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All Aboard! Starlight Express Races Back to the Stage This Weekend

Posted 3rd June 2024

Starlight Express begins performances Saturday, 8th June

This weekend marks the triumphant return of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, Starlight Express in the specially designed Starlight Auditorium at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. As the stage is set and the performers lace up their roller skates, anticipation is building for what promises to be an unforgettable theatrical journey.

First premiered in London’s West End in 1984, Starlight Express quickly became a revolutionary musical. Unlike any other show of its time, it combined the magic of musical theatre with the high-energy excitement of a roller-skating race. The story, an imaginative take on the classic tale of “The Little Engine That Could,” centres around a young, underdog steam train named Rusty who dreams of winning a race against modern, technologically superior trains.

The show’s innovative use of roller skates, paired with Webber’s electrifying score, made it an instant hit, running for over 7,400 performances in London. It also had successful runs on Broadway and has been staged in various cities worldwide, becoming a favorite among audiences of all ages.

As the curtain rises this weekend, audiences can expect a dazzling revival that stays true to the original’s spirit while incorporating modern technological advancements.

Starlight Express is not just a musical; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the show, this production offers something special for everyone. Its unique blend of music, dance, and spectacle is unlike anything else on the stage.

For families, it’s a fantastic way to introduce younger generations to the magic of live theatre. For theatre aficionados, it’s a chance to see a beloved classic reimagined. And for everyone in between, it’s simply a thrilling night out that you won’t want to miss.

As the engines rev and the lights dim, Starlight Express invites you to hop on board for a journey filled with excitement, emotion, and pure theatrical magic. Performances start this weekend, so grab your tickets, strap in, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the return of this iconic musical. All aboard the Starlight Express!

Starlight Express has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Richard Stilgoe, is directed by Luke Sheppard (&Juliet, The Little Big Things), with set designer Tim Hatley (Back to the Future), video designer Andrzej Goulding (Life of Pi), costume designer Gabriella Slade (Six), lighting designer Howard Hudson (&Juliet), sound designer Gareth Owen (MJ the Musical), new orchestrations by Matthew Brind (The Little Big Things), Musical Supervision by Matthew Brind & David Wilson, Musical Direction by Laura Bangay and Casting by Pearson Casting.

With thrilling new choreography by Ashley Nottingham, Starlight Express also sees the return of Arlene Phillips as creative dramaturg.

The Starlight Auditorium at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre is a state-of-the-art cultural destination only 12 minutes from Baker Street and a short 5-minute walk from the Wembley Park Tube.

For more information, or to book tickets now, visit the show’s page here.