Features

5 theatre shows to cheer you up after England's World Cup loss

From football boots to ”Kinky Boots”, from handballs to ”Strictly Ballroom”, theatre has the perfect way to perk up spirits after yesterday’s semi-final

Alex Wood

London London's West End

12 July 2018

'"Everybody's Talking About Jamie and 42nd Street''
© Right: Alastair Muir, Left: Brinkhoff Moegenburg

England had a slightly iffy evening yesterday, going out in extra time to Croatia in the semi-final of the World Cup. But the team did its nation proud (this year being the third time ever that the England men's squad has reached a semi-final) and one way we know to bolster spirits is through a cheeky dose of theatre – here are our favourite pick-me-ups!

The cast of Kinky Boots — The cast of *Kinky Boots*
© Matt Crockett

5. Kinky Boots

Adelphi Theatre

Last night, England fans faced the loss of World Cup dreams. In Kinky Boots, main man Charlie faces the loss of his family's shoe factory. But with some epic numbers, some fabulous drag and a heartwarming tale, cockles are warmed and the world is made better – so why not head down to the Adelphi. Oh, and the show is kicking off (huh) a UK tour later this year!

4. 42nd Street

Theatre Royal, Drury Lane

Put the memory of Jesse Lingard's footwork to rest as you see some real shoe-tapping over at Theatre Royal Drury Lane with one of the biggest, most sequins-filled musicals in recent memory. Who needs to come home when you can head to 42nd Street?

Stephen Laesk as Dewey Finn
© Tristram Kenton

3. School of Rock

Gillian Lynne Theatre

At the newly christened Gillian Lynne Theatre, a rip-roaring group of school kids can chase blues away with a rousing score (that isn't 2-1…) and some fist-pumping scenes.

2. Strictly Ballroom

Piccadilly Theatre

From football to ballroom, a natural progression! Baz Luhrmann's classic film is adapted for the stage, with Will Young (until the 31st!), Zizi Strallen and Jonny Labey along for the ride. The piece is full of splendid numbers, dazzling costumes and a whole bunch of feel-good moments.

1. Everybody's Talking About Jamie

Apollo Theatre

No, not Vardy, we're talking about Jamie New, the main character in one of the funniest, catchiest, most endearing new musicals in town. Bagging the Best New Musical Award at the WhatsOnStage Awards earlier this year, Jamie is a solid night of entertainment for all.