Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends is coming to the West End

About Stephen Sondheim 

Stephen Sondheim was an American composer and lyricist who rose to prominence in the 1950s working as a lyricist for the composer Leonard Bernstein. Their collaboration on the 1957 musical West Side Story was a tremendous success and helped to establish Sondheim's reputation as a rising talent in the world of musical theatre. He went on to work on other successful shows, such as Gypsy and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, eventually transitioning to writing both the music and lyrics for his own productions. 

Sondheim was mentored by Oscar Hammerstein II, Hammerstein became Sondheim's mentor after Sondheim's father introduced the two, with Hammerstein later teaching him the craft of lyric writing and providing him opportunities to work on various projects. Sondheim has often credited Hammerstein with shaping his career and influencing his approach to musical theatre. Through his work, Sondheim has revealed an unequalled style that can process emotions that are vague, repressed or even downright contradictory.

About Old Friends 

Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends showcases the refined talents of the legendary American composer and lyricist by showcasing some of his most beloved songs and works and highlighting his wit, intelligence, and emotional depth as a composer and lyricist. Old Friends features songs from a variety of Sondheim's classic shows, such as Sweeney Todd, Company, Into the Woods and many more!

The cast and creatives of Old Friends 

Prepare for an unforgettable theatrical experience with the star-studded cast of Old Friends. The legendary Bernadette Peters makes her long-awaited West End debut, with Lea Salonga returning to the stage after 27 years.

They are joined by an incredible ensemble that includes Christine Allado, Janie Dee, Bonnie Langford, Jeremy Secomb, Beatrice Penny-Touré, Joanna Riding, and Jac Yarrow, with more exciting casting announcements to come!

Old Friends is Directed by the renowned Matthew Bourne and co-directed by Julia McKenzie, it features electrifying choreography by Stephen Mear, musical direction by Alfonso Casado Trigo, musical supervision by Stephen Brooker, musical arrangements by Stephen Metcalfe, stunning set design by Matt Kinley, awe-inspiring projection design by George Reeve, dynamic lighting design by Warren Letton, and a sound design by the masterful Mick Potter. 

Keep an eye out for Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends 

From ‘Into The Woods’ to ‘Send in the Clowns’ the songs of Stephen Sondheim, performed by veterans musical theatre, are sure to touch the heart! Keep an eye on our news page for more information!