CLICK HERE for tickets.

Having started his career over 40 years ago, he is a well-established star with fans all over the world. Ebi’s unique style and charming personality have attracted fans of all ages.

Ebi was born in Tehran in 1949 and started his career with two bands: the ‘Sun Boys’ and the ‘Black Cats’. It wasn’t until the early 1970’s that Ebi started to pursue a solo career. He shot to fame in the mid 1970’s with 5 number one hits. 

Having recorded six albums, some of which include songs that are still popular amongst Iranian youth, Ebi left Iran two years before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, but continued to work in the US. During his years away from Iran, he recorded another 13 albums and is still performing at sold-out concerts at some of the most prestigious international venues around the world including the Sydney Opera House, LA Greek Theatre, Sydney State Theatre and Washington DC Kennedy Center. 

During a career spanning over 40 years, Ebi has been awarded several awards (including the title of ‘Master of Voice’)  and  has inspired a  whole generation to follow in his footsteps.

CLICK HERE to get your tickets for Ebi -  Live In Concert  at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.

For more information on Love Never Dies and all worldwide release information, visit the website.

In these exclusive behind-the-scenes clips we talk costumes, make up and much more, as we caught up with some of the cast including Mykal Rand (Electra) and Kristofer Harding (Rusty) as they filmed a special digital advert for the show (which you can see here.)

Andrew will be receiving a BASCA Fellowship at this year’s Ivor Novello Awards on Thursday 17 May. The BASCA Fellowship is the highest accolade which a composer can receive, bestowed by composers in the UK. It recognises unique creative talent in music writing together with iconic achievement for and on behalf of composers. BASCA Fellows are exceptional artists and ambassadors for the song-writing and composing profession and BASCA’s role within it.

BASCA Fellows include: John Adams, David Arnold, Sir Malcolm Arnold, John Barry, Don Black, Pierre Boulez, Sir John Dankworth, David Ferguson, George Fenton, Sir Elton John, Barry Gibb, Maurice Gibb, Robin Gibb, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies and Sir Tim Rice.

Leslie Bricusse will be presenting the Fellowship to Andrew.

About BASCA

BASCA, the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors, is the professional association for music writers of all genres in the UK. With approximately 2,000 members, it is the single voice for British music creators.

BASCA works to foster a sense of community amongst songwriters, lyricists and composers, and to campaign on their behalf in the domestic, European and international political arenas. As the only association in the country made up entirely of music writers, the organisation has an unparalleled insight into the issues affecting music creators in the UK today. We work closely with our members, keeping them informed in a constantly changing environment via our publications, websites, seminars and professional networking events. BASCA also presents the Ivor Novello Awards, British Composer Awards and Gold Badge Awards annually.

The race is on… 

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER AND JESSIE J WILL REUNITE AS THEY BOTH WIN 2012 NORDOFF ROBBINS O2 SILVER CLEF AWARDS

Nordoff Robbins, the national specialist music charity, has announced today that Jessie J and Andrew Lloyd Webber will reunite as they both win 2012 Nordoff Robbins O2 Silver Clef Awards.

The O2 Silver Clef Awards is hosted by Nordoff Robbins at the London Hilton on Park Lane, on Friday June 29th. The star-studded annual event which is known for its who’s who audience of A-list musical heavyweights recognises outstanding musical talent whilst raising money for the national specialist music charity, Nordoff Robbins, using music to transform the lives of vulnerable children and adults.

Andrew Lloyd Webber will receive the Sony Mobile ‘Lifetime Achievement’ Award, presented to him by Jessie J. Jessie J was 11 years old when she was discovered by Andrew Lloyd Webber and chosen to star in his West End production of Whistle Down The Wind – the start of her highly successful music career.

Jessie J will be given the Royal Albert Hall ‘Best British Act’ Award. Jessie J is thrilled to be winning her award on the same night that the global musical legend is being awarded his.

Andrew Lloyd Webber says:

“I am honoured to be the recipient of this year’s Sony Mobile ‘Lifetime Achievement’ Award at the Nordoff Robbins O2 Silver Clef lunch, and would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the wonderful work of Nordoff Robbins in transforming lives through music therapy. I’m looking forward to celebrating with Jessie J and the other award winners in June.”

Nuala Donnelly from the O2 Sponsorship Team says:

“2012 is a year of celebration for the UK, for O2 and for the Silver Clef awards in aid of Nordoff Robbins. The tenth birthday both of O2 and the awards is a huge landmark and shows how committed we are to supporting Nordoff Robbins in its music therapy work. We want to continue to help Nordoff Robbins reach new audiences and the Silver Clef awards are perfect for this, getting bigger and better each year. We hope this year’s celebration of both established music icons and the youngest, freshest stars will gather a whole new host of fans to Nordoff Robbins to help continue to transform lives through music therapy.”

Sony Mobile says:

‘We are constantly inspired by music charity Nordoff Robbins, whose music therapy work proves how powerful the arts can be in transforming lives. Similarly, Lord Lloyd Webber and his Foundation’s tireless work supporting UK projects that make a true impact on people’s lives, particularly in music, culture and the arts, is outstanding. It is an area very dear to our hearts and we are hugely proud to present him with this award.”

Jasper Hope, Chief Operating Officer of the Royal Albert Hall says:

“The Royal Albert Hall has been enthusiastic supporters of Nordoff Robbins for many years. As a charity with a remit to promote the arts and sciences and an entertainment venue renowned for the quality and range of music on our stage, we are proud to support Nordoff Robbins’ valuable work using music to transform lives.”

David Munns, Chairman, Nordoff Robbins says:

“Our work at Nordoff Robbins is life changing. Since the Silver Clef Awards began 37 years ago, they have raised over £8m for Nordoff Robbins, allowing us to use music to transform the lives of many thousands of disadvantaged and vulnerable people.”

David goes on to say:

“We’re delighted to announce two incredible artists and inspirations to be joining us, touching the lives of so many supporters through music. Andrew Lloyd Webber is simply nothing less than a global musical legend. Having devoted his life to the arts, he is responsible for creating some of the most beautiful and unforgettable music of our time – and has been one of the UK’s most generous philanthropists. We’re delighted and honoured to award him the Nordoff Robbins Sony Mobile ‘Lifetime Achievement’ Award 2012. To be able to combine this with our Royal Albert Hall ‘Best British’ Act for 2012 being Jessie J, is something really quite remarkable – I think the Nordoff Robbins O2 Silver Clef Lunch this year will be a fantastic event, allowing us to further our help to so many more – we still have a long way to go to ensure we can deliver our music services to all those who need them.”

Nordoff Robbins has 60 therapists providing music therapy services to 100 organisations across the UK, amounting to over 50,000 music therapy sessions every year which are delivered in a variety of settings.

Nordoff Robbins reaches out to so many, helping through music therapy to dramatically enhance and in many ways save the lives of people who they work with and their loved ones. The annual Nordoff Robbins Silver Clef Awards acts as the main fundraising platform for the charity and has brought together an incredible collection of iconic faces and talents since it began in 1975, making it a highlight in the music industry calendar. Previous artists involved include The Who, Paul McCartney, Queen, Def Leppard, Eric Clapton, M People, Coldplay, Take That, Oasis and so many more, including Tinie Tempah and Annie Lennox last year.

A FREE download of the sheet music and words will be available on Friday 18 May. Click here to register your details and receive your copy.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Gary Barlow officially present the Queen with ‘Sing’ their Diamond Jubilee song.

At a special meeting at Windsor Castle this afternoon, (Tuesday 8th May) Andrew Lloyd Webber and Gary Barlow officially presented Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with a special anthem they have jointly composed in honour of her Diamond Jubilee. The song, entitled ‘Sing’, celebrates the Queen’s commitment to the Commonwealth.

Gary and Andrew hope that schools, colleges, amateur choirs and street-party goers will learn the song and be ready to sing it as part of the celebrations in June. Therefore, the sheet music for ‘Sing’ will be made available for free download on Friday 18 May via www.stageamusical.com. Click here to pre-register your details for your copy.

‘Sing’ will be performed at the star-studded concert being held outside Buckingham Palace on the 4th June at 7.30pm and will be televised on BBC One.

Image – Alan Davidson.

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’s sensational STARLIGHT EXPRESS races to The Mandela at Joburg Theatre for a strictly limited season beginning July 2nd 2013. 

Produced by the theatre’s Chief Executive Officer, BERNARD JAY, the all-South African company promises to take you on the ride of a lifetime – with two hours of speed, spectacle, energy, daredevil stunts and turbo-charged excitement, combined with dazzling sets and costumes, extraordinary roller-choreography and some of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most memorable musical hits.

 STARLIGHT EXPRESS opened at the 2300-seat Apollo Victoria Theatre in London on March 27th 1984.  In April 1991, STARLIGHT EXPRESS became the second longest running musical in London theatre history at that time.  The record-breaking run in London eventually closed with its 7,461st performance on January 12th 2002, almost eighteen years after its opening.

Despite subsequent productions on Broadway, in Las Vegas, throughout the UK and USA and in many other countries – a production in Bochum, Germany, will celebrate its 25th year in 2013 - STARLIGHT EXPRESS has never been seen in South Africa.  Until now!

“We’re honoured and thrilled that Andrew has entrusted this gem of musical theatre legends into the hands of Joburg Theatre,” says producer Bernard Jay.  “To give South African creative and performing artists this unique opportunity to interpret one of the most successful and extraordinary musicals ever written is a compliment to us all.  Already, over a year ahead, the finest theatre talents in South Africa are clamouring to become involved with STARLIGHT EXPRESS.”

Light years ahead of the rest, this futuristic tale about love and hope in the face of adversity was originally written by Lloyd Webber for his children.  The plot features around a group of toy railway trains, portrayed by actors on roller-skates, who come to life inside the mind of a small boy.  The characters race to become the ‘fastest engine in the world’.

“STARLIGHT was always meant to be fun, hopefully an entertaining piece of live theatre for a new audience,” said Andrew Lloyd Webber at the time of the original London production.  “We are all proud that STARLIGHT has spawned a new generation of theatregoers who perhaps have never considered going to the theatre before and who may have gone on to other, perhaps more conventional, things!”

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’s extensive credits include THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, EVITA and CATS.  His musicals ASPECTS OF LOVE and THE BOYS IN THE PHOTOGRAPH were also produced at Joburg Theatre in recent years.  His awards include seven Tonys, three Grammys, seven Oliviers, a Golden Globe, an Oscar, two international Emmys, the Praemium Imperiale, the Richard Rodgers Award for Excellence in Musical Theatre and the Kennedy Center Honor.

JANICE HONEYMAN has directed many musicals in South Africa, including HAIR, LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, CANDIDE and THE BOYS IN THE PHOTOGRAPH.  Her direction of John Kani’s play NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH was seen at the Grahamstown Festival, The Market Theatre, Cape Town’s Baxter Theatre, New York’s Lincoln Center, Los Angeles’ Mark Taper Forum, the Sydney Opera House and London’s Hampstead Theatre.  Her book and direction of JACK AND THE BEANSTALK later this year at Joburg Theatre will be her 23rd in the much-loved and hugely successful tradition of family pantomimes in Joburg.

