Sheridan Smith

Sheridan Smith's Opening Night Musical to Close Early in West End

Find out why Sheridan Smith's musical is closing early in the West End and the challenges faced by the production.

Sheridan Smith's highly anticipated musical, Opening Night, is set to close two months earlier than planned in the West End. Producers of the show, including Wessex Grove, Gavin Kalin Productions, and Playful Productions, cited a 'challenging financial landscape' as the reason for the premature closure. Despite the initial excitement surrounding the play, it received mixed reviews, contributing to its shortened run.

Opening Night, featuring Sheridan Smith in the lead role, was scheduled to run until July 27th but will now conclude on May 18th, much to the disappointment of fans. The show, directed by Ivo Van Hove, opened to high expectations on March 6th but failed to sustain its momentum.

Based on John Cassavetes' film, the musical boasted music and lyrics by Rufus Wainwright, adding to the allure of the production. However, the financial challenges proved insurmountable, leading to the early closure of the show. Despite the setback, Sheridan Smith's performance was praised by many, showcasing her talent and versatility on stage.

In the competitive world of West End theatre, even star-studded productions like Opening Night can face unexpected hurdles. The decision to end the show early highlights the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, where success is not always guaranteed. As fans bid farewell to Sheridan Smith's captivating performance, the closure serves as a reminder of the highs and lows of live theatre.