll give a good 8/10.
Ellen Victoria
Mar 6, 2017
A brilliant version of one of my favourite musicals! I thoroughly enjoyed every single scene. It was incredibly well cast! Every single actor was fully committed to their roles. I would love to see it again!
Hilary
Mar 5, 2017
What a find this was. A fabulous, intimate theatre where you are close enough to the actors to see every facial expression and nuance. Every single cast member gave a high energy performance which drew the audience members into their journeys. With a plot which layered story upon story, an orchestra which complimented breath taking vocal performances and choreography to die for, this really is a must see.
Kb
Mar 5, 2017
I enjoyed the show, thought the dancing and singing was good for the most part and that there was a lot going on to keep you engaged. It was worth it for what we paid, though it was much too long. My partner felt it was all flash with little substance and so he wasn't sold to stay beyond the intermission.
Mark
Mar 5, 2017
Great performances and ensemble cast as up close and personal as you will ever be!
Gideon Vanning
Mar 5, 2017
Very good show.
Penny
Mar 3, 2017
My first visit since refurbishment. Like the new layout. The show was filled with excellent singing and movement throughout. It ranged from fun and excitement to pathos and great sadness - a real roller coaster of emotions. Well done all.
Bethany
Feb 28, 2017
It was incredible refreshing to see LaChiusa's version of The Wild Party as it is the less appreciated version of the show. The music and choreography heavily reflects the era of the roaring 1920's, however with Drew McOnie's choreographic background I thought his attention to detail would've been more thorough. To begin with I didn't worm to all of the characters and thought Frances Ruffelle was quite annoying however soon began to see her desperate and almost pathetic portrayal of Queenie was actually quite a remarkable portrayal of the character. All in all it was a great performance and the energy on stage was remarkable, I left pretty exhausted physically and mentally.
Jodie
Feb 28, 2017
So incredibly enegetic a performance that I felt tired just watching! Everything from the staging to costumes to choreography was delicious. You have to watch this!
Keira
Feb 24, 2017
I left this show in the interval and was so disappointed. There was nothing particularly great about it. For a show that the story is centred around a dance character, the dances were unimaginative and very loose. The sound was a problem for me too, often the band were a lot louder than the cast meaning I couldn't hear properly. The harmonies were often out of tune. Also, very often the actors missed their spot lights, it could definetly have used a followspot instead of relying on moving lights.
Yvonne Stroud
Feb 24, 2017
I am booked to see The Wild Party 16th March 2.30 !!!!!!!!
Ben
Feb 24, 2017
Saw the show tonight (£15 - bargain) and really enjoyed it! Fantastic company, with great energy and powerful performances, especially from John Owen Jones (which was refreshing to see him in part, a comedic role and not behind a mask or wearing a wig and white beard) and Victoria Hamilton Barritt, who has such a seductive, sexy voice and is just captivating to watch. Well done everyone and to the band who were superb!
Saya
Feb 23, 2017
I loved the design of the stage. It really felt like I was in a different area. The directing, the choreography, and the performance were all impressive. The actors managed to stay in character all through, and they played along even when they weren't in focus.
Rhys Downie
Feb 23, 2017
Wild Party was such an incredible experience! From the music, to the set, to the props, and to the vocals! Absolutely phenomenal! Every number blew me away and left me speechless in amazement. This is one show that you CAN NOT MISS!
Sam
Feb 23, 2017
Phenomenal production! Stellar cast and outstanding staging! Overwhelming!
Jules P
Feb 19, 2017
Firstly an amazing little theatre - such a fabulous atmosphere really able to connect to the show - not a bad seat in the house . The show was fascinating and full of great acting , singing and performance -intensity was created by the choreography that just had you captured . Would absolutely recommend anyone to see it
disgruntled
Feb 19, 2017
Acting and staging were fine. However, the play had no insight into anything. It was just a loud. Of the 9 plays we went to in London this week it was by far the worst.
Grace
Feb 19, 2017
One of THE best pieces of theatre ive ever seen. Creative, dynamic, powerful. Everything has been thought of down to the tiniest detail. Drew has truly outdone himself! And the cast were nothing less than breathtaking!! Im already booking to come again!
Frank Wesner
Apr 1, 2017
https://alleseintheater.wordpress.com/2017/03/27/kalter-dunst-bei-wilder-party/