Jerry's in the money

Jerry Springer - The Opera, a hit at the National Theatre, has cleared an important hurdle as it prepares to open in the West End. It has started to take some money at the box office.

Sure, it was trickling in, but not in bucketloads as had been hoped. But the other day the musical took £50,000, and yesterday the same amount. If that pattern continues, Jerry Springer could be the commercial hit many hope it will be.

As marvellous and wonderful as Anything Goes is, it is still a revival. Jerry Springer is the shock of the new. Thoroughly Modern Millie is fabulous for the family (Amanda Holden and Maureen Lipman are going to be hits), but it's not going to shock you to your socks like Jerry.

Sony is releasing the live cast album in time for the opening night in November, although previews start on Tuesday at the Cambridge. There are plans for a studio album of the Springer score, with rock stars singing arias chock full of expletives.