Marie & Rosetta

Marie & Rosetta: The Electrifying Gospel Musical Starring Beverley Knight

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT: 2-24 May 2025 | Rose Theatre Kingston

The Godmother of Rock ‘n’ Roll Comes to Life

This May, experience the roof-raising musical sensation that’s bringing the extraordinary true story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe—the revolutionary guitarist and vocalist known as the “Godmother of Rock ‘n’ Roll”—to vibrant life on the London stage.

Perfect for visitors seeking an authentic, soul-stirring theatrical experience beyond the typical tourist attractions, Marie & Rosetta combines powerful performances with the electrifying birth story of rock music that changed the world forever.

Olivier Award-Winner Beverley Knight Stars

In a landmark professional play debut, British soul legend and three-time Olivier Award nominee Beverley Knight takes on the role of Sister Rosetta Tharpe fresh from her 2023 Olivier Award-winning triumph in Sylvia. Known for her extraordinary performances in Memphis and Sister Act, Knight brings her phenomenal vocal power to this groundbreaking musical role.

A Musical Journey Through American History

Mississippi, 1946. Sister Rosetta Tharpe has revolutionized gospel music with her unprecedented electric guitar-playing style that would later influence Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Little Richard, and countless rock pioneers. Shunned by conservative church communities for performing in nightclubs and embracing rhythm and blues, she recruits the talented but traditional young singer Marie Knight for a daring tour of the segregated American South.

Before they hit the road, Rosetta must transform Marie’s pure Sunday sound into something with a little more swing—setting the stage for a musical partnership that would challenge conventions and change music history forever.

Why This Production Matters

Sister Rosetta Tharpe was a true musical pioneer whose groundbreaking fusion of spiritual lyrics and secular rhythms laid the foundation for rock and roll. Despite her profound influence, her contributions were largely overlooked for decades. This joyous production finally gives this musical revolutionary her rightful place in history through powerful performances and roof-raising gospel and early rock numbers.

Award-Winning Creative Team

• Direction by Monique Touko – Winner of the 2022 Stage Debut Award for Best Director, acclaimed for productions including The Boy at the Back of the Class and School Girls; Or, the African Mean Girls Play
• Written by George Brant – The celebrated playwright whose work has been produced internationally
• Making its UK Premiere after an acclaimed Off-Broadway run that starred Rebecca Naomi Jones and Kecia Lewis

Why Book With Theatre-London.uk?

For visitors exploring London’s vibrant theatre scene:

• Direct tickets without inflated prices – avoid the markup from resellers
• Secure payment options including PayPal for your peace of mind
• Perfect addition to your London itinerary – experience authentic cultural history that goes beyond typical tourist attractions
• Easy booking process designed with international visitors in mind

Performance Details

• Venue: Rose Theatre Kingston, 24-26 High Street, Kingston upon Thames
• Dates: 2-24 May 2025
• Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes (no interval)
• Age Recommendation: 12+
• Easily accessible from central London via train from Waterloo Station (approximately 30 minutes)

A Musical Experience Not to Be Missed

This joyous production celebrates the pioneering spirit of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, whose musical innovation created the blueprint for rock and roll. With powerhouse performances of gospel and early rock classics, Marie & Rosetta delivers an uplifting theatrical experience that will have you dancing in your seat.

Make your London visit truly memorable by securing your tickets today for this limited engagement celebrating one of music’s most influential yet overlooked pioneers. As Sister Rosetta would say, “God don’t want the Devil to have all the good music right?”

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