An utterly FABULOUS new take on the Boy George musical TABOO is in the works!
Producer Thomas Hopkins has been developing a new version of Boy George’s hit musical Taboo for the last few years and is pleased to announce that he has now commissioned a new book by Olivier-nominated writer and performer Jack Holden (best -known for his critically-acclaimed West End production of Cruise and more recently KENREX at Sheffield and Southwark Playhouse) and Boy George, based on the original book by Mark Davies Markham.
Taboo is not just a musical; it’s a vibrant portrait of a brief yet unforgettable era—the dazzling 1980s London. These were years of glorious self-indulgence, set against the backdrop of mass unemployment and societal upheaval. The youth of the time rebelled, expressing themselves through audacious fashions and a decadent nightlife scene. They were the ‘New Romantics,’ spearheading a cultural movement that left an indelible mark on pop, fashion, and global culture.
This week, a closed reading of the first draft is taking place in London, where select Broadway and West End producers and venues will gather to discuss the next pivotal steps for this exciting production.
Boy George said, “I feel the time is right for a new vision of TABOO as through its vibrant themes of identity and creative expression, Taboo serves as a poignant reminder that in this ever-evolving world, we must stay true to ourselves and celebrate individuality.”
Further details on next steps for the show to be announced in due course.
Taboo was last performed in London at The Brixton Clubhouse and these were my thoughts…
Taboo is the story of Boy George’s life from before he became famous and the time just after. It is about fame, drugs and sexual confusion. Cleverly, this show is set in a nightclub (The Brixton Clubhouse) which is a beautiful place and apt as Taboo was a night club where Boy George frequented.
The partly fabricated story has a soundtrack of Boy George songs. Some old classics and some which were written especially for the show.
Fame, drugs and sexual confusion run through this shows story which sees photographer Billy leave home and step out on a voyage of self discovery.
Taboo opened in 2002 at The Venue Theatre in London’s West End (which in 2008 changed its name to The Leicester Square Theatre) and ran for 18 months.
In 2003 American comedian Rosie O’Donnell financed a broadway production of the show which closed after only 100 performances causing her to lose the $10 million she invested in the show.
Taboo is daring, vibrant and well worth watching but not an amazing piece of theatre. It didn’t have the WOW factor for me.
