Antony Costa: "I'll always cherish performing"

Image Source: Liverpool
Empire Theatre

Written By: Mark Armstrong

When you think of Antony Costa, you may think immediately of Blue, one of the most British popular boy bands of the early 21st century. But he has also established himself a successful career in theatre, having performed in such shows as Blood Brother and Boogie Nights, and he's back on stage for Save The Last Dance For Me, which comes to the Liverpool Empire Theatre next month. We spoke to Antony about his current theatre tour, as well as key events for him in music and television.

First of all, tell us about the upcoming show Save The Last Dance For Me.

Save The Last Dance is a 60s jukebox musical with a love story. There are some fantastic songs, written by two songwriters called Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman; they wrote songs like A Teenager In Love, Viva Las Vegas and the iconic song Save The Last Dance For Me. It's a lovely musical that's very uplifting with a great love story.

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Flavia Cacace: Last Tango a show for everyone to enjoy

Image Source: Burton Mail

Written By: Mark Armstrong

With more than 20 years of professional dancing experience, Flavia Cacace and Vincent Simone have become one of the most notable dancing couples, having starred in several theatre shows and Strictly Come Dancing for seven years beforehand. And their latest show Last Tango is about to foxtrot its way into the Liverpool Empire Theatre. To learn more about the show and their careers, we recently spoke to Flavia Cacace, who promises an eye-catching and emotional performance for the Liverpool audience.

Tell us about the Last Tango tour.

We're on the road at the moment, we're touring the UK, and Last Tango is our first big production. It's quite an emotional show, and all of our shows have a story to follow, so we take you on a journey with us. It’s the story of a man called George, who acts almost as an older Vincent (Simone). So basically we take you through his life, from the very first time he met his partner to all the things that happen in his life, all the way to the very end. There are ups and downs that I think people will relate to.

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Dominic North: "Sleeping Beauty is a great, great show"

Dominic North
(Image Source: Dancers Pro)

Written By: Mark Armstrong

We recently spoke to Dominic North, star of Matthew Bourne's production of Sleeping Beauty, about his role in the show, how it differs from the original fairy-tale version, and his own career to date ...

First of all, can you tell us about your role as Leo in Sleeping Beauty?

Leo is a love interest of Aurora, so I guess he's playing what would be the role of Prince Charming from the original. But he's more of a childhood sweetheart, like Catherine Earnshaw in Wuthering Heights, because he's a lonely gardener, and she's a regal princess.

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Dean Elliott: Simon and Garfunkel story needs to be told

Dean Elliott (Image Source:
The Simon and
Garfunkel Story)

Written By: Mark Armstrong

The work of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel created some unforgettable songs which remain favourites amongst an older generation to this very day. And a modern audience will receive the opportunity to appreciate these tunes and more in the brand new theatre show The Simon and Garfunkel Story, which comes to the Liverpool Empire Theatre this Friday.

We caught up with Dean Elliott, who will play a vital role both on the stage and behind the curtain for this show, on the significance of this show and why, in many ways, it is an ideal production for him to work on …

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Robin Windsor Bringing Glitz To Puttin' On The Ritz

Image Source: Sunday Express

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Mark Armstrong recently grabbed a quick word with Robin Windsor ahead of his role as a lead dancer in Puttin’ On The Ritz, which is about to take the Liverpool Empire Theatre back to the Golden Age of Hollywood …

To begin with, can you briefly tell us the story behind Puttin' On The Ritz?

There's no exact plot for Puttin' On The Ritz. It's a song-and-dance extravaganza, so it's taking everybody back to the 1920s and 1930s, that Golden Age of Hollywood, with the music by Cole Porter, Irvin Berlin and George Gershwin. These are timeless songs that will never, ever be forgotten. So, it's just a succession of dance numbers and songs, taking everybody back to that wonderful era.

