*This post contains plot spoilers*
Living in London I have fantastic access to some of the best stages and musicals in the world. With the modern musical emerging in the 19th century, musicals have played a key role in family entertainment both live and on screen for the past two centuries; I have to confess musicals are one of my favourite genres of film. With their heyday being the early to mid 20th century it's not unusual to notice that even today, many musicals are still set during this period. Here are some great vintage theatre shows, set during this time, but are still just as enjoyable today.
Kiss me, Kate
Set in the 1940s Kiss me, Kate was a hit when first released with songs like Too Darn hot becoming very popular. Centred around a director/producer and his ex-wife Kiss me, Kate has it's fair share of conflict. Re-opening again in London at The Old Vic for the first time in 5 years.
The 39 Steps
A comedy based on a classic by Alfred Hitchcock from the 1930s; 4 actors take on the role of 130 different characters in this play, with the main star of the show 'Richard Hannay' aiming to clear himself of murder.
The Jersey Boys
Loosely based on Frank Sinatra and The Rat Pack (the characters go by the name of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons), The Jersey Boys is set in the 1960s and charts the rise to fame of a very successful pop band.
Dreamboats and petticoats
Set in the early 1960s, Dreamboats and Petticoats is based on the rock'n'roll songs from the compilation album of the same name. Two young men compete to win a song writing competition as well as the girl of their dreams.
Singin' in the rain
(Just look how fabulous those costumes are)
Originally filmed in the 1950s with Gene Kelly playing the lead role, Singin' In The Rain has had great success on the London stage. Set in the 1920s the play is centred around the fall of the silent movie and the rise of talking films and follows how one the biggest stars of the time 'Don Lockwood' handles this change.
And after that I definitely feel the need to buy some theatre tickets now!
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