MickeyJoTheatre

Join Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre as he reviews the latest show from the West End, Broadway, Off-Broadway, Off-West End, Edinburgh Fringe and across the globe. As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers.

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Dec 11, 2025 · 25 min
The BFG (Royal Shakespeare Theatre, RSC, Stratford-Upon-Avon) - ★★★ REVIEW
The Royal Shakespeare Company's festive production has just opened, a new stage adaptation of Roald Dahl's The BFG. The production, directed by Daniel Evans, uses puppetry and live instrumental music to being the nostalgic children's story to the stage for a family audience, and will subsequently visit Chichester Festival Theatre in 2026. Check out this full review to find out what Mickey-Jo thought of the brand new theatrical offering from the company that created Matilda the Musical and how the BFG himself ranks alongside this season's many endearing puppets... • 00:00 | introduction 02:29 | synopsis / overview 10:36 | creative choices 18:12 | performances 24:12 | conclusion About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 10, 2025 · 38 min
Why do we love real couples on stage? | Thoughts on audience reactions to genuine theatre romance
Mickey-Jo has been thinking recently about why it is that theatre audiences seem to be enamoured with the notion of seeing a real life couple performing together onstage, even though they're portraying characters other than themselves. The answers may seem obvious, but there is some nuance to uncover here as we consider the various different ways in which a couple can perform together - as lovers, enemies, or even divorcees. In the last few months, this has seemed to become more frequent, with Andrew Barth Feldman and Helen J Shen in Maybe Happy Ending, Carrie Hope Fletcher and Joel Montague in Elf, and Eva Noblezada and Reeve Carney in Cabaret. Check out some of the other examples and share your own thoughts about why this feels so appealing to audiences in the comments! • 00:00 | introduction 03:28 | falling in love 11:46 | enemies to lovers 18:29 | married / divorced 27:37 | non-romantic 35:35 | conclusion About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 9, 2025 · 33 min
Merrily We Roll Along (2025 Broadway Revival Proshot) - REVIEW
The Tony Award winning Broadway revival of the Musical Merrily we Roll Along has now been released in cinemas as a film, ahead of an upcoming feature film adaptation of the originally short-lived show written by Stephen Sondheim and George Furth. This production, which played a limited run at the Hudson Theatre in New York, starred Jonathan Groff, Lindsay Mendez, and Daniel Radcliffe alongside a stellar supporting cast, and now puts the audience closer than ever before to its emotional story, told in reverse! Check out this review of the filmed version to find out where Mickey-Jo thought it succeeded and struggled on screen in comparison with his experience of seeing the production on stage last year... • 00:00 | introduction 04:29 | synopsis / overview 12:07 | what is the film like? 22:15 | stage comparison 28:43 | final thoughts... About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 7, 2025 · 46 min
All the changes in WICKED: For Good | The differences between the stage musical and film adaptation
Last month, WICKED: FOR GOOD, the second part of the film adaptation of the global musical phenomenon Wicked, finally arrived in cinemas. The film, directed by Jon M Chu, stars Cynthia Erivo (The Color Purple) as Elphaba, Ariana Grande (13 the Musical) as Glinda, and Jonathan Bailey (Company) as Fiyero. The supporting cast also includes Marissa Bode, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. In the second of a new series called WICKED WEEKENDS, to take place over the next few weekends, Mickey-Jo is talking through as many of the changes made to the musical's 2nd act and the ensuing differences between the stage production and the film adaptation that he was able to notice over the course of his two viewings of Wicked: For Good. Make sure to SUBSCRIBE for more Wicked content coming on Weekends until the end of the month and share your thoughts about the film in the comments! • 00:00 | introduction 02:34 | storytelling changes 12:41 | more narrative changes 21:47 | music changes 37:22 | character changes 45:27 | final thoughts About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 7, 2025 · 33 min
