Test your knowledge of the delightful musical *Kipps – The New Half a Sixpence Musical* with this trivia page! How well do you know the story of Arthur Kipps, a cockney shop clerk who finds himself caught between two worlds after a surprise inheritance? Explore fun facts about the show’s journey from the 1960s original to its 2016 West End revival, featuring new songs and fresh talent. Dive into the history of this charming adaptation of H.G. Wells’s novel *Kipps*, and see how much you remember!
International Productions
- Half a Sixpence, also known as Kipps - The New Half A Sixpence Musical, is a stage musical adaptation of H.G. Wells's 1905 novel Kipps.
- A filmed recording of the West End production was broadcast on Sky Arts in December 2021, rebranded under the musical's new licensing name, Kipps.
- The musical is licensed for both professional and amateur productions through Music Theatre International Europe under the title Kipps - The New Half a Sixpence Musical.
Musical Composition
- George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, known for their work on Mary Poppins, were tasked with adapting and adding to David Heneker's original songs for the new production.
- The 2016 London Cast Recording of Half a Sixpence was released on CD and iTunes, capturing 23 tracks from the final performances at Chichester.
Notable Tours
- The revived version of Half a Sixpence premiered at Chichester Festival Theatre in July 2016 before moving to the West End in London.
Production Facts
- The original 1963 musical featured British pop star Tommy Steele, and was tailored as a vehicle for his performance.
- Julian Fellowes, who previously worked with Stiles and Drewe, wrote an entirely new book for the updated version of Half a Sixpence.
- Charlie Stemp, a newcomer, starred as Arthur Kipps in the West End production, after original cast member Bryan Dick withdrew.
- The 2016 revival of Half a Sixpence played approximately 400 performances combined during its runs in Chichester and the West End before closing.