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Freya Sutton: "Tracy Turnblad is a dream role for me in Hairspray"

Image Source: Twitter

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

With the internationally-popular show Hairspray about to land at the Liverpool Empire Theatre, Mark Armstrong recently spoke to one of the main stars of the show, Freya Sutton, to discuss her role as Tracy Turnblad and why it is the perfect part for her to play …

To begin with, briefly tell us the story of Hairspray.

My character Tracy Turnblad is from a family that is not very well-off (her mum's a housewife who does ironing and stuff, and her dad runs a shop that doesn't really do very well), plus they're kind of overweight. Tracy is told that entering the dance business is a risk, because her mother doesn't want to see her get hurt, but Tracy is determined and says that she really want to get onto a TV show, The Corny Collins Show, which would showcase her talents.

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Joe to play Joseph: X Factor champ dons coat of many colours at St Helens Theatre Royal

Joe McElderry

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: St Helens Theatre Royal

X Factor winner Joe McElderry will put on the dazzling coat of many colours as he steps into the title role of the UK’s longest-running musical Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at St Helens Theatre Royal in February 2016.

Joe was just 18 when he won the sixth series of The X Factor having been mentored by Girls Aloud star Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and beating off fierce competition from Olly Murs and Stacey Solomon.

He then soared to number one on the UK Singles Charts with his rendition of Miley Cyrus’s The Climb and his debut album Wide Awake went straight in at number three on the UK Albums Chart. He has since gone on to have two more top ten albums, and he became the first X Factor star to release four albums, with a fifth in the making.

Joe, who hails from South Shields, Tyne and Wear, is also the first and only celebrity to win three reality TV shows! He was crowned the winner of the second series of ITV’s Popstar to Operastar before strapping on his skis and slaloming his way to become champion of Channel 4’s celebrity ski competition The Jump last year!

Joseph marks Joe’s first major theatrical appearance following a one-off West End gala performance as the lead in The Who's Tommy in 2012.

Having garnered sensational reviews and standing ovations at every performance since its inception almost 35 years ago, Bill Kenwright’s Amazing’, ‘Superb’, ‘Wonderful’ and ‘Brilliant’ production of this sparkling family musical has now sold an estimated 20 million tickets.

This vibrant and exciting retelling of the biblical story about Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours sings out to young and old alike with a score which is crammed wall to wall with hits, including Jacob and Sons, Close Every Door and Any Dream Will Do.

The show is presented by Bill Kenwright by special arrangement with the Really Useful Group – lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Chantelle Nolan, manager of St Helens Theatre Royal, commented: “Following the success of Blood Brothers, we are absolutely thrilled to present Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and are sure Joe McElderry will be perfect for the role of Joseph.”

For more information, please visit www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com.

Puttin' On The Ritz coming to Liverpool

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Strictly Come Dancing stars lead the UK tour of the hit song and dance extravaganza

Presented by International Theatre Producer David King, the tour of the spectacular Puttin' On The Ritz is currently wowing audiences across the UK.

Puttin' On The Ritz stars a variety of professional “Strictly” dancers at different venues, including Robin Windsor and Anya Garnis with Trent Whiddan and Gordana Frandosek.

Ray Quinn will join Puttin' On The Ritz in September. Runner-up in The X- Factor in 2006, with his debut album going straight to number one in the UK charts, Ray has starred in many West End musicals.

Puttin' On The Ritz takes you on a musical journey with wonderful music from three legendary composers, Cole Porter, George Gershwin and Irving Berlin. Songs in the show will include Cheek to Cheek, Alexander’s Rag Time Band, Birth of the Blues, Swanee, Night and Day, I Got Rhythm, Easter Parade, and Puttin’ On The Ritz.

These classic songs of the Golden Age of Hollywood are recreated live on stage with a star-studded cast of fabulous singers and dancers who are set to entertain the audience with their slick harmonies, glamorous costumes and ballroom dancing skills.

Puttin’ On The Ritz is produced by David King with music and lyrics by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and George Gershwin.

