In the Heights

Legroom is great in row A. However, performers use the space in front so probably not recommended for someone who just wants to stretch out their legs.

Casting director for In The Heights has just posted a breakdown on Spotlight looking for a new Vanessa, due to "cast injury". Interesting to note that it says it's a temporary contract for at least 4 weeks, with a view to extend to September.

Saw this last night (Thursday 28th) and absolutely loved it. What a brilliant show! I just wish more people were seeing it, as again it was probably no more than half full.

I'm trying to piece together who was playing who - there were five or six names read out at the beginning as 'will be playing tonight'. From those I can work out, Jocasta Amgill was on as Camilla (as opposed to understudying Vanessa, as I understand she has been doing), Sarah Naudi was on as Vanessa, which meant that Alexzandra Sarmiento was effectively doubling, as far as I could see it, being a key part of all the dance numbers, but also playing Carla. Looking at the photos, I think Antoine Murray-Straughan was on as Sonny, which means someone else must have been Grafitti Pete, possibly Reiss Hinds. And Philippa Stefani was on as Daniela, of course.

I thought the whole cast was excellent, with special mention for Lily Frazer and Philippa Stefani. It genuinely seemed like they were all having a great time playing the roles, and had a very enthusiastic crowd for their troubles too.

The main negative I took away from the show was the venue. I found the seats uncomfortable, but more bothersome than anything, the place was so noisy! Coming from above, I think it's the wind rattling the temporary roofing against the metal girders, and with the beginnings of the storm coming in, it was incredibly distracting. It was worst later one, and really stripped any of the emotion out of the quieter, dramatic scenes in the second half (those who've seen it will know the scenes I mean), which slightly dampened the enjoyment for me, and stripped the show of some of its emotional heft.

Is it always like that? And is this place intended to be a permanent theatre venue? Because if it is going to be, they need to sort those problems out - I wouldn't want to see something quiet and emotional there.

But overall, a great night. Hoping I might get to see it once again before it closes. I assume my odds of ever seeing Jade Ewen are pretty minimal now?

Went last night, not sure who was Vanessa but they were not good. Had understudy for Benny too who was great.

For me it didn't have the energy it did in Southwark, it's still worth seeing for Sam Mackay who is doing an excellent job.

Seats had loads of legroom but are still uncomfortable.

There didn't seem to be anything or anybody stopping people moving forward (no ushers up on the sides where the seats are), so you should be fine.

or you?

I'm not "hip hop" either but really enjoyed the show when I saw it at Southwark. I would say there is as much Salsa as Hip Hop.
Don't think Hamilton will be my thing but this was great

When I saw it, in the interval I asked the ushers if I could move BACK from the stage in the hope of noticeing the lack of decent plot a bit less. Didn't work (plot, not my request although THREE ushers had to be contacted to discuss me moving!)

The Railway Children has announced an extension at the Kings Cross Theatre until the end of October so I wonder if In The Heights is set to do the same?

Great news!

That's what I thought too. It must be cheap enough to run.
I'm happy about the extension. My favourite London show right now. Looking forward to more visits.

I imagine this and The Railway Children will close when Google decides when its going to build its new HQ.