Liberation (James Earl Jones Theatre, Broadway) - ★★★★★ REVIEW
One of the best pieces of theatre Mickey-Jo saw during his most recent trip to New York was LIBERATION, an extraordinary new play from playwright Bess Wohl, directed by Whitney White. The play, which sees a version of the playwright trying to reconcile a younger, empowered version of her late mother with the woman she knew, examines a consciousness raising group for women's liberation in 1970s Ohio and features a scene in which the entire female company sit onstage while nude. Check out what Mickey-Jo thought of this play, currently playing at the James Earl Jones theatre on Broadway, and share your own reactions to it below... • 00:00 | introduction 02:37 | the framing device 09:36 | the characters 17:15 | writing / creative choices 23:46 | the performances 30:39 | conclusion About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 5, 2025 · 35 min
The witches of flops? | Why Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth can't succeed on Broadway post WICKED
Something Mickey-Jo has been wondering about for a while is why two of Broadway's biggest stars, Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, have struggled to find a hit star vehicle on stage since their star-making turns in Wicked. The actresses, who originated the roles of Elphaba and Glinda, and who have gone on to become household names with considerable success on screen, both returned to Broadway this year in Redwood and The Queen of Versailles respectively, both of which closed prematurely. Here are Mickey-Jo's thoughts on whether there is any kind of a trend here, why this might be, and what the two stage stars could do to find Broadway success once more. • 00:00 | introduction 02:28 | Idina Menzel 16:08 | Kristin Chenoweth 24:35 | the answer? About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 4, 2025 · 34 min
Chess (Imperial Theatre, Broadway) - ★★ REVIEW
One of this season's most anticipated shows has recently opened at the Imperial Theatre, the first ever Broadway revival of CHESS. The musical, first seen on stage in the 1980s, depicts a chess-centred love triangle in the midst of cold war tensions, written by Benny Anderson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Sir Tim Rice. This new production, with a rewritten book by Danny Strong, stars Lea Michele (Funny Girl), Nicholas Christopher (Sweeney Todd), and Aaron Tveit (Moulin Rouge! the Musical) as well as Bryce Pinkham and Hannah Cruz. Check out what Mickey-Jo thought of the new version as a longtime fan of the show... • 00:00 | introduction 02:08 | history / plot 06:09 | the new material 15:10 | Lea Michele 19:29 | the rest of the cast 25:42 | creative choices 31:37 | conclusion About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 2, 2025 · 38 min
Why Drag Queens are Theatre's new stars | From RuPaul's Drag Race to Broadway and West End stages
With drag performers including Jinkx Monsoon and La Voix having recently been announced for major stage projects in 2026, Mickey-Jo is wondering whether there's been a trend in how many drag queens (and specifically alumni of RuPaul's Drag Race) have taken to the stage in the last few years. Shows on either side of the Atlantic, including Chicago, Cabaret, Moulin Rouge, Everybody's Talking about Jamie, Spongebob Squarepants, Little Shop of Horrors, Oscar at the Crown, and Oh, Mary! have all begun to include these talented tv stars among their casts. So what exactly is the reason for this, and what can we expect from the future of drag stars on stage? • 00:00 | introduction 02:51 | history of drag on stage 11:32 | performances in drag 20:13 | performances out of drag 25:47 | performances beyond drag 36:01 | conclusion About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 2, 2025 · 43 min
Off-Broadway Play Review Roundup (Prince F*ggot, Initiative, This World of Tomorrow, Caroline)
During Mickey-Jo's most recent trip to New York City he saw five off-Broadway plays, which were: • This World of Tomorrow at the Shed • Gruesome Playground Injuries at the Lucille Lortel Theatre • Prince F*ggot at Studio Seaview • Caroline at MCC Theatre • Initiative at the Public Theatre Check out that Mickey-Jo thought of each of these shows, share your own thoughts and recommend more off-Broadway theatre in the comments! • 00:00 | introduction 00:50 | This World of Tomorrow ★★★ 11:23 | Gruesome Playground Injuries 14:08 | Prince F*ggot ★★★★ 23:01 | Caroline ★★★★★ 31:35 | Initiative ★★★★ 42:19 | conclusion About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 1, 2025 · 48 min
