The news that has got theatre land talking this week includes..
Chris Evans to play Gene Kelly
It has been announced that Chris Evans is going to play the role of Gene Kelly in a new movie based on the life of the great performer.
In the film, written by John Logan, will follow a young kid in the 1950’s who dreams big and forms an imagined friendship with Gene Kelly.
Full casting announced for Footloose
Full casting has been announced for the tour of Footloose which opens that the theatre royal Plymouth on 14 February.
Joining the already announced Jake Quickenden (Willard) and Darren Day (Reverend Moore) will be Lucy Munden as Ariel, Oonagh Cox as Rusty, Alex Fobbester as Bickle, Anna Westlake as Lulu, Ben Mabberley as Jeter, Ben Barrow as Wes, Jess Barker as Wendi-Jo, Joshua Hawkins as Ren, Geri Allen as Ethal, Samantha Richards as Urleen and Tom Mussell as Chuck with Lucy Ireland and Daniel Miles as off stage swings
Whilst the show is in Zurich, the role of Willard will be played by Luke Friend with Philip Bulcock playing Reverend Moore.
Moulin Rouge confirms new opening night date
After weeks of cancellations due to cast illnesses in productions up and down the country, the west end production of Moulin Rouge has now confirmed a date for its official opening night.
Press night will take place on 20 January with performances before this date continuing as planned. The show has received seven WhatsOnStage award nominations, including best new musical.
Look out for my review after press night.
Big Night of Musicals to be broadcast on the BBC
It has been announced that the National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals arena concert will be broadcast on the BBC later this month.
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, & Juliet, Waitress The Musical and Get Up, Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical, joining the previously announced acts from Frozen, Dear Evan Hansen, The Lion King, Back to the Future, Beauty and the Beast, Dreamgirls, The Wiz, Bat Out of Hell, The Drifters Girl and School of Rock will all be taking part in the event on January 24 with the show airing on BBC One on Saturday 29 January.
Ariana DeBose to host Saturday Night Live
Ariana DeBose will host the first Saturday Night Live of 2022 on January 15, with musical guest Roddy Rich.
She is expected to earn an Oscar nomination for her recent portrayal of Anita in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, in addition to the already announced Golden Globe and Critic’s Choice Award nominations.
Images found via Google, not my own
Comments