April 10, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About Olivier Award-Winning The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
After its sweeping success at the 2025 Olivier Awards, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button has become one of the most talked-about productions on the West End. Winner of Best New Musical and Outstanding Musical Contribution, this emotionally rich adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story has captivated audiences with its inventive storytelling, evocative folk score, and deeply human performances.
A Story Told in Reverse – And Reimagined
Unlike the film adaptation starring Brad Pitt, this stage version of Benjamin Button is set in a Cornish fishing village and steeped in a folk tradition that feels as ancient as the story itself. The narrative follows Benjamin, a man born as an old man who ages backward throughout his life. This unusual premise sets the stage for a musical that explores profound themes of time, identity, and the fragility of love.
Benjamin’s journey is not a gimmick—it’s a meditation. As he moves through life in reverse, the people he loves grow older while he grows younger. This disconnect is beautifully expressed through both the dialogue and the original music, which channels the raw emotion of British and Celtic folk traditions.
From Workshop to West End: The Road to the Ambassadors Theatre
The musical’s journey is almost as remarkable as Benjamin’s. Developed over several years by writer and director Jethro Compton and composer and lyricist Darren Clark, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button first premiered at Southwark Playhouse before being reimagined for its West End debut at the Ambassadors Theatre.
The production is minimalist in set design, yet deeply atmospheric. A rotating wooden structure becomes the core visual device, symbolizing the passage of time and the cycle of life. Combined with clever lighting, sound, and staging, the result is a production that feels both grand in scope and intimately personal.
John Dagleish: A Performance Worth Remembering
Taking on the title role is John Dagleish, who won the 2025 Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical. His portrayal of Benjamin is nothing short of extraordinary. Dagleish captures the subtle nuances of a man living a life backwards—from weary elder to innocent youth—without relying on flashy effects. His ability to transition from wisdom to wonder, from grief to joy, all within a single performance, is one of the most compelling aspects of the production.
Clare Foster, who plays Elowen Keene, delivers a powerful and emotionally grounded performance as Benjamin’s lifelong love. Her scenes with Dagleish are layered with heartbreak and affection, reflecting a bond tested by time’s cruel reversal.
The Makeup and Costume Magic
One of the show’s most impressive feats lies in its costume and makeup design. Rather than opting for elaborate prosthetics or digital projections, the transformation of Benjamin is achieved through subtle, clever changes in clothing, posture, and expression. Quick changes backstage are choreographed with clockwork precision, enabling Dagleish to shift age ranges in a matter of moments.
Makeup is used minimally but effectively, aging and de-aging characters with soft touches rather than overt theatrics. This allows the audience to stay immersed in the story without being distracted by the mechanics behind it.
The Folk Music That Moves the Story Forward
Music in Benjamin Button is not simply a backdrop—it is a character in itself. The score, composed by Darren Clark, blends folk instruments like the fiddle, mandolin, accordion, and acoustic guitar to create a sound world that is both timeless and regional. The melodies are rich, often melancholic, and serve as the emotional thread tying Benjamin’s journey together.
One of the show’s most celebrated elements is its use of a live band onstage, with actors doubling as musicians. This blurs the line between performance and accompaniment, creating a fully immersive experience. Songs such as “Turn of the Tide” and “The Light That Follows You” linger in the mind long after the final bow.
At the 2025 Olivier Awards, Clark and musical supervisor Mark Aspinall were recognized with the Outstanding Musical Contribution award—a testament to the music’s integral role in the show’s success.
Where to Sit at the Ambassadors Theatre
The Ambassadors Theatre, located in the heart of the West End, is known for its intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal venue for a show as emotionally nuanced as Benjamin Button. With a capacity of just under 500, every seat feels close to the action.
For those wanting to catch every flicker of emotion on the actors’ faces, central rows in the stalls (particularly rows D through H) offer the most immersive view. If you’re interested in seeing the full scope of the set design and stage direction, the front of the Dress Circle provides a well-balanced perspective.
It’s best to avoid the extreme side seats in the balcony or rear stalls, where sightlines may be slightly compromised due to the unique staging and use of the rotating set.
