CRUISE Returns to London’s West End for Strictly Limited Run at the Apollo Theatre

Recently nominated for the 2022 Olivier Award for Best New Play and following rave reviews, Cruise returns to the West End for a strictly limited run (until September 4, 2022). Based on a true story, Cruise pays tribute to a generation decimated by HIV and AIDs.

Bringing to life 1980’s Soho, this kaleidoscopic musical is a celebration of queer culture with an uplifting 80s electronic soundtrack performed live by John Patrick Elliott. The musical pays tribute to the veterans of the AIDs crisis, which will make you laugh, cry, and inspire us all to live every day as if it’s our last.

Cruise is the true story of what should have been Michael Spencer’s last night on Earth. When Michael is diagnosed with HIV in 1984, he’s told he’ll have four years to live. So, with the clock ticking, he and his partner, Dave, decide to sell their house, flog the car, spend everything they have and party like it’s the last days of Rome. When Dave dies two years later, Michael doubles down on his hedonistic ways, spending what little he has left drowning himself in drink and drugs.

On the last night of his four-year countdown – the 29th February, 1988 – Michael decides to go out with a bang. He puts on his favourite jacket, heads for Soho, and embarks on a long night of farewells. He says his goodbyes to friends, enemies and strangers; old haunts, dive bars, cafes, clubs and pubs; his brothers, sisters, allies and exes. He dances, sings, and says yes to everything and everyone. Then, with all his affairs taken care of, Michael survives.

Cruise is an urgent, moving and inspirational play written and performed by Jack Holden. The creative team includes John Patrick Elliott (Music and Sound Design), Bronagh Lagan (Director), Nik Corrall (Design), STUFISH Entertainment Architects (Co-Design), Jai Morjaria (Lighting Designer) Sarah Golding (Movement) and Max Pappenheim (Additional Sound Design).

Tickets for the play are available from £15 at www.cruisetheplay.co.uk