backstagepass.biz

WILL SMITH & JADEN SMITH to attend UEFA Champions Festival in Stratford this Saturday

2013-05-23T11:26:00.001+01:00

WILL SMITH & JADEN SMITH COMING TO STRATFORD!

HOLLYWOOD AND FOOTBALL STARS LINE UP FOR THE ULTIMATE CHAMPIONS MATCH

Jaden Smith & his dad Will Smith to attend UEFA Champions Festival in Stratford from 11.30am on Saturday 25^th May

Superstar actors will step onto the pitch with superstar footballers including Luís Figo, Gianfranco Zola, Steve McManaman & Cafu

UEFA Champions Festival is FREE and open to EVERYONE!

A chance for everyone to come and see superstars of the pitch and screen!

Jaden Smith and his dad Will Smith will line up alongside a huge array of football greats when they help kick off the annual Ultimate Champions Match, taking place at the UEFA Champions Festival in London on Saturday 25 May.

The 2013 Ultimate Champions Match is a five-a-side tournament which is totally FREE and open to anyone to come along and watch. It’s a unique opportunity to see some of football’s greatest names return to action at the UEFA Champions Festival, a free, public four-day event taking place from Thursday 23^rd to Sunday 26^th May in the new International Quarter by Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford.

Will and Jaden Smith will stop to greet crowds before they step onto the pitch to help warm up the goalkeepers with a penalty shoot-out and then undertake the coin toss in front of the match official. They are in London to promote the release of their forthcoming film After Earth which will be at UK cinemas from 7 June.

Ultimate Champions Match details: SATURDAY 25^TH MAY

UEFA Champions Festival at Stratford opens: 9.00am
UEFA Champions Festival is completely FREE and open to everybody
Will Smith and Jaden Smith will greet crowds and step on to the pitch from 11.30am
Ultimate Champions Match kick-off: 12:30pm
Venue: UEFA Champions Festival, The International Quarter (by the entrance to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park), Stratford

Ultimate Champions Match squad list:
Ultimate Champions A

1 Jens Lehmann (GK)

1 Edwin van der Sar (GK)

7 Robert Pirès

8 Freddie Ljungberg

9 Ian Rush

9 Davor Šuker

12 Giovanni van Bronckhorst

13 Karl-Heinz Riedle

14 Christian Karembeu

14 Graeme Le Saux

17 Steve McManaman

23 Jamie Carragher

25 Gianfranco Zola

Coach : Lars Ricken

Ultimate Champions B

99 Vítor Baía (GK)

2 Cafu

3 Simone Farina

5 Patrik Andersson

6 Youri Djorkaeff

7 Luís Figo

8 Predrag Mijatović

9 Giovane Élber

10 Michael Laudrup

17 Fabio Cannavaro

17 Pierre van Hooijdonk

27 Serginho

Coach: Paul Breitner

MICHAEL BALL, KERRY ELLIS & GINA BECK to perform GERSHWIN GREATS at KENWOOD HOUSE Sun 1st Sept

2013-05-23T10:42:00.000+01:00

Michael Ball

Headlines Gershwin Greats at Kenwood House

Supported by West End and Broadway Stars; Kerry Ellis, Gina Beck, and David Shannon,

with Vic McLean on piano, conducted by Jae Alexander,

Rouge Events are delighted to announce that Musical Theatre Legend and two time Olivier Award winner Michael Ball is to host and perform at “Summertime - An Evening of Gershwin” part of the Live by the Lake concert season set to take place in the majestic setting of Kenwood House on Sunday 1st September.

Michael Ball, Britain's leading musical star, has starred on Broadway and dominated the boards on many of the leading West End shows for more than two decades. A proven and varied talent, Michael won acclaim and the hearts of the public with his numerous performances on stage, film and television. Now he returns to Kenwood to treat us to a Gershwin spectacular.

Michael is joined by a host of exceptional talent who will really bring the magic of Gershwin’s repertoire to life. The rest of the line up includes:

Kerry Ellis

Kerry Ellis is a firm West End favourite, loved for her starring roles in London and on Broadway. She has also achieved chart-topping success as a recording artist signed to Universal Decca with her debut album Anthems. Kerry originated the role of Meat, in Queen's We Will Rock You and was the first British Elphaba in the West End smash, Wicked, for which Kerry won the 2008 Whatsonstage.com Award for 'Best Takeover in a Role'.