KAREN BRUCE has been appointed as Choreographer of the production.  Karen previously directed and choreographed SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER at Gold Reef City and FOOTLOOSE at Joburg Theatre.  CLINTON ZERF has been appointed Musical Director.  Clinton was Musical Director for two previous Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals at Joburg Theatre: ASPECTS OF LOVE and THE BOYS IN THE PHOTOGRAPH.  The full creative team and casting for STARLIGHT EXPRESS in South Africa will be announced in July 2012. 

STARLIGHT EXPRESS will have its preview performances on the stage of The Mandela at Joburg Theatre from Tuesday July 2nd 2013, with its official Opening Night on Sunday July 7th.  The show will keep hearts pounding and feet tapping with its breathless energy until Sunday September 1st.

Tickets are now on sale exclusively for members of Joburg Theatre’s THE RED VELVET CLUB.  You can become a member of this prestigious group of theatre-lovers for as little as R45 a year.  Tickets for STARLIGHT EXPRESS from as little as R100 will go on sale to the general public on Monday May 28th 2012.

For membership of The Red Velvet Club, tickets and performance information, visit www.joburgtheatre.com or call 0861 670 670.

STARLIGHT EXPRESS in South Africa is brought to you by CITY POWER JOHANNESBURG – lighting up the stars of Joburg – and MNET.

CLICK HERE to buy tickets.

Thea Sharrock is to direct The Bodyguard, a new musical opening at the Adelphi Theatre in Autumn 2012 based on the Warner Bros. film of the same name with screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan.  Starring Heather Headley as Rachel Marron and Lloyd Owen as Frank Farmer in the roles made famous on film by the late Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, tickets for The Bodyguard go on sale today (1 May 2012) taking bookings until 27 April 2013 for the production’s first booking period. Previews begin on 6 November 2012, twenty years after the release of the Oscar nominated film.  Press performances are 1 December at 7.30pm, 4 December at 7.30pm as well as opening night on 5 December at 7pm with reviews under embargo until 6 December 2012.   

Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love.  A romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features a multitude of Whitney Houston’s greatest hits including Queen of the Night, So Emotional, One Moment in Time, Saving All My Love, I’m Your Baby Tonight, Run to You, I Have Nothing, How Will I Know, I Wanna Dance With Somebody and one of the greatest hit songs of all time – I Will Always Love You.

Book is by Alex Dinelaris, with designs by Tim Hatley, lighting by Mark Henderson and sound by Richard Brooker.  Choreography is by Arthur Pita, orchestrations by Chris Egan and musical supervision by Mike Dixon. The Bodyguard is produced by Michael Harrison and David Ian.

Tony and Grammy award-winning Heather Headley will make her West End stage debut as Rachel Marron.  Having originated the role of Nala in The Lion King on Broadway, Headley went on to play the title role in Aida for which she won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.  Her debut solo album, This is Who I Am, was nominated for two Grammy Awards.  Her third studio album, Audience of One, won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album.  In recent years she has worked extensively with Andrea Bocelli on his American and international tours and sung at the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

Lloyd Owen was last on stage in London playing leading roles in Sarah Helm’s Loyalty at Hampstead Theatre and J T Rogers Blood and Gifts at the National Theatre.  Previously his theatre credits include The York Realist for the Royal Court, Julius Caesar for the Young Vic, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?  for the Almeida Theatre and The Way of the World for the Royal Exchange Theatre.  On television Owen is best known for playing Paul Bowman-MacDonald in the BBC’s long running drama Monarch of the Glen and Indiana Jones’ father Professor Henry Jones, Sr, in The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles.  His other television credits include Ghost Squad, The Vice, Coupling, Wire in the Blood and Dead Gorgeous. His film credits include Apollo 18, Miss Potter, The Republic of Love and Between Dreams and the forthcoming Free Ride with Anna Paquin and Drea de Matteo.

Thea Sharrock’s production of 13 completed a run at the National Theatre last year where she previously directed After The Dance for which she won the 2011 Olivier Award for Best Revival, Happy Now? and The Emperor Jones.  Later this month Thea Sharrock’s production of Neil Simon’s The Sunshine Boys with Danny DeVito and Richard Griffiths opens at the Savoy Theatre, reuniting her with Griffiths who she directed in Equus both in the West End and on Broadway and in Heroes at the Wyndham’s Theatre.  Her other theatre credits include Cause Célèbre for the Old Vic and The Misanthrope at the Comedy Theatre.  Sharrock was previously Artistic Director at the Southwark Playhouse (2001-2003) and the Gate Theatre (2004-2006).                                           

As well as The Bodyguard, Oscar nominated, Golden Bear and New York Film Critics award winner Lawrence Kasdan has written or co-written the films Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.  He has directed eleven films including Body Heat, The Big Chill, The Accidental Tourist, Grand Canyon and Dreamcatcher.  Kasdan’s new film, Darling Companion, based on a script by Meg Kasdan and Lawrence Kasdan, has recently been released by Sony Pictures Classics. 

Alex Dinelaris’ plays include Still Life, produced by Manhattan Class Company and Red Dog Howls, with the New York Theatre Workshop.  Dinelaris was nominated for two Drama Desk awards for his additional work on the book and lyrics for the musical Zanna Don’t.  His other plays include Folding The Monster, The Chaos Theories, In This Our Time, Pathetique and Big Kids.  Film director Alejandro Gonzalez-Inarritu will directed Dinelaris’ latest work.

Award-winning designer Tim Hatley’s many theatre credits in London and on Broadway include Betty Blue Eyes, Shrek the Musical, Private Lives,  Spamalot, Suddenly Last Summer, The Crucible, Endgame, and Another Country.  For the National Theatre his work includes Timon of Athens, Welcome to Thebes, Rafta Rafta, Present Laughter, Henry V, Humble Boy, The Talking Cure, Vincent in Brixton and Stanley and for the Royal Shakespeare Company Richard III, Goodnight Children and Talk of the City. On film his credits include Stage Beauty, Closer and Notes on a Scandal.

Michael Harrison has produced Aspects of Love starring David Essex which transferred to the Jo’burg Civic Theatre, Jolson & Co starring Allan Stewart, The Witches of Eastwick starring Marti Pellow and Chess directed by Craig Revel Horwood which played at the Princess of Wales Theatre, Toronto and on tour in the UK. This year he produced I Dreamed a Dream.  He is also Managing Director of Qdos Pantomimes Ltd. 

David Ian has produced theatre shows all over the world.  His credits include Grease, Saturday Night Fever, The King and I, West Side Story, Singin’ in the Rain, Anything Goes, The Producers, Guys and Dolls, The Sound of Music, La Cage Aux Folles, Sweet Charity, Flashdance, Gypsy, The Phantom of the Opera, My Fair Lady, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Chess, Rocky Horror Show, Cats, Chicago, Dr Dolittle and Starlight Express.

CLICK HERE to buy tickets for The Bodyguard at The Adelphi Theatre.

The nominations were announced this morning at The New York Public Library for Performing Arts. Both the current Broadway revival of Evita - directed by Michael Grandage after its successful 2006 run at the Adelphi Theatre in London’s West End -  and the Stratford Shakespeare Festival production of Jesus Christ Superstar, which opened at the Neil Simon Theatre in March 2012 after a critically acclaimed run at the Shakespeare Festival and at the La Jolla Playhouse in California, were among the nominees.

Evita, now playing at The Marquis Theatre on Broadway, is nominated in the following categories:
Best Revival of a Musical
Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical for Michael Cerveris
Best Choreography for Rob Ashford

Jesus Christ Superstar is nominated for the following awards:
Best Revival of a Musical
Best Featured Actor in a Musical for Josh Young

The winners of the 2012 Tony Awards will be announced in a special ceremony, broadcast live from the Beacon Theatre in North America on CBS on Sunday, June 10th from 8:00 – 11:00 p.m. (ET/PT time delay).

For more information on the Broadway production of Jesus Christ Superstar, click here, and visit the official show website for Evita on Broadway here.

For the full list of nominees, visit the Tony Awards website.

In the clip below, composer Andrew Lloyd Webber discusses how the Australian production of Love Never Dies came to be filmed. For more information on both the Phantom and Love Never Dies screenings, including a list of participating movie theaters, click here.

In this video clip, see highlights from the show described in Ontario by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber as, “very probably the best acted performance of [Jesus Christ Superstar] I have ever seen…”

Click here for more information on Jesus Christ Superstar, and visit SuperstarOnBroadway.com for news on the Broadway production.

The Outer Critics Circle is the official organisation  of writers covering New York theatre for out-of-town newspapers, national publications and other media beyond Broadway. The Critics Circle awards are the first major Broadway/Off-Broadway award nominees of the New York theater season. This year’s nominations were announced yesterday at The Friars Club. The Broadway production of Evita – currently playing at The Marquis Theatre – was nominated in the following categories:

OUTSTANDING REVIVAL OF A MUSICAL
OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR OF A MUSICAL for Michael Grandage
OUTSTANDING CHOREOGRAPHER for Rob Ashford
OUTSTANDING SET DESIGN for Christopher Oram
OUTSTANDING LIGHTING DESIGN for Neil Austin

Evita was also this week nominated for three Drama League Awards with two of its stars, Ricky Martin and Elena Roger, both up for the DISTINGUISHED PERFORMANCE AWARD. Evita was also joined by another Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice Broadway revival, Jesus Christ Superstar, in being nominated for the DISTINGUISHED REVIVAL OF A MUSICAL Award. Jesus Christ Superstar, now playing at The Neil Simon Theatre, opened on Broadway last month after winning rave reviews at The Stratford Shakespeare Festival and the La Jolla Playhouse.

The 78th Annual Drama League Awards will be held at the Marriott Marquis Times Square on Friday, May 18, 2012 at noon.

For more information on the Outer Critics Circle Awards click here, and go here to visit the Drama League website.

Broadway: Promises, Promises (Miss Olson); South Pacific.

National tours: The Light in the Piazza (Franca), Guys & Dolls, Evita, Cats (Jellylorum).

Regional: Finian’s Rainbow (Westport), The Baker’s Wife (Goodspeed), Titanic, Grapes of Wrath.

For MBW.

Love to my family, friends and my boys!

Last seen as Wednesday Addams in Broadway’s The Addams Family. Credits include: Wicked National Tour (Glinda u/s), MTV’s Legally Blonde: The Search for Elle Woods, The Wild Party (Sally), High School Musical (Sharpay), Walt Disney World (Nemo, Ariel, Belle).

Love to my beautiful family & friends, who give me strength. Thanks to Telsey & The Mine, who gave me a chance. Debut Country album to be released May 2012!

Visit rachelpottermusic.com for more info. @therachelpotter

Broadway: Les Misérables (revival and closing company of original), Dance of the Vampires and Jesus Christ Superstar.

Off-Broadway: Death Takes a Holiday, Hello Again (Drama League Nom), Finian’s Rainbow and The Jerry Springer Opera (Carnegie Hall).

Tours: Xanadu and Chicago.

TV/Film: “Gossip Girl”, “The Beautiful Life”, Sex and the City 2 and numerous commercials.

Recordings include Finian’s Rainbow, Death Takes a Holiday, Love Songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Broadway Musicals of 1928.

Twitter: @MaxizPad.

Broadway/National Tour: Glinda, Wicked (1st National); Sister Mary Robert u/s, Sister Act (Original Cast).

