42nd Street at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane

Not convinced that will be able to fill that theatre!

Isn't this a bit, well, random?

I think it's actually a bit depressing. This show has had numerous revivals including Chichester a few years ago. It's a dated musical and it just about sums up the ambition of British musical theatre today. Sigh.

I saw it at Chichester and the most recent Broadway revival a few years back and it's actually a really dull musical. Obviously a couple of great tap numbers but the rest of it is so creaky. Unless they have mega stars lined up for this, it will really struggle.

Looks that way.

Yeah, it's not the most exciting announcement ever, and echoing what has been said above - I can't see this news alone stirring up much interest with casual theatregoers / the general public.

I've not actually seen this musical live before so it'll be nice to cross it off the list, but it's a bit.. eh...neither here nor there.

Also, that poster is too dated. Hopefully they will re-do or completely re-imagine it!

Mark Bramble was the director (and co-book writer) of the last Broadway incarnation, over a decade ago. Does this mean it will be a version of that production?

42nd Street was a hit in its original run but it didn't run as long as the other 80s long runners but it's still the third longest running show at Drury Lane after Miss Saigon and My Fair Lady.

I saw the 80's production at Drury Lane and it was a complete knockout! I remember the show started with the curtain raised just a foot and all you saw were dancing, tapping feet. The choreography was superb too with some astonishing numbers - "We're in the Money" and the title song.

However, times have changed and this will stuggle with no doubt pared down sets, ensemble and band. Without some big names this is going to struggle I would have thought.

Perhaps a big name then?

It says nothing about it being a limited run. I (like I guess a lot of people on here) will be very surprised if it manages to run for long. I have always heard the name "42nd Street" but have no idea what it is about or what songs are in it. I have a sad feeling that Drury Lane will end up like the Palladium if this doesn't work out, and only be used for limited runs and TV stuff.

Suppose Mary Poppins won't be transferring in after all, unless it goes to one of Cameron Mackintosh's slightly smaller houses (seeing as this tour seems to be going to smaller venues i.e. Newcastle and Norwich).