IF THE dark nights and ’08 fatigue are already making the world seem a dreary place, you can count on the Liverpool Empire for a touch of fantasy and theatrical magic to put a spring back in your step.
Highlights in the 2009 programme include the world premiere tour of Flashdance – The Musical, which shimmies into town from January 26 to 30. With a cast including Coronation Street’s Bruno Langley, Bernie Nolan and Hear’Say’s Noel Sullivan, the show features the iconic score from the film, as well as original songs.
January also offers Rockin’ On Heaven’s Door, which brings convincing portrayals of rock and roll music giants such as Presley, Orbison and Jerry Lee Lewis to the stage on the 14th.
Ricky Tomlinson is at the Empire on January 15 to compere Liverpool’s Big Night Out, an evening of comedy, music and great laughs, followed by The Brothers Gibb, a stunning live concert celebrating pop music legends The Bee Gees.
February is packed with comedy, musicals and ballet.
The ever-popular Agnes Brown, played by Irish comedian Brendan O’Carroll, is back in comedy Mrs Brown’s Last Wedding, which visits the Empire for the first time, from February 2 to 7.
Then, producer Ellen Kent brings the best of Russian ballet, with principal stars of international reputation, together with a corps de ballet and live orchestra, in Swan Lake (February 9 to 11) and Coppelia (February 12 to 14). Bill Kenwright brings the enduringly popular Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, Joseph, back to Liverpool (February 16 to 24), with a new cast to be announced soon.
There’s the return of smash hit musical Buddy at the Empire to commemorate the 50th anniversary of rock ’n’ roll legend Buddy Holly’s death from February 23 to 28.
Spring sees the Empire host traditional musical favourites such as Singin’ in the Rain and 42nd Street, alongside newer productions like The Witches of Eastwick, starring Marti Pellow, and All the Fun of the Fair, with David Essex.
Chicago also makes a return, and in April legendary Irish dance show Riverdance’s farewell tour stops off at the Empire.
Tickets for these are on sale now, with more to be confirmed soon. For more details, see www.liverpoolempire.org.uk
vickyanderson
