by Daz Gale
I don’t get to go to as many first nights now as I did due to a crazy review schedule, but when the West End transfer of Titanique was announced, I knew nothing could stop me from seeing it the moment it opened… not even an iceberg. While you’ll have to wait until January to see my full review of the show, here’s a photo-heavy recap of what happened on the first night and all you need to know, should you plan to set sail to the Criterion Theatre.
Already a splash hit in New York, London finally gets to see this madcap musical that sees Celine Dion interrupt a tour of the Titanic museum to tell the story of what really happened between Jack and Rose in the film. Featuring Celine Dion songs (of course), up to the minute pop culture references and a lot of hilarity, this show is going to go down well with audiences…
The Criterion Theatre has been adorned with a huge Celine Dion outside which will strike you as soon as you get to Piccadilly circus.
The merchandise was every bit as fabulous and hilarious as the show itself. If some of the phrases on here don’t make sense to you, they will once you’ve seen the show
The stage when you walk in to the theatre is mostly hidden due to the curtain, but a giant heart of the ocean spins in the air while an amazing soundtrack playing gets you in the mood (and left me convinced that more theatres should play Des’ree as part of their pre-show playlist)
The show is advertised as 90 minutes with no interval, but on the first night it ran at 110 minutes – there are improvised moments which may change the runtime very slightly, but I imagine this will be shortened before press night. Bear in mind that it is a singular act though so prepare your bladders!
An added bonus on the first night were free sailor hats for all of the audience – look at them in all their glory!
The theatre also features a couple of photo ops dotted around, which I used to live out my best Kate Winslet fantasy (just don’t ask why I’m wearing a Kylie Minogue t-shirt at a Celine Dion musical. To me, camp is camp)
You are allowed to film the curtain call and Lauren Drew (Celine) will even encourage you to get your phone out for the final song. Watch the first night curtain call here:
I can’t say much about the show until my review but what I can say is my face ached from laughing so much. For anyone that saw it on Broadway, expect a slightly updated script with British references – some of them truly unexpected! The cast are also sensational with Lauren Drew a remarkable Celine Dion but with a cast including Jordan Luke Gage, Rob Houchen and Layton Williams, you know that stage is bursting with talent.
British audiences are sure to fall in love with Titanique. I can’t wait to go back in January with my reviewer brain switched on. Check back after January 9th to see what I thought of the show and what awful puns I fill my review with.
Titanique is playing at the Criterion Theatre. Tickets available here