London’s Barbican Theatre opened its doors to a sparkling new vesrion of *High Society* on June 4, 2024, featuring Helen George as Tracy Lord. Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, the production revives the 1998 Broadway show that was itself based on the 1956 film and the 1939 play *The Philadelphia Story*.

Helen George’s Tracy Lord dazzles in pastel frocks and crooner‑style vocals

George’s performance fuses the breathy allure of a 1950s blonde bombshell with the powerful vocal presence of a classic crooner, delivering show‑stopping numbers such as “I Love Paris” and the title track. According to the Barbican’s press release,her choreography benefits from her background on *Strictly Come Dancing*, giving the production a kinetic edge.

Julian Ovenden and David Seadon‑Young bring tension to the ex‑husband‑fiancé love triangle

Ovenden’s suave Dexter Haven arrives on the eve of Tracy’s wedding to earnest accountant George, played by David Seadon‑Young.. The duet “You Do Something To Me” showcases Ovenden’s velvet‑rich tenor, while the pairing adds a bittersweet layer to the plot, as noted by the production’s director Rachel Kavanaugh.

Freddie Fox’s tabloid sleuth adds a tongue‑in‑cheek commentary on celebrity culture

Making his musical debut, Fox plays Mike Connor, a tabloid reporter whose number “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” injects robust, swing‑era swagger that even eclipses the original film’s Sinatra‑like style, according to a review in *The Stage*.

Veteran cast members Felicity Kendal and Malcolm Sinclair provide comic relief and family warmth

Kendal appears as Mother Lord, delivering heartfelt wisdom and a tender duet “You’d Be So Nice To Come Home To” with Malcolm Sinclair’s Seth Lord. Their chemistry anchors the production’s emotional core, a point hihglighted by the Barbican’s marketing materials.

Contemporary choreography and design refresh classic Cole Porter numbers

Choreographer Anthony Van Laast creates a swirling taffeta kaleidoscope in “Let’s Misbehave,” while set designer Tom Roger’s sun‑kissed terrace and modern lighting keep the period feel fresh. As the Barbican’s program notes state,the orchestration stays true to Porter while the visual elements inject contemporary vibrancy.

The run continues through July 11, promising London audiences a blend of romance, wit, and timeless song before the theatre welcomes Jonathan Bailey and Ariana Grande in *Sunday In The Park With George* next summer.