Off-Broadway: Cindy Lou Huffington, The Marvelous Wonderettes.

Other: Elmire, Tartuffe; Maria, West Side Story; Eponine, Les Misérables (Barrymore Winner); Betty Schaefer, Sunset Boulevard; Belle, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; Hope Cladwell, Urinetown.

BA, Wagner College. Thanks to Talent House, Telsey & Co, Jan Prokop, Deborah Carlson and, of course, the best family ever. For Anthony, all my love.

www.christinadecicco.com

Broadway: In The Next Room (Or The Vibrator Play), Hedda Gabler, Cymbeline, LoveMusik, Sweeney Todd, Assassins, The Who’s Tommy, Titanic.

London’s West End: Hedwig and the Angry Inch (also Off-Broadway and Los Angeles).

Off-Broadway: Sondheim’s Road Show, King Lear, Futurity, an oak tree, The Games (BAM Next Wave), Macbeth, Abingdon Square, Total Eclipse.

Film: Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant, Stake Land, Brief Interviews With Hideous Men, Meskada, The Mexican, Lulu on the Bridge, Tokyo Pop.

TV: The Observer on “Fringe”, Marvin Frey on HBO’s “Treme”, “Fame” and others. Music: concerts at Carnegie Hall, NY City Opera, NY Philharmonic, Kennedy Center, Ravinia, JazzFest and Preservation Hall, New Orleans; An Idea Of South for Lincoln Center’s American Songbook and toured US/UK with punk icon Bob Mould.

Debut rock album Dog Eared, and Crescent, a new americana album recently recorded in New Orleans. His country band, Loose Cattle, occasionally stampede about town.

West End credits: Piaf (Olivier Award Best Actress); Passion and Evita (Olivier Award Nominations Best Actress); Boeing Boeing.

Argentina credits: original productions of Piaf (several awards including the 2011 Konex Award for Best Actress in a Musical of the Decade), Nine, Beauty and the Beast, Les Miserables, Saturday Night Fever, Houdini, La Fiaca, and Jazz, Swing, Tap. Elena and director Valeria Ambrosio devised Mina, che cosa sei?!? (five awards including ACE Award for Best Actress).

Film: Un amor, La vida anterior, La bolsa o la vida, and the short film, La voz.

Album: VIentos del sur (Clarin Best Album), Recorriendo el rock Nacional, Evita (2006 London Cast Recording).

Thanks to dear Ana Moll for Evita. For my family and beloved Mariano. Welcome to this world, Valentina.

CLOC Musical Theatre’s forthcoming production of Sunset will be the first fully staged Australian production since 1996, when then-rising star Hugh Jackman played the lead role of Joe Gillis, opposite Debra Byrne as Norma Desmond.  

CLOC Musical Theatre has a well earned reputation as Australia’s pre-eminent community musical theatre company. Established in Melbourne in 1964, CLOC has since produced shows covering the entire gamut of music theatre and has won over 100 awards for excellence, including being awarded the highly coveted Production of the Year eight times.

CLOC’s Norma Desmond is Maureen Andrew, a professional actress with over 40 years’ experience in every facet of entertainment, from TV (with several stints in Neighbours), radio, film, dramatic and musical theatre, including roles in Billy Elliot, The Boy from Oz (coincidentally with Hugh Jackman), Saturday Night Fever, Grease and Cabaret. 

Sunset Boulevard is a show as famous for its technical complexity as its dramatic storyline. CLOC’s production team (led by President Grant Alley) have been working full-time for three months to construct faded movie star Norma Desmond’s grand and opulent mansion, as well as recreating other well known Hollywood icons, including Schwab’s Drug Store, Paramount Studios and the instantly recognizable Paramount Pictures gates. Then Set Designer/Head Scenic Artist Brenton Staples and his team work their magic on the huge set frames, backdrops, furniture, and pieces, including Norma’s much admired and rare Isotta Franchini car, which has been made and painted as a two dimensional cut out looking for all intents and purposes like a real three dimensional motor vehicle.

While the set design and construction has been going ahead full steam, CLOC’s costume department has been busy designing, sewing and fitting the cast of 26 with more than 250 costumes, recreating Hollywood of 1950. Ensuring authenticity has been the focus of the costume team, a dedicated group of 12 women who meet every Saturday to bring to life the creations of costume designer Nerissa Saville. Although the show is set in 1950, Nerissa is quick to point out that Norma Desmond is still living in her past glory of the silent movie era of the early 1920s, which will be emphasized through Norma’s 11 elaborately layered, furred and sequinned costumes, requiring two full-time dressers and a wig person in the theatre to manage the many lightning quick changes.

View images of the CLOC team in action ahead of Sunset Boulevard‘s Australasian non-professional premiere below:

RECORDING AVAILABLE JUNE 19, 2012

Album Features Grammy Award-Winning Superstar Ricky Martin,  Olivier Award Winner Elena Roger and Tony Award Winner Michael Cerveris.

MASTERWORKS BROADWAY proudly announces the signing of the New Broadway Cast Recording of Evita. The album will be recorded in April in anticipation of a June 19th 2012 release and is now available for pre-order on Amazon.com.  Visit MasterworksBroadway.com for more information as it develops. 

Producers Hal Luftig and Scott Sanders present the first new production of the seven-time Tony Award-winning Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber musical EVITA, since it debuted on Broadway over 30 years ago. The production stars Grammy-winning international pop icon Ricky Martin as Che, Olivier Award-winning Argentinean actress Elena Roger making her Broadway debut as Eva Perón—a role that earned her critical acclaim in the 2006 production in London‘s West End—and Tony Award-winner Michael Cerveris as Juan Perón. The cast also features Max von Essen as Magaldi and Rachel Potter as the Mistress. Directed by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Michael Grandage and choreographed by Tony Award-winner Rob Ashford, EVITA opened April 5, 2012 at The Marquis Theatre to rave reviews.

The creative team includes Tony Award-winning Scenic and Costume Designer Christopher Oram (Red), Tony Award-winning Lighting Designer Neil Austin (Red), Olivier Award-winning Sound Designer Mick Potter (Woman In White), Wig and Hair Designer Richard Mawbey (Frost/Nixon), Projection Designer Zachary Borovay (Rock of Ages), and Music Supervisor/Director Kristen Blodgette (The Phantom of the Opera), Orchestrations are by Andrew Lloyd Webber and David Cullen (Sunset Boulevard), and dance arrangements are by David Chase (Billy Elliot).

EVITA tells Eva Peron’s passionate and tragic story through Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most dazzling and beloved score, including “Don‘t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Another Suitcase in Another Hall” and “High Flying Adored,” together with “You Must Love Me,” the Oscar-winning hit from the film EVITA.

After researching the life of Eva Perón for many years, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber released EVITA in 1976 as a concept album with Julie Covington as Evita and it became a world-wide hit. Soon after, the production debuted on stage in London’s West End starring Elaine Paige and directed by Hal Prince. The production transferred to Broadway and opened in 1979 starring Patti LuPone, who went on to win one of the seven 1980 Tony Awards the show earned. A major 1996 film of the musical was made starring Madonna as Evita and Antonio Banderas as Ché. Michael Grandage‘s production of EVITA, which opened in 2006, took London by storm and garnered critical acclaim for the show and its leading lady, Elena Roger.

Masterworks Broadway is a label of Sony Masterworks.  For email updates and information on Masterworks Broadway please visit www.masterworksbroadway.com.  For more information on the musical, please visit www.evitaonbroadway.com.

Click here to pre-order the album.

Photo: Richard Termine

Andrew Lloyd Webber said:

“I am selling The Palace Theatre because I love it.

I feel that it’s been my home for nearly forty years. Jesus Christ Superstar began its record breaking run there in August 1972 and I bought the theatre in 1983. I wrote big chunks of Phantom in my upstairs office there.

During the time I owned this Victorian dream, I removed the huge neon sign that defaced the glorious terracotta exterior, much to the chagrin of West End producers who told me I had removed the greatest theatre advertising sight in London. I argued that the restored facade would speak for itself. It didn’t hurt the staggering run of Les Misérables.

I am proud that under my ownership the auditorium has been restored, the magnificent front of house that had been covered with army surplus paint was removed to reveal acres of Italian marble and the theatre that John Betjeman described as ‘the only theatre architecture … which climbs into the regions of a work of art’ was brought back to its former glory.

So why am I selling it?

First, and most importantly, I want to see a secure theatrical future for the Palace as I do the other historic theatres that I own through Really Useful Theatres. I can think of no better future custodians of Britain’s finest Victorian theatre than my friends Nica and Max.

Secondly, the proceeds of the sale will be used to repay debt and to strengthen the balance sheet of Really Useful Theatres. This will allow me to plan the future of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and continue work on refurbishing The London Palladium.

Lastly, Nica and Max are completely aware of my passion for The Palace and we have agreed that if there is a major theatrical reworking of the building, I will partner them.

Good luck Nica and Max. I hope the Palace is as good for you as it has been for me.”

Nica Burns and Max Weitzenhoffer said:

“We are honoured that Andrew Lloyd Webber has entrusted us with the guardianship of this iconic building with its extraordinary history and will cherish it as he does. We have longed to own a major musical house and it doesn’t get much better than the Palace.”

Burns, who also runs Nimax as its CEO and has recently completed her three year term as President of the Society of London Theatre added:

“A big thank you to our financiers HSBC Corporate – a bank that still backs business – for making our bid possible”.

Burns and Weitzenhoffer’s recent productions include Pygmalion with Rupert Everett and Kara Tointon at the Garrick, Meow Meow in Concert at the Apollo, When We Are Married starring Maureen Lipman and Roy Hudd at the Garrick and the transfer of Mike Leigh’s Ecstasy from Hampstead Theatre to the Duchess Theatre. Their production of Eugene O’Neill’s Long Day’s Journey into Night directed by Anthony Page starring David Suchet, Laurie Metcalfe, Trevor White and Kyle Soller opened at the Apollo Theatre last night to brilliant reviews.

Nimax is a popular and highly respected theatre owner and Burns and Weitzenhoffer are as passionate about their buildings as they are about their productions. A careful refurbishment programmes has seen the restoration of four of the five facades, notably the Apollo on Shaftesbury Avenue which has been transformed with a splendid renovation of its stonework and statues. Backstage facilities have been hugely improved, especially with the addition of a backstage lift at the Duchess. The public facilities have been upgraded with state of the art loos at the Apollo and Duchess and others planned.

The production stars Elena Roger – returning to the role of Eva Peron after a critically-acclaimed run as ‘Evita’ in London’s West End - with Ricky Martin as Che and Michael Cerveris as Peron. Director Michael Grandage, who staged the 2006 London revival, also returns to the show.

Watch video highlights of Evita on Broadway below, and click here to visit the official show website for full information. 

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s critically acclaimed masterpiece celebrated its 25th anniversary on the West End stage last year, and continues to play to full houses nightly in London, New York and around the world.  THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has been seen by over 130 million people worldwide, in more than 27 countries, has won over 50 major theatre awards, and has grossed more than US$5.6 billion.

