The musical will open at the Liverpool Empire for a four week run before embarking on a UK tour.
Producers have confirmed that Sheridan Smith is set to revisit her portrayal of the late Cilla Black to star in Bill Kenwright’s production of Cilla the Musical, written by Jeff Pope.
This revival of the musical is set to open at the Liverpool Empire on the 23rd September for four weeks before travelling to Aylesbury, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Leeds.
Sheridan Smith originally appeared as Cilla Black in Jeff Pope’s acclaimed ITV series based on the singer’s life, which saw her winning a 2015 National TV Award and a 2015 TV Choice Award, as well as being nominated for a BAFTA (2015) and a second international EMMY Award (2015). Her numerous theatre credits include Little Shop of Horrors at the Menier Chocolate Factory and her first Olivier Award and WhatsOnStage Award winning performance as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde.
The story follows the extraordinary life of an ordinary teenage girl from Liverpool, Priscilla White, and her rocky, yet incredible, rise to fame. By the age of just 25 she was recognised as international singing star Cilla Black. By 30 she had become Britain’s favourite television entertainer headlining series of Blind Date, Surprise Surprise and many more. The musical score features the ultimate soundtrack to the 60’s including Cilla’s greatest hits Anyone Who Had a Heart,Alfie and Something Tells Me, alongside a backdrop of the legendary “Liverpool Sound”.
As well as being co-directed by Bill Kenwright and Bob Tomson, the creative team for the production includes designs by Gary McCann, lighting by Nick Richings, sound design by Dan Samson and musical direction by Scott Alder. Further casting is set to be announced soon.
For more information about the musical visit: https://www.kenwright.com/portfolio/cilla-the-musical/