Quick Read
- Adrian Dunbar stars in the West End production of Kiss Me, Kate.
- The show was filmed live at London’s Barbican Theatre and is now streaming on BBC iPlayer.
- The cast also includes Stephanie J. Block, Charlie Stemp, and Peter Davison.
For fans of Adrian Dunbar, 2025 delivered an unexpected treat: the acclaimed actor, best known for his role in Line of Duty, stepped onto the musical stage in a dazzling West End production of Kiss Me, Kate—and now, audiences everywhere can stream his performance on BBC iPlayer.
The London staging of Cole Porter’s classic, filmed live at the Barbican Theatre, stands out as a vibrant celebration of musical theatre. Dunbar, alongside Broadway’s Stephanie J. Block, brings Porter’s witty lyrics and soaring melodies to life, leading a cast packed with talent. From the comic punch of «Brush Up Your Shakespeare» to the sultry energy of «Too Darn Hot,» Dunbar’s presence anchors the show with charisma and precision.
This filmed version, directed for the stage by Bartlett Sher and for the screen by Brett Sullivan, captures the immediacy of live theatre while offering the intimacy of a close-up cinematic experience. The production, which aired on BBC Two as part of the Christmas 2025 line-up, is more than just a seasonal offering—it’s a window into the West End’s enduring charm and the adaptability of its stars.
Supporting Dunbar are stage luminaries: Charlie Stemp as Bill Calhoun, Georgina Onuorah as Lois Lane, Hammed Animashaun and Nigel Lindsay as the gangsters, and Peter Davison as the General. Their performances underscore the collaborative spirit of London’s theatre scene, with each actor adding nuance and energy to Porter’s timeless score.
For Dunbar, known primarily for his dramatic television work, this role marks a significant shift. It’s a reminder that versatility is the true currency of the performing arts—and that a beloved TV detective can command the musical spotlight with equal authority. The transition from procedural drama to musical comedy may seem abrupt, but Dunbar’s stage presence suggests a deep-rooted comfort with live performance, honed by years of diverse roles.
The production’s journey from Barbican Theatre to BBC iPlayer speaks to the growing trend of stage-to-screen adaptations. In a year where access to live events remains unpredictable, filming and streaming musicals allow wider audiences to experience the magic of London’s theatre district. This strategy not only preserves outstanding performances but also democratizes access, letting viewers enjoy the best of the West End from their living rooms.
Beyond Dunbar’s star turn, Kiss Me, Kate represents a broader commitment by BBC to showcase live arts as part of its holiday programming. Alongside other highlights—such as the Biggest Night of Musicals and Sir Peter Wright’s centenary celebration of The Nutcracker—the inclusion of this musical reflects the public broadcaster’s role in championing culture and connecting communities.
The Barbican Theatre continues its legacy of hosting major revivals. Looking ahead, producers plan to stage Cole Porter’s High Society in 2026, starring Helen George and Felicity Kendal, further cementing the venue’s reputation for bringing classic musicals to new generations.
For Adrian Dunbar, the reception has been enthusiastic. Early reviews note his «surprising vocal assurance» and «natural comedic timing,» with audiences praising the chemistry between Dunbar and Block. The production itself has been lauded for its high-energy choreography, sparkling orchestral arrangements, and the seamless translation from stage to screen.
What does this mean for Dunbar’s career? In a landscape where actors often find themselves pigeonholed, Dunbar’s successful leap into musical theatre sends a clear message: reinvention is always possible. It’s a story of artistic risk, rewarded by critical acclaim and public enthusiasm.
As Kiss Me, Kate streams into homes across the UK, it also invites viewers to reconsider what makes a performance memorable. Is it the star’s name, the classic score, or the collective effort of cast and crew? Watching Dunbar command the stage, it’s clear that the answer is all of the above.
Adrian Dunbar’s role in Kiss Me, Kate not only showcases his multifaceted talent but also highlights the evolving nature of theatre in a digital world. His performance is a reminder that the boundaries between stage and screen are blurring—and that the heart of great storytelling endures, no matter the medium. Source: West End Theatre