A Word from the Critics
The critical response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many publications praising the show’s quiet ambition and emotional depth. The Guardian called it “a ravishing, rich and quietly radical piece of musical theatre,” while Time Out hailed it as “a heart-stopping evening of unforgettable theatre.”
Audience word-of-mouth has been just as enthusiastic, with many attendees returning for a second viewing. Some even describe it as “the most moving experience I've had in a theatre in years.”
Why It Matters Now
At a time when the world is still rediscovering the power of live theatre, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button reminds us why we gather in the dark to share stories. It’s not just the novelty of a man aging in reverse—it’s the way the show captures the beauty and tragedy of life itself.
Every element of this production, from its intimate musicality to its emotionally grounded performances, is designed to leave a lasting impression. It doesn’t rely on spectacle, but instead trusts the strength of its story and the honesty of its cast.
Book Your Experience
If you haven’t yet seen The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, there’s never been a better time. The show is currently running at the Ambassadors Theatre and is available to book directly through tickadoo.
Book your Benjamin Button tickets with tickadoo
Don’t miss your chance to experience a show that’s redefining what musical theatre can be.
Explore More Theatre Experiences
Looking for more award-winning productions? Discover unforgettable London theatre on tickadoo.
After its sweeping success at the 2025 Olivier Awards, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button has become one of the most talked-about productions on the West End. Winner of Best New Musical and Outstanding Musical Contribution, this emotionally rich adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story has captivated audiences with its inventive storytelling, evocative folk score, and deeply human performances.
A Story Told in Reverse – And Reimagined
Unlike the film adaptation starring Brad Pitt, this stage version of Benjamin Button is set in a Cornish fishing village and steeped in a folk tradition that feels as ancient as the story itself. The narrative follows Benjamin, a man born as an old man who ages backward throughout his life. This unusual premise sets the stage for a musical that explores profound themes of time, identity, and the fragility of love.
Benjamin’s journey is not a gimmick—it’s a meditation. As he moves through life in reverse, the people he loves grow older while he grows younger. This disconnect is beautifully expressed through both the dialogue and the original music, which channels the raw emotion of British and Celtic folk traditions.
From Workshop to West End: The Road to the Ambassadors Theatre
The musical’s journey is almost as remarkable as Benjamin’s. Developed over several years by writer and director Jethro Compton and composer and lyricist Darren Clark, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button first premiered at Southwark Playhouse before being reimagined for its West End debut at the Ambassadors Theatre.
The production is minimalist in set design, yet deeply atmospheric. A rotating wooden structure becomes the core visual device, symbolizing the passage of time and the cycle of life. Combined with clever lighting, sound, and staging, the result is a production that feels both grand in scope and intimately personal.
John Dagleish: A Performance Worth Remembering
Taking on the title role is John Dagleish, who won the 2025 Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical. His portrayal of Benjamin is nothing short of extraordinary. Dagleish captures the subtle nuances of a man living a life backwards—from weary elder to innocent youth—without relying on flashy effects. His ability to transition from wisdom to wonder, from grief to joy, all within a single performance, is one of the most compelling aspects of the production.
Clare Foster, who plays Elowen Keene, delivers a powerful and emotionally grounded performance as Benjamin’s lifelong love. Her scenes with Dagleish are layered with heartbreak and affection, reflecting a bond tested by time’s cruel reversal.
The Makeup and Costume Magic
One of the show’s most impressive feats lies in its costume and makeup design. Rather than opting for elaborate prosthetics or digital projections, the transformation of Benjamin is achieved through subtle, clever changes in clothing, posture, and expression. Quick changes backstage are choreographed with clockwork precision, enabling Dagleish to shift age ranges in a matter of moments.
Makeup is used minimally but effectively, aging and de-aging characters with soft touches rather than overt theatrics. This allows the audience to stay immersed in the story without being distracted by the mechanics behind it.