Producer Tim McFarlane, Managing Director of The Really Useful Company Asia Pacific, said

James Cundall, CEO of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, presenters of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA in Manila, said “To bring the world’s most popular musical to such a musically-gifted nation as The Philippines has been a long-term dream.  It is a superb show which epitomizes all that is great about musical theatre – unbelievable music, a powerfully moving story, lavish sets and costumes, and most importantly, superb audience entertainment.  THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is a worldwide sensation which will take Philippine audiences on an unforgettable musical theatre journey.”

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA tells the story of a disfigured musical genius known only as ‘The Phantom’ who haunts the depths of the Paris Opera House.  Mesmerised by the talents and beauty of a young soprano – Christine, the Phantom lures her as his protégé and falls fiercely in love with her.  Unaware of Christine’s love for Raoul, The Phantom’s obsession sets the scene for a dramatic turn of events where jealousy, madness and passions collide. 

With 130 cast, crew and orchestra members, jaw-dropping scenery, breathtaking special effects and more than 230 costumes by international designer, the late Maria Björnson, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA contains some of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most famous and stirring music, including “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Music of the Night”. 

The timeless, romantic and much-loved musical has been honoured with seven prestigious New York Tony Awards, among them the Tony for Best Musical, seven Drama Desk Awards and three Oliver Awards.

The film of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA was released in 2004 and has thrilled cinema-goers around the world, and a Las Vegas spectacular now in its sixth year continues to enthral audiences.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical is based upon the novel Le Fantome De L’Opera by Gaston Leroux.  The original London production was produced by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Group. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is produced in Manila by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, David Atkins Enterprises, Hi-Definition Radio Inc. and Concertus in association with The Really Useful Group.

Most recently Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, Hi-Definition Radio Inc. and Concertus brought the sell-out success Mamma Mia to The Philippines, and in 2011, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sensational musical Cats.  In addition to THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, they are bringing the hit children’s show Barney’s Space Adventures to Manila in April this year.

CLICK HERE for ticket information.

In this clip from the Australian production, Anna O’Byrne performs ‘Love Never Dies.’

For more information on Love Never Dies including the Canadian cinema screenings and all DVD release dates, click here to visit the official website.

In this clip from the production, Ben Lewis (The Phantom) sings ‘Before The Performance,’ with Anna O’Byrne as Christine.

For more information on all worldwide release dates relating to Love Never Dies, visit the official website.

The Australian production of Love Never Dies was filmed in Melbourne, and is also released worldwide on DVD throughout 2012. Visit the official website for all release information.

Grapp your smart phone, scan the QR-Code and find yourself on stage in the middle of the unique STARLIGHT EXPRESS-theatre. With all 26 characters of the show by your side you will witness the greatest 360°-panorama of the world – an experience you will never forget. Whether you move to your right or left, view the scenery above or below, all around you will catch sight of something new. Discover the theatre from a new perspective and zoom in on the technological details. The traintracks flash and many thousand lights gleam to resemble the perfect night sky. Just before Rusty and Pearl appear on the screen, stunt skater leap into view. Watch out! Greaseball and his gang are heading toward you! The details are razor-sharp – go ahead and count Electras eyelashes! 

Appsolutely fantastic: Keep an eye out for hidden stars and always find other surprises behind them. Participate in raffles and discover exciting news and information about STARLIGHT EXPRESS. How would you like to experience the show live on stage? Try to find the perfect seats and check out our sviwel aremchairs in the centre of the skating tracks. Meet the performers face to face and take a look at their handmade costumes. You can almost feel the cast’s excitement while skating!

For information on how to download the app, and to see exclsive Making Of  video footage, visit the official website for the German production.

With a brilliant new design by Paul Brown, costumes by the much missed Maria Björnson, a new staging by Laurence Connor, director of the recent acclaimed 25th anniversary celebration at the Royal Albert Hall and with new choreography by Scott Ambler. Lighting design is by Paule Constable and sound design by Mick Potter. The production is overseen by Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh.

View production photos from the tour below, and visit the official Phantom tour website for more information including tour dates.

“Ben Lewis as the Phantom and Anna O’Byrne as Christine achieve a blazing emotional intensity” Charles Spencer, Daily Telegraph

“Stunning, beautifully shot and wonderfully edited… a glossy beautiful film”
Elaine Paige on Sunday, BBC Radio 2

“The best film of a stage musical I’ve seen… superb”
Michael Coveney, whatsonstage.com

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spellbinding sequel to the phenomenal The Phantom of the Opera, LOVE NEVER DIES has recaptured hearts across the UK as it soared into the number one slot in the DVD music chart last week, where it has stayed ever since.   LOVE NEVER DIES was released on Blu-ray™ and DVD on Monday 12 March from Universal Pictures UK, coinciding with Mother’s Day.

Selling an impressive 37,000 copies in its launch week, the DVD also debuted at number 4 in the Top 200 DVD chart, up at the top of the chart alongside best-selling titles such as The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 and Jane Eyre, released on the same date.   LOVE NEVER DIES was the highest charting non-film DVD on release last week and the biggest selling music DVD released for Mother’s Day across the last four years.   It has also sold better than comparable music titles including Alfie Boe Live: The Bring Him Home Tour, also released on 12 March, which sold just over 13,000 copies in its first week. 

From musical theatre’s most captivating composer, the Blu-ray and DVD features the highly acclaimed new Australian production, filmed in Melbourne.   From theatre director Simon Phillips and with spectacular costume and set designs from Gabriela Tylesova, Love Never Dies is a dazzling production that takes audiences on a thrilling rollercoaster ride of intrigue, obsession and romance.

Described by Andrew Lloyd Webber as “one of the finest productions I’ve ever seen of my work, anywhere”, the Australian show features an impressive cast including highly praised musical actors Ben Lewis as the Phantom and Anna O’Byrne as his Christine. 

Grainne Devine Gill, Senior Product Manager at Universal Pictures said: “We’re thrilled with how this new production of Love Never Dies has performed on DVD and the reception it has received from fans.  It’s been great to reintroduce this spellbinding musical to a UK audience and allow them the opportunity to fall in love with the music and the show on DVD.” 

SYNOPSIS

It is 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House and the Phantom has escaped to a new life inNew Yorkwhere he lives amongst the screaming joy rides and freak-shows ofConey Island. In this new electrically-charged world, he has finally found a place for his music to soar. All that is missing is his love – Christine Daaé. Now one of the world’s finest sopranos, it is with excitement that Christine accepts an invitation to travel toNew Yorkand perform at a renowned opera house. In a final bid to win back her love, the Phantom lures Christine, her husband, and their young son Gustave fromManhattan; to the glittering and glorious world ofConey Island… not knowing what is in store for them….

www.loveneverdies.com.

Watch the clip below, and visit the official Love Never Dies website for information on all worldwide DVD release dates, as well as news on the forthcoming Canadian cinema screenings.

Watch ‘Coney Island Waltz’ from the Australian production of Love Never Dies below.

How long have you been in the show?
I’m in my third year right now – I played Flat Top in my first year, and then Red Caboose in my second year.

Have you ever appeared in any other productions of Starlight Express?
I have not yet had the opportunity to be part of another production of the show – as long as I have been in the show there has only been the German production, although of course the new UK Tour of the show was recently announced. I would have loved to do that production, but my schedule in Bochum wouldn’t allow it unfortunately.

Had you ever seen Starlight Express before appearing in the show?
As a child, I had always wanted to travel to Bochum to see the show from my hometown in Vienna, and in my teens I used to listen to the original German recording over and over again, but it was 2008 before I got to see it onstage. That was when I was part of a German TV casting show to find the new Rusty and Pearl for the twentieth anniversary of the show in Bochum.

What is it like to perform in the show?
It’s one of the most unique stage shows in the musical business. It’s also one of the hardest, if not THE hardest show to perform every night. Because I always wanted to be in it, it’s also a dream come true for me. I constantly try to remind myself of how lucky I am.

What is it like to perform in the specially-built Starlighthalle?
It’s an honour to be standing on a stage where so many amazing artists have  performed before me. You can feel the history of the show and all the memories in every single corner. Because the theater has been built especially for the show, the set is absolutely stunning, both visually and technically, even after 24 years! For the audience it’s not just a theater, it’s a little world in itself. From the moment you enter the foyer you’re in the world of Starlight Express, you feel like you’re in a train station and the team is making sure that that illusion is kept up every single day.

How far does the skating element of the show make Starlight Express different from performing in other musical theatre productions?
The skating makes for a more challenging and physically harder show. There is a good reason it’s called “the fastest show on earth!” It’s a thrill to perform on skates and it’s a thrill to watch it.

Did you know how to skate before appearing in Starlight?
I’ve used inline skates and ices kates all my life, but you can’t compare that to a real four-wheel-skate. The boots are also custom-made for the production! Part of the rehearsal process is a very intensive training known as ‘skate school’ that prepares each performer (skaters and non-skaters) for the show. You learn the skating techniques needed for Starlight Express and you learn how to skate the set with all its hills and drops.

How was skate school?
Going through skate school was the toughest thing I ever had to do (and I used to be a dancer!) But once you’re ready to be on stage and  have mastered your first performance in front of an audience, it’s the most rewarding experience imagineable.

What are you like on your skates now?
I have come a long way since my first day at Starlight, when I couldn’t even stand up straight on my skates, but I’m still learning. The Creative Team (and especially our Skate Coach Michal Fraley) always encourage us to take the extra step and try to work on new things for the show. It keeps the show fresh and interesting to watch and perform.

What is your favourite song in the show?
My favourite song is the Starlight Sequence. I absolutely love to perform and to watch it. It is the highlight of the show, it gives both the audience and the performers on stage goosebumps. What the original Creative Team has created there is musically and visually stunning. Audience members constantly tell me that it’s their favourite part of the show and that it brings tears to their eyes.

What is your favourite part of the show?
I really like the beginning, where the theme of the show plays over and over again as an Overture, starting softly and eventually growing bigger and bigger until it fades into “Rolling Stock”. You can just faintly see Rusty and the Carriages crossing the bridge, followed by engines and different characters of the show that skate across the stage in the dim light like shadowy figures. It’s magical and transports everyone into the little boy’s dream.

What do you like most and least about performing this role?
What I love the most about playing Rusty is the story he goes through and his growth. Some people say that the story of Starlight Express doesn’t have a lot of depth, but there really is a lot going on there. It deals with topics that are very up to date, like  cheating,  competition and the most universal one of course – love. Rusty grows from an underdog into  self-acceptance and I think a lot of people can identify themselves with that struggle. What I like the least about it is wearing the costume. I think John Napier has done a marvellous job and it looks amazing and truly “Rusty”, but it’s very heavy (20 kilos) and quite a load to carry around for the two hours of the show!

Are there any other roles in the show you would like to play?
I have already played Red Caboose, the evil character in the show, and that was definitely something that I wanted to do. Another role I would love to play is Electra, because he is so flamboyant and outrageous and quite the opposite to Rusty. I’m sure Lady Gaga got some of her inspiration from that character…

Was appearing in the show a personal ambition for you?
I remember sitting in my room as a teenager, listening to the show and imagining what it must be like to be part of it. I hadn’t seen the show and had no idea what it looked like so I made up my own version  in my head. A few years later I played Rusty in a small amateur school production of Starlight and knew right then and there that I wanted to play that role on a big stage one day.