David Shannon who has played the leading roles in some of London’s most famous West End Musicals including Valjean (Les Miserables) Sweeney Todd (Sweeney Todd) Jesus and Judas (Jesus Christ Superstar) Chris (Miss Saigon) and most recently The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera at her Majesty’s Theatre London. David was nominated for best actor at the 2001 Olivier’s for creating the role of John Kelly in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Beautiful Game at the Cambridge Theatre

Gina Beck is a rising star of the musical theatre, who is currently playing the role of Glinda in the musical Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre and has received a host of critical acclaim for playing major roles in leading West End theatre productions. Gina previously starred as Christine Daaé in Cameron Mackintosh's production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, for which she was nominated for a Theatre Fans Choice Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical, 2010.

Viv Mclean has been a celebrated pianist for a number of years. Recent highlights include performances with the English Chamber Orchestra, the London Philharmonic and a USA tour with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performing Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue.

Jae Alexander will conduct the evening. Jae has conducted across the country and worked with some of the most famous orchestras in the world, including The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, The Philharmonia, The English National Symphony and The Wren Orchestra. These events have seen Jae accompanying many international stars such as Sarah Brightman, Sarah Walker, Julian Lloyd Webber and Charlotte Church to name but a few.

Other Live by the Lake evenings at Kenwood House:

After a one year break, the English Heritage concert season returns with Live by the Lake, uniting world-class music with a breath-taking back-drop to create arguably the most spectacular musical experience of the summer calendar.

With indie gods, Suede, an epic Choral Greats concert, established rock giants, Keane, a stunning outdoor live screening of Singin’ in the Rain featuring the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, Opera Alfresco it’s an exciting programme which truly has something for everyone.

The rest of the line up so far is below, with more exciting support guests to be announced:

Friday 23 August

Suede

With special guests (tba)

Saturday 24 August

Choral Greats Firework Spectaular

With The Royal Choral Society & The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra

Plus Fireworks Spectacular

Sunday 25 August

Keane

With special guests (tba)

Friday 30 August

Singin’ in the Rain

Live Musical Score and Film Screening

Featuring The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra

Saturday 31 August

Opera Alfresco

Featuring English National Opera Orchestra

With special guests (tba)

For and more information and to book tickets go to www.livebythelake.co.uk

JLS, THE BEACH BOYS, THE SATURDAYS and more to play HYDE PARK on 7th July

2013-05-23T09:28:00.001+01:00

Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park

Music superstars join much loved children’s entertainers for a day of fun on 7^th July for the entire family in Hyde Park

23 May 2013: Hyde Park, London – AEG Live and The Royal Parks are delighted to announce A Day At the Park, the ultimate show for the entire family to enjoy at Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park featuring a cross generational package of artists to keep the youngest to the oldest member of the family entertained! JLS, The Beach Boys, The Saturdays and Paul Young line-up alongside the Gruffalo, Horrible Histories and Brainiac for a day of the best music, comedy and entertainment for all ages. With further international acts and artists appearing across all four stages, Sunday 7^th July will welcome the whole family to a great day out as part of the 10-day extravaganza.

With entertainment spanning across all generations, A Day At The Park will provide fans with one of the last chances to see JLS perform live together as they take to The Great Oak Stage alongside The Saturdays, Paul Young, The Soul Rebels, The Cuban Brothers, The Overtones and legendary US band, The Beach Boys. Other stages across the park will provide platforms for both children’s theatre and some of the best new acts around all topped off with an “Adult Creche” featuring the best of new comedy and a place to escape whilst your teenagers scream at the stars!

The Saturdays

Great value for all the family, tickets for 7^th July - A Day At The Park - go on general sale from 9am on Friday 24^th May at www.bst-hydepark.com with family packages available, children’s tickets at £20 and kids under 5 entering for free. Barclaycard Unwind customers will be able to purchase tickets from the Barclaycard Unwind website from 9am Thursday 23^rd May.

A mixture of activities for all ages such as dance workshops, magicians, face painting and fairground rides will make A Day At The Park an unforgettable experience in the perfect family environment.

Rob Hallett, President, International Live Touring, AEG Live commented: “Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park is much, much more than just a music event. I have always wanted to promote a show where you can take your kids and your parents. Junior can be enthralled with the Gruffalo and your daughter can scream at JLS while your parents dance around to The Beach Boys. Everyone’s happy!”

