Rolling Back Time with Starlight Express: From Childhood Dreams to Handmade Jewellery

When I was growing up in Ireland, weekends were for roller skating down the lane and dreaming in Technicolor. But nothing could have prepared me for my first visit to London in the '90s and seeing Starlight Express live on stage. The thrill! The lights! The roller skates! For a young musical theatre fan, it was pure magic.

Fast-forward to now, and I can’t quite believe I get to work on a jewellery range inspired by Starlight Express. When Maggie first introduced the idea at Licensed To Charm, my inner child did a backflip (on skates, obviously). This wasn’t just any range—it was a full-circle moment: a handmade-in-the-UK collection celebrating one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most electric musicals.

For those who don’t know, Starlight Express first hit the stage in 1984 and became a global sensation. What set it apart? The cast raced around the stage on roller skates, telling a story of trains brought to life—each with their own personality. Think Electra the flashy new engine, Rusty the underdog, Greaseball the cocky competitor, and Pearl, the beautiful first-class carriage who had to choose between power and heart.

What I love about this collection is how it captures that feeling—the rush of the race, the glitter of the disco lights, and the timeless power of believing in yourself. The Starlight Express Roller Skate Charm and Roller Skate Necklace are handcrafted from recycled sterling silver right here in the UK, designed to remind you of the joy, speed, and sparkle that made Starlight Express unforgettable.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the show for the first time, this collection is for you. It’s a celebration of nostalgia, theatre, and the handmade artistry we champion at Licensed To Charm.

Explore the Starlight Express Collection here 

Perfect for fans searching:

• Starlight Express merchandise

• Handmade musical jewellery

• Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals

• Roller skate gifts

• Musical theatre gifts UK

Because honestly? We all deserve to shine like we’re centre stage.