Carnaby Street set for Birmingham summer run

Carnaby Street, a new musical set against the backdrop of London’s West End in the Sixties is set to play Birmingham this summer.  Starring Aaron Sidwell as Jumpin’ Jack and Verity Rushworth as Penny Lane, the show explores the 60s as a time of hope and freedom and will feature hits from the era including “You Really Got Me”, “Let’s Spend the Night Together” and “Go Now.”

Aaron Sidwell takes on the role of ‘Jack’, replacing the previously announced Sid Owen who has decided to withdraw from the production.  As well as EastEnders, Sidwell’s theatre credits include Loserville. 

Verity Rushworth will play Penny Lane, the girl next-door from Liverpool who follows her love to London. Rushworth spent 10 years as Donna Dingle on Emmerdale before making her West End debut in the award-winning production of Hairspray in 2009.  Rushworth’s most recent stage work was replacing Connie Fisher in the lead role of Maria in the UK tour of The Sound of Music.  “I’m thrilled to have been asked to be involved with Carnaby Street,” said Rushworth, “I am a huge fan of Sixties music and really excited to play Penny Lane.” 

Directed by Bob Tomson, whose West End credits include Blood Brothers and Dreamcoats and Petticoats, the show will arrive at The New Alexandra Theatre Birmingham from 3-8 June 2013.