Children’s entertainers the Gruffalo, Brainiac and Horrible Histories take over The Barclaycard Unwind Theatre to dazzle kids of all ages. Whilst the Village Hall celebrates the best of British pop with Dionne Bromfield, fast rising star TICH, and Britain’s Got Talent’s The Loveable Rogues.

Acts from Sky 1’s Got to Dance are also set to star during A Day At The Park with Lucas McFarlane and Ruff Diamond already confirmed.

James Russell, Head of Events, The Royal Parks said: “A Day At The Park truly reflects what our event in Hyde park is all about - a real mix of entertainment, from some of the best music to great theatre, comedy and arts across the full 10 day programme. Its going to be a massive adventure for the whole family."

Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park, a totally unique and world class event for London, will give music fans throughout the capital the chance to see many of their favourite music artists play over back-to-back weekends in ticketed events. In what heralds a totally unique event for London, each live music-packed weekend will be linked by a midweek programme of great entertainment, accessible for all to enjoy.

The music begins on Friday 5^th July with Bon Jovi headlining, followed by the world’s best known rock band, The Rolling Stones on Saturday July 6th and Saturday July 13th. A full line up for each day, across 4 different stages, brings together music superstars and up and coming artists including Kaiser Chiefs, The Vaccines, Palma Violets, Bush, Tribes and many, many more. More headliners are still to be announced. For more information, go to www.bst-hydepark.com

From Monday to Thursday, the entire Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park site, except the main stage, will give visitors the chance to get involved with smaller, more intimate events offering film, music, literature, sport. Across Hyde Park, there will be 3 themed zones, each with its own specially designed installations and entertainment, high quality restaurants, bespoke salons, pubs, cocktail bars, cafes, bistros and independent food stalls.

AEG Live will be delivering the concert series in Hyde Park each year for the next 5 years and is committed to making Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park an experience never before seen in London.

Tickets for 7^th July - A Day At The Park - go on general sale from 9am on Friday 24^th May at www.bst-hydepark.com. Barclaycard Unwind customers will be able to purchase tickets from the Barclaycard Unwind website from 9am Wednesday 22^nd May.

Prices:

Adult: £35

Child (age 5-16): £20

Family of 3 ticket (2 adults + 1 child): £75

Family of 4 ticket (2 adults + 2 children): £90

Family of 5 ticket (2 adults + 3 children): £105

Backstage Bar Upgrade: £25

For VIP Hospitality packages from £325, contact AEG Hospitality Team on 0207 757 7563 or hospitality@aeglive.co.uk.

Tickets still available for Bon Jovi on 5 July and hospitality packages are still available for The Rolling Stones 6 and 13 July at www.bst-hydepark.com

The Royal Parks Foundation is the official charity partner of the Barclaycard presents British Summer Time Hyde Park. Concert goers have the option to add a small donation of 50p via Pennies when they buy tickets online.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BARCLAYCARD PRESENTS BRITISH SUMMER TIME HYDE PARK:

Website: www.bst-hydepark.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BSTHydePark?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BST_hydepark

Google Plus: https://plus.google.com/105466427963120253938/posts

Instagram: @BST_HYDEPARK

Theatre Review: Avenue Q - Upstairs at the Gatehouse, London ✭✭✭✭

2013-05-22T11:12:00.000+01:00

Avenue Q

Upstairs at the Gatehouse

London

The London Fringe premiere of Avenue Q played to a packed house last night, and what a lovely evening of superb performances on show.

For those unfamiliar with the Tony Award-winning musical, Avenue Q is the story of Princeton, a recently graduated BA student, who arrives on Avenue Q in search of his ‘purpose’ in life. Along his journey he encounters a series of characters including Kate Monster, a teacher’s assistant who longs to open a Monster school; Rod a closeted homosexual and his straight roommate Nicky; Brian, an unfulfilled comedian who lives with his girlfriend Christmas Eve, a therapist with no clients; Trekkie Monster, an internet lover and recluse who bares an uncanny resemblance to Sesame Street’s Cookie Monster and Gary Coleman (yes, the Gary Coleman), the building superintendent.

For those of you who have seen the West End and touring versions, you will not be disappointed by what you see here. Avenue Q is a fantastic ensemble piece, and the cast of this production certainly show a great range of talent - in particular Josh Wilmott (Nicky/Trekkie) whose range of voices are exemplary. Will Jennings (Princeton/Rod) also shows fantastic range, and his facial expressions along with the puppets leave you in hysterics at times whilst also warming the heart. Leigh Lothian (Kate Monster/Lucy) has a gorgeous voice and shows great puppetry skills.

