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MUSICALS

Magic in Ravenswood

photos from magic in ravenswood
Click on any of the pictures above to find a special Magic in Ravenswood website where you can listen to some of the songs and read the first scene

The musical is based on Nigel’s children’s story ‘Magic in Ravenswood’ about a Prince who foils a goblin takeover. See BOOKS page, where there is a synopsis. Nigel wrote the book and the lyrics. BB Cooper wrote the music. www.bbcooper.com

The musical had a successful showcase performance at the Bridewell Theatre. The performers included Cheryl Kennedy, Ian Lavender, Toni Palmer and Derek Smith. It had its world premiere, directed by Pat Garrett, at the New End Theatre, Hampstead, London NW3 between 17 December 2002 and 11 January 2003. Back then the musical was called ‘Goblins don’t scare us’. It was subsequently performed in Delaware, USA, in November 2008, following victory in a competition.

Press Comments:
CRITICS' CHOICE The Times

‘this beguiling tale of bewitchment set in the distant kingdom of Ravenswood is certainly welcome in the midst of Cinderellas, Aladdins and Dick Whittingtons. It is refreshing to find a show inhabiting a more unfamiliar world. This one, based on Nigel Osner’s children’s book Magic in Ravenswood , which the author has adapted himself for this stage version - is captivatingly conjured.’ Mark Shenton The Stage.

‘The most important factor in judging any Christmas show like this is of course the kids’ verdict. This show succeeded in keeping a class of eight-year-olds quietly gripped, with the occasional genuine burst of laughter.” Roland Lloyd Parry The Hampstead and Highgate Express

“His show, with music by BB Cooper, has been delighting children, telling the story of a prince trying to judge the difference between right and wrong.” In the wings, Camden New Journal

Main characters in order of appearance

The action takes place one November in a distant kingdom some time ago

 
 

Rock Heaven

Rock Heaven poster

where the angels play guitars.

where it’s full of shooting stars.

where you’ll find your rocking soul.

where we worship - SEX, DRUGS, ROCK’N’ROLL!

A mixture of black comedy and fairy tale with a moral: 'We don't always get what we want, but we often get what we deserve!'

This is the story of young Poppy Love, aged 19, who comes to London to begin her career as a groupie. She meets far too many interesting people! They include Michelangelo Smith, a sensitive but unstable gourmet and sculptor. He makes models of Hollywood legends - such as Garbo, Betty Grable and Tyrone Power - out of icing sugar. In comes Lucrezia Leech, aged 60 but looking 35 through extensive plastic surgery. She wants Michelangelo to make models for her new restaurant, Rock Heaven, which is a tribute to all the great dead rock stars. But her plans are delayed after the Hollywood models are destroyed. Thid drives Michelangelo mad. In the asylum he meets the charismatic Soho Slicer, a serial killer, who wishes to make amends by giving some chosen victims his version of eternal life. This meeting has some sensational consequences. Michelangelo fantasises about cannibalism. Lucrezia falls in love with the Slicer. A lot of young people disappear. Rock Heaven opens. But are the performing models of dead rock legends exactly what they seem? And how do these events affect Poppy, now a groupie with studs in interesting places, a vegetarian rock singer, an over the hill lady detective superintendent and one young detective sergeant with appalling dress sense? Find out as it all comes together in the outrageous and sensational finale!

Nigel developed the story with Marc Urqhuart, the actor and director. Nigel wrote the book and lyrics. The music was composed and arranged by Scarlett Deva Antaloczy.

Rock Heaven has been showcased with sparkling success at the CAA in Covent Garden and at the Pizza on the Park. 'Still Human where it counts' from Act 2 was featured in 'Bravo', a 2009 revue of songs from new musicals by A Stage Kindly www.astagekindly.com. The song got a great reception and some nice reviews:

Main characters in order of appearance

The action takes place a few years in the future

 
 

The Road to Transylvania

The road to Transylvania poster

This musical is still in development though the script and screenplay exist. So do many of the songs, as Nigel often sings them as part of his cabaret. It includes Prince Osnovski, Nigel’s vampire character in his award winning short film ‘Just one more bite!’

The main character is Jasmine, the little girl who is seen in that film from time to time. She tells the story of how Prince Osnovski is summoned back to Transylvania where his father, the very ancient King oof the vampires, needs his help. They travel with Charlie, Jasmine’s teacher, who gradually turns into a vampire on route. They are followed by Charlie’s immature brother, who becomes a vampire killing hero on the journey.. They are attacked on the way by those who don’t wish Osnovski to return. Back in Transylvania, they find that one of Osnovski’s old lovers has taken control of the King’s castle and is trying to turn it into a theme park called Draculaland. The story is exciting, quirky, funny and sometimes moving as characters find out their true identity or develop in an unexpected way.