Watermill Theatre announces new season, including Barnum revival

Exclusive: The Watermill Theatre has unveiled its full 2024 season lineup, following its recognition as a co-recipient of Theatre of the Year at The Stage Awards.

Commencing the season is Much Ado About Nothing (12 April to 18 May), where the Watermill Ensemble will reimagine Shakespeare’s classic comedy, placing it in the Golden Age of Hollywood. The live 1940s-inspired soundscape is performed by the cast of actor-musicians, with adaptation by Tom Wentworth and direction by artistic director Paul Hart.

Next up is Fanny (23 May to 15 June), a world premiere comedy by Calum Finlay, directed by Katie-Ann McDonough. The play explores the narrative that Fanny Mendelssohn, sister of composer Felix Mendelssohn, significantly contributed to his work. Charlie Russell, known for her much-loved turns in a plethora of Mischief projects, will lead the cast.

The venue’s big musical this summer will be Cy Coleman, Michael Stewart, and Mark Bramble’s Barnum (2 July to 8 September). Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle and choreographed by Oti Mabuse (The Cher Show), the production will feature a variety of actor-musicians and circus performers, exploring the life of  P T Barnum. The show marks O’Boyle’s return to the venue as a director for the  first time in five years.

Moving into the autumn, a revival of David Seidler’s The King’s Speech (20 September to 2 November), directed by Emma Butler, will present an intimate view of the unconventional relationship between King George VI and his speech therapist Lionel Logue.

Concluding the year is Pinocchio (15 November to 5 January 2025), a new musical adaptation of the classic tale, delving into the puppet’s journey of self-discovery and freedom.

In addition to these productions, the Watermill will host other events, including a new adaptation of Babette Cole’s Princess Smartypants, a Watermill Comedy Night, and a Farmer’s Market. Tickets go on sale on 9 February for Friends and Members, email subscribers can book from 16 February, followed by general booking opening on 17 February.

Executive director Claire Murray explained: “We’re excited to bring our distinctive Watermill style to a brilliant collection of plays and musicals and proud to continue to invest in new writing and adaptations as well as revivals. Our production of Barnum, featuring acrobatics and actor musicians, will take over the whole site, immersing audiences in the thrill and spectacle of the circus – it’s going to be another fantastic summer for all the family!

“As a registered charity, fundraising is vital to our continued work and we’re delighted to add to our Friends memberships, with new levels starting from as little as £10 per month. These new levels provide opportunities for people to engage with the Watermill on a deeper level – to gain a real insight into our work, get to know us better, and really see the difference their donation is making. We have also introduced the Watermill Musical Circle, through which donors can support and follow the process of creating a musical from the early stages of development, into the rehearsal room all the way to the on-stage experience. We hope this will help us welcome more people to be part of The Watermill’s growing community of donors.”

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