Podcasts

What is the secret to Les Misérables’ success?

And who was the stand-out star in the National Theatre’s Hamlet?

Alex Wood

Alex Wood

Sarah Crompton

Sarah Crompton

| Nationwide |

10 October 2025

Killian Donnelly and Bradley Jaden, © Danny Kaan scaled
Killian Donnelly and Bradley Jaden, © Danny Kaan

Welcome to this week’s episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast.

To be or not to be – that is the question… Or is it “Do You Hear The People Sing?”

As Les Misérables celebrates 40 years in the West End, chief critic Sarah Crompton and editor-in-chief Alex Wood reflect on the runaway success of the iconic musical that has enchanted audiences for decades.

What does it say about the critics that they got it so wrong? Meanwhile, the National Theatre has opened a new production of Hamlet – laden with easter eggs and references – and a standout performance from one cast member that wowed Crompton!

Crompton and Wood host a weekly series on all things theatrical. News, views, frank exchanges and lists offer an unmissable guide to what’s happening on stage (and in film and on television) now, in the past and in future. The podcast can be listened to on various streaming platforms – including Apple Podcasts and Audible. Make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode!

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