Doubtfire Daiquiri, madam- How theatres are ramping up the drama with themed cocktails

From the delightful OMG&T at Legally Blonde to Wicked’s Emerald Elixir, there’s a dynamic new way to enjoy your favorite musical or drama. The days of humdrum interval drinks being an afterthought are behind us.

Traditionally, a theater outing includes a quick stop at the bar, where patrons often find themselves faced with overpriced beers served in flimsy plastic cups or uninspired wines simply labeled as “red, white, or fizzy.” With bars typically opening around 90 minutes before the show, audiences often retreat to their seats holding little more than a lackluster merlot.

This summer’s revival of Fiddler on the Roof at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is redefining this experience. Guests can enjoy a Matchmaker Mojito, accompanied by a mint chocolate Matchmaker swizzle stick, or a Sunrise Sunset—an inviting concoction that marries a Buck’s Fizz with a Tequila Sunrise. Both drinks are inspired by the beloved songs from the show.

At London’s Savoy Theatre, the stage adaptation of Mean Girls has introduced a playful menu of “We drink pink” cocktails. These include the effervescent Sugar Punch, Lychee Sour, and the whimsical Pink Candy, which is a delightful mix of amaretto, lychee syrup, prosecco, edible glitter, and candy floss. (The menu cheekily notes that these treats are available “not just on Wednesdays.”) Long-standing favorites like Wicked have also jumped on the trend, offering themed libations such as the Pink Cocktail and Emerald Elixir.

Some drink connections are evident at first glance, like the Doubtfire Daiquiri from Mrs. Doubtfire at the Shaftesbury Theatre, while others require a bit of insider insight. For example, patrons at Operation Mincemeat at the Fortune Theatre can order a sangria, which cleverly serves as a running joke rather than a signature cocktail.

“We always aim to craft unique drinks for our productions,” shares Ryan Garvey, head of hospitality and events at Bristol Old Vic. Earlier this year, they unveiled a Raspberry Fizz cocktail inspired by a number in Starter for Ten. With Halloween on the horizon, he mentions exciting plans for themed drinks, featuring “haunted and glowing cocktails” for their production of Gurt Haunted.

This trend isn’t limited to musicals alone; stage adaptations of plays are also getting creative. The current production of Minority Report at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has inspired cocktails like the Dame Julia and Precognition. Prior to that, the May/June production of Wedding Band featured drinks such as Planters Punch and Cherry Bounce.

With theater ticket prices often high, one might question whether patrons will be deterred by the added expense of custom cocktails. Paul Gallagher, commercial director at the Lyric Hammersmith, offers a different perspective: “When customers invest in expensive tickets, they often look to enhance that memorable night out with additional purchases. Cocktails can provide a unique treat that elevates the experience beyond just beer or wine.” When a drink is thematically linked to the show, audience members are more inclined to indulge.

Paddy Ratcliffe, head of bars at the National Theatre, acknowledges that bespoke cocktails aren’t suitable for every production. “A storytelling element is crucial,” he explains. For family-friendly shows like The Witches, they created a purple potion mocktail made with lemonade, cranberry juice, and violet syrup, with an option for adults to “spike” it with vodka or gin.

Social media also plays a pivotal role in this trend. Eye-catching and photogenic cocktails make for ideal Instagram content, especially when they feature clever names. “People today love to share their unique experiences,” Ratcliffe notes. “Colorful, whimsical drinks encourage patrons to snap selfies next to the show’s poster or with their tickets.”

While some theater-goers may still prefer a classic pint over an Emerald Elixir, many are enticed by something a little more extraordinary. “Bespoke cocktails consistently perform well,” says Lindon, “but some demographics show more interest. Younger theater attendees often opt for a champagne cocktail rather than a traditional glass of champagne. My goal is to offer something on the menu that tempts them away from their usual choices.”

As the fall theater season kicks off, there’s much anticipation for the inventive beverages that will grace theater bar menus. Perhaps a Prospero’s Storm cocktail for The Tempest at Theatre Royal Drury Lane? Or a The Devil Wears Grappa for the upcoming musical adaptation? If there’s an alternative to a lukewarm plastic flute of prosecco, count me in!