New musical Rue Magique will make its world premiere at London’s King’s Head Theatre, beginning previews on October 21 with opening night set for October 29. The limited run, conceived and developed by composer Brett Kahr with book and direction by Lisa Forrell, will end on December 7.
Based on true stories, Rue Magique explores the complex relationship between Desdemona, a South London prostitute, and her 13-year-old daughter, Sugar. The new musical portrays a world that exists beneath the radar of police and social services, asking whether there can be any hope, any redemption, when a mother forces her own daughter into prostitution.
Leading the cast are Melanie LaBarrie (Les Miserables, Mary Poppins, Daddy Cool) as Desdemona, Terel Nugent (Mary Poppins, Hairspray) as Rem and newcomer Nadia Di Mambro as Sugar. Joining them are Gavin Ashbarry, Adam Bayjou, Julian Forsyth, Amanda Minihan, Amanda Posener and Anna Stolli.
Rue Magique features choreography by Damian Jackson, set design by Polly Sullivan, costume design by Natasha Ward, lighting design by Tim Mascall, orchestrations by David White and musical direction by Andy Massey. The show is produced by Sean Sweeney for Street Magic Productions Ltd. and Annijaz Ltd. by special arrangement with the King’s Head Theatre.