"James Cleeve’s musical supervision hits standards far in advance of what seems reasonable to expect from the fringe".
The Guardian, March 2017
I am an experienced Musical Director with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for getting the best out of those I work with.
I've MD'd numerous theatrical productions, workshops, cabarets and education projects in London and across the UK. I've conducted in the Royal Festival Hall and played in the West End.
I play piano, keyboards, accordion and organ, and transcribe, arrange and orchestrate.
Recently I've discovered a new love of composing, and I'm a keen member of the Book Music & Lyrics Advanced Composers' Workshop and Mercury Musical Developments.
In December 2018, I was delighted to win the Iris Theatre Xmas Factor Prize with Mike Stocks for our song "Heroes of Christmas, Celebrated Panto Dames" .
I'm represented by Access Artiste Management.
Feel free to get in touch - I'm always on the lookout for new, exciting work!
Charing Cross Theatre Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester
Musical Director
Following a critically acclaimed European Premiere in Manchester, The Squad of Company Y transferred into London with this really special show written by the Zellnik brothers. Set in the U.S. Military during WW2, this intimate love story between two men captured the imaginations of audiences and the press alike.
★★★★★ Attitude
★★★★ The Guardian
★★★★ The Stage
★★★★ Daily Express
Tristan Bates Theatre
Musical Director, Orchestrator & Vocal Arrangements
An intimate tale of love, loss and the struggle to survive, this show was based on the reality of Mussolini’s persecution of gay men.
I MD'd a 16-strong ensemble of actor-musicians, as well as orchestrating the score and writing all the vocal arrangements.
The Stage were impressed: "Talented musicians, great musical direction, ... and the cast are terrific", as were Musical Theatre Review: "★★★★ - The music impresses from the off".
October 2016
The Sound of Music
National Tour
Associate Musical Director
Associate MD for David Steadman on the BKL National Tour, starring Lucy O'Byrne and Andrew Lancel. "A cast full of marvellous musical theatre voices ... Is there a stronger score in Broadway history?" (Broadway World)
Autumn 2017
Sing Before You Speak Again
Young Vic
Associate Musical Director
A truly special project for Young Vic Taking Part. We brought together twenty singers to develop and perform a song cycle inspired by the memories of those who'd suffered from a stroke or other similar cognitive condition. Five sold out performances at the Young Vic.
May 2016
Wendi Peters: Let Me Sing
The Other Palace
Musical Director
I had the absolute privilege of working with the gorgeous Wendi Peters for this night as part of the London Festival of Cabaret.
We spun our way through two acts of medleys and songs telling the story of Wendi's career in theatre, TV and on the UK baking scene!
★★★★ from Musical Theatre Review, including praise for some 'yummy' piano work!
March 2016
Lambeth Music Festival
Royal Festival Hall
Conductor
My fourth amazing year conducting 900 kids, an organ and an awesome band on stage in the RFH, for the culmination of the Lambeth Music Festival. The sound is out of this world!
Our special guest in 2016 was the fantastic Lara Lee, Finalist on The Voice UK 2015.
The Aldwych & National Tour
Keys/Accordion Dep
I was a regular dep on the Olivier Award-winning Top Hat in the West End and on tour, covering the keys and onstage accordion chair. MD Dan Jackson.
2012
The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Arts Theatre West End
Musical Director
The London revival of Rupert Holmes' Tony Award winning musical transferred from The Landor straight to the West End, playing at the Arts for four weeks.
Time Out ★★★★ "Excellent", WhatsOnStage "spirited musical direction."