What inspired you to pursue a career in musical theatre?
Like most performers I started developing an interest in theatre at a very early age. I always performed for my family and friends and even at school for my classmates. The decision to pursue a career in musical theater came when I watched my first show in Vienna, “Elisabeth”. After the first number finished I turned to my mother and told her that this was what I wanted to do. She signed me up for a  dance class the very next day.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?
I would love to come up with the name of a certain artist or composer, but the people who have really influenced me the most were my parents. They never once doubted that I could make it in this business. They supported me every step of the way and I don’t think I would have gone through with it if it hadn’t been for them. It all sounds very dramatic, but it’s not easy spending most of your teenage years in dance studios and on small stages and it’s even harder getting your foot into the business after school, both mentally and financially. It all looks very glamorous, but it’s hard work to get there.  And a big inspiration were the works of lots of composers, like Andrew Lloyd Webber or Sylvester Levay.

What would your dream role be?
I can’t think of one specific role right now. There are a few parts that intrigue me, like Alfred in Dance of the Vampires or Joe Gillis in Sunset Boulevard. I could probably name about twenty roles that are on my list.

Do you miss anything about home when you’re performing in Bochum?
I miss my hometown Vienna very much. The culture, the beautiful architecture, the theatres, the food, the celebrations and of course my family and friends. I have been away from home a lot in the past few years and have learned how to deal with that. Still “there is no place like home,” is there?

How would you spend your perfect day off?
At home recovering from a strenuous four-show weekend, in front of the TV, with a book and sometimes cooking for my partner and some friends. But whatever I do, I try not to sing or even whistle a tune from the show…even the mind needs some time off work!

Love Never Dies, now playing in Sydney, opened in Melbourne in May 2011. Starring Ben Lewis as The Phantom and Anna O’Byrne as Christine, the production has also been filmed for movie and DVD release, amazing audiences in the USA when it was screened in movie theaters and reaching number 1 in the UK’s mid-week Music DVD chart, just days after its release on Monday 12th March.

The Green Room Awards are Melbourne’s premier performing arts awards and recognise the world-class Cabaret, Dance, Musical Theatre, Opera, Theatre and Alternative and Hybrid Performance productions that grace Melbourne’s stages each year.

Love Never Dies‘ four Green Room Awards are:

Best Design: Gabriella Tylesova (Costumes & Set)
Best Lighting: Nick Schlieper
Best Sound: Mick Potter (Tied with Peter Hylenski for Rock of Ages)
Best Musical Direction: Guy Simpson

For more information on The Green Room Awards, and to see the list of winners in full, click here.

Love Never Dies continues to play in Sydney – visit www.loveneverdies.com.au for information, and go to the official worldwide Love Never Dies website for news on cinema screenings and DVD release dates.

What’s more, Love Never Dies is the highest charting non-film release in the UK’s overall top 200 midweek DVD sales chart, reaching number 4 – just behind new DVD releases The Twilight Saga (1), The Help (2) and Jane Eyre (3).

The Australian production of Love Never Dies – described by Andrew Lloyd Webber as “one of the finest productions I’ve ever seen of my work, anywhere” – was screened in cinemas across the United States earlier this month, to great response. The film, which stars Ben Lewis as The Phantom and Anna O’Byrne as Christine, will be broadcast in Canadian cinemas in April and is available on DVD in the UK, Ireland, Australia and a number of other territories.

Visit www.loveneverdies.com for all available release information and to buy your copy of the DVD.

Love Never Dies will be shown on Canadian cinema screens in April. Visit the official website for all available information on DVD release dates.

Just two weeks ago, The Wizard of Oz won two awards in the Whatsonstage.com Theatregoer’s Choice Awards,  including a win in the Best Musical Revival category.

The Laurence Olivier Awards are the most prestigious awards in London’s Theatreland, having been a mark of theatrical greatness since they were inaugurated in 1976 as the Society of West End Theatre Awards (now called the Laurence Olivier Awards in honour of the theatrical legend.)

Today’s nominations were revealed by 2011 Olivier winners Nancy Carroll and Roger Allam in an event that was streamed live via the Olivier Awards website. The winners will be announced at the official Awards ceremony, held at the Royal Opera House on 15th April. Theatregoers can also watch the ceremony live on the BBC Red Button, listen to coverage of the Awards on BBC Radio 2, or attend the Covent Garden Piazza event where the public can enjoy performances from some of London favourite shows and watch all the action unfold live on a big screen relay.

Visit the Olivier Awards website for more, including the full list of 2012 nominees and the latest information on how you can watch the awards ceremony on 15th April.

To get your tickets to see The Wizard of Oz, visit the official show website.

For full worldwide release information, including dates for the Canadian cinema screenings of Love Never Dies, visit the official website.

NCM Fathom Events and Omniverse Vision bring one of the world’s favorite shows, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat starring Donny Osmond to movie theaters nationwide in a special sing-along event. The pre-recored version of this fully staged production, originally shot at London’s famous Pinewood Studios and specially remastered for this in-theater event, will be broadcast to select theaters on Monday, March 26 at 8:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. CT / 6:00 p.m. MT / 8:00 p.m. PT/HI/AK; and again on Wednesday, April 4 at 7:00 p.m. (all time zones). Presented in an exclusive never-before-seen sing-along version with subtitles for audiences to join in, this event also features an introduction and question-and-answer session with Osmond live from Salt Lake City, plus an animated opening sequence which features an 80-piece orchestra.

Donny Osmond said: “I played the role of Joseph for six years on stage and was chosen to play the role for the movie as well; it will always be a special part of my career.  The music of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is perfect for a sing-along.  I’m excited to take part in this event that the whole family can enjoy.”

Tickets for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.fathomevents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change). The event will be broadcast to nearly 550 select movie theaters across the country through NCM’s exclusive Digital Broadcast Network.

The pre-recorded version of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is based upon the worldwide smash hit production that originally opened at the world famous London Palladium in 1991 and went on to tour globally, grossing over $300 million. Shot at London’s Pinewood Studios at the height of the theatrical run in 1999, it features Osmond as Joseph, a role he played in more than 2,000 shows across the U.S. and Canada. Osmond is supported by West End diva Maria Friedman as the Narrator, Joan Collins as Mrs. Potiphar, and Sir Richard Attenborough as Jacob.  It won the prestigious Silver Rose of Montreux in the Best Music Programming category.

“Joseph is a perennial favorite for audiences throughout the world,” said Austin Shaw of Omniverse Vision. “It’s a first time musical  for so many people who either performed or saw a high school production. The sing-along version has been a huge hit in the UK, and we are proud to now present it to a U.S. audience, especially with Donny leading the way.”

Originally written in 1968 as a 25-minute ‘pop cantata,’ Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was the first staged collaboration between Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.  Since the first professional productions began in the 1970s, Joseph has become one of the most popular musicals in the world – more than 20,000 groups have presented it in North America, with nearly 1,000 new productions every year around the world.  Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat follows the biblical story of Jacob and his 12 sons. Sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, Joseph finds favour with the Egyptian noble Potiphar, but finds himself thrown in jail after rejecting the amorous advances of Potiphar’s wife. But Joseph discovers his special powers to interpret dreams, and soon finds himself in front of the mighty but troubled Pharaoh.  With his bad dreams interpreted, a grateful Pharaoh rewards Joseph handsomely, making him a rich and powerful man.  Joseph’s brothers journey to Egypt to escape the famine in Canaan, and seek an audience with this “stranger.”  After begging for his forgiveness for their previous dark deeds, there is a joyful reunion between Joseph and his brothers .

“It’s time to bring this unique production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat to the big screen,” said Shelly Maxwell, executive vice president of NCM Fathom Events. “This in-theater Broadway event will also feature a special Q&A with Donny Osmond to make it the ultimate fan experience.”

Visit www.josephthemusical.com for more information on Joseph.

• TO BE ANNOUNCED: THE PANEL OF JUDGES FOR THE LIVE SHOWS WHO WILL JOIN HEAD JUDGE ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER
• HEAD JUDGE ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER WELCOMES MELANIE C & JASON DONOVAN TO ASSIST HIM IN HIS SEARCH FOR A SUPERSTAR

ITV1 today confirmed that Melanie C and Jason Donovan would be joining the Superstar team for the final auditions.  This experienced duo, along with casting expert David Grindrod will assist Andrew Lloyd Webber as he decides on those finalists who will go through to the live studio shows on ITV1 this Summer.

All finalists will be battling it out on stage to sing the title role of Jesus in Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar.  This new rock production will play in arenas nationwide and demands not only the highest vocal standards but also someone that can act and engage with a massive arena audience.

Andrew Lloyd Webber has selected Melanie C and Jason Donovan as they have previously performed on arena tours as pop stars and have also made the successful transition to the West End stage. As such, they will feedback into Andrew Lloyd Webber after spending time with the budding hopefuls watching them perform, sing and act.  Andrew Lloyd Webber will oversee the casting process at all times.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said:  “I’m pleased to appoint David, Jason and Melanie to assist me with the candidates during Callbacks as I select my final 40 to go further for intensive training.  They will be using their unique arena and stage experience to help me narrow down my choices for the live shows. What we’re looking for is a rock star who will go on to sing the role of Jesus in the UK’s first ever arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar.”

British singer-songwriter Melanie C has a hugely successful music background, both as a solo artist and within the Spice Girls.  She was also nominated for Best Actress at the 2010 Olivier Awards for her role as Mrs Johnstone in the musical Blood Brothers by Willy Russell in London’s West End.

“I’m a huge fan of Andrew’s incredible work over the years. I am honoured and excited to work along side him helping to find a performer with the raw talent and charisma to play the title role of Jesus” said Melanie C.

Jason Donovan famously starred as lead in the 1992 West End revival of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which received two Laurence Olivier Awards.  Other stage highlights include; The Rocky Horror Show, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert to name a few.  His lead role in Joseph earned him his third UK No 1 single with Any Dream Will Do and to date he’s sold over 3 million records in the UK with four UK No 1 singles.

“We’ve got an amazing challenge ahead of us, helping Andrew in his quest to find someone to play the title role of Jesus in the new arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar.  I can’t wait to start working with Andrew again” said Jason Donovan

Auditions have already taken place across the country in London, Dublin, Belfast, Manchester, Glasgow and Cardiff. The next stage after this will be Callbacks, if the auditionees are successful, they’ll then enter a week long ‘pop up’ performance school that’s designed to bring out the very best in acting and vocal ability.

Once the finalists are chosen by Andrew Lloyd Webber they’ll then perform for the ‘Live Show Judges’ – a separate star studded panel of Judges who will appear exclusively on the live shows when they start this Summer on ITV1.

These judges will offer their opinions to each of the finalists on stage as they battle it out to win the votes of the British public.

The winner’s prize will be the leading role in a new arena tour of the legendary rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber which will open at London’s O2 arena later this year.

Superstar is executive produced by Peter Davey with Katharine Begg as series producer.

Superstar is an ITV Studios production for ITV1.

www.jesuschristsuperstar.com

For more information on The Wizard of Oz, and to get your tickets to see the show at the London Palladium, visit the official show website.

The ultimate love story continues in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sensational sequel to The Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies. Following screenings of the award-winning Australian production in cinemas across the United States in recent weeks, UK fans now have the chance to own the spellbinding film version of Love Never Dies, starring Ben Lewis as The Phantom and Anna O’Byrne as Christine.

