GenFest 2025: Dorothy and Her Very Many Friends – by Jude Taylor

During the First World War, over one million British Empire soldiers lost their lives, with around half of them still resting in unmarked graves today. John Nichol, a former RAF Tornado Navigator and Gulf War POW, embarks on a poignant journey to uncover the emotional tale of the Unknown Warrior interred in Westminster Abbey, highlighting our enduring need to honour and grieve for the fallen. Following the conflict, the concept of a single ‘Unknown Warrior’ emerged as a symbol to commemorate the missing and alleviate the overwhelming national sorrow. John retraces the Warrior’s path from the battlefields of Northern France to Westminster Abbey, engaging with descendants of those involved and delving into forgotten records. In this extraordinary theatrical production, enriched with evocative visuals and a stirring soundscape, audiences are transported back to this tumultuous era, experiencing the passion of those who came before us and the enduring pain of those who still walk among us.

Dr Louise Newson, leading medical expert on menopause and hormones, is embarking on her inaugural UK theatre tour accompanied by Dublin-based comedian Anne Gildea. “Hormones and Menopause – The Great Debate” aims to educate and challenge misconceptions about menopause and advocate for better healthcare for women. Described as “the medic who kick-started the menopause revolution”, Dr Louise has transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of women and their families through her pioneering work as a GP and menopause specialist. Her advice on HRT, as well as lifestyle factors like exercise, diet, and sleep, has revolutionised the health and wellbeing of so many women. Known for her gut-busting, honest and informative comedy, Anne is a founding member of the iconic Irish musical-comedy trio, The Nualas. She will bring humour and a unique perspective, while Louise’s knowledge will allow women to make informed decisions about their health, whilst at the same time educating the rest of the family, including men. An evening of learning and laughter, the duo are set to captivate, educate and entertain.

Following SOLD-OUT performances in London’s West End, a Worldwide tour and standing ovations at every performance, The Simon & Garfunkel Story continues to stun audiences across the globe, making it a must-see international sensation. Using huge projection photos and original film footage, the international hit show also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. Get your tickets fast as this is an evening not to be missed!

Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation is proud to present the world’s largest youth drama festival.

Following the huge success of Ben Elton’s critically acclaimed sold-out UK tour in 2019, which marked his return to live comedy after a fifteen year hiatus, the undisputed godfather of modern stand-up is going back on the road with his new show – Authentic Stupidity. Ben says ’Since my last live tour a whole new existential threat has emerged to threaten humanity! Apparently Artificial Intelligence is going to destroy us all! Well I reckon our real problem isn’t Artificial Intelligence it’s good old fashioned Authentic Stupidity! Forget AI! It’s AS we need to be worrying about!’ Ben Elton first exploded into the national consciousness back in the 1980’s hosting Channel 4’s ground breaking Saturday Live and he’s been setting the standard for gag filled, taboo busting, tonsil rattling, mind expanding stand-up comedy ever since!