Photos: Steele Unveils Plaque at London PalladiumDate: 10 June 2005
Sixties legend Tommy Steele (pictured right) unveiled in his honour a plaque at the London Palladium yesterday. The plaque commemorates the fact that Steele has performed more times there than any other actor at the famous West End theatre.
Fittingly, Steele returns to the same stage this autumn to take the title role in Scrooge, Leslie Bricusse’s musical retelling of Charles Dickens' literary classic A Christmas Carol (See News, 6 Jun 2005). Produced by Bill Kenwright, the festive family show will have a limited season from 8 November 2005 to 14 January 2006 (previews from 20 October).
A pop chart-topper in the 1950s, Steele went on to become one of Britain's best known all-round entertainers. In 1963, he had a hit in the West End with the musical Half a Sixpence, which he later starred in on Broadway and in the 1967 Hollywood film version. During a long and varied career, Steele has also featured in films such as Finian's Rainbow, The Happiest Millionaire and The Tommy Steele Story; appeared regularly on television, not least in his popular variety show, The Tommy Steele Hour; and released some 20 records.
On stage, many of Steele’s biggest successes have taken place at the London Palladium where, having set a record for headlining more performances than any other artist, a plaque will be unveiled in his honour this Thursday, 9 June 2005. Prior to Scrooge, his productions at the theatre have included Hans Christian Andersen, The London Palladium Show, Dick Whittington and Singin’ in the Rain. The last, directed by as well as starring Steele, ran for 894 performances.
Scrooge tells Dickens’ story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge who - after a night facing the ghosts of his past, present and his frightening future - is transformed, his Christmas spirit restored. The score includes "I Hate Christmas", "It's Not My Fault", "I'll Begin Again" and "Better Life".
MORE PHOTOS FROM YESTERDAY'S EVENT:
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