While the West End’s record-breaking production of The Phantom of the Opera remains closed until further notice, two former ‘Phantoms’ have joined forces to bring the magic of musical theatre to UK audiences
With over nine years between them in one of musical theatre’s most distinctive title roles, Earl Carpenter and John Owen-Jones will take centre stage in an innovative new production celebrating musical theatre at four venues across the country next month.
Presented by Carpenter’s Ginger Boy Productions, Voices of The West End will reunite the two ex- ‘Phantoms’ with their former leading lady Katie Hall (Les Misérables). West End stalwart Kerry Ellis (Wicked, We Will Rock You) will complete the all-star line-up for the performances which will also feature musicians Jennifer Whyte (music director and accompanist) and cellist Yvonne Marie Parsons.
Each of the venues – Broadlands in Romsey (4, 5, 6 September), Stonor Park near Henley-on-Thames (11, 12, 13 September), Bywell Hall, Northumberland (18, 19, 20 September) and the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire (25, 26, 27 September) – will feature three-metre square roped-off picnic plots to ensure groups of family and/or friends can enjoy the show safely.
Two of musical theatre’s most accomplished leading men, Carpenter and Owen-Jones have previously performed together as Valjean and Javert in Cameron Mackintosh’s 25th anniversary tour of Les Misérables.
As well as creating and starring in the shows which will play some of the UK’s most beautiful venues, the team has partnered with local theatre box offices to sell tickets to the events.
Commenting on the tie-up with Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre, the Ambassador Theatre Group, the Birmingham Hippodrome and the Newcastle Theatre Royal, Carpenter said: “I’m overwhelmed by the extraordinary support we’ve had from all the venues we’re visiting and the theatre box offices we’re partnering with. They’ve all commented on how positive this project is for their own teams. Rather than constantly refunding cancelled shows – they can positively sell tickets to these events.”
Owen-Jones added: “Everyone knows one of the happiest and most joyful escapes can be a trip to see your favourite musical performed live and we felt a slice of that is exactly what was needed right now – we’ve all had enough of only looking at screens! I’m hoping people will bring their own deckchairs or picnic or even dress up as their favourite musical characters!”
Tickets are based on up to four people from two households or support bubbles sharing a post and roped-pitch allocated on arrival.
Angela Thomas
SHARE THIS POST:
Comments are closed.