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    Show Boat wears its age with pride
    The Daily Express
    Show Boat is a musical treat
    The Daily Telegraph

Show Boat Tickets

Gillian Lynne Theatre

After a hugely successful run at the Sheffield Crucible, Daniel Evans’ ravishing revival of Show Boat transferred to the New London Theatre. Set aboard the grand ‘Cotton Blossom’, which sails gracefully down the Mississippi, Show Boat relived the beauty of American classics such as ‘Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man’ and ‘Ol’ Man River’.

Daniel Evans’ sensational revival of Show Boat transferred to the New London Theatre, following the departure of the National Theatre’s War Horse. A nautical musical based on the reliving the beauty of the early 20th century America, Show Boat has continued to capture hearts across the world and is one of the most popular productions that has graced the West End.

Last seen in the West End at the Royal Albert Hall in 2006, this mother of musicals has enjoyed numerous revivals. Originally opening in London in 1928, Show Boat has continued to return, with a 1971 production at the Adelphi running for an impressive 909 performances. The 1998 Prince Edward production earned the show an Olivier Award for Outstanding Musical Production. In summer 2016, Evans’ revival transferred to the West End after a critically-acclaimed run at the Sheffield Crucible, which closed in January 2016.

Based on Edna Ferber’s 1926 bestselling novel, Show Boat is an extravagantly epic musical that spans over 40 years of American history. Set in the US at the turn of the 20th century, the musical takes place aboard the beloved ‘Cotton Blossom’, which sails down the Mississippi. Following the lives and loves of three generations, Show Boat relives the beauty and grandeur of American classics. Oscar Hammerstein II and and Jerome Kern’s sumptuous score includes songs such as ‘Bill’, ‘Make Believe’, ‘Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man’ and the wonderful ‘Ol’ Man River’.

Musically supervised by David White, who has brought classics to the stage such as My Fair Lady, Sunset Boulevard and From Here to Eternity, the show is a firm favourite amongst audiences. Show Boat included choreography by Alistair David (Sinatra at the London Palladium), with design by Lez Brotherson, lighting design by David Hersey, sound by Paul Groothius and video design by Tim Reid. Casting included Wicked’s Gina Beck, alongside Rebecca Trehearn (City of Angels, Ghost) and Emmanuel Kojo (Scottsboro Boys), who all reprised their roles in this ravishing musical.

Sorry this show closed 27 August 2016, we recommend these similar productions.

The Phantom of the Opera
ABBA Voyage
Les Miserables
Performance dates:
26 Aug 2016 - 27 Aug 2016
Running time:
2 hours and 40 minutes.
Age recommendation:
Suitable for all ages
Audience Notes:
Those who enjoy classic musicals such as Hello Dolly! and Thoroughly Modern Millie will love this musical. Fans of early American music will also enjoy the wonderful score.

Latest Audience Reviews

Stunning production with some phenomenal voices, and I know some of these were understudies! E... More

I liked this show especially the incredible set - mainly the show boat. The performances by the e... More

This is one of my favourite shows. It has a fantastic cast singing brilliant songs and dancing am... More

Show Boat is a classic and this version combined the best of both worlds. It had the authentic fe... More

A beautiful production with a stellar cast, gorgeous scenery and lighting and some breathtaking s... More

Incredible show! the entire cast gave stunning performances and bought such an important show to... More

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