For one night only, a host of stars from the original West End and Broadway companies, subsequent productions and UK tours will come together to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Boy George’s much loved musical Taboo in a spectacular concert performed at the London Palladium on 30th January 2022.
Taboo tells the story of the New Romantic era in a flamboyant, sad, witty, and audacious spectacle that follows the decadent lives of music and fashion icon George O’Dowd (Boy George), the cultural icon and performance artist Leigh Bowery (who later died of AIDS) and all those who frequented the legendary Taboo club; Steve Strange, Philip Sallon and Marilyn.
This very special evening is in aid of the two wonderful charities: Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, who help support people living with HIV and amplify their voices, continue the fight against HIV and provide services and support to help improve the nation’s sexual health and housing charity Shelter which exists to defend the right to a safe home and support the homeless.
The original cast included West End debuts for global stars Luke Evans and Matt Lucas, as well as some of the country’s finest stage and screen performers including Euan Morton (Hamilton, Hedwig), Declan Bennett (Carousel, Jesus Christ Superstar), Stephen Ashfield (Book of Mormon, Jersey Boys), John Partridge (EastEnders, A Chorus Line), Lyn Paul (Blood Brothers, Emmerdale, The New Seekers) and Dianne Pilkington (Bednobs and Broomsticks, Mamma Mia!). Both Julian Clary and Boy George made their musical theatre debuts playing the fabulous Leigh Bowery, and Paul Baker won a much deserved Olivier Award for his portrayal of Philip Sallon in the original London production.
Boy George said:
“Taboo was an extraordinary experience, with such a talented cast, and I’m very happy it’s back for one night only to support two of my favourite charities. This performance at the infamous London Palladium is also the most fitting way to celebrate the 20th anniversary of when we first opened Taboo in London’s West End.”
The director Christopher Renshaw will reprise that role for this performance. Taboo was written by Mark Davies Markham, lyrics by Boy George and music by Boy George and Kevan Frost.
The London Palladium Theatre, 8 Argyll Street, London, W1F 7TF on 30 January 2022 at 7.30pm
Tickets from £25: www.lwtheatres.co.uk
