Arts & Toast

Fawlty Towers is coming to the Theatre Royal, Nottingham

Fans of the classic British sitcom Fawlty Towers are in for a nostalgic treat as the beloved comedy arrives at the Theatre Royal Nottingham this June. Celebrating fifty years since Basil and Sybil Fawlty first appeared on British television screens, the brand-new live stage adaptation brings together three iconic episodes — “The Inspectors,” “Communication Problems,” and “The Germans” — into one hilarious production with a fresh new ending. Starring Danny Bayne, known for his work on Hollyoaks, alongside Mia Austin, recognised from Call the Midwife and Ludwig, the touring production promises audiences a faithful yet refreshed take on one of Britain’s most iconic sitcoms. During an exclusive interview, Danny and Mia shared behind-the-scenes stories from their demanding ten-month UK tour, including unforgettable on-stage mishaps, practical jokes among cast members, and the challenges of bringing such legendary characters to life on stage. The pair also reflected on the importance of preparation and confidence, drawing comparisons between preparing for performances, auditions, and the pressures students face during exam season. The live production of Fawlty Towers runs at the Theatre Royal Nottingham from 2–6 June and is suitable for audiences aged 8 and above. Tickets are available now through the official Theatre Royal & Concert Hall website. [trch.co.uk]

Classical Imperial Ballet® bringing Christmas favourite to Derby.

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to bring a ballet or opera tour to life? I chat with Alexej Ignatow about his role as Producer for his company, the Imperial Classical Ballet. From months of planning and complex logistics to marketing, audience engagement, and flawless execution — we’re uncovering the hidden work that makes every performance possible. In this episode, I discuss, with Alexej, the logistics of putting together a tour and how companies are making ballet and opera more accessible to new generations of audiences across the UK. Following multiple sold-out UK tours and an overwhelmingly warm reception from audiences nationwide, Imperial Classical Ballet are proudly bringing The Nutcracker, along with a live orchestra, to Vaillant Live on the 7th November 2026. Tickets are onsale now and can be purchased from the Vaillant Live website. [https://vaillantlive.co.uk/event/the-nutcracker/139/]

Barnum the Musical is heading to Nottingham Playhouse

Many people today recognise P. T. Barnum thanks to the hit movie The Greatest Showman, but the acclaimed stage production Barnum the Musical [https://www.kenwright.com/productions/barnum-2026-uk-tour/] explores far more than the world of the circus. The long-running musical takes audiences on a deeper journey through Barnum’s life, revealing his political ambitions, personal struggles, and the powerful influence of his wife, Charity Barnum. This week, I’m joined by Monique Young [https://www.instagram.com/moniquebyoung/?__d=1%252F%253Fhidemenu%253Dtrue], who stars as Charity Barnum, to discuss the heart behind the production and the woman determined to keep Phineas Barnum grounded amidst fame and spectacle. We also dive into the extraordinary talent required to bring the show to life, from juggling and fire breathing to the high-energy choreography audiences are loving. With exam season underway, Monique also shares her top advice for aspiring performers and those hoping to break into the theatre industry. Tickets for Barnum the Musical are on sale now as the production tours the UK to rave 4 and 5-star reviews, featuring choreography by Oti Mabuse and music by Cy Coleman. Theatre fans in the East Midlands can book tickets through the Nottingham Playhouse website [https://nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk/events/barnum/].

2/2 Derby's Kristian Cunningham becomes Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors: PART TWO

Go behind the scenes of Derby Theatre and Northern Stage’s exciting new production of Little Shop of Horrors in this special two-part episode of Arts & Toast. In part two of this exclusive feature, Derby-born performer Kristian Cunningham shares his inspiring journey from his early days with Erewash Musical Society to landing the iconic role of Seymour in this major professional production. Kristian also opens up about co-founding KTStudios, the realities of working in the theatre industry and the challenges young performers face when balancing arts education, qualifications and career ambitions. Expect honest conversations, backstage insight and plenty of passion for musical theatre as we explore what it really takes to build a career on stage. From 30 May to 20 June 2026, audiences can catch Kristian Cunningham alongside Amena El Kindy in Little Shop of Horrors at Derby Theatre. Featuring live actor-musicians, creative captioning, and beloved songs including Suddenly Seymour, Skid Row (Downtown), and Feed Me (Git It), this cult-classic musical promises an unforgettable summer theatre experience. Tickets available now via Derby Theatre [https://derbytheatre.co.uk/event/little-shop-of-horrors/].

1/2 Derby's Kristian Cunningham becomes Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors: PART ONE

In this special two-part episode of Arts & Toast, actor and performer Kristian Cunningham joins the Kirsty on the podcast to discuss his journey through the performing arts, alongside his starring role in the hit musical Little Shop of Horrors. Presented by Derby Theatre [https://derbytheatre.co.uk/event/little-shop-of-horrors/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=little-shop-2026&utm_content=demandgen-video&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23765776028&gbraid=0AAAABC6fqi2UuRLv_LUpm5rsjz7v6rycG&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8PDPBhCeARIsAOJwmWVkHrIucai6sb-k28IvC_bSUSpex7MB9gJGRC40-n8-Di4BsVnZB7waAluzEALw_wcB] and Northern Stage [https://northernstage.co.uk/whats-on/little-shop-of-horrors/], Little Shop of Horrors is the iconic dark comedy musical blending sci-fi, Motown and B-movie horror that has entertained audiences for more than 40 years. Kristian shares how his passion for theatre began with amateur dramatics in Derbyshire, before training at The Urdang Academy. He opens up about life beyond London as a working actor, building a successful performing arts academy in the East Midlands and balancing teaching the next generation of performers with professional stage roles. From musical theatre and actor training to regional arts and creative careers outside the capital, this inspiring conversation explores why you don’t need to live in London to build a thriving career in the arts.