Stephen Sondheim’s The Frogs Makes a Splash at Southwark Playhouse with Sold-Out First Preview

The Frogs at Southwark Playhouse: A Sold-Out Splash into Sondheim’s Satire

Stephen Sondheim’s The Frogs has leaped onto the London stage with a sold-out first preview at Southwark Playhouse Borough, marking a triumphant return to Off-West End for this rarely performed musical comedy. Directed by Georgie Rankcom and produced by Samsational Entertainment and Grey Area Theatre Company, this revival brings new life to Sondheim's 2004 adaptation of Aristophanes' ancient Greek satire.

The production follows Dionysos, the god of theatre, and his servant Xanthias on a journey to the underworld to find a playwright who can save civilization. Their mission is complicated by a chorus of frogs who resist change and challenge their quest. This satirical tale, originally penned in 405 BCE and adapted by Burt Shevelove and Nathan Lane, resonates with contemporary themes of political division and societal stagnation.

Kevin McHale, known for his role as Artie Abrams on Glee, makes his UK stage debut as Xanthias. He is joined by Dan Buckley as Dionysos, Joaquin Pedro Valdes as Herakles, Carl Patrick as Charon, and Bart Lambert as Shakespeare. The ensemble includes Martha Pothen, Alison Driver, Evonnee Bentley-Holder, and Milo McCarthy. The creative team features musical direction by Ben McQuigg, choreography by Matt Nicholson, set and costume design by Libby Todd, lighting by Samuel Biondolillo, sound design by Joshua Robins, and orchestrations by Tim Sutton.

Rankcom, the Artistic Director of Grey Area Theatre Company, is known for her focus on new musicals and investigative revivals. Her direction brings a fresh perspective to this classic, blending the ancient with the modern in a way that engages today's audiences. The production continues Grey Area's commitment to reviving lesser-known Sondheim works, following their acclaimed 2022 staging of Anyone Can Whistle .

The Frogs runs at Southwark Playhouse Borough from 23 May to 28 June 2025. With its sharp wit, memorable score, and timely themes, this production is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts and Sondheim fans alike.