It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical Starlight Express returned to London. On the night of its first birthday we were invited down to see if it was still on track as London’s most electrifying attraction.
Starlight Express was one of the first musicals I saw as a child and I couldn’t wait to introduce my now nine year old to the thrilling high speed world of racing trains bought to life by a cast on roller skates.
I knew this would be a hit with my son. Starlight Express is every child’s fantasy come to life. The plot follows a boy’s dream in which his toy trains come to life in an epic race laced with romance, foul play, determination and the rise of the underdog. The theatre at Wembley Park has been purpose built with skate tracks and strategic seating to create a truly immersive experience as performers whizz by with terrifying speed and precision. It’s loud, intense and exhilarating… and we loved every minute of it.
Imagine Eurovision on steroids: pyrotechnics, smoke, flames, massive moving sets, and a galaxy of planets and stars descending from the ceiling. The production is an unforgettable theatrical experience.
The performers too are strikingly badass, like Transformers on wheels—hybrids of human and machine, each with a unique personality. We meet Greaseball (Al Knott), the arrogant diesel engine; Hydra (Jaydon Vijn), the visionary Hydrogen engine; Electra (Tom Pigram), the sleek electric powerhouse; and Rusty (Jeevan Braich), the underestimated steam train who defies the odds cheered on by his blues singing ‘Momma’ (Jade Marvin). These main players are coupled with their carriages and coaches – the hilarious Dinah (Eve Hunphrey) the dining carriage, disney sweet albeit fickle Pearl (Kayna Montecillo) and the nefarious Slick (Emily Martinez) amongst others.
While these references to the evolution of technology went over my 9yr olds head (though it did make for some educational fodder on the way home), this revival of the 80s classic feels surprisingly fresh. Notably, this updated production includes gay couples and has removed the stereotypical portrayals of nationalities that were present in the original. With these changes, and its high-energy Ziggy Stardust vibe, it’s arguably cooler than ever and yet still lovingly nostalgic.
This show delivers on all fronts. Beyond the futuristic, industrial aesthetic, there are genuine moments of sentimentality and humour, giving it broad appeal. Expect classic Lloyd Webber ballads and show stopping anthems, combined with relentless, high-octane choreography and jaw-dropping skate tricks.
The central character is played by a child actor which added another layer of interest for my son of a similar age.
My only bug bear lies with the plot, which while revised, still lacks some clarity and cohesion. Pearl’s disloyalty is too easily forgiven, and Dinah’s quick reconciliation with Greaseball after her betrayal, aren’t convincingly explained. While adults might overlook this, children are likely to notice the lack of a strong sense of justice or clear motivations for these characters’ behaviours. A day later my son cornered me “Pearl wasn’t actually a good person was she?”. Not sure that was the intended take away!
But let me be clear – any narrative weakness is utterly absorbed by the sheer spectacle of the production and talent on display. This may be the most memorable theatrical experience of your child’s lifetime. Tickets aren’t exactly cheap but this is one show you can’t afford to miss.
Tips for Families Visiting Starlight Express
- It’s VERY loud (chest vibrating loud) and with all the special effects, some children will feel overwhelmed. We sat on Platform 2 which is the middle section of the theatre. If you want an immersive experience book here or even closer to the stage (first class or trackside). However if you have small children they might find the back ‘locomotive seats’ less overwhelming whilst still being able to see what is going on.
- Once the show starts you can’t freely leave the auditorium. There are stewards sat in each section who will escort you safely but you will not be readmitted until after the interval. Make sure you get everyone to use the toilet in advance and have your drinks and snacks handy.
- FYI There is a short section of strobe lighting.
- The show is two hours long including the interval – a long time for a toddler to stay put. The official age recommendation is 3+ but with me own children in mind I felt it only really appropriate for ages 6+ if not older.
- The Troubadour Theatre Wembley has a distinct night club atmosphere with the front of house dark and lined with glitterballs . Whilst most will enjoy this adult vibe some little ones might find it disarming.
Creative Credits:
Choreographer: Ashley Nottingham
Set Design: Tim Hatley
READ NEXT: The Best London Musicals for Teens (2025)
