Tensions run high in sharp new comic musical
An acclaimed new musical with an unusual premise is taking to the stage in Leicester.
Public – The Musical tells the story of four strangers trapped inside a public toilet. With no way out, tensions run high – nothing stays private for long as personalities clash and the group’s differing views are laid bare. The show is billed as “bold, laugh-out-loud new musical that explores human connection with sharp comedy, authentic characters and an electrifying pop-rock score”.
The musical was first performed at the Vault Festival in London in 2023, where it received the Vault Festival Origins Award. The production then went on to play a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe and was listed as Playbill’s Pick of the Fringe.
Playing Zo, an “ultra-woke activist”, is Grace Towning. Andrew, a Lycra-clad city banker on his way home, will be played by Matt Corner. Ivano Turco, who previously led the 2023/24 tour of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie and was also part of the original West End cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella, will play “sweat-soaked stress case” Finley. Laura, the “people pleaser on the way to their wedding”, will be played by Cole Dennis, who previously appeared in the original London casts of Dear Evan Hansen and Waitress.
Created by the collective Stroud and Notes, Public – The Musical is written by Hannah Sands, who also directs, Kyla Stroud, who has also composed the music, and Natalie Stroud, who also choreographs the production, with Olivia Zacharia as musical supervisor and orchestrator.
Joining the creative team are Amy Jane Cook as set and costume designer, Katy Morison as lighting designer, Livs Needham as musical director, Anita Gander as associate designer and Harry Blumenau Casting as casting director.
Public – The Musical runs at the Curve from May 30 to June 13. Visit www.curveonline.co.uk or call 0116 242 3595 to book.