Half a Sixpence
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Introduction to "Half a Sixpence"
"Half a Sixpence" premiered in London’s West End at the Cambridge Theatre on March 21, 1963, adapted from H.G. Wells’ 1905 novel "Kipps: The Story of a Simple Soul." With music and lyrics by David Heneker and a book by Beverley Cross, it ran for 677 performances, closing in July 1965. Crafted as a star vehicle for British pop icon Tommy Steele, who played Arthur Kipps, the show blended Edwardian charm with toe-tapping tunes. A 2016 revival at the Noël Coward Theatre, reimagined by Julian Fellowes, George Stiles, and Anthony Drewe, extended its legacy, running 308 performances until September 2, 2017, cementing its place as a British musical classic.
The Creative Team Behind the Show
David Heneker, known for "Irma La Douce," wrote the original score and lyrics, tailoring numbers like "Money to Burn" to Tommy Steele’s banjo-playing flair. Beverley Cross penned the book, grounding the whimsy in Wells’ tale. The 1963 production was directed by John Dexter, with choreography by Edmund Balin. The 2016 revival saw Julian Fellowes rewrite the book, while George Stiles and Anthony Drewe refreshed the score, adding new songs. Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh and produced by Cameron Mackintosh, it starred Charlie Stemp, whose breakout Kipps earned acclaim, alongside Emma Williams and Ian Bartholomew.
A Rags-to-Riches Romance
Arthur Kipps, a humble draper’s assistant in 1890s Kent, cherishes his childhood sweetheart Ann Pornick, who gives him half a sixpence as a love token. When Kipps inherits a fortune, he’s thrust into high society, catching the eye of refined Helen Walsingham. Torn between Ann’s simplicity and Helen’s elegance, Kipps navigates class divides, losing his wealth to a swindler before reclaiming it and Ann in a twist of fate. Songs like "Flash, Bang, Wallop!" and "If the Rain’s Got to Fall" punctuate his journey, blending humor with heart in a tale of love over lucre.
Performance and Reception
The 1963 debut was a hit, with Steele’s charisma driving its 677-performance run; The Stage called it “a triumph of British musicality.” The 2016 revival, after a Chichester tryout, opened to raves at the Noël Coward Theatre Michael Billington of The Guardian praised its “moment of pure ecstasy” in "Pick Out a Simple Tune." Charlie Stemp’s Olivier-nominated turn fueled its 308-show success. While some found the plot dated, its energy and nostalgia won over audiences, with cast recordings from both eras charting well.
Legacy in West End Theatre
"Half a Sixpence" bridged Victorian music hall and modern musical theatre, influencing British hits like "Billy Elliot." Its 1963 run, 1965 Broadway stint (511 performances), and 2016 revival retitled "Kipps" for licensing total over 1,500 West End shows. The 1967 film with Steele and a 2021 Sky Arts broadcast of the revival broadened its reach. Staged globally from Australia to Japan, it endures as a distinctly British gem, its banjo-strumming joy and class satire keeping Kipps’ story alive.