Fame sequel gets West End premiere

Fame Forever, the 'official sequel' to the hit musical Fame, will receive its professional premiere at the West End's Lyric Theatre for one night only on 8 September 2014, ahead of a UK tour.

The show, which was conceived and developed by David De Silva, producer of the original movie, picks up the story of the characters 20 years on.

It features music by Steve Margoshes, composer of the original musical, and book and lyrics by Ben H Winters.

Characters featured in Fame Forever include Serena Katz, who is now an English teacher at the school, and Nick Piazza – her high school sweetheart – a huge (and rich) TV star. Tyrone Jackson has his own dance company, while Mabel Washington – now a weather girl – has her daughter at the school, as does radio DJ Joe Vegas.

The 'spirit of Carmen Diaz', who died in the original, makes an appearance to see "how life, her classmates and time have passed her by".

According to press material, "With affectionate nods to the original, a specially commissioned score full of new songs, and a plot to satisfy even the stagiest of appetites and the most romantic of hearts, it’s a testament to the enduring power of showbiz ambition and the generational journey through life’s rich tapestry."

The show includes a performance of the obligatory title track made famous by Irene Cara.

Casting is still to be announced, along with details for the 2015/16 tour.