Lloyd Webber’s theatre group criticised over show closure
ANDREW LLOYD Webber’s theatre group has faced criticism after it was announced that the West End production of the musical Cinderella is to close, with some current and future cast members suggesting they were only told when the news was made public.
The production will close in the West End next month less than a year after its premiere.
The show, which is being staged at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, has been hit with Covid-19related disruption since the start and will play its final performance on June 12, a note on its website and a tweet said.
In a statement Lloyd Webber said he was “incredibly proud” of the show, adding: “Not only did it get some of the best reviews of my career, but we led the charge to reopen the West End, ensuring that theatre and live entertainment remained relevant and in the news.
“While mounting a new show in the midst of Covid has been an unbelievable challenge, we held the Government’s feet to the flames throughout their
changes of heart during the pandemic.”
Lloyd Webber’s statement added: “Now, I am really excited to get to work putting together a new production with (production company) No Guarantees for Broadway. Thank you very much to everyone involved, particularly our UK audiences who have loved and supported the show. See you next March on Broadway.”
Actress Carrie Hope Fletcher, who stars as Cinderella, wrote on Twitter: “I don’t think I have the words. And if I did I would probably be advised not to say them. Sending love to all impacted by today’s news and by how that news was delivered.”
Theatre star Summer Strallen said in a long video on Instagram that she had only found out the show was cancelled via a friend.
A statement from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s theatre group said: “Everyone involved with Cinderella was contacted by call, text or email either directly or through agents before the news went public.
“The Really Useful Group made every effort to ensure everyone was informed, whilst navigating how quickly the news would travel once posted on social media.”
Strictly Come Dancing finalist and Leeds-based chef John Whaite expressed his heartbreak at the news as he was due to join the cast in July and take over the role of Prince Charming.
Sending love to all impacted by today’s news and by how it was delivered. Actress Carrie Hope Fletcher, who plays Cinderella.