BECTU issues statement regarding Burlesque musical’s postponement

Entertainment union BECTU has issued a statement regarding the postponement of Burlesque the Musical’s London run.

The show had been due to run at the new 550-seat Arts at Marble Arch, following two engagements in Manchester and a season in Glasgow, as well as a sold-out limited season at the Savoy Theatre in 2025. Previews were due to begin on Saturday 12 September 2026, but it has now been confirmed the show will not open at the Arts at Marble Arch, with new venue and 2027 dates to be confirmed.

At the same time, a second production that had been due to launch a UK tour at Woking this week, has delayed its opening to next month, with delays around set delivery and construction reportedly amongst problems currently facing the show. Photos seen by WhatsOnStage showed the cast rehearsing on a largely empty stage at the Woking Theatre.

The musical is based on the film starring Christina Aguilera and Cher and centres on Ali, who travels to New York in search of her mother and becomes immersed in an underground club scene. It is written and directed by Steven Antin.

Messaging WhatsOnStage just after 4pm today, the Broadcasting, Entertainment, Communications and Theatre Union’s head Phillippa Childs stated: “We are extremely disappointed by the situation on the London opening of Burlesque the Musical. The ‘postponement’ to 2027 will mean that freelancers will miss out on months of expected income, leaving them in financial difficulty. The production have indicated that they will endeavour to provide alternative work where possible and we are seeking more detail on this.

“While the start of the UK tour of Burlesque has been delayed, it is reassuring that the production looks set to continue. We are in contact with the production company and we will continue to support members as the situation develops.”

Burlesque the Musical features songs by Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren, Jess Folley and Todrick Hall. Aguilera serves as executive producer alongside Adam Paulden, Jason Haigh-Ellery, Antin, Clint Culpepper and In Fine Company.

In a statement the producers said: “This is absolutely a postponement, not a cancellation. We are already exploring opportunities for a major London return in 2027 and look forward to announcing our future West End home in due course. This is a strategic decision designed to ensure the production returns to London exactly as we want it to… with all the fabulosity, concert-like experiential quality, sound design and razzle-dazzle that our audiences deserve!”

It’s another chapter in a turbulent history of the show, following rocky beginnings in the West End and changes to creative team members – including the exit of former director, choreographer and star Hall.

Last week, BECTU’s touring channel published an Instagram story asking for any members involved in the production to “get in touch ASAP.”

Cassidy Janson, who had been due to play Tess in the London run, said in a statement on Instagram earlier today: “To anyone thinking about a career in theatre, the over used phrase ‘that’s showbiz’, genuinely applies here. Just know stuff like this sadly occurs. To all the London cast of Burlesque who I was yet to meet and work with I hope you’re okay. Please reach out and DM me.”