And, in this latest clip from the production, Anna O’Byrne, Simon Gleeson, Maria Mercedes and Sharon Millerchip perform ‘Dear Old Friends.’

Love Never Dies will show in Candian cinemas in April, and is released on DVD and Blu-Ray worldwide in 2012. Visit www.loveneverdies.com for all available release information.

In this clip from the production, Sharon Millerchip (Meg Giry) performs ‘Only For You.’ For more information on Love Never Dies – including news on Canadian cinema screenings and all available international DVD release dates – visit the official website.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar, directed by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Artistic Director and 2-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff, has its Opening Night on March 22, 2012.

For more information on the Broadway production, click here. Visit www.jesuschristsuperstar.com for more information on the show.

The production will also be broadcast in Canadian cinemas in April, while the Love Never Dies DVD and Blu-Ray are released in the UK next Monday12th March. Other territories around the world will see the show released on DVD and Blu-Ray over the coming months.

In this video clip Ben Lewis, who plays The Phantom, performs ‘Til’ I Hear You Sing.’

Visit www.loveneverdies.com for the latest information on all cinema broadcast and DVD release dates.

“Sorry I’m Greek” is written, directed and presented by Lakis Lazopoulos. Ten characters, some familiar and some new, will explain the situation in Greece with humour and truth.

Please note, this show is presented in Greek with English subtitles.

CLICK HERE to buy tickets to see Lakis Lazopoulos at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 29th May 2012.

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess star in a spectacular presentation from the ornate London concert venue with a host of special guest stars at the conclusion

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall, a fully-staged, lavish 25th anniversary mounting of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s long-running Broadway and West End extravaganza, comes to Great Performances in March (check local listings) on PBS.

To mark the musical’s Silver Anniversary, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Cameron Mackintosh presented “The Phantom of the Opera” in the sumptuous Victorian splendor of London’s Royal Albert Hall. International audiences were invited to join the celebration when the evening was transmitted live to cinemas worldwide. This dazzling restaging of the original production recreates the jaw-dropping scenery and breathtaking special effects of the original, set to Lloyd Webber’s haunting score.

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall stars Ramin Karimloo as The Phantom and Sierra Boggess as Christine. Both had triumphed in the London premiere of “Love Never Dies,” Lloyd Webber’s sequel to “The Phantom of the Opera,” both earning prestigious Olivier Award nominations for their roles.

Karimloo and Boggess are joined by Barry James as Monsieur Firmin, Gareth Snook as Monsieur André, Liz Robertson as Madame Giry and Wynne Evans as Piangi, together with a cast and orchestra of more than 200 including special guest appearances by the original Phantom and Christine, Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman. Illustrious Phantoms Peter Jöback, John Owen-Jones, Anthony Warlow, and Colm Wilkinson join forces for a powerful “Music of the Night,” all introduced by a beaming Lloyd Webber. Besides that hit tune, the show contains such favorites as “All I Ask of You,” “Think of Me,” “Prima Donna,” “Masquerade” and “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again.”

Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera” first opened in 1986 at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London and is based on the French novel Le Fantôme de l’Opéra by Gaston Leroux. Set against the glamor and spectacle of the Paris Opera House, Leroux told of a horribly disfigured Phantom, once a promising musician, who now terrorizes the opera company. Shamed by his physical appearance and feared by all, the Phantom is drawn to the beautiful ingénue Christine Daaé and begins coaching her secretly, as a tragic romance unfolds between the unlikely pair.

Worldwide, “The Phantom of the Opera” has grossed over $5.6 billion. It has been seen in 145 cities in 27 countries and played to more than 130 million people. The show has won more than 50 major theatre awards, including seven Tony® and three Olivier® Awards in the West End. It is currently showing in London, New York, Budapest, Las Vegas and Kyoto. In 2006, it became Broadway’s longest running show ever.

Cast:

Ramin Karimloo … The Phantom
Sierra Boggess … Christine
Hadley Fraser … Raoul
Wendy Ferguson … Carlotta Guidicelli
Barry James … Monsieur Firmin
Gareth Snook … Monsieur André
Liz Robertson … Madame Giry
Wynne Evans … Ubaldo Piangi
Sergei Polunin … Slave Master – Hannibal / Shepherd – Il Muto
Daisy Maywood … Meg Giry
Nick Holder … Joseph Buquet
Earl Carpenter … Auctioneer
Philip Griffiths… Monsieur Reyer
Simon Green … Monsieur Lefevre
Stephen Davis … Don Attilio (“Il Muto”)
Garðar Cortes … Passarino (“Don Juan Triumphant”)
Heather Jackson … Madame Firmin
Ellen Jackson … Wardrobe Mistress
Rosemary Ashe… Confidante (“Il Muto”)

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall was directed by Laurence Connor with musical staging and choreography by Gillian Lynne, based on the original London Production Directed by Hal Prince with Musical Staging and Choreography by Gillian Lynne. The Royal Albert Hall was transformed with a spectacular and unique design by Matt Kinley inspired by Maria Björnson’s original design. Lighting was by Patrick Woodroffe and Andrew Bridge and Sound by Mick Potter. The production was produced by Cameron Mackintosh.

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall was directed for television by Nick Morris.

The fully-staged production will be released on Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand by Universal Studios Home Entertainment on February 7.

THIRTEEN’s Great Performances is a production of THIRTEEN for WNET, one of America’s most prolific and respected public media providers. For nearly 50 years, WNET has been producing and broadcasting national and local arts programming to the New York community.

For Great Performances, Bill O’Donnell is series producer; David Horn is executive producer. Great Performances is funded by Vivian Milstein, The Starr Foundation, the Philip and Janice Levin Foundation, Joseph A. Wilson, public television viewers, and PBS.

Visit Great Performances Online at www.pbs.org/gperf for additional information about this and other programs.

The Phantom Of The Opera at the Royal Albert HallCelebrates the 25th Anniversary of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Record-Breaking Hit with a Lavish Production, on THIRTEEN’s Great Performances in March on PBS

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess star in a spectacular presentation from the ornate London concert venue with a host of special guest stars at the conclusion

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall, a fully-staged, lavish 25th anniversary mounting of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s long-running Broadway and West End extravaganza, comes to Great Performances in March (check local listings) on PBS.

To mark the musical’s Silver Anniversary, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Cameron Mackintosh presented “The Phantom of the Opera” in the sumptuous Victorian splendor of London’s Royal Albert Hall. International audiences were invited to join the celebration when the evening was transmitted live to cinemas worldwide. This dazzling restaging of the original production recreates the jaw-dropping scenery and breathtaking special effects of the original, set to Lloyd Webber’s haunting score.

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall stars Ramin Karimloo as The Phantom and Sierra Boggess as Christine. Both had triumphed in the London premiere of “Love Never Dies,” Lloyd Webber’s sequel to “The Phantom of the Opera,” both earning prestigious Olivier Award nominations for their roles.

Karimloo and Boggess are joined by Barry James as Monsieur Firmin, Gareth Snook as Monsieur André, Liz Robertson as Madame Giry and Wynne Evans as Piangi, together with a cast and orchestra of more than 200 including special guest appearances by the original Phantom and Christine, Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman. Illustrious past Phantoms Peter Jöback, John Owen-Jones, Anthony Warlow, and Colm Wilkinson join forces for a powerful “Music of the Night,” all introduced by a beaming Lloyd Webber. Besides that hit tune, the show contains such favorites as “All I Ask of You,” “Think of Me,” “Prima Donna,” “Masquerade” and “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again.”

Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera” first opened in 1986 at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London and is based on the French novel Le Fantôme de l’Opéra by Gaston Leroux. Set against the glamor and spectacle of the Paris Opera House, Leroux told of a horribly disfigured Phantom, once a promising musician, who now terrorizes the opera company. Shamed by his physical appearance and feared by all, the Phantom is drawn to the beautiful ingénue Christine Daaé and begins coaching her secretly, as a tragic romance unfolds between the unlikely pair.

Worldwide, “The Phantom of the Opera” has grossed over $5.6 billion. It has been seen in 145 cities in 27 countries and played to more than 130 million people. The show has won more than 50 major theatre awards, including seven Tony® and three Olivier® Awards in the West End. It is currently showing in London, New York, Budapest, Las Vegas and Kyoto. In 2006, it became Broadway’s longest running show ever.

Cast:

Ramin Karimloo … The Phantom
Sierra Boggess … Christine
Hadley Fraser … Raoul
Wendy Ferguson … Carlotta Guidicelli
Barry James … Monsieur Firmin
Gareth Snook … Monsieur André
Liz Robertson … Madame Giry
Wynne Evans … Ubaldo Piangi
Sergei Polunin … Slave Master – Hannibal / Shepherd – Il Muto
Daisy Maywood … Meg Giry
Nick Holder … Joseph Buquet
Earl Carpenter … Auctioneer
Philip Griffiths… Monsieur Reyer
Simon Green … Monsieur Lefevre
Stephen Davis … Don Attilio (“Il Muto”)
Garðar Cortes … Passarino (“Don Juan Triumphant”)
Heather Jackson … Madame Firmin
Ellen Jackson … Wardrobe Mistress
Rosemary Ashe… Confidante (“Il Muto”)

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall was directed by Laurence Connor with musical staging and choreography by Gillian Lynne, based on the original London Production Directed by Hal Prince with Musical Staging and Choreography by Gillian Lynne. The Royal Albert Hall was transformed with a spectacular and unique design by Matt Kinley inspired by Maria Björnson’s original design. Lighting was by Patrick Woodroffe and Andrew Bridge and Sound by Mick Potter. The production was produced by Cameron Mackintosh.

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall was directed for television by Nick Morris.

The fully-staged production will be released on Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand by Universal Studios Home Entertainment on February 7.

THIRTEEN’s Great Performances is a production of THIRTEEN for WNET, one of America’s most prolific and respected public media providers. For nearly 50 years, WNET has been producing and broadcasting national and local arts programming to the New York community.

For Great Performances, Bill O’Donnell is series producer; David Horn is executive producer. Great Performances is funded by Vivian Milstein, The Starr Foundation, the Philip and Janice Levin Foundation, Joseph A. Wilson, public television viewers, and PBS.

Visit Great Performances Online at www.pbs.org/gperf for additional information about this and other programs. Visit www.thephantomoftheopera.com for the latest on Phantom worldwide.

Production announces student rush policy – $27 at the Box Office on the day of performance

The Broadway production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR has announced a Student Rush policy.  Tickets for $27 will be available at the box office on the day of the performance, cash only with a valid student ID, limit of 2 tickets per person.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, directed by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Artistic Director and 2-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR opens March 22, 2012 (previews begin March 1) at the Neil Simon Theatre (250 West 52nd Street).

The cast features Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Tom Hewitt as Pontius Pilate, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Also in the cast: Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Jeremy Kushnier as James the Lesser/Priest, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, and Nick Cartell, Krista Leis, Matthew Rossoff and Matt Stokes as swings.

In addition to Mr. McAnuff as Director, the creative team includes Choreographer Lisa Shriver, Musical Director Rick Fox, Set Designer Robert Brill, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell, Lighting Designer Howell Binkley, Sound Designer Steve Canyon Kennedy and Video Designer Sean Nieuwenhuis.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is produced by The Dodgers and the Really Useful Group.