In the group numbers the whole cast have superb harmonies, Katie Bradley (Mrs T/Bear), Shin-Fei Chin (Christmas Eve), Tim Frost (Brian), Cassandra Lee (Gary Coleman) and Harrison Spiers (Ensemble) giving great performances all round.

Upstairs at the Gatehouse is quite a large space to say it is above a pub, and Suzi Lombardelli's set works well - three lots of two storey apartments next to each other, and an LCD TV being used as a billboard and showing visuals throughout. The puppets are amazingly detailed, made by Paul Jomain, and the actors show great skill in handling them, paired with nice choreography from Grant Murphy.

The only negative for me was the sound quality, the four piece band sounding muffled throughout, and at times it was difficult to hear the vocals when they were stood extreme stage right. Trekkie's mic was also sounding muffled, a re-touch of the EQ, speaker positioning and touch more volume on the vocals would make all the difference.

But apart from that, Avenue Q is once again in London, and this version is just as good as the others.

Don't miss this show, get yourselves down to Avenue Q now.

Four stars ✭✭✭✭

Listings Info

Upstairs at the Gatehouse

Junction of Hampstead Lane & North Road Highgate Village
London N6 4BD

Highgate Station (ten minute walk) Archway Station then buses:
143, 210 or 271 bus to Highgate Village or 214 bus from Camden or Kentish Town

Dates & Times
16th May – 30th June 2013 Tuesdays - Saturdays at 7.30pm Sundays at 4pm

Box Office
020 8340 3488 www.upstairsatthegatehouse.com

£10 - £18 (concessions available)

Torvill & Dean's DANCING ON ICE - THE FINAL TOUR skates into UK Arenas from March 2014

2013-05-22T11:02:00.000+01:00

TORVILL & DEAN’S

DANCING ON ICE

THE FINAL TOUR 2014

BOLERO 30TH ANNIVERSARY

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY 24 MAY

Jayne Torvill, Christopher Dean and ITV have announced that Dancing on Ice will end next year and this will be followed by the last ever Dancing on Ice tour - a spectacular live show, that will perform across the UK, starting in March 2014. Tickets go on sale Friday 24 May.

Jayne and Chris said: "Next year will be the 30th anniversary of Bolero and our Olympic Gold medal in Sarajevo, so for us, it seemed a fitting time to say goodbye to Dancing on Ice. We wanted to go out on a high!”

“But, we will not be retiring or hanging up our skates just yet. We are delighted to announce the last ever Dancing on Ice UK arena tour, starting in March 2014. We can't wait to be back on the road and we're already planning the show. It will be the biggest and best tour we've done to date and there will be some great surprises for the audiences across the country - we hope you will come and see us.”

"We have loved every minute of Dancing on Ice, it has been a real pleasure to work on one of the UK¹s most popular entertainment shows. We will miss it hugely and would like to thank all of our fans for their continued support over the years."

The 2014 Dancing on Ice tour will star skating legends Torvill & Dean and feature a host of celebrity skaters from the ITV show. Further details will be announced soon.

DANCING ON ICE – THE FINAL TOUR 2014

28 – 30 March Manchester: Manchester Arena 0844 847 8000
(Friday 28 March at 7.30pm, Saturday 29 March at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 30 March at 1.30pm & 6.30pm)

1 – 3 April London: Wembley Arena 0844 815 0815
(Tuesday 1 April at 7.30pm, Wednesday 2 April at 7.30pm, Thursday 3 April at 7.30pm)

4 – 6 April Newcastle: Metro Radio Arena 0844 493 6666
(Friday 4 April at 7.30pm, Saturday 5 April at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 6 April at 1.30pm & 6.30pm)

8 – 10 April Nottingham: Capital FM Arena 0843 373 3000
(Tuesday 8 April 7.30pm, Wednesday 9 April at 7.30pm, Thursday 10 April at 7.30pm)

11 – 13 April Glasgow: Hydro Arena 0141 248 3000
(Friday 11 April at 7.30pm, Saturday 12 April at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 13 April at 1.30pm & 6.30pm)

15 – 17 April Sheffield: Motorpoint Arena 0114 256 5656
(Tuesday 15 April at 7.30pm, Wednesday 16 April at 7.30pm, Thursday 17 April at 7.30pm)

18 - 21 April Birmingham: NIA Arena 0844 338 8000
(Friday 18 April at 7.30pm, Saturday 19 April at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 20 April at 1.30pm & 6.30pm, Monday 21 April at 2.30pm & 7.30pm)

24 – 27 April Leeds: First Direct Arena 0844 248 1585
(Thursday 24 April at 7.30pm, Friday 25 April at 7.30pm, Saturday 26 April at 2.30pm & 7.30pm,
Sunday 27 April at 1.30pm & 6.30pm)

To book tickets please contact the venue or call 08444 99 99 55.