Becky O’Brien performed in her first professional production at the age of seven. Becky toured America, Asia, Europe and the UK, as the lead vocalist in shows such as Spirit of the Dance; Broadway, the Star Spangled Celebration; and The Spirit of Christmas. Alongside two of her sisters, she took on the role of The Deering Sisters in the internationally acclaimed Pathe feature film, Mrs Henderson Presents. The sister act worked alongside Dame Judi Dench and Bob Hoskins, recording the theme song for the film.

Ray Quinn’s first acting role was in Brookside, the popular soap based in Liverpool. He was announced as the runner-up in the X Factor to Leona Lewis in 2006 and subsequently released a a debut album which went to number in one in the UK charts and eventually became a platinum selling album. Ray has starred in many West End musicals including Grease, Dirty Dancing, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice and Legally Blonde. Ray was the winner of ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2009 and went on to win the final All Stars series in 2014. Ray is currently recording an album and is inspired by by the “greats”, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and the Rat Pack.

Robin Windsor is a British professional Latin and Ballroom dancer, best known for his appearances in the BBC television series Strictly Come Dancing. Robin is also known for starring in the successful West End production of Burn The Floor with his professional partner Kristina Rihanoff.

Trent Whiddon is an award-winning Australian dancer and choreographer. He was a lead dancer and company manager of Burn the Floor for 13 years including the Broadway production. He has choreographed for So You Think You Can Dance, Satisfaction on a Dance Floor and the E-trade commercial with Kevin Spacey. Most recently, Trent has completed touring with the Strictly Live tour after a successful first season on Strictly Come Dancing partnering Pixie Lott.

For more information, visit www.puttinontheritztour.com.

Danielle bringing Hope to The Sound Of Music

Image Source:
Manchester Evening News

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

The Sound Of Music, one of the most legendary musicals of all-time, is returning to the Liverpool Empire next month. Playing the role of Maria Von Trapp will be Danielle Hope, who over the last five years has had a range of unforgettable experiences on the theatre stage, having been propelled to stardom by a television show which landed her a role as Dorothy in The Wizard Of Oz and a place in future big-budget theatre productions. I recently spoke to Danielle about The Sound Of Music, her experiences so far in theatre, and whether she could handle a family as big as that of the Von Trapps in real life …

To begin with, explain the story of The Sound Of Music, and of your role as Maria Von Trapp.

The Sound Of Music, as many, many people will know, is a very famous story based on a family that were fleeing Austria at a very dangerous time. I think the reason a lot of people feel this strongly connected to The Sound Of Music is because they were real people, and this was a very real time in the world. Now, a young girl who is training to be a nun is sent away because of, let’s say, her behaviour, and her choice of life and singing. Then, she meets this very disconnected family where the father is going through a lot, and the children have almost been army drilled because he's a naval officer. And she introduces them to music, and then they find a connection, which ends up inspiring the captain and saving them at the end of the day while they flee.

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Dreamboats and Miniskirts brings the Swinging Sixties back to Liverpool with a performance at the Cavern

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Cast perform at the world-famous Cavern Club during International Beatles Week

60s Rock and Roll spectacular Dreamboats and Miniskirts opened at the Liverpool Empire last night.

The show is here until Saturday, and they couldn’t have picked a better week to Twist and Shout their way into Liverpool.

International Beatles week takes place this week and, to celebrate, the cast performed a number of well-known smash-hit songs from the show at the world famous Cavern Club.

The sequel to the popular Dreamboats and Petticoats which was set in the 1950s, Dreamboats and Miniskirts moves on a decade and to the next period in pop history.

The show is heavily inspired by the advent of the Beatles and the Merseybeat sound, which features heavily throughout the show.

Expect a whole lot of nostalgia, as the show is bursting with hits from the Merseybeat generation including Do You Love Me, Hippy Hippy Shake, Be My Baby, Twist and Shout, Louie Louie, The House of The Rising Sun and many more.

Dreamboats and Miniskirts is happiness guaranteed!

The show plays at the Liverpool Empire until Saturday August 29.