Paddington the Musical (Savoy Theatre, West End) - ★★★★★ REVIEW
After enormous anticipation that has only built during the show's preview period, Paddington the Musical has officially opened at the Savoy Theatre in London. The brand new stage adaptation of the Michael Bond story and the STUDIOCANAL films is directed by Luke Sheppard (The Little Big Things, Starlight Express) with Tom Fletcher and Jessica Swale having written the score and book respectively. Arti Shah and James Hameed jointly perform the role of Paddington Bear, with a supporting cast including Adrian Der Gregorian, Amy Ellen Richardson, Victoria Hamilton-Barritt, Bonnie Langford, Tom Edden, Brenda Edwards, Amy Booth-Steel, Teddy Kempner, and more. Check out Mickey-Jo's full review of the brand new musical, with thoughts on Paddington's true values, onstage depiction and new musical theatre material... • 00:00 | introduction 02:47 | overview 08:34 | portrayal of Paddington 18:18 | the material 29:38 | the performances 40:50 | creative choices About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 29, 2025 · 44 min
Why did the critics hate WICKED: For Good? | Review roundup for the movie musical adaptation
Earlier this month, WICKED: FOR GOOD, the second part of the film adaptation of the global musical phenomenon Wicked, finally arrived in cinemas. The film, directed by Jon M Chu, stars Cynthia Erivo (The Color Purple) as Elphaba, Ariana Grande (13 the Musical) as Glinda, and Jonathan Bailey (Company) as Fiyero. The supporting cast also includes Marissa Bode, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. In the first of a new series called WICKED WEEKENDS, to take place over the next few weekends, Mickey-Jo is rounding up some of the film's more negative reviews and commentary in order to answer the question: why did (some of) the critics hate this film?! Make sure to SUBSCRIBE for more Wicked content coming on Wednesdays over the next month and share your thoughts about the film in the comments! • 00:00 | introduction 02:47 | The New Yorker 13:07 | Time 20:52 | Washington Post 29:18 | The Telegraph 35:14 | The Independent 41:06 | conclusion About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 29, 2025 · 40 min
The Queen of Versailles starring Kristin Chenoweth (St. James Theatre, Broadway) - ★★ REVIEW
One of this season's earliest new musical openings on Broadway was THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES, a Kristin Chenoweth led star vehicle with a new score from Stephen Schwartz based on the documentary of the same name. The show, which opened to mixed to negative reviews, has already set an early closing date of January 4th, with online conversation quickly turning to whether or not this show deserved to close and whether it ought to have been more meaningfully supported by the Broadway community. In this candid and detailed review, Mickey-Jo is sharing his thoughts on the misguided musical and why it inherently is still deserving of honest, unfiltered critique. • 00:00 | introduction 03:18 | on Kristin Chenoweth 09:03 | synopsis / overview 14:08 | the biggest problem 19:18 | the material 25:02 | more on the material 30:23 | creative choices 37:00 | final thoughts About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 28, 2025 · 32 min
Ride The Cyclone (Southwark Playhouse Elephant, London) - ★★★★ REVIEW
The cult-hit, TikTok-viral Canadian musical RIDE THE CYCLONE has finally opened in London for its new UK premiere production. The show, at Southwark Playhouse Elephant, follows the St Cassian High School Chamber Choir into the afterlife when they die as part of a grizzly rollercoaster accident. Check out what Mickey-Jo thought of the popular show when he finally watched it for the very first time... • 00:00 | introduction 01:51 | synopsis / overview 10:42 | characters / performances 22:05 | the creative choices 30:03 | will this show transfer? About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 26, 2025 · 26 min
Why is BACK TO THE FUTURE closing? | Thoughts on the changing West End and what's coming next...