For online bookings please visit www.ticketzone.co.uk or for more information please visit http://www.dancingonicetour.co.uk/

Twitter: @torvillanddean

Ticket Prices
Ice Side - £67.50 (Saturday evening) / £57.50 (all other performances)
Other Arena Blocks - £42.50 / £32.50

After a sell out run at the 2012 Edinburgh Fringe Festival - KNEE DEEP comes to London's Riverside Studios

2013-05-22T09:56:00.000+01:00

FOLLOWING A CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED AND SELL OUT RUN AT THE 2012 EDINBURGH FRINGE FESTIVAL

ASSEMBLY, RIVERSIDE STUDIOS AND MARSHALL CORDELL PRESENT

KNEE DEEP

PERFORMED BY AUSTRALIA’S HOTTEST NEW CIRCUS GROUP CASUS

RIVERSIDE STUDIOS FROM 28 MAY – 22 JUNE 2013

Internationally renowned circus company, Casus, brings the humanity into circus through a breathtaking and fragile display of skills with Knee Deep. The show runs at Riverside Studios following a hit run at the 2012 Edinburgh Festival, where it was described as “awe inspiring” by The Guardian (***** star review). Knee Deep runs for a limited time only from 28 May to 22 June, with a special press performance on the 30 May.

Through bold, quirky and captivating performance the four members of Casus; Emma Serjeant, Jesse Scott, Natano Fa’anana and Lachlan McAulay bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into this innovative work, having previously performed extensively in Australia and around the world with C!RCA, Legs on the Wall, Polytoxic, and Briefs.

Knee Deep sees bodies pushed and pulled, weighed and tested, probing the limits of both physicality and feeling.

As unlikely bonds are forged and acts of intimacy cohabit space with thrilling physical feats, viewers are invited to re-imagine notions of our limitations. Using traditional and contemporary circus techniques, Knee Deep journeys through moments of raw discovery, fleeting relationships and unexpected bonds. Four artists reveal that delicacy does not necessarily equate to fragility, although it is often a fine line they tread.

Emma Serjeant commenced her circus training at the age of 20, graduating from the National Institute of Circus Arts in 2006 after three years of training under the internationally renowned trainer Guang Rong Lu. Emma began her career as a freelance soloist, focusing mainly on the skill of hand balancing. She then joined internationally renowned company C!rca, travelling extensively throughout the world.

Jesse Scott is a graduate of the Flying Fruit Fly Circus where he spent 11 years training and touring under a selection of the world’s greatest circus trainers. After graduating in 2004 he toured as a freelance performer working with companies including Legs on the Wall, A4 Circus Ensemble, Candy Stripe Circus and The Australian Opera. He has also performed with the Brewarrina Youth Circus and Flipside Circus. In 2008 Jesse became a full time ensemble member with Circa, Australia’s leading contemporary Circus. He worked with the company for three years touring internationally and performing at some of the world’s most prestigious venues. Some of his highlights with Circa include: two seasons at the Barbican Theatre, La Tohu in Montreal, opening and headlining the Montreal Circus Festival and Dublin International Theatre Festival, New York Skirball Centre for the Performing Arts, Galway International Arts Festival and The Sydney Opera House.

Natano Fa’anana is the sixth member of Polytoxic Theatre Company, the co-creator and performer of Briefs: All Male Review and contemporary circus company, Casus. Natano’s unconventional method of learning circus from individuals rather than schools or institutions has allowed him to create a unique style. His fresh approach to circus draws inspiration from his Pacific routes and his style is now recognised widely by the Circus community. Natano specializes in aerial acts but he is also a trainer for Brisbane-based companies Circa, Flipside Youth Circus and numerous community outreach arts organisations. He has been engaged as an arts worker for Human Ventures (formerly Speak Out), teaching circus skills, dance and music to children in some of Queensland’s most remote Indigenous communities.

