Bumbling Mayor Boris pays tribute to London Theatre exports
While in the US city, Johnson met with the cast of Billy Elliot the Musical and highlighted the success that UK shows are enjoying in America’s theatre capital.
He said: “London and New York share an international reputation for theatre. I am immensely proud of the success that West End productions are having on Broadway. Our fabulously successful exports are having a thriving time – not just Billy Elliot, but God of Carnage, The 39 Steps and Mary Poppins – and let’s not forget the global phenomenon that is Mamma Mia! In spite of the recession, London Theatreland is booming and both will continue to benefit from our continuing cross fertilisation.”
His comments were welcomed by Society of London Theatre president Nica Burns, who stressed that last year’s exchange agreement between US and UK Equity had been crucial in allowing shows to continue to transfer between Broadway and the West End.
She said: “I am thrilled that the vital partnership between Broadway and the West End continues to breathe creative life into London and New York, the undisputed theatre capitals of the world. We are proud to see so many wonderful British plays and musicals transfer successfully to Broadway, which were rightly honoured at the Tony Awards. London delights in welcoming American productions and talent to our shores. Two cities and one industry working together to entertain millions and to invigorate our economies. A thank you to US and UK Equity whose ground-breaking agreement last year has made it possible for talent to travel across the Atlantic.”d
During his recent stateside visit, London Mayor Boris Johnson praised the thriving nature of original West End shows that have transferred to Broadway. While in New York to meet Mayor Bloomberg, Boris met the cast of Billy Elliot the Musical and drew attention to the success that UK shows are experiencing in the US.
Boris up to his usual tricks
He said: “London and New York share an international reputation for theatre. I am immensely proud of the success that West End productions are having on Broadway.”
It looks clear that the UK and US will continue to work closely culturally if not politically. Mayor Bloomberg and London Mayor Boris Johnson also announced a two-year tourism agreement between New York City and London to boost travel between the two cities.
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