

Ubu Roi: How Alfred Jarry's absurd, toilet-brush wielding King still reigns supreme
Program for King Ubu (Ubu Roi) (Minneapolis Institute of Art) Confusing the boundaries between tragedy and farce, the grotesque tyrant Ubu Roi wreaks havoc over a nonsensical 19th-century Poland. But why does his tale still shock audiences today? In 1896, then 23-year-old Alfred Jarry premiered his play Ubu Roi (King Ubu) at the Nouveau-Théâtre in Paris, presented by the Théâtre de l'Œuvre company (founded by Aurélien Lugné-Poe). Although it wasn't particularly well received

Jack Davey
Jun 163 min read


15 Stage Premieres Still To Come in 2026
Adam Colbeck-Dunn, Rosie Strobel, Hayley Tamaddon, Hannah Nuttall, Althea Burey, Lucca Chadwick-Patel, Sam Lupton and Samuel Holmes. In rehearsals for Bank Of Dave (Marc Brenner) Unveiling some of the most hotly anticipated world premieres, opening in London and regional venues across the UK. In a world where long-running musicals dominate the theatre scene, audiences that take a risk on new pieces of writing can be invaluable. It fosters new voices and diverse perspectives,

Jack Davey
May 26 min read


Valentine's Day Playlist: 20 Iconic Love Songs From Musical Theatre
11 February 2026 I Valentine's Day '26 With Valentine's Day just around the corner, Jackstage have compiled a list of 20 iconic musical numbers to set pulses racing this Saturday. We listened to your favourites that you submitted, compiling the nation's favourite romantic ballads and duets. Some of you may choose to celebrate in its heart-filled commercialism, though for others it might be a challenging weekend. For those having a quiet night in, and wanting to block out th

Jack Davey
Feb 116 min read