Lachlan McAulay was also a member of Australia’s leading youth circus, The Flying Fruit Fly Circus - where he began his life of training, touring and performing throughout Australia and the world. In 2008 Lachlan was invited to Brisbane to create new work with Circa, Australia’s leading contemporary circus. Lachlan then became a full-time ensemble member, travelling to Australia and Europe, performing at the Galway International Arts Festival, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Oz Regional Festival.

LISTINGS

KNEE DEEP

THE RIVERSIDE STUDIOS, HAMMERSMITH

Performances:

28 May – 22 June 2013: Tuesday - Friday at 7.30pm

Saturdays at 5.30pm & 7.30pm

Sundays at 6.00pm

Special Schools performance June 11 at 1pm

Ticket prices: £20 (£18 concessions)

£30 Front Row Premium Seats

Address: Riverside Studios

Crisp Road, London W6 9RL.

Box Office: 0208 237 1111

Website: www.riversidestudios.co.uk

JENNIFER LOPEZ and LIONEL RICHIE to play HYDE PARK on 14th July

2013-05-22T09:32:00.002+01:00

Lionel Richie and Jennifer Lopez bring

Barclaycard presents British Summer Time Hyde Park

To a Close On 14^th July With Heart In The Park!

Headline Acts Lionel Richie and Jennifer Lopez will each deliver a set full of hits and Summer fun for grand finale of 10-day extravaganza

22 May 2013. Hyde Park, London. Put your dancing shoes on and get ready to have some fun as July 14^th is officially set as the date for Barclaycard presents British Summer Time’s Heart In The Park!

AEG Live, The Royal Parks, Barclaycard and Heart are delighted to confirm the legendary Lionel Richie will close the show and US Superstar Jennifer Lopez will also perform as a headline act, playing on The Great Oak Stage on the 14^th July - the closing day of the first-ever Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park.

The party will kick off on the main stage with British girl group STOOSHE and continues with the return of ELIZA DOOLITTLE. Prior to Jennifer and Lionel taking the stage, there will be a performance from outstanding Daft Punk collaborator, NILE RODGERS who will be fronting his seminal dance outfit, CHIC. Tickets for July 14^th go on general sale from 9am on Friday 24^th May at www.bst-hydepark.com. Barclaycard Unwind customers will be able to purchase tickets from the Barclaycard Unwind website from 9am Wednesday 22^nd May.

But the party doesn’t end there. Non-stop action will be spread over 3 other stages - The Village Hall, The Barclaycard Unwind Theatre and The Bandstand, which has been aptly renamed The Funkstand for this one day. All across London’s most famous park on 14^th July - as the 10-day event comes to a close - Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park will present some of the best in UK music around. The Funkstand will go wild with the likes of INCOGNITO, LIGHT OF THE WORLD, and PIGBAG - forerunners of the late 1970s/early 1980’s British jazz/funk movement. The Village Hall will feature young, urban artists – CHARLIE BROWN, VINCE KIDD - star of The Voice - and hotly-tipped artists, SMILER and AMPLIFY DOT. And the Barclaycard Unwind Theatre will see the seven-time Grammy Award-winning American jazz singer, AL JARREAU perform some of his greats as well as Queen of British soul music, BEVERLEY KNIGHT plus DELILAH and ANGEL.

Rob Hallett, President, International Live Touring, AEG Live commented: “I can’t think of a better way to close our event in Hyde Park than with Heart In The Park! Lionel and Jennifer in one night would be enough but when you add Nile, the rest of the supporting cast and Heart presenters, it is the stuff that legendary nights are made of! “

James Russell, Head of Events, The Royal Parks said: “This is a new era for music events in Hyde Park. The Royal Parks is really proud to be hosting Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park - a new concept in outdoor music events. It’s great to have such truly amazing artists join the line up and be part of the new format and new look music event in Hyde Park. This closing party will certainly be one to remember!"

Global Radio’s Director of Broadcasting Richard Park said: “We are delighted to team up with AEG Live to present this prestigious London event. There’s nothing like seeing live music in a setting like Hyde Park with artists of this calibre – and only Heart can bring it to life!”

Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park, a totally unique and world class event for London, will give music fans throughout the capital the chance to see many of their favourite music artists play over back-to-back weekends in ticketed events. In what heralds a totally unique event offer for London, each live music-packed weekend will be linked by a midweek programme of diverse entertainment, accessible for all to enjoy.