Tickets for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR are available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 877-250-2929, or in person at the Neil Simon Theatre box office, 250 West 52nd Street; box office hours 10am to 8pm Monday-Saturday.  Group sales (of 15 or more) are on sale now and available by calling 1-877-536-3437.
 Ticket Pricing:

Ticket prices (including the $2 facility fee) range from $62-$99 for previews (March 1-March 21), $62-$142 for performances March 22 onward.

Performance schedule:

March 1 through March 24:  Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8pm; Tuesday at 7pm; matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm (note, curtain is at 8pm on Tuesday, March 6).  Opening night curtain on March 22 is at 6:45pm.  Beginning March 27:  Tuesday through Thursday at 7pm, Friday and Saturday at 8pm, matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm, Sunday at 3pm.

For more information on the Broadway production, visit www.superstaronbroadway.com. For worldwide JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR news, visit www.jesuschristsuperstar.com.

The result of their collaboration will be performed at the star-studded Diamond Jubilee Concert outside Buckingham Palace on 4th June.

To help create this unique piece of music, Gary will embark on a journey around the world to discover what The Queen means to the ordinary people of the Commonwealth. His journey will feature in an hour-long documentary for BBC One, commissioned by Danny Cohen, Controller, BBC One.

The challenge will be to not only explore the different musical cultures and traditions of these Commonwealth nations, but he will also look at the importance of The Queen to the Commonwealth.

Speaking about their collaboration, Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “It is a huge honour to be involved in this historic occasion and I am looking forward very much to working with Gary.”

Gary Barlow said: “‘This is probably the biggest challenge I’ve ever taken on musically, I’m so excited and thrilled to be a part of it.”
The programme will be Executive Produced for the BBC by Mirella Breda, and Executive Produced & Directed by Ben Winston and Produced by Mark Jones for Fulwell 73.

In addition, it was also announced today that applications for tickets to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee concert have topped 1,000,000.

For further information, please see www.bbc.co.uk/diamondjubilee.

This much-anticipated ‘Songbook’ tour highlights works from Chris Cornell’s entire catalogue, including songs written for Soundgarden, Audioslave and Temple of the Dog and has already attracted universally positive reviews around the world. As Jim Farber of The New York Daily News observed, “sometimes you don’t recognize the full power of a voice until you strip everything away from it.”

Chris Cornell has the ability to connect with listeners like few others of our time. Within this alternative setting, Cornell can easily interact with the audience and share insights about his music.  Familiar songs emerge in a new context, showing that great songwriting translates to any idiom. Ranked as “one of the best voices in music history,” Cornell has successfully maintained his own unique identity over more than two decades as a multi-Grammy award winning musician, Golden Globe nominee and universally acclaimed singer, songwriter and lyricist.

Praise for ‘Songbook’ in 2011:

“A master class in the fine art of solo performance” – Boston Globe
“His talents as a storyteller and poet come through as loud and clear. …music has few individuals left who can grab an acoustic guitar alone and make a sold out crowd laugh, cry, feel, and dream.” – Artist Direct
“The intensity of his voice enveloped the room… a night of rare beauty.” – The Australian
 “A perfectly guided tour of the nuanced poetry of songwriting led by a cordial host who gripped the focus of his audience.” – Pop Matters

Chris Cornell’s headline UK tour comes to the world-famous London Palladium on Monday 18th June 2012. CLICK HERE to buy tickets or call 020 7403 3331.

Further dates for mainland Europe will be announced shortly. Full UK tour dates are:

SAT 16 JUNE   MANCHESTER LOWRY                     0843 208 6000
MON 18 JUNE   LONDON PALLADIUM                     020 7403 3331
TUE 19 JUNE   BIRMINGHAM SYMPHONY HALL             0121 780 3333
WED 20 JUNE   NEWCASTLE CITY HALL  0191 277 8030

In the below video clip, original Creative Team member, choreographer Gillian Lynne, joins the Broadway cast to celebrate this incredible milestone. Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber also sent a video message passing on his congratulations, while producer Cameron Mackintosh joined London’s Phantom cast onstage at Her Majesty’s Theatre to wish the Broadway company a ‘Happy 10,000th performance,’ direct from London to New York.

After the show, cast members Kyle Barisich (Raoul), Trista Moldovan (Christine) and Hugh Panaro (The Phantom) shared their thoughts on Phantom‘s amazing achievement – and celebrated with a very special cake!

For more information on the Broadway production of The Phantom of the Opera, visit the official show website.

The show won Best Musical Revival at the Whatsonstage.com Awards, held at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London, while former cast member Hannah Waddingham won in the Best Supporting Actress in a Musical category. Hannah then performed the Wicked Witch’s rousing number, ‘Red Shoes Blues’ at the ceremony - a new song written for this production of The Wizard of Oz by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Producer Bill Kenwright was also on hand at the ceremony, picking up the Best Musical Revival award, which he dedicated to the show’s West End home – the world-famous London Palladium.

The Whatsonstage.com Awards are the only major prize-giving event for the theatre industry in the UK voted for purely by the ticket-buying public. This year a record 70,000 people took part in the voting process.

For the full list of award winners, visit the Whatsonstage.com website. For more information on The Wizard of Oz – and to get your tickets to see London’s Best Musical Revival – visit the official show website.

All images c. Dan Wooller for Whatsonstage.com.

An antidote to landfill indie and the R&B-goes-to-Ibiza choking the charts, it’s a full on celebration of pop. The album contains a dozen uptempo slices of electro-pop which they have concocted with Richard X.

‘Tonight’ will be the first single from the album and is all about the primal and atavistic pull that all good pop music exerts, about how the unadulterated thrill of a great band or gig can sometimes feel like a hotline straight to your heart.The track is produced by Xenomania lynchpin Tim Powell (Girls Aloud, Kylie, Sugababes), and mixed by Richard X.

The new album will mix perfectly into a new live set with the band’s classic hits such as He’s On The Phone, Only Love Can Break Your Heart and Nothing Can Stop Us.

CLICK HERE to buy tickets to Saint Etienne at the London Palladium, or call 0844 811 0051. Visit www.saintetienne.com for full information on the tour.

Cameron Mackintosh announced today full casting for the spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA premiering at the Theatre Royal Plymouth in March 2012, with previews from 27 February.

 Simon Bailey will star as ‘Raoul’, Angela M. Caesar as ‘Carlotta’, Andy Hockley as ‘Monsieur Firmin’, Simon Green as ‘Monsieur Andre’, Elizabeth Marsh as ‘Madame Giry’, Vincent Pirillo as ‘Ubaldo Piangi’, Hannah Cadec as ‘Meg Giry’ and Olivia Brereton as ‘Christine’ at certain performances. They join the previously announced John Owen-Jones and Earl Carpenter, who will share the role of ‘The Phantom’ and Katie Hall who will play the role of ‘Christine’. See below for the full tour schedule with casting details and on sale dates. 

Simon Bailey’s West End credits include ‘Lieutenant Torrasso/Count Ludovic’ in “Passion” at the Donmar Warehouse, ‘Raoul’ in “The Phantom of the Opera” at Her Majesty’s Theatre, ‘Enjolras’ in “Les Miserables” at the Queen’s Theatre, ‘Britney’ in “We Will Rock You” at the Dominion Theatre and ‘Pharaoh’ in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat” at the New London Theatre. Simon is also a founder member of ‘Theatreland’s First Supergroup’ Teatro. Angela M. Caesar’s West End credits include ‘The Moon’ in “Caroline, or Change” at the National Theatre. Andy Hockley’s theatre credits include ‘Rudolph Reisenweber’ in “Hello Dolly” at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, ‘Marcellus’ in “The Music Man” at Chichester Festival Theatre and ‘The Chaplain’ in “Mother Courage and Her Children” at the National Theatre. Television credits include “Life On Mars”, “Heartbeat”, “Emmerdale” and “Doctors”. Simon Green’s West End credits include ‘Jules/Bob Greenberg’ in “Sunday In The Park With George” at the Wyndham’s Theatre, ‘Lumiere’ in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” at the Dominion Theatre, ‘Young Ben’ in “Follies” at the Shaftesbury Theatre and ‘Torasso’ in “Passion” at the Queen’s Theatre. Simon has also appeared in ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ at Her Majesty’s Theatre, and as ‘Monsieur Lefevre’ in the recent 25^th Anniversary celebrations of “Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall”. Elizabeth Marsh’s recent credits include ‘Myra Yerkes’ in the European premiere of Stephen Sondheim’s “Road Show” at the Menier Chocolate Factory, “Sleeping Beauty” at the Birmingham Rep, and “Afterlife” and “The Threepenny Opera” at the National Theatre. Vincent Pirillo recently appeared in “Sweeney Todd” at Chichester Festival Theatre. Other recent credits include ‘Mr Goodfellow’ in “Inherit the Wind” at The Old Vic, ‘Rabbi’ in “Imagine This” at the New London Theatre, ‘Rabbi/Avram’ in “Fiddler on the Roof” at the Savoy Theatre, ‘Signal Man’ in “The Woman in White” at the Palace Theatre and ‘Grandfather’ in “Ragtime” at the Piccadilly Theatre. Olivia Brereton recently graduated from the Guildhall School of Acting where she appeared in ‘The Light in the Piazza’, Into the Woods’ and ‘The Boyfriend’. ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ marks Olivia’s professional debut.

The company also includes Alistair Barron, Rosie Bell, James Bisp, Greg Castiglioni, Cindy Corinne Ciunfrini, Caroline Crawley, Rachel Crocker, Michael Diana, Liesl Dowsett, A C Garcia, Hannah Grace, Henry Grant Kerswell, Sam Harrison, Sophie Hartley, Kirk Jameson, Sarah Joyce, Lauren Lotz, Lee Ormsby, Siani Owen, David Phipps-Davis, Claire Platt, James Pullum, Leigh Rhianon Coggins, Emma Roberts-Simms, Ben Sleep and Richard Woodford.

This spectacular new production is Directed by Laurence Connor, with Choreography by Scott Ambler, Set Design by Paul Brown, Costume Design by Maria Björnson, Lighting Design by Paule Constable with Video and Projection Design by Nina Dunn for Knifedge, Sound Design by Mick Potter and Musical Supervision by John Rigby. The production is overseen by Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA became the longest running show in Broadway history on 9 January 2006 when it celebrated its 7,486th performance, surpassing the previous record holder “Cats”.  This coincided with the Broadway and the US national touring company celebrating an unprecedented 20,000 performances in the United States. In October 2010 the London production celebrated its 10,000th performance.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has won over 60 major theatre awards, including seven Tonys on Broadway and three Olivier Awards in the West End.  It won the ‘Most Popular Musical Audience Award’, voted by the public, in the 2002 Laurence Olivier Awards.  THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, which opened at Her Majesty’s Theatre on 9 October 1986 starred Michael Crawford as ‘The Phantom’ and Sarah Brightman as ‘Christine.’ It is produced by Cameron Mackintosh by arrangement with The Really Useful Group.

