DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS – AUGUST 7-12
Get ready to enjoy the biggest hits of the Sixties as the West End and touring favourite Dreamboats and Petticoats returns to Norwich Theatre Royal.
Fresh from its previous sold-out visit in 2013, it aims to recreate the golden era of music with a high-energy show and compelling story penned by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, who are known for a host of stage and TV hits including Birds Of A Feather and Shine On Harvey Moon.
Set in 1961, it follows the story of young musicians Norman and Bobby as they compete to win a national song-writing contest. That is not the only rivalry they have as they also want to gain the affection of the gorgeous Sue.
When Bobby discovers the shy Laura is also an incredible pianist, the stage is set for love, excitement and rock ‘n’ roll.
Taking on the role of the older Bobby is Jimmy Johnston who is a two-time Olivier Award nominee for Best Actor for his roles in Oklahoma at the National Theatre and Pirates of Penzance at Regent’s Park Open Air Festival. He has also appeared in Les Misérables and Phantom Of The Opera in the West End, Soul Man for the famous Stephen Joseph Theatre in Yorkshire, and is also a regular guest lead performer on BBC Radio 2’s Friday Night Is Music Night.
Meanwhile Alistair Higgins takes on the role of the younger Bobby. An experienced stage performer, his previous performing credits include Sweeney Todd, Charlotte’s Web and the UK tour of Shadowlands.
Laura is played by Elizabeth Carter who has a strong theatrical pedigree appearing in the likes of Dreamboats and Miniskirts, Save The Last Dance For Me and The Snow Queen, while the role of Sue is taken by Laura Darton who has also appeared in a range of shows including Showboat, Godspell, and Save The Last Dance For Me.
There is East Anglian interest too as Colchester-born-and-bred Rob Gathercole takes on the role of Jeremy.
Dreamboats and Petticoats also features a host of top tracks from some of the decades’ biggest selling artists including Roy Orbison, The Shadows, Eddie Cochran and Billy Fury.
So get set to enjoy a feast of iconic songs from the era including Let’s Dance, Shaking All Over, Bobby’s Girl, Runaround Sue, C’Mon Everybody and Let’s Twist Again.
John Bultitude, of Norwich Theatre Royal, said: “This show promises to be a feast of nostalgia with some fabulous songs, a great storyline and some high-energy performances.
“Whether you are re-living the Sixties or want to experience the joy of that era for yourself, Dreamboats and Petticoats promises to be superb summer entertainment and a definite feel-good show.”

 

Listing:
Dreamboats and Petticoats, Monday 7-Saturday 12 August at 7.30pm, and Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets £8-£29. Discounts for Friends, Corporate Club, Over-60s, Under-18s and Groups.
To book, log onto www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000.