The music begins on Friday 5^th July with Bon Jovi headlining, followed by the world’s biggest rock band, The Rolling Stones on Saturday 6^th July and Saturday 13^th July. A full line up for each day, across 4 different stages, brings together world famous and up and coming artists including Kaiser Chiefs, The Vaccines, Palma Violets, Bush, Tribes and many, many more.

More headliners are still to be announced. For more information, go to www.bst-hydepark.com

Tickets for July 14th with Lionel Richie and Jennifer Lopez are on general sale from 9am on Friday May 24th at www.bst-hydepark.com. Barclaycard Unwind customers will be able to purchase tickets from the Barclaycard Unwind website - barclaycardunwind.com - from 9am Wednesday 22nd May.

Prices:

£59.50 - £299 plus booking fee.

Backstage Bar upgrade: £40

For VIP Hospitality packages from £199.50, contact AEG Hospitality Team on 0207 757 7563 or hospitality@aeglive.co.uk.

Tickets still available for Bon Jovi on 5 July and hospitality packages are still available for The Rolling Stones 6 and 13 July at www.bst-hydepark.com

Customers can choose to add a 50p donation to The Royal Parks Foundation when purchasing their ticket, via Pennies the electronic charity box, and help maintain the magic of 5,000 acres of green space in Central London for everyone to enjoy.

Show Review: LIMBO - London Wonderground, South Bank ✭✭✭✭✭

2013-05-21T13:53:00.000+01:00

LIMBO

London Wonderground

Buy tickets HERE

20th May 2013: Coming from a sold out run at Adelaide Festival with huge critical acclaim, LIMBO is gracing London for the summer in the wonderful Spiegeltent venue down on South Bank.

With performers from all over the globe, Limbo is an exotic mix of dancing, live music, illusions, circus skills and gymnastics with breathtaking performances from all involved. Jonathan Nosan is incredibly bendy, making his body parts go in all directions imaginable. Heather Holliday does some amazing fire-eating, Evelyne Allard does a stunning chain trapeze act, Danik Abishev goes handstand crazy and Mikael Bres does a pole dance that gets you on the edge of your seat. Hilton Denis tap dances into your mind, and the three men do a rather marvellous act on three bendy poles which go over the audience - has to be seen to be believed.

All this is put together with sumptuous music from Sxip Shirey setting the scene from the off, with the band playing a variety of instruments. Illusions are designed by Paul Kieve (Ghost the Musical) and lighting from Philip Gladwell partners the action nicely.

Director Scott Maidment has pulled out all the stops to make Limbo one of best things in London at the moment, and running at just over an hour long, you will be a fool to miss this brilliant show!

Five stars ✭✭✭✭✭

LIMBO

At London Wonderground

7th May – 29th September 2013

Age restriction of 15+

7.15pm Tuesday to Sunday

3pm Saturday Matinees

9pm performances (INSTEAD 7.15pm) on 4th, 5th & 6th September

Buy tickets from backstagepass.entstix.com/tickets/limbo

AVENUE Q gets London fringe premiere at Upstairs at the Gatehouse 16th May - 30th June 2013

2013-05-21T11:13:00.001+01:00

Ovation is delighted to present the London fringe première of the Tony Award Winning Musical

MUSIC AND LYRICS by ROBERT LOPEZ and JEFF MARX

BOOK by JEFF WHITTY

BASED ON AN ORIGINAL CONCEPT by ROBERT LOPEZ and JEFF MARX

Winner of three Tony Awards - Best Musical, Best Book and Best Original Score

Upstairs at the Gatehouse

16th May – 30th June 2013

www.upstairsatthegatehouse.com

Amongst Ovation’s creative team will be NIGEL PLASKITT who, as well as working on Spitting Image, was Puppet Coach for Cameron Mackintosh’s West End production of Avenue Q and the UK Tour. He is currently working on the Muppets...Again... the next Muppet movie for The Walt Disney Company.