Dreamboats and Miniskirts bringing the swinging 60s back to Liverpool

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Dreamboats and Miniskirts has returned to theatres to showcase the greatest hit songs of the 60s, and is touring the Liverpool Empire Theatre until Saturday August 29.

It is the sequel to Dreamboats and Petticoats, which premiered in Bromley in 2009, and became a musical phenomenon having played to more than two million people across the UK. Inspired by Universal’s multi-million selling album series which now boasts seven double compilation albums and a myriad of one off special releases!

It’s 1963 and the Petticoats gang are growing up and facing new challenges. Bobby and Laura’s first single, Dreamboats and Petticoats, went to the top of the charts, but they haven’t been able to repeat that success with any further records. Norman and Sue have settled down to non-marital bliss – and a baby! And Ray and Donna seem blissfully happy in their professional lives ... but are they really?

The advent of the Beatles and the Merseybeat sound is inspirational. But will it inspire Bobby and Laura to have one more shot at stardom, Norman to “get off the drains” and find that hit parade voice he has longed for, and Ray to realise his ambition and manage a really top pop act?

All will be revealed in a follow up with the same wit, charm, and great songs as Dreamboats and Petticoats.

Dreamboats and Miniskirts is written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, the team behind Goodnight Sweetheart, Birds of a Feather, The New Statesman, Shine on Harvey Moon, Save the Last Dance For Me and of course, Dreamboats and Petticoats, and is produced by Bill Kenwright and Laurie Mansfield in association with Universal Music.

Featuring hit after hit from Twist & Shout to Handy Man to Pretty Woman, One Fine Day and many more, Dreamboats and Miniskirts is happiness guaranteed.

To book tickets for Dreamboats and Miniskirts, click here.

Full casting announced for Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

David Ian Productions and the Ambassador Theatre Group are delighted to announce the full cast for the UK tour of the international smash-hit musical Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert, which plays at the Liverpool Empire from Monday January 25 to Saturday January 30 2016.

Joining the previously announced Jason Donovan, who reprises the role of Tick, are Simon Green as Bernadette, Adam Bailey as Felicia and Philip Childs as Bob.

Simon Green’s most recent stage credits include Bruce Ismay in Titanic, both in Toronto and at the Southwark Playhouse; The World Goes Round at the Union Theatre and Monsieur André in The Phantom Of The Opera on tour. Adam Bailey most recently appeared as Espresso in the German production of Starlight Express. His other theatre credits include Mary Sunshine in Chicago at Leicester Curve and Alan in Bare at the Greenwich Theatre. Philip Childs played the role of Bob on the 2013 tour of Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert. He is currently appearing as Doctor Dillamond in Wicked at the Apollo Victoria. Other recent theatre credits include Alan Bennett’s People and The Habit Of Art at the National Theatre.

Jason Donovan played the role of Tick when the show originally opened in the West End and its subsequent tour in 2013. His other West End credits include the title role in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Caractacus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. His touring credits include Captain Von Trapp in The Sound Of Music and Frank N Furter in The Rocky Horror Show and most recently Lionel Logue in The King’s Speech. His television credits include Neighbours and Echo Beach. He was also a finalist in ITV’s smash-hit I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! and reached the final of Strictly Come Dancing.

They are joined by Richard Astbury; Rebecca Botterill; Matt Crandon; Peter Cumins; Amy Di Bartolomeo; Martin Harding; Lisa-Marie Holmes; Ricky Lee Loftus; Adam Lyons; Callum MacDonald; Laura Mansell; Catherine Mort; James Paul McAllister; Robin Mills; Craig Ryder; Naomi Slights and Julie Yammanee.

Get ready for the ride of your life! Based on the movie, Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert - The Musical is the heart-warming, uplifting adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship and end up finding more than they could have ever dreamed of. With a dazzling array of outrageous costumes and a hit parade of dancefloor classics including I Will Survive, Say A Little Prayer, Go West, Hot Stuff, Boogie Wonderland and Always On My Mind, this wildly fresh and funny new musical is a journey to the heart of FABULOUS!

Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert - The Musical originally opened in Australia and after a sell-out two year run, opened in London’s West End followed by Broadway in the United States. It has won numerous awards all over the world, including prestigious Olivier and Tony awards.

Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert - The Musical is written by Stephan Elliott and Allan Scott and Directed by Simon Phillips. The Associate Director is Dean Bryant. Choreography is by Andrew Hallsworth and Ross Coleman; Musical Arrangements, Direction and Supervision by Stephen ‘Spud’ Murphy and Charlie Hull; Production Design by Brian Thomson, Costume Design by Tim Chappel and Lizzy Gardiner; Make-Up Design by Cassie Hanlon; Original Lighting Designs by Nick Schlieper and Original Sound Design by Michael Waters.

A little (more) conversation with Sian Reeves

Image Source: Chronicle Live

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Throughout the week, Love Me Tender, the brand new musical featuring the hits of Elvis Presley as its soundtrack, has left the Liverpool Empire and thousands of attendees All Shook Up. As the show continues its Merseyside run, I spoke to one of the stars of the production, Sian Reeves (who plays the character of Mayor Matilda Hyde), where she discussed her contribution to Love Me Tender, and compared it to other experiences throughout her varied career …

First of all, can you tell us about the story of Love Me Tender, and of your role as Mayor Matilda Hyde?

The story is about a small town in the middle of nowhere in America. I play Mayor Matilda Hyde, and she runs the town with a firm hand: she doesn’t allow tight pants, public kissing, loud music etc. But then this guy comes to the town who's a bit of a nod to Elvis, who shakes us all up, who makes the jukebox work again, and who gets everybody wearing blue suede shoes. I oppose him all the way, until near the end when I have a meltdown to (the tune of) The Devil In Disguise!

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Shrek to take 'ogre' Southport Flower Show

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Beloved ogre Shrek and the beautiful Princess Fiona will ‘swamp’ Southport Flower Show’s opening day on Thursday August 20

Shrek The Musical® plays at the Liverpool Empire from Wednesday November 25–Sunday December 6

The characters of Shrek The Musical® will be making appearances throughout the day as part of the celebrations of the opening of Southport’s annual flower show, ahead of the production’s triumphant return to the North West.

The flower show will feature a specially designed Shrek swamp, by award-winning gardeners, Mook Gardens LTD, giving visitors a chance to meet Shrek and Princess Fiona on their home turf.

Visitors to Southport Flower Show have the delight of exploring Shrek’s garden and his floral swamp house throughout the show (Thursday August 20–Sunday August 23) with the chance of bumping into the star couple on the opening day.

Shrek commented: "I confess a trip to the Southport Flower Show is a first for me, but of course when I heard there was going to be a recreation of my swamp I couldn’t resist. Fiona is really excited and hopes the flower show might inspire me into developing more of a gardening habit. I already have the green fingers so that’s a good start. We couldn’t resist visiting as the tour of Shrek The Musical will arrive in Liverpool in November/December time and has its very last date in February at the Lowry in Salford."

Ray Roukin, general manager at Southport Flower Show, added: "We're really pleased to be welcoming Shrek and his swamp garden to the show this year, it's going to be a unique attraction and should prove a big draw for young and old alike."

Shrek and his garden join a number of family attractions at this year's show, including free-flying birds of prey, dog displays and award-winning clowns Sonny and Rainbow. The show will also be having its first ever Super Kids Sunday which includes a dedicated Children's Marquee on the final day of show, with science workshops and fun, interactive activities.

Entry to the show-ground is free for children under 16, when accompanied by a paying adult, so there have never been more reasons to take the family to Southport.

Southport Flower Show runs from Thursday August 20-Sunday August 23. For more information, visit www.southportflowershow.co.uk or call 01704 547147. Southport Flower Show Tickets cost just £18 in advance, a 20% saving on the gate price.

