This week, like many venues across the UK, we have had to make the difficult decision to close our doors to audiences for a number of weeks.

However, whilst our auditorium is dark, we have put together our top picks of films to watch to bring some showbiz pizazz to your living room and prepare yourself for when the curtain rises again here at Birmingham Hippodrome.

Designate an interval, dispense your wine into plastic cups and queue to use the toilet for that authentic theatre feeling…

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

Raid your wardrobe and search for a sequin. This big-hearted big adventure is packed full of pop hits from disco divas such as Kylie, Gloria Gaynor and Petula Clark to have you up dancing – you’ll also never look at a ping pong ball the same way again. Do not try at home.

Mamma Mia!

Whilst thankfully our on-stage cast have bags more vocal talent than Pierce Brosnan, this sunny musical hit will have you dancing the day away. Why not crack open the olives, dig out that pot of hummus and find a pitta bread (if you can) and whisk yourself away to a Greek Island for a couple of hours.

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall

This superb theatrical celebration of the brilliant original production of The Phantom of the Opera is the closest you will get to seeing the world-famous production at home. Candles recommended for extra atmosphere…just leave the lighting fixtures well alone.

Les Misérables

Mad about Miz? Then you’re spoilt for choice! Firstly, you can catch the 2012 blockbuster movie over on Netflix, then there’s the spectacular 25th anniversary concert live from the O2 starring Alfie Boe and finally rewind back to 1998 for the 10th anniversary concert at the Royal Albert Hall with the likes of Colm Wilkinson and Ruthie Henshall.  If you have a spare nine hours, why not go for a hattrick marathon?

Romesh Ranganathan

For those of you craving comedy, Romesh Ranganathan’s BBC series which sees him travelling across the globe and way out of his comfort zone to some of the most unusual holiday destinations in the world is sure to tickle the funny bone.

Bring It On

We’re going for fully nineties and naughties vibes with the original movie version of Bring It On – scrunchies must be worn and Furbies must be your viewing pals.

Room on the Broom

A must-watch for families, (even though if you have kids you’re likely to have already sat through this multiple times on repeat) this charming animated adaptation of the beloved children’s book is free to watch on BBC iPlayer.

Sister Act

Joyful, joyful! Here’s an idea, gather the rest of those in your household (pets included) and put together your own choir inspired by Whoopi herself. If you’re not in the habit of bursting into song, or on vocal rest, a double-bill with Sister Act 2 is just as much fun.

Hairspray

This movie adaptation of the hit West End and Broadway musical is guaranteed to please everyone – maybe even get dad to try out his best Edna Turnblad? If you’re feeling really retro there’s also the fabulous original featuring Divine and Ricki Lake.

Whilst we look forward to raising the curtain once again, we hope these theatrical movie choices will keep the spirit of Birmingham Hippodrome alive in your own front room. Make sure to share your DIY night at the theatre with us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.