Duration
2 hrs with interval
Closing Date
Until April 11, 2026
Age limit
Suitable for 12+ yrs
Why Watch Marie & Rosetta?
- Beverley Knight electrifies as gospel trailblazer Rosetta Tharpe, with Ntombizodwa Ndlovu making a striking West End debut as Marie Knight.
- Following acclaimed regional runs, the play makes its West End premiere at @sohoplace, cementing its spot as one of London’s standout new dramas.
- Hear live renditions of Didn’t It Rain and Peace in the Valley as gospel collides with early rock ’n’ roll in this rhythm-charged story of faith and defiance.
- Set in 1946 Mississippi, the show explores race, religion, and the birth of modern music, a gripping true story that resonates far beyond its time.
- A limited-run engagement at @sohoplace with glowing reviews and high-demand seats, book early to witness music history reborn.
In Marie & Rosetta, you’ll step into the vibrant crossroads where gospel met early rock ’n’ roll. The play explores how gospel legend Sister Rosetta Tharpe persuaded young singer Marie Knight to join her on a daring tour of the segregated American South in 1946. With Beverley Knight bringing Rosetta’s guitar-led revolution to life, and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu as Marie, the stage pulses with live band and historic songs. The production premiered outside London and now lands at @sohoplace for a limited run, backed by rave reviews calling it “raises the roof” and “an absolute stonker of a show”.
Storyline
It’s Mississippi, 1946: gospel guitarist Rosetta Tharpe has already turned church music upside down with her electric sound. Soon, Marie Knight enters, a talented but convention-bound singer whom Rosetta persuades to tour the segregated South, pushing the boundaries of race and sound. Together they grapple with faith, fame, and identity as they reshape music’s future.
Show timings
Show timings for Marie & Rosetta may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading roles: Beverley Knight as Rosetta Tharpe, Ntombizodwa Ndlovu as Marie Knight
Writer: George Brant
Director: Monique Touko
Associate Director: Jordi M. Carter
Set Designer: Lily Arnold
Costume Designer: Jodie-Simone Howe
Movement Director: Kloé Dean
Intimacy Director: Bethan Clark
Sound Designer: Tony Gayle
Voice & Dialect Coach: Joel Trill
Musical Director & Guitar: Shirley Teteh
Top songs
While not a traditional musical, Marie & Rosetta features live gospel and rock ’n’ roll performances, including soulful renditions of Didn’t It Rain and Peace in the Valley. You can listen to the entire album here.
Age Suitability
This show is suitable for ages 12 and above.
For all productions at Nimax Theatres, children aged 14 and below must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over and sat in seats next to each other.
Content warning: Contains themes of racism, domestic abuse, and bereavement, with occasional period-specific language.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Most theaters are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.
Sohoplace Theatre
Soho Place in London is a well-known venue for hosting thought-provoking plays and performances. The theater has a seating capacity of 600, making for an intimate and immersive viewing experience. With its central location in Charing Cross Rd, Soho Place is easily accessible and a favorite spot among theater enthusiasts. Seating Capacity: 600 The @sohoplace seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting There
- Address: 4 Soho Pl, Charing Cross Rd, London W1D 3BG, UK
- By metro:
The nearest tube station is Tottenham Court Road, Leicester Square.
- By train:
Train is another option to reach @sohoplace London. The venue is 15-18 minutes from Charing Cross Station, served by the Bakerloo and Northern lines.
- By bus:
6, 9, 87, 243, and 341 (Aldwych); 1, 4, 26, 59, 68, 76, 168, 171, 172, 188, 243, 341, and 521 (The Strand)
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Dining outlets, Toilets, Cloak room, Souvenir shop
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed, Elevator access
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
You will receive an email with your Marie & Rosetta voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid Photo Id for identification.
Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
Ticket prices will vary depending on the seat you choose.
This play is best suited for audiences aged 12 and above due to mature themes and period-specific language. Parents can use their discretion for younger attendees.
The production takes place at @sohoplace, a stunning contemporary venue in the heart of London’s West End, located right next to Tottenham Court Road station.
It’s a powerful play with music that tells the story of gospel legend Sister Rosetta Tharpe and her protégée Marie Knight — two trailblazers who fused faith, rhythm, and rebellion to shape the sound of rock ’n’ roll.
The performance runs for approximately 2 hours, including a 20-minute interval.
The cast features Beverley Knight as Rosetta Tharpe and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu as Marie Knight, a dynamic duo bringing the heart and soul of gospel to the West End stage.
Expect live performances of gospel hits like “Didn’t It Rain” and “Peace in the Valley”, blending powerful vocals with bluesy guitar. You can listen to the show’s playlist here.
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