Shrek The Musical® is coming direct from London, where it was seen live on stage by nearly a million people, and will run at Liverpool Empire Theatre from Wednesday November 25-Sunday December 6, and The Lowry from Wednesday February 2–Sunday February 20 2016.

Based on the Oscar® winning DreamWorks film and featuring all-new songs as well as cult Shrek anthem I’m a Believer, Shrek The Musical® brings the much-loved DreamWorks characters to life, live on stage, in an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza.

Legally Blonde returning to Liverpool Empire

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Omigod you guys!

Liverpool Empire’s Creative Learning department have been working on an exciting new project that has given local young performing arts enthusiasts the opportunity to star in the North West’s amateur premiere production of Legally Blonde: The Musical.

Following on from the success of last year’s Youth Theatre production of Sister Act, the Liverpool Empire’s Creative Learning department was invited to present one of the first amateur productions of Legally Blonde: The Musical, a year before its general amateur release.

The Empire’s Youth Theatre and Youth Dance companies work under the guidance of industry professionals, which enables them to experience a professional environment, preparing them for the world of work within the theatre industry and many of those involved go on to pursue professional careers in performing arts.

Both performing arts groups have been meeting regularly and working hard in preparation of the full scale musical, which plays at the Empire Theatre from Friday August 21-Saturday August 22.

Creative Learning Manager Natalie Flynn commented: "Legally Blonde is such a great show and one that the young people can relate to, as it explores themes such as following your dreams and being true to yourself. ATG launched the first tour of Legally Blonde the Musical in Liverpool so this production is extra special to us. We’re honoured to be chosen as one of the first to perform an amateur production of Legally Blonde."

A winner of seven major awards including the coveted Best Musical 2011 (Olivier Awards), the all-singing, all-dancing romantic comedy Legally Blonde: The Musical is about knowing who you are and showing what you’ve got!

Sorority star Elle Woods doesn't take ‘no’ for an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her for someone ‘serious’, Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books, and sets out to go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard Law. With some help from new-found friends Paulette, Emmett and her Chihuahua Bruiser, Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style!

Just one month until the brand new production of The Sound Of Music opens at the Empire

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

From Oz to Austria, a Palladium star brings the hills alive in The Sound Of Music

One of the greatest musicals of all-time returns to the stage in a magnificent new production which plays at the Liverpool Empire from Monday September 14-Saturday September 19 as part of a major national tour.

Playing the iconic role of Maria von Trapp is Danielle Hope, who captured the hearts of the country when she won BBC Television’s Over the Rainbow and made her professional debut as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz at the London Palladium. Danielle has since played Eponine in Les Misérables in London’s West End and Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

Joining the company as Captain von Trapp is much-loved stage and television star Steven Houghton. Well-known for his longstanding television role in London’s Burning, Olivier-Award nominated actor Steven has taken on leading roles in Spend Spend Spend, Blood Brothers, White Christmas, Martin Guerre and Grease and had a Top Ten hit with ‘Wind Beneath My Wings’.

Produced by Bill Kenwright, directed by Martin Connor, choreographed by Olivier Award winner Bill Deamer, and with musical direction by David Steadman, this wonderfully lavish new staging of the classic musical coincides with the 50th anniversary of the film version, the most successful movie musical in history.

It all began with the story of the Trapp Family Singers and Baroness Maria von Trapp’s 1949 autobiography, which inspired Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse to create a Broadway musical in 1959. The Sound of Music tells the true story of the world-famous singing family, from their romantic beginnings and search for happiness, to their thrilling escape to freedom as their beloved Austria becomes part of the Third Reich at the start of WWII.

The unforgettable score features some of the most memorable songs ever performed on stage, including Edelweiss, My Favorite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Ev’ry Mountain, So Long, Farewell and, of course, the title song The Sound Of Music.

Joining Danielle and Steven are West End stars Jan Hartley (The Phantom of the Opera and West Side Story) as Mother Abbess, and Emma Clifford as Baroness Elsa Schrader, with Howard Samuels as Max, Grace Chapman as Liesl and Luke George as Rolf.

