The Gillian Lynne Theatre is set to welcome a captivating new production as The National Theatre and Various Productions announce the initial casting for the West End transfer of Sheffield Theatres’ smash-hit musical, Standing at the Sky’s Edge.
Winner of the 2023 Olivier Award for ‘Best New Musical,’ this love letter to Sheffield and its iconic Park Hill Estate, directed by Sheffield Theatres’ Artistic Director Robert Hastie, promises to be an extraordinary theatrical experience. Featuring songs by the legendary Sheffield singer-songwriter, Richard Hawley, and a gripping book by Chris Bush, Standing at the Sky’s Edge explores the hopes and dreams of three generations over six tumultuous decades, touching on universal themes of love, loss, and survival.
Joining the cast for the West End run are, Elizabeth Ayodele (Steel Magnolias, Small Island) as Joy, Joel Harper-Jackson (Cock, Kinky Boots) as Harry, Sharlene Hector (A Strange Loop, Hairspray) as Grace, Mel Lowe (Orlando, A Billion Times I Love You) as Connie, Laura Pitt-Pulford (Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Emmerdale) as Poppy and Lauryn Redding (Bloody Elle) as Nikki.
Returning to reprise their roles are, Samuel Jordan (Masters of the Air, Sex Education) as Jimmy, Baker Mukasa (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, The Comedy of Errors) as George, Alastair Natkiel (Line of Duty, Strangers on a Train) as Marcus and Rachael Wooding (Pretty Woman: The Musical, We Will Rock You) as Rose.
Further casting details will be announced in the near future.
Standing at the Sky’s Edge offers more than just entertainment; it’s a heartfelt exploration of the power of community and the concept of home. Through the stories of the residents of Park Hill Estate, the musical delves deep into the history of modern Britain, reminding us of the significance of the places and communities we call our own.
As the West End eagerly awaits this much-anticipated production, Standing at the Sky’s Edge promises to be a mesmerizing experience that combines music, storytelling, and history, leaving a lasting impact on its audience and adding another feather to the cap of British theatre excellence. Be sure to mark your calendars for February 9, 2024, when the show finally makes its West End debut.
