Dark of the Moon Review at Charing Cross Theatre London

I had the honour of visiting Charing Cross Theatre for the press night of Dark of the Moon – a new musical inspired by the Scottish folk song called The Ballad of Barbara Allen and the 1939 play Night Song. It is honestly hard to believe that London has not seen a major production of this story since 1949.

It was my first visit to Charing Cross Theatre, and I absolutely fell in love with the venue. Tucked just moments away from one of London’s busiest stations, this intimate 263-seat theatre feels like a hidden gem dedicated to unusual productions, revivals, and bold storytelling. Despite its smaller scale, Charing Cross Theatre never feels any less magical than some of the grander West End venues surrounding it. It also deserves praise for its accessibility, providing step-free access to the balcony, foyer and bars. And finally – perhaps the most important detail during London’s current Hadestown-level heatwave – they have air conditioning.

Music and lyrics by Lindy Robbins, Dave Bassett and Steve Robson fully transport the audience to the heart of an Appalachian village overlooked by mysterious Smoky Mountains. It wouldn’t be a folk story without a touch of magic, witches, love, bargains and heartbreak. Dark of the Moon tells the story of Barbara Allen, a young woman trapped between duty and desire, and John the Witch Boy, a mysterious outsider from a Coven hidden deep within the Smoky Mountains. In order to become human and stay with Barbara forever, John must survive one year on Earth without either of them breaking faith. Predictably, the small Appalachian town does not welcome strangers kindly, and the couple quickly finds themselves caught between fear, superstition, destiny and the growing influence of the Coven still haunting John from afar.

Dark of the Moon is a wonderful tale of magic, destiny, and the meaning of love. Glenn Adamson is a real powerhouse, with one of the strongest and most amazing voices I have ever heard, and Lauren Jones is a pure star. Martin Callaghan’s portrayal of the Preacher brings out a lot of smiles and really makes the musical special. I loved the contrast between folk/country songs of the people and rock/metal parts of the Witches. The lighting design elevated this musical to a completely new level, and Jonathan Chan deserves huge praise for the art he created with all the colours, textures and details. Together, it creates such a unique atmosphere throughout this show!

If I had to find a flaw – it is a bit disappointing that the moon on the stage doesn’t change, doesn’t follow the phases, doesn’t indicate the passing of time. Also, the book seemed pretty shallow – but at the end of the day, it is a love story, and with deeply engaging and emotional songs, the book can only carry that much weight.

I haven’t seen such a technically accomplished – especially lights and sound design – show in a very long time, and I can definitely predict a transfer to a bigger venue! It truly is an amazing musical, and all the hype is fully deserved! Dark of the Moon ultimately feels like a mix of Romeo and Juliet and Twilight, and somehow it works beautifully. It definitely filled the Benjamin Button void in my heart! We need more folk musicals!

Dark of the Moon plays at Charing Cross Theatre until 8 August 2026.

Where I Sat

I sat in Stalls W7 at Charing Cross Theatre, located in the middle of the second-to-last row. Whilst the venue is very small, it did feel a bit far away from the stage itself. The seats aren’t staggered, which may put you in trouble if someone very tall sits in front of you. Regardless, I would definitely sit there again

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Reviewed by Aleksandra Zielińskafor SeatPlan, May 2026.