Completing the cast are Lynden Edwards, Philip Day, Zoe Ann Bown, Kate Milner Evans, Martin Dickinson, Lewis Barnshaw, Colin Burnicle, Jessica Daley, Grace Gardner and Katie Shearman.

Sister Act coming to the Liverpool Empire in Autumn 2016

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Jamie Wilson is delighted to announce a national tour of an all-new production of the hit musical comedy Sister Act, directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood with musical supervision and arrangements by Tony award-winning Sarah Travis. Sister Act will play the Liverpool Empire Theatre from Monday October 10-Saturday October 15 2016.

Tickets go on sale to ATG Theatre Card members on Monday August 3 2015 and on general sale on Wednesday August 5 2015.

Craig Revel Horwood, director and choreographer, commented: “I am truly thrilled to be directing and choreographing this all new production of Sister Act, a show I fell in love with when I saw it a few years ago. I am currently putting together a dream creative team, and I can’t wait to get started next year on this hilarious and wonderful show”.

Jamie Wilson, producer, added: “I am delighted to be presenting this all new production of Sister Act at both Curve, Leicester and on tour. I couldn’t think of a better theatre to be producing this show with and am thrilled Nikolai Foster and his team will be welcoming those singing nuns next summer!”

Nikolai Foster, artistic director of Curve, said: "It's been a great joy collaborating with Craig on Annie and having been inspired by many of his innovative productions as director, I know, along with Sarah’s inspired musical leadership, they will deliver an exhilarating and hugely original production at Curve".

Based on the smash-hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith, Sister Act tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a Convent! Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Sister Act features original music by the eight-time Oscar and Tony Award winner Alan Menken. Alan’s credits include the films and stage musicals of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid and Newsies as well as Tangled, Enchanted, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Pocahontas and Hercules on film. His other credits include the film and stage production of Little Shop of Horrors.

Craig Revel Horwood is probably best known as a judge on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing. As a director and choreographer, his many credits include the recent all-star concert of Stephen Sondheim’s Follies at the Royal Albert Hall, Sunset Boulevard at the Comedy theatre in the West End, the national tours of Fiddler on the Roof, Spend Spend Spend and Chess (also Toronto) and The Witches of Eastwick, Martin Guerre and Copacabana, all at the Watermill Theatre. Craig also wrote and directed a brand new show Strictly Confidential that toured the UK, starring familiar faces from Strictly Come Dancing as well as the annual arena tours of Strictly Come Dancing. As a performer, his West End Theatre credits include Munkustrap in Cats at the New London Theatre; Miss Saigon at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane; and Harry in Crazy for You at the Prince Edward Theatre. He is currently playing Miss Hannigan in the tour of Annie.

Sister Act has music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater, with a book by Cheri Steinkellner and Bill Steinkellner and additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane. It is based on the Touchstone Pictures movie Sister Act, written by Jacob Howard.

For more information, visit www.sisteractuktour.co.uk.

David Hasselhoff to tour in a brand new musical

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

The iconic David Hasselhoff is to tour more than 20 theatres and arenas across the UK with the brand new musical Last Night A DJ Saved My Life.

The explosive new production opens with a world premiere at the Blackpool Opera House on October 16 2015 ahead of a major UK tour which will see The Hoff play 68 nights at more than 20 venues over a 13-week tour between October 2015 and February 2016.

The Hoff plays Ross, a hilarious hedonist. He’s Ibiza’s top 80s DJ who doesn’t realise a new decade has dawned, disco is out, and that the club scene is in.

He tries to keep up with the times...with Mandy, his new younger girlfriend (Kim Tiddy, from The Bill and Hollyoaks), but matters are complicated when his teenage daughter Penny (Stephanie Webber from The Voice) arrives to stay. Father and daughter haven’t seen each other for three years, since a messy divorce. No longer a demure school girl, but a wild child who quickly falls for Rik, the holiday rep (Shane Richie Jnr).