The Folk Music That Moves the Story Forward
Music in Benjamin Button is not simply a backdrop—it is a character in itself. The score, composed by Darren Clark, blends folk instruments like the fiddle, mandolin, accordion, and acoustic guitar to create a sound world that is both timeless and regional. The melodies are rich, often melancholic, and serve as the emotional thread tying Benjamin’s journey together.
One of the show’s most celebrated elements is its use of a live band onstage, with actors doubling as musicians. This blurs the line between performance and accompaniment, creating a fully immersive experience. Songs such as “Turn of the Tide” and “The Light That Follows You” linger in the mind long after the final bow.
At the 2025 Olivier Awards, Clark and musical supervisor Mark Aspinall were recognized with the Outstanding Musical Contribution award—a testament to the music’s integral role in the show’s success.
Where to Sit at the Ambassadors Theatre
The Ambassadors Theatre, located in the heart of the West End, is known for its intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal venue for a show as emotionally nuanced as Benjamin Button. With a capacity of just under 500, every seat feels close to the action.
For those wanting to catch every flicker of emotion on the actors’ faces, central rows in the stalls (particularly rows D through H) offer the most immersive view. If you’re interested in seeing the full scope of the set design and stage direction, the front of the Dress Circle provides a well-balanced perspective.
It’s best to avoid the extreme side seats in the balcony or rear stalls, where sightlines may be slightly compromised due to the unique staging and use of the rotating set.
A Word from the Critics
The critical response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many publications praising the show’s quiet ambition and emotional depth. The Guardian called it “a ravishing, rich and quietly radical piece of musical theatre,” while Time Out hailed it as “a heart-stopping evening of unforgettable theatre.”
Audience word-of-mouth has been just as enthusiastic, with many attendees returning for a second viewing. Some even describe it as “the most moving experience I've had in a theatre in years.”
Why It Matters Now
At a time when the world is still rediscovering the power of live theatre, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button reminds us why we gather in the dark to share stories. It’s not just the novelty of a man aging in reverse—it’s the way the show captures the beauty and tragedy of life itself.
Every element of this production, from its intimate musicality to its emotionally grounded performances, is designed to leave a lasting impression. It doesn’t rely on spectacle, but instead trusts the strength of its story and the honesty of its cast.
Book Your Experience
If you haven’t yet seen The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, there’s never been a better time. The show is currently running at the Ambassadors Theatre and is available to book directly through tickadoo.
Book your Benjamin Button tickets with tickadoo
Don’t miss your chance to experience a show that’s redefining what musical theatre can be.
Explore More Theatre Experiences
Looking for more award-winning productions? Discover unforgettable London theatre on tickadoo.
After its sweeping success at the 2025 Olivier Awards, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button has become one of the most talked-about productions on the West End. Winner of Best New Musical and Outstanding Musical Contribution, this emotionally rich adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story has captivated audiences with its inventive storytelling, evocative folk score, and deeply human performances.
A Story Told in Reverse – And Reimagined
Unlike the film adaptation starring Brad Pitt, this stage version of Benjamin Button is set in a Cornish fishing village and steeped in a folk tradition that feels as ancient as the story itself. The narrative follows Benjamin, a man born as an old man who ages backward throughout his life. This unusual premise sets the stage for a musical that explores profound themes of time, identity, and the fragility of love.
Benjamin’s journey is not a gimmick—it’s a meditation. As he moves through life in reverse, the people he loves grow older while he grows younger. This disconnect is beautifully expressed through both the dialogue and the original music, which channels the raw emotion of British and Celtic folk traditions.
From Workshop to West End: The Road to the Ambassadors Theatre
The musical’s journey is almost as remarkable as Benjamin’s. Developed over several years by writer and director Jethro Compton and composer and lyricist Darren Clark, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button first premiered at Southwark Playhouse before being reimagined for its West End debut at the Ambassadors Theatre.
The production is minimalist in set design, yet deeply atmospheric. A rotating wooden structure becomes the core visual device, symbolizing the passage of time and the cycle of life. Combined with clever lighting, sound, and staging, the result is a production that feels both grand in scope and intimately personal.
