About the Show

Andrew Lloyd Webber's tale of a steam engine's race for love returns in an Olivier-winning revival.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express rolls back into London in a newly reimagined, high-energy revival. Set in a child's dream world, the story follows Rusty, a humble steam engine who must find self-belief to triumph over faster, flashier rivals and win the love of the elegant Pearl. Told through pulse-racing choreography and performed entirely on roller skates, the musical is a vibrant fusion of fantasy, competition, and self-discovery.

This production is directed by Luke Sheppard (& Juliet, The Little Big Things), with choreography by Ashley Nottingham and design by Tim Hatley (Back to the Future), Gabriella Slade (Six), and Howard Hudson. Arlene Phillips, choreographer of the original production, returns as creative dramaturg.

The show earned multiple 2025 Olivier Award nominations, with Gabriella Slade securing a win for Best Costume Design.

With dazzling visuals, breakneck speed, and a classic rock score, Starlight Express continues to be one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most uniquely spectacular creations.

Critic Reviews (9)

"...the production, inflatable costumes and all, is so busy ticking off pop culture references..."
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"‘Starlight Express’ is basically a gimmick - a glorious, thrilling gimmick."
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"The energy and bravura of it all are frankly out of this world."
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"not first class, but a technical rollercoaster ride"
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"Yes, it’s more spectacle than sense – but your inner child will be delighted."
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"Andrew Lloyd Webber has injected new life into the music and characters"
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"It’s an awe-inspiring stadium gig-meets-theme park ride of a show"
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"Lloyd Webber’s bizarre juggernaut is bigger, camper and more OTT than ever"
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Cast and creative team

Andrew Lloyd Webber

Composer / Bookwriter