It’s the story of two generations colliding, as a badly behaved parent tries to control a wild child teenager! This hilarious hit-fest is also a touching father and daughter drama set against a background of sun, sea, sex, drugs and hits that take us back to the 80s and 90s when we wore denim overalls, girls had hair scrunchies and guys played Nintendo Game Boy. Think Mamma Mia on speed! Friends meets Ibiza Uncovered, with the soundtrack of our lives.

Last Night A DJ Saved My Life will play the Liverpool Empire Theatre from January 19-23 2016.

Jason Donovan to play Tick in Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

David Ian Productions and the Ambassador Theatre Group are delighted to announce that Jason Donovan will play the role of Tick in the UK tour of the international smash hit musical Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert, which plays at the Liverpool Empire from Monday January 25-Saturday January 30 2016.

Jason Donovan reprises the role of Tick, the part he played when the show originally opened in the West End and its subsequent tour in 2013. He has had a hugely successful and varied career as both an actor and world-wide recording artist, selling over 13 million albums to date. As well as Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert, his other West End credits include the title role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Caractacus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. His touring credits include Captain Von Trapp in The Sound Of Music, Frank N Furter in The Rocky Horror Show, the title role in John Doyle’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd and The Artilleryman in The War Of The Worlds. He can currently be seen as Lionel Logue in The King’s Speech. His television credits include Neighbours and Echo Beach. He was also a finalist in ITV’s smash hit I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! and reached the final of Strictly Come Dancing.

Get ready for the ride of your life! Based on the movie, Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert - The Musical is the heart-warming, uplifting adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship and end up finding more than they could have ever dreamed of. With a dazzling array of outrageous costumes and a hit parade of dance-floor favourites including It’s Raining Men, Say A Little Prayer, Go West, Hot Stuff and Always On My Mind, this wildly fresh and funny new musical is a journey to the heart of Fabulous!

Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert - The Musical originally opened in Australia and after a sell-out two year run, opened in London’s West End followed by Broadway in the United States. It has won numerous awards all over the world, including prestigious Olivier and Tony awards.

For further details, visit www.priscillathemusical.com.

Roll back the years to the swingin' sixties with the Dreamboats sequel

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Empire Theatre

Inspired by the seven smash hit multi-million selling albums

Whatever happened to Bobby and Laura and Norman and Sue? Their story continues in Dreamboats and Miniskirts, the sequel to Dreamboats and Petticoats.

This summer, Dreamboats and Miniskirts returns to theatres to showcase the greatest hit songs of the 60s. It visits the Liverpool Empire theatre from Monday August 24-Saturday August 29.

It is the sequel to Dreamboats and Petticoats, which premiered in Bromley in 2009, and became a musical phenomenon having played to more than two million people across the UK. Inspired by Universal’s multi-million selling album series which now boasts seven double compilation albums and a myriad of one off special releases!

It’s 1963 and the Petticoats gang are growing up and facing new challenges. Bobby and Laura’s first single, Dreamboats and Petticoats, went to the top of the charts, but they haven’t been able to repeat that success with any further records. Norman and Sue have settled down to non-marital bliss, and a baby! And Ray and Donna seem blissfully happy in their professional lives ... but are they really?

The advent of the Beatles and the Merseybeat sound is inspirational. But will it inspire Bobby and Laura to have one more shot at stardom, Norman to “get off the drains” and find that hit parade voice he has longed for, and Ray to realise his ambition and manage a really top pop act?

All will be revealed in a follow up with the same wit, charm, and great songs as Dreamboats and Petticoats.

Dreamboats and Miniskirts is written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, the team behind Goodnight Sweetheart, Birds of a Feather, The New Statesman, Shine on Harvey Moon, Save the Last Dance For Me and of course, Dreamboats and Petticoats, and is produced by Bill Kenwright and Laurie Mansfield in association with Universal Music.

Featuring hit after hit from Twist & Shout to Handy Man to Pretty Woman, One Fine Day and many more, Dreamboats and Miniskirts is happiness guaranteed.