Described as a ‘witty interpretation of the state we’re in’, workshop performances of This Is a Love Story impressed audiences at the Hippodrome’s Patrick Studio this month, the first production developed by our New Musical Theatre department.

Telling the story of the relationship between Earth and Humanity, This Is A Love Story gave us the joys and heartaches of falling in love staying in love, breaking up and everything in between.

With music & lyrics by Jack Godfrey and book & additional lyrics by Ellie Coote, This Is A Love Story features a soundtrack filled with sharp lyrics and songs that speak to the climate crisis and the relationship that each of us have with our planet.

The cast and creative team developed the show for 10 days at the Hippodrome before the workshop performances took place over 1-2 February.

This Is A Love Story received fantastic audience reactions, with many commenting on the standout performances and unique story:

“This was amazing. I have seen a lot of script development, and I was not expecting this to be so polished… Go see West End standard made here in Birmingham.” – Tracey

“A huge congratulations to the team of This is a Love Story. An important new musical for our times, here’s to an exciting future!” – Musical Theatre Network

“Huge congratulations to all involved. Great story, music, performances. Everything theatre can be, and what a fabulous start for a fantastic new department.” – Wendy

“Had the chance to see This is a Love Story and it was simply a brilliant new musical at Birmingham Hippodrome. Music and songs were great and the meaning behind the story is something that needs to be told. I hope to see it again soon.” – Theatre Etiquette

Head of New Musical Theatre, Deirdre O’Halloran said: “Producing a workshop of this fresh, fun and hugely relevant new musical has been a brilliant way to introduce our New Musical Department. We have been blown away by the fantastic feedback from both audience members and industry guests. I’m immensely proud of what the team achieved and can’t wait to start our next projects.”

You can find out more about our New Musical Theatre department here.