A new cast are ready to bare all when Calendar Girls the Musical makes a welcome return from 28 November – 2 December at Hull New Theatre.
Gary Barlow and Tim Firth’s production sees this incredible story continue to bloom with a reimagined book and new music.
Calendar Girls follows a group of extraordinary women in a small Yorkshire Women’s Institute, prompted to create a nude calendar following the death of a much-loved husband, to raise funds for charity. But upturning preconceptions is a dangerous business and none of the women are prepared for the emotional and personal ramifications they will face, as the fabulous and funny calendar brings each woman unexpectedly into flower.
Musical theatre star Marti Webb will play the role of Celia, the glamorous and sassy former air hostess. Marti is known for her roles in Evita, Cats, Annie, and Thoroughly Modern Millie and has featured on many cast recordings and has released several solo albums.
Joining Marti will be Maureen Nolan who stars as the big-hearted Ruth. Maureen is best known for being a member of The Nolans, who have sold more than 30 million records worldwide.
Lyn Paul also joins the cast as Jessie, the frank and fearless schoolteacher. Lyn has been hailed as one of the definitive actresses to have starred in Blood Brothers, having played the role in the West End and in venues across the country for nearly 25 years.
Blood Brothers aficionados will also recognise Paula Tappenden who steps into the role of intrepid Women’s Institute leader, Marie. She has starred in the roles of both Mrs Lyons and Mrs Johnstone in Blood Brothers, in the West End and on tour for many years.
Starring as Chris Harper, the role made famous by Helen Mirren in the film adaptation will be Amy Robbins. Amy recently joined the cast of Coronation Street and has also been seen in EastEnders, Holby City, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks.
Chris’ sidekick Annie Clarke will be played by Tanya Franks. Best known for her role as Rainie Cross in EastEnders, Tanya has also been nominated for several awards at the British Comedy Awards, Inside Soap Awards and the National Television Awards.
Rounding out the cast will be Honeysuckle Weeks as the rebellious musician, Cora. Honeysuckle has previously starred in the much-loved wartime drama Foyle’s War as Samantha Stewart.
The true story of the Calendar Girls launched a global phenomenon: a million copycat calendars, a record-breaking movie, now celebrating 20 years since its release, the fastest-selling stage play in British theatre history, and now a hit musical. Every performance continues to add to the nearly £6 million already raised for charity.
This tour is proud to be supporting Blood Cancer UK, the charity dedicated to funding research into all blood cancers including leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, as well as offering information and support to blood cancer patients.
Tickets are on sale now. Book at the Hull City Hall box office, call 01482 300 306 or visit www.hulltheatres.co.uk to book online.