Earlier this week it was announced that the West End production of BACK TO THE FUTURE will close in April 2026 after nearly 5 years at the Adelphi Theatre in London. This news comes shortly after the cancellation of the show's Australian Tour, but amidst confirmation of a subsequent UK Tour as well as an imminent German production, prompting questions about the future of this show as well as changes to the theatre industry on a global level. Today, Mickey-Jo will be sharing some insights into why this award winning musical is decelerating in London, as well as whether audience appetites are changing, and what we might expect to see next at the Adelphi Theatre... • 00:00 | introduction 02:38 | why is it closing? 11:57 | industry impact 19:37 | what's next at the Adelphi? About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 24, 2025 · 58 min
Was WICKED: For Good, good enough? | REVIEW of the 2025 film starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande
After years of anticipation, Mickey-Jo has finally seen both parts of the film adaptation of the global musical sensation, Wicked, having now seen WICKED: For Good in cinemas on either side of the Atlantic. Both films have been directed by Jon M Chu and star Cynthia Erivo (The Color Purple) as Elphaba, Ariana Grande (13 the Musical) as Glinda, and Jonathan Bailey (Company) as Fiyero. The supporting cast also includes Marissa Bode, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. Check out today's brand new spoiler inclusive review video for Mickey-Jo's thoughts on the film, the music including the two original songs, its choices as an adaptation, its aesthetics, and its themes in full detail. Make sure to SUBSCRIBE for more Wicked content coming on Wednesdays over the next month and share your thoughts about the film in the comments! • 00:00 | introduction 02:59 | overall thoughts / tone 11:47 | the music 20:53 | the original songs 27:11 | the narrative 37:52 | more plot thoughts 43:56 | visual choices 54:43 | final thoughts About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 22, 2025 · 35 min
The best and worst things about Broadway shows | Reviewing every play and musical on Broadway
As Mickey-Jo gets ready to bring you dozens of updates from his most recent trip to New York including reviews and vlog content, he's taking on an unusual challenge. Mickey-Jo has decided to briefly review every show currently playing on Broadway (as of last week) by telling you what he thinks the best and worst thing about each of them is... About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 22, 2025 · 40 min
WICKED: For Good REVIEW (spoiler-free) | 2025 musical film starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande
Last night, after considerable anticipation, Mickey-Jo finally saw WICKED: For Good, the second film in the two part adaptation of the global musical phenomenon, Wicked. Both films have been directed by Jon M Chu and star Cynthia Erivo (The Color Purple) as Elphaba, Ariana Grande (13 the Musical) as Glinda, and Jonathan Bailey (Company) as Fiyero. The supporting cast also includes Marissa Bode, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. Check out today's brand new *spoiler-free* review video for Mickey-Jo's thoughts on the film, its choices as an adaptation, its aesthetics, its themes and its performances without the details that would prevent you from enjoying the experience for yourself when the film is released. Remember to keep your thoughts spoiler-free in the comments section! • 00:00 | introduction 04:03 | context / overview 09:12 | more general thoughts 13:07 | adapting Act 2 17:30 | central themes 23:24 | the score 28:56 | performances 33:24 | cinematography / design 36:49 | final thoughts About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 22, 2025 · 38 min
Did critics hate THE HUNGER GAMES? | Review roundup for the 2025 London stage adaptation
One of London's most anticipated new theatrical openings this year has been a much talked about stage adaptation of THE HUNGER GAMES, based on the young adult dystopian novel by Suzanne Collins which has also been adapted for film. The brand new production, written by Connor McPherson and directed by Matthew Dunster, is now playing at the purpose built Troubadour Theatre Canary Wharf and celebrated its official opening night earlier this month. Today, ahead of returning to the show to create his own full review, Mickey-Jo is sharing a range of those published so far to find out what London's critics thought of the bold new venture... • 00:00 | introduction 02:39 | WhatsOnStage 11:01 | The Times 16:32 | The Stage 21:34 | TimeOut 31:04 | The Telegraph About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 22, 2025 · 33 min
Matt Rodin (Beau, Company, All The World's A Stage) - INTERVIEW
After starring in back to back off-Broadway musicals, the name on everybody's lips is rising star Matt Rodin. Of course, his face may be familiar to anyone who caught him as Jamie on the most recent US Tour of Company or from his multi-year, game filled red carpet coverage for outlets such as Broadway.com. After enjoying many of his performances and looking up to him in the theatre industry for years, Matt and Mickey-Jo finally sat down as friends to discuss the successful year he's had and the unique road that brought him here... • 00:00 | introduction 01:59 | red carpet games 10:04 | touring with COMPANY 16:22 | ALL THE WORLD'S A STAGE 19:31 | building BEAU the Musical 27:12 | lessons from BEAU About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 22, 2025 · 28 min
Bat Boy The Musical (New York City Center) - ★★★★★ REVIEW
On only the second day of Mickey-Jo's most recent trip to New York, he headed to City Center and caught the penultimate performance of BAT BOY, the venue's annual gala presentation. A cult hit musical first seen around the millennium, this revival starred Taylor Trensch alongside Kerry Butler, who returned to the show having played a role in its original off-Broadway run. Check out what Mickey-Jo thought of the show, with no prior knowledge of its material, and why he thinks it's ready for Broadway... • 00:00 | introduction 03:19 | synopsis / material 12:34 | creative choices 16:33 | performances 24:37 | featured cast About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.