It’s always wonderful to see new British theatre finding its place in the West End, particularly when it’s an original musical that has been developed and nurtured over several years.
And that’s exactly what’s happening for Jordan Luke Gage, whose musical Redcliffe will transfer to London’s Criterion Theatre in January 2027, following its acclaimed run at Southwark Playhouse earlier this year.
The production will open on 28 January for a limited 12-week season, with Jordan returning to the role of William Critchard.
Set in 18th-century England, Redcliffe is inspired by the love story of William Critchard and Richard Arnold in Redcliffe, Bristol, bringing a piece of history to the stage through original music and storytelling.
The musical has already had quite a journey to reach this point.
It was first presented at the Turbine Theatre as part of MTFestUK in 2024, before going on to eight sold-out workshop performances at The Other Palace.
Earlier this year, it received its first full production at Southwark Playhouse, where it attracted critical acclaim and a wonderful response from audiences.
And for Jordan, who has spent years developing the musical, the success has been particularly special.
His work on Redcliffe earned him the award for Best Composer, Lyricist or Book Writer at the 2026 Stage Debut Awards, recognising his achievements in creating the show.
Now, he’ll have the opportunity to share that work with an even wider audience.
“I am beyond thrilled that Redcliffe is transferring to the West End, giving us the chance to share this story with even more people,” Jordan said.
“Our run at Southwark Playhouse was incredibly special, and the response deeply moving. I’m excited to build on that momentum, challenge perspectives, open hearts and spark meaningful conversations.”
He also believes the Criterion Theatre will be an ideal home for the production, allowing the creative team to expand the show while retaining the intimacy that has been so important to its development.
And that’s particularly encouraging for a musical whose story is rooted in such personal experiences.
The West End transfer also marks another important moment for new musical theatre writing in Britain.
With so many productions adapted from familiar films, books and existing music catalogues, it’s encouraging to see an entirely original musical being given the opportunity to reach a larger audience.
Jenny Seagrove, chairperson of the Bill Kenwright Group, has been involved with Redcliffe since its earliest development through MTFest.
“Even in those early stages, it was clear that Jordan had created something truly special, and it has been a joy to watch the show evolve over the past two and a half years,” she said.
Jenny also highlighted the importance of supporting original writing, explaining that Redcliffe reflects the company’s commitment to developing new work alongside established productions.
The West End production will reunite the Bill Kenwright Group with producer Paul Taylor-Mills, following their previous collaboration on Heathers.
Paul Foster will return to direct, with choreography by Emma Woods, set and lighting design by Andrew Exeter, costume design by Martin Hanly and musical supervision by Katy Richardson.
The wider creative team includes Ben Tomalin, Ben Ferguson, Matt Hockley and casting director Will Burton, with further casting announcements expected.
For anyone who has followed Redcliffe from its early workshops through to Southwark Playhouse, the West End transfer is a lovely achievement for everyone involved.
And for those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to discover the musical, the Criterion Theatre run offers the chance to experience a new piece of British theatre that has already made a meaningful impression on audiences.
Redcliffe begins performances at the Criterion Theatre on 28 January 2027, with press night on 4 February.
Tickets go on sale at 12pm on Thursday 5 November 2026, with the production running for a limited 12-week season. You can sign up for info here!
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