John Dagleish: A Performance Worth Remembering
Taking on the title role is John Dagleish, who won the 2025 Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical. His portrayal of Benjamin is nothing short of extraordinary. Dagleish captures the subtle nuances of a man living a life backwards—from weary elder to innocent youth—without relying on flashy effects. His ability to transition from wisdom to wonder, from grief to joy, all within a single performance, is one of the most compelling aspects of the production.
Clare Foster, who plays Elowen Keene, delivers a powerful and emotionally grounded performance as Benjamin’s lifelong love. Her scenes with Dagleish are layered with heartbreak and affection, reflecting a bond tested by time’s cruel reversal.
The Makeup and Costume Magic
One of the show’s most impressive feats lies in its costume and makeup design. Rather than opting for elaborate prosthetics or digital projections, the transformation of Benjamin is achieved through subtle, clever changes in clothing, posture, and expression. Quick changes backstage are choreographed with clockwork precision, enabling Dagleish to shift age ranges in a matter of moments.
Makeup is used minimally but effectively, aging and de-aging characters with soft touches rather than overt theatrics. This allows the audience to stay immersed in the story without being distracted by the mechanics behind it.
The Folk Music That Moves the Story Forward
Music in Benjamin Button is not simply a backdrop—it is a character in itself. The score, composed by Darren Clark, blends folk instruments like the fiddle, mandolin, accordion, and acoustic guitar to create a sound world that is both timeless and regional. The melodies are rich, often melancholic, and serve as the emotional thread tying Benjamin’s journey together.
One of the show’s most celebrated elements is its use of a live band onstage, with actors doubling as musicians. This blurs the line between performance and accompaniment, creating a fully immersive experience. Songs such as “Turn of the Tide” and “The Light That Follows You” linger in the mind long after the final bow.
At the 2025 Olivier Awards, Clark and musical supervisor Mark Aspinall were recognized with the Outstanding Musical Contribution award—a testament to the music’s integral role in the show’s success.
Where to Sit at the Ambassadors Theatre
The Ambassadors Theatre, located in the heart of the West End, is known for its intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal venue for a show as emotionally nuanced as Benjamin Button. With a capacity of just under 500, every seat feels close to the action.
For those wanting to catch every flicker of emotion on the actors’ faces, central rows in the stalls (particularly rows D through H) offer the most immersive view. If you’re interested in seeing the full scope of the set design and stage direction, the front of the Dress Circle provides a well-balanced perspective.
It’s best to avoid the extreme side seats in the balcony or rear stalls, where sightlines may be slightly compromised due to the unique staging and use of the rotating set.
A Word from the Critics
The critical response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many publications praising the show’s quiet ambition and emotional depth. The Guardian called it “a ravishing, rich and quietly radical piece of musical theatre,” while Time Out hailed it as “a heart-stopping evening of unforgettable theatre.”
Audience word-of-mouth has been just as enthusiastic, with many attendees returning for a second viewing. Some even describe it as “the most moving experience I've had in a theatre in years.”
Why It Matters Now
At a time when the world is still rediscovering the power of live theatre, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button reminds us why we gather in the dark to share stories. It’s not just the novelty of a man aging in reverse—it’s the way the show captures the beauty and tragedy of life itself.
Every element of this production, from its intimate musicality to its emotionally grounded performances, is designed to leave a lasting impression. It doesn’t rely on spectacle, but instead trusts the strength of its story and the honesty of its cast.
Book Your Experience
If you haven’t yet seen The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, there’s never been a better time. The show is currently running at the Ambassadors Theatre and is available to book directly through tickadoo.
Book your Benjamin Button tickets with tickadoo
Don’t miss your chance to experience a show that’s redefining what musical theatre can be.
Explore More Theatre Experiences
Looking for more award-winning productions? Discover unforgettable London theatre on tickadoo.
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tickadoo Inc.
447 Broadway, New York, NY 10013
tickadoo © 2025. All Rights Reserved.
Your trusted source for official tickets.
Discover tickadoo,
Discover entertainment.
tickadoo Inc.
447 Broadway, New York, NY 10013
tickadoo © 2025. All Rights Reserved.