Bend It Like Beckham Best Bits

Tuesday, 19th Jan 2016  

Following the recent announcement that one of our favourite feel good West End musicals will play its final performance at the Phoenix Theatre on 5 March 2016, we’re reminiscing about some of our favourite Bend It Like Beckham moments. Here are just some of the reasons why you must see the production before it closes.

The Story
The musical is based on the hit 2002 film starring Parminder Nagra in the leading role of Jess Bhamra alongside Keira Knightley as fellow footy fanatic Jules Paxton. As Jess struggles to convince her Sikh family that football (and David Beckham!) is her passion, Jules tackles the prejudices surrounding women’s football – including her mother Paula!

The comical culture clash that unfolds on stage has been brought to life by the vibrant stage design and talented cast. It is also filled with impressive football sequences that will turn even the most stubborn sports sceptics into fans of the game – even if it is only for 2 hours and 45 minutes.

The characters of Jess and Jules on stage are played by Natalie Dew and Lauren Samuels.

The Songs
The musical is abundant with catchy songs composed by Howard Goodall with lyrics by Charles Hart including ‘Glorious’, ‘Defying Gravity’ and ‘Let It Go’. With fun, energetic choreography by Aletta Collins, the show’s vibrant score performed by its lively characters gives it an authentic Punjabi kick for a truly uplifting theatre experience.

The Reviews
If you’re thinking about heading to the theatre to watch Bend It Like Beckham, don’t just take our word for it. The five star musical has received lots of good reviews including one from the Daily Telegraph describing it as a “Bold, beautifully British Triumph” as well as from the Evening Standard who called it a “Joyous hymn to girl power”.