Matthew Bourne’s critically acclaimed production The Midnight Bell is set to hit Theatre Royal Brighton in 2025, bringing a unique blend of storytelling and dance to the stage. Inspired by the works of British novelist Patrick Hamilton, particularly his well-loved pieces Twenty Thousand Streets Under The Sky and Hangover Square, the production transports audiences to the gritty, authentic world of London pubs in the early 20th century.
In 1930s London ordinary people emerge from cheap boarding houses nightly to pour out their passions, hopes and dreams in the pubs and fog-bound streets of Soho and Fitzrovia. Step inside The Midnight Bell, a tavern where one particular lonely-hearts club gather to play out their lovelorn affairs of the heart; bitter comedies of longing, frustration, betrayal and redemption.
Premiering in 2021, The Midnight Bell has already racked up impressive accolades, including five nominations at the 2022 National Dance Awards. Bourne himself scooped the award for Best Modern Choreography, while Michela Meazza was recognised for her Outstanding Female Modern Performance. With these achievements under its belt, the production is sure to be a standout event for 2025, coming to the Theatre Royal Brighton on Wednesday 30th July – Saturday 2nd August 2025.
Once again, Bourne collaborates with his award-winning creative team, including composer Terry Davies, set and costume designer Lez Brotherston, lighting designer Paule Constable and sound designer Paul Groothuis, all of whom have Olivier and Tony Awards to their names. This dream team is known for crafting atmospheres that fully immerse the audience, blending music, visuals and movement into a seamless, emotional experience.
The cast will feature 14 of New Adventures’ top actor-dancers who will bring to life characters that explore the darker, more complex sides of human relationships and emotions. Full casting details are expected to be revealed soon.
Matthew Bourne said today: “The Midnight Bell with its entangled tales of lonely souls, looking for love, was rather appropriately the piece that brought us back to National touring following nearly two years away due to the covid pandemic in 2021. At that time audiences and company were masked and socially distanced but immensely grateful to be back and particularly with a piece that explored the deep-rooted need for human connection.”
“Touring was necessarily limited and audience confidence still slowly returning so I am particularly thrilled to be bringing back this heart-felt piece and to be presenting it in many venues for the first time. This was a truly collaborative work with all of my celebrated creative team delivering their very best work, along with an all-star cast of the cream of New Adventures most beloved stars along with the best of our emerging talent. We look forward to, once again, opening the doors of The Midnight Bell in 2025…please join us… mines a gin and tonic!”
Bourne’s The Midnight Bell will take Brighton by storm, promising a powerful and thought-provoking evening of dance theatre that sheds light on the complexities of the human heart.
Key Information
● The Midnight Bell at Theatre Royal Brighton
● Wednesday 30th July – Saturday 2nd August 2025
● Box office: www.atgtickets.com/venues/theatre-royal-brighton
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