This week, The Stage presents a special themed issue, in which we celebrate the 60th birthday of Andrew Lloyd Webber with a special focus on his unique contribution to the theatre industry.
Writing exclusively for The Stage, Cameron Mackintosh gives a personal birthday greeting
We reveal the results of our poll which asked what readers’ favourite ALW musical was.
Insight: Andrew Lloyd Webber continues to break the mould of British musicals, both as a composer and producer, while reality TV shows have boosted his public profile. Mark Shenton examines his global legacy and considers why, as a prominent West End theatre owner, he has been reluctant to refurbish his venues
With blockbuster hits like The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Evita and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat now mainstream staples, it is sometimes easy to forget about the depth, complexity and innovation of Lloyd Webber’s work, says Michael Coveney
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rare combination of creative and commercial flair has seen him capitalise on the markets available from TV to Las Vegas and the internet, writes Alistair Smith
Training: Andrew Lloyd Webber has long been involved in musical theatre education, but his recent appointment as the new president of Arts Educational Schools London is likely to draw even more attention to training young performers, writes Susan Elkin
Nick Smurthwaite meets Lynn Jezzard, who joined The Phantom of the Opera’s corps de ballet when it opened in 1986, and has remained with the show since, becoming resident choreographer in 2002
Also in this week’s edition:
Continuing her exclusive weekly column, vocal coach and Any Dream Will Do judge Zoe Tyler reviews BBC talent show I’d Do Anything — and says why she thinks Rent actress Francesca Jackson should have been sent home for good from Nancy School
Currently starring in The Lady From The Sea at Birmingham Rep, Claire Price tells Al Senter why Ibsen’s female characters appeal to her so much and why, after playing a succession of classical theatre parts, she chose to push for a television profile by working with Ken Stott in ITV’s Rebus
Geoffrey Perkins has a string of comedy hits to his name. As his latest success, Benidorm, returns to ITV1 for its second series, the producer still dreams of finding that winning formula for prime time sitcom gold, writes Mary Comerford
Maggie Brown examines the growing success of BBC1’s Doctors as it takes on Five’s recently acquired Neighbours in the daytime slot
Natalie Anglesey speaks to film star and country music legend Kris Kristofferson about his varied life, and how landing a helicopter in Johnny Cash’s backyard helped kickstart his career
Liz Thomas on the revolving door of television executives
Maggie Brown on media: What Channel 4’s Next on 4 policy rethink means for its drama output
Dillie Keane: I’ve just played Lady Bracknell — but I wish I could have been Miss Prism
Dear John: “I’m doing a show based on an underlying issue which I am really committed to. How can I make my performance theatrical, rather than dry and worthy?”
Backstage Focus: Barbara Eifler reports from the recent Health and Safety Conference organised by the TMA with the ABTT and SMA.
The Stage remembers Anthony Minghella, who passed away last week
Plus all the usual news, reviews, national UK theatre listings and recruitment ads.
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