Worldwide, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has grossed over £3.2 billion. The box office revenues are higher than any film or stage play in history, including “Titanic”, “ET”, “Star Wars” and “Avatar”. It has been seen in 145 cities in 27 countries and played to over 130 million people.  THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is currently showing in London, New York, Budapest, Las Vegas, and Kyoto.

www.thephantomoftheoperatour.com

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA UK TOUR

 27 FEBRUARY – 31 MARCH 2012
THEATRE ROYAL PLYMOUTH
John Owen-Jones as The Phantom
Box Office 01752 230440 | www.theatreroyal.com
ON SALE NOW

5 APRIL – 19 MAY 2012
MANCHESTER PALACE THEATRE
John Owen-Jones as The Phantom
Box Office 0844 847 2295 | www.palaceandoperahouse.org.uk
ON SALE NOW

23 MAY – 30 JUNE 2012
BRISTOL HIPPODROME
John Owen-Jones as The Phantom
Box Office 0844 871 3012 | www.bristolhippodrome.org.uk
ON SALE NOW

5 JULY – 4 AUGUST 2012
DUBLIN GRAND CANAL THEATRE
John Owen-Jones as The Phantom
Box Office 0818 719 377 | www.grandcanaltheatre.ie
ON SALE NOW

9 AUGUST – 15 SEPTEMBER 2012
LEEDS GRAND THEATRE
John Owen-Jones as The Phantom
Box Office 0844 848 2706 | www.leedsgrandtheatre.com
ON SALE NOW

19 SEPTEMBER – 20 OCTOBER 2012
EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE
John Owen-Jones as The Phantom (19 – 29 September)
Earl Carpenter as The Phantom (1 – 20 October)
Box Office 0844 847 1660 | www.edinburghplayhouse.org.uk
ON SALE NOW 

24 OCTOBER – 24 NOVEMBER 2012
MILTON KEYNES THEATRE
Earl Carpenter as The Phantom
Box Office 0844 871 7652 | www.atgtickets.com/Milton-Keynes-Theatre
ON SALE SOON

4 DECEMBER 2012 – 12 JANUARY 2013
CARDIFF WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
Earl Carpenter as The Phantom
Box Office 02920 63 64 64 | www.wmc.org.uk
ON SALE 1 MARCH 2012

 22 JANUARY – 16 FEBRUARY 2013
SOUTHAMPTON MAYFLOWER
Earl Carpenter as The Phantom
Box Office 02380 711 811 | www.mayflower.org.uk
ON SALE 30 JANUARY 2012

FURTHER DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED

The interview will also air on WLIW/Long Island Channel 21 on Friday 17th February at 7pm EST, and on NJTV on Sunday 19th February at 8.30pm EST.

For those who are unable to watch the interview, it will be available to view on the PBS NYC Arts website after the broadcast. Click here for a preview, and to watch the feature after its inital broadcast.

FINAL CASTING ANNOUNCED

Rehearsals began yesterday, Thursday, February 9, for The Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s hit production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR.  Directed by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Artistic Director and 2-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR opens March 22, 2012 (previews begin March 1) at the Neil Simon Theatre (250 West 52^nd Street).

The cast features Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Tom Hewitt as Pontius Pilate, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Also in the cast: Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Jeremy Kushnier as James the Lesser/Priest, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, and Nick Cartell, Krista Leis, Matthew Rossoff and Matt Stokes as swings.

In addition to Mr. McAnuff as Director, the creative team includes Choreographer Lisa Shriver, Musical Director Rick Fox, Set Designer Robert Brill, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell, Lighting Designer Howell Binkley, Sound Designer Steve Canyon Kennedy and Video Designer Sean Nieuwenhuis.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is produced by The Dodgers and the Really Useful Group. 

Tickets for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR are available at the Neil Simon Theatre, 250 West 52^nd Street.  Box office hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.  Tickets also available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 877-250-2929.  Group sales (of 15 or more) are on sale now and available by calling 1-877-536-3437.

www.SuperstarOnBroadway.com

www.jesuschristsuperstar.com

This is a ‘Relaxed Performance’ for children with sensory and communication needs who require a more relaxed environment.

For more information on the performance, and to find out how to book, CLICK HERE.

In the latest Wizard of Oz video blog, Resident Director Kate Golledge catches up with Martin in a break from rehearsals to find out a bit about his background and what he’s most looking forward to about being a part of the wonderful Wizard of Oz.

Get your tickets to see Martin and the new Oz cast in action on the official show website.

AS THE FASTEST SHOW ON EARTH RETURNS TO THE UK!

STARLIGHT EXPRESS TOURS THE UK FROM MAY 2012

Bill Kenwright presents one of the best loved and longest running musicals in theatrical history, as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sensational Starlight Express explodes back onto the stage with a new production for 2012, set to take the UK by electrifying storm.

Starlight Express races to its first destination, New Wimbledon Theatre, from Thursday 10 May 2012.

Starlight Express opened to packed houses at the Apollo Victoria in London’s West End in 1984 where it ran for over 7000 performances. It is one of the most successful musicals ever with the German production still running in Bochum after 25 years.

Light years ahead of the rest, this futuristic tale about love and hope in the face of adversity promises to take you on the ride of a lifetime – with two hours of speed, spectacle, energy, daredevil stunts and turbo charged excitement, combined with an electrifying sound track, dazzling sets and costumes, extraordinary roller-choreography and some of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most memorable musical hits.

Andrew Lloyd Webber wrote Starlight Express originally for his own children. His extensive credits include The Phantom of the Opera, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita and Cats. He pioneered television casting for musical theatre with the Emmy Award-winning BBC series How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria? His awards include seven Tonys, three Grammys including Best Contemporary Classical Composition for Requiem, seven Oliviers, a Golden Globe, an Oscar, two International Emmys, the Praemium Imperiale, the Richard Rodgers Award for Excellence in Musical Theatre and the Kennedy Center Honor. He currently owns seven London theatres, including the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, and the London Palladium.

Internationally renowned choreographer and popular television judge Arlene Phillips is back on board as Director and Choreographer, choreographed the original West End production and directed and choreographed several subsequent productions of the show.  Her extensive credits also include Saturday Night Fever, The Sound of Music, Grease, We Will Rock You and Jesus Christ Superstar.

Buckle up; the race is truly back on!

Click here for tour dates and how to book.

Tuesday 29 May – Saturday 16 June
Alhambra Theatre, Bradford
Website: www.bradford-theatres.co.uk
Box Office: 01274 432 000

Tuesday 19 – Saturday 30 June
The Lowry, Salford Quays
Website: www.thelowry.com
Box Office: 0843 208 6000

Tuesday 3 – Saturday 14 July
Playhouse Theatre, Edinburgh
Website: www.edinburghplayhouse.org.uk
Box Office: 0844 871 3014

Tuesday 17 – Saturday 28 July
Liverpool Empire Theatre
Website: www.liverpoolempire.org.uk
Box Office: 0844 871 3017

Tuesday 31 July – Saturday 18 August
BIC Windsor Hall, Bournemouth
Website: www.bic.co.uk
Box Office: 0844 576 3000

Tuesday 21 August – Saturday 1 September
Concert Hall, Nottingham
Website: www.trch.co.uk
Box Office: 0115 989 5555

Tuesday 4 – Saturday 15 September
Southend Theatres
Website: www.southendtheatres.org.uk
Box Office: 01702 351135

Monday 17 – Saturday 29 September
Venue Cymru, Llandudno
Website: www.venuecymru.co.uk
Box Office: 01492 872000

Tuesday 2 – Saturday 13 October
His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen
Website: www.boxofficeaberdeen.com
Box Office: 01224 641122

Tuesday 16 – Saturday 27 October
Hull New Theatre
Website: www.hull.gov.uk/hullnewtheatre
Box Office: 01482 300 300

Tuesday 29 January – Saturday 9 February 2013
Millennium Forum, Londonderry
Website: www.millenniumforum.co.uk
Box Office: 028 7126 4455

FURTHER DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED

Making its first appearance in the United States, NCM Fathom and Omniverse Vision present Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Love Never Dies, the long awaited continuation to The Phantom of the Opera, in a fully-staged production pre-recorded at The Regent Theatre in Melbourne, Australia. This exclusive showing of Love Never Dies will be broadcast to select U.S. movie theaters for two nights only beginning with the premiere event on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. local time; followed by an encore presentation on Wednesday, March 7. This exclusive event will include an in-depth interview with Andrew Lloyd Webber as well as behind-the-scenes footage following Lloyd Webber on set as he provides creative direction to the cast and crew of Love Never Dies.

Tickets for Love Never Dies are available now at participating theater box offices and online at www.fathomevents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom website (theaters and participants are subject to change). The event will be broadcast to more than 500 select movie theaters across the country through NCM’s exclusive Digital Broadcast Network.

“I’m incredibly proud and honoured to be able to bring this production to U.S. cinemas nationwide,” said Lloyd Webber. “I hope very much that audiences take Love Never Dies to their hearts in the same way they have The Phantom of the Opera.” 

Lloyd Webber’s Love Never Dies is a mesmerizing follow-up to the award winning Phantom of the Opera, featuring a 21-piece orchestra and an impressive cast of 36 including actors Ben Lewis as the Phantom and Anna O’Byrne as Christine Daaé. The cinematic production, directed by Brett Sullivan, will enchant audiences bringing them into a world of passion, obsession and romance. The captivating love story of the Phantom and Christine continues in New York’s playground, Coney Island. After his disappearance from the Paris Opera house, the Phantom begins a new life in New York amongst the freaks and side shows. The only thing missing from his new life is musical protégée Christine.  In an effort to win back his love, the Phantom lures Christine and her family to this new sparkling unknown world. 

“The very best of Broadway is coming to local movie theaters again in this once-in-lifetime opportunity to see the next chapter in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom saga, Love Never Dies,” said Dan Diamond, senior vice president of Fathom. “This Fathom event gives fans their first chance to see this highly anticipated musical long before it opens in the U.S.” 

Recently, Fathom and Omniverse Vision presented The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall in select theaters last October and Les Misérables in Concert – The 25th Anniversary Event in November 2010. The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall will be available in the USA and Canada on DVD in February.

Love Never Dies will also be screened at select movie theaters in Canada on 11th and 21st April. Tickets for the Canadian screenings are onsale from 24th February. Click here for information.

Click here for a list of participating theaters in the USA.

The Des McAnuff production set a new record for the website, which invites theatre fans to vote for their favourite shows across a range of categories. Jesus Christ Superstar – which opens on Broadway at the Neil Simon Theatre in March 2012 – won in the Best Musical category, and there were also wins for actors Josh Young and Chilina Kennedy, and Director Des McAnuff.

The show’s 11 BroadwayWorld.com Toronto Awards are listed in full below:

Best Direction of a Musical
Des McAnuff – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Leading Actor (Musical)
Josh Young – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Leading Actress (Musical) Chilina Kennedy – Jesus Christ Superstar- Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Musical
Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Musical Direction
Rick Fox – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Choreography
Lisa Shriver – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Costume Design
Paul Tazewell – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Lighting Design
Howell Binkley – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Set Design
Robert Brill – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Sound Design
Jim Neil – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Performance by a Female in a Feature Role/Ensemble (Musical)
Melissa O’Neil – Jesus Christ Superstar- Stratford Shakespeare Festival

For more information on Jesus Christ Superstar, visit the official website.

The new cast members join the continuing cast onstage next week, from Tuesday 7th February, with Sophie Evans as Dorothy. Click here for more information on the show and to buy tickets.