A new UK tour of musical Judy & Liza opens for a week-long run at Manchester's Hope Mill Theatre (May 28-June 2), ahead of visits to Wales, Runcorn, the North East, New Brighton, Leeds and venues wider afield.
Charting the careers and relationship between Hollywood mother and daughter Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli, the production tells the turbulent tale of the stars against the backdrop of their infamous 1964 London Palladium concert, an emotional rollercoaster as they reveal the uncanny parallels between some of their most iconic songs and their personal lives.
The show is created and written by Emma Dears, who also plays Liza. Liverpool-born Emma’s acting career began when she was nine, touring the UK in the title role of Annie. Her West End roles have included Les Miserables, Miss Saigon and Oliver.
Helen Sheals - widely known for her roles in Coronation Street and Downton Abbey - is no stranger to portraying Judy Garland, having previously played the title role in the West End musical Judy!. Her extensive theatre includes Merry Wives and King Lear for Northern Broadsides; The Rise and Fall of Little Voice and Shirley Valentine, as well as many TV roles.
Producer Bill Elms said: “It’s a show very close to my heart; I worked on the first run 12 years ago. We can promise audiences an entertaining and memorable experience with some fantastic music."
“The show is full of love, heartache and passion," said Emma. "Helen and I have worked to make sure we get every tiny detail right."
More info and tickets here