Joining director JOHN PLEWS are choreographer GRANT MURPHY (Crazy For You – Upstairs at the Gatehouse, Shrek, Mary Poppins & Sister Act); Musical Supervisor ANGHARAD SANDERS (Steel Pier, Union); and Musical Director SIMON BURROW (Crazy For You – Upstairs at the Gatehouse). Associate Director is SIMON LIPKIN currently playing Lonny in Rock of Ages in the West End. Simon was in the original London cast of Avenue Q playing Nicky and Trekkie Monster. Avenue Q is being designed by SUZI LOMBARDELLI (Crazy For You – Upstairs at the Gatehouse) and the puppets are being created by PAUL JOMAIN who has worked for Jim Henson, Cameron Mackintosh and Disney.
In charge of lighting is AARON J DOOTSON and sound is being designed by JON RAPER.
The show has been cast by RI MCDAID-WREN.

The Avenue Q cast are: Katie Bradley, Shin-Fei Chen, Tim Frost, Will Jennings, Cassandra Lee, Leigh Lothian, Harrison Spiers and Josh Wilmott.

Listings Info

Upstairs at the Gatehouse

Junction of Hampstead Lane & North Road Highgate Village
London N6 4BD

MADONNA joins BEYONCE, J-LO, HAIM, RITA ORA & more for THE SOUND OF CHANGE LIVE at TWICKENHAM 1st June

2013-05-21T10:44:00.002+01:00

INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED FIGURES FROM POLITICS, MUSIC AND FILM PARTICIPATE IN

THE SOUND OF CHANGE LIVE CONCERT

Presented by CHIME FOR CHANGE, Founded by Gucci

MADONNA, ARCHBISHOP DESMOND TUTU, JESSICA CHASTAIN, FREIDA PINTO, ZOE SALDANA, GLORIA STEINMAN, GORDON and SARAH BROWN,

AISHWARYA RAI and ABHISHEK BACHCHAN AND

OTHERS CONFIRMED TO PRESENT AT

THE SOUND OF CHANGE LIVE CONCERT

Twickenham Stadium, Saturday 1 June

Tickets at: www.ticketmaster.co.uk

* WORLD FIRST: Ticket buyers choose which projects to fund via vouchers *

London, 21 May 2013, London: It was announced today that Madonna, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Gordon and Sarah Brown, Jessica Chastain, Gloria Steinem, Freida Pinto, Aishwarya Rai and Abhshek Bachchan, Leymah Gbowee, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Mpho Tutu, Humaira Bachal and Zoe Saldana have confirmed their participation as presenters in ‘THE SOUND OF CHANGE LIVE’ concert event, presented by CHIME FOR CHANGE: recently founded by Gucci, which campaigns for improved Education, Health and Justice for women and girls worldwide. The four-hour concert, which takes place at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday 1 June, is supported by an impressive line-up of some of the world’s most talented artists and internationally renowned presenters, lending their voices to CHIME FOR CHANGE.

The confirmed line-up is:

Aishwarya Rai * Abhishek Bachchan * Archbishop Desmond Tutu * Beyoncé * Blake Lively * Ellie Goulding * Florence + the Machine * Freida Pinto * Gloria Steinman * Gordon and Sarah Brown * HAIM * Humaira Bachal * Iggy Azalea * Jada Pinkett Smith * James Franco * Jennifer Lopez * Jessica Chastain * John Legend * Laura Pausini * Leymah Gbowee * Madonna * Mpho Tutu * Rita Ora * Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy * Timbaland * Zoe Saldana *

Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, concert artistic director and CHIME FOR CHANGE co-founder, who will perform a 45 minute special set, said: “I am really happy that so many amazing artists and presenters have come together to support CHIME FOR CHANGE on 1 June. Our goal is to have a great time together while we unite and strengthen the voices of girls and women around the world.”

Madonna, founder of the Ray of Light Foundation, said: “60 percent of the

children in the world NOT in school are girls! 2/3 of the world’s illiterate are WOMEN! I Do NOT accept this. We need to change this and we WILL CHANGE THIS!”

Legendary UK promoter, Harvey Goldsmith, responsible for the world’s biggest global charity concerts, such as Live Aid, Live Earth and Live 8, will produce the four-hour concert alongside Executive Producers Kevin Wall and Aaron Grosky from Control Room (Live Earth, Live 8, FIFA World Cup Kick Off) who have worked with Harvey on many of these great events. In a world first, every ticket buyer will be able to personally choose which project the money from his or her ticket will fund. Gucci is underwriting the concert event so that all ticket sales (less VAT and service fees) will support selected projects. A sell-out concert is guaranteed to fund at least 120 projects supporting girls and women in more than 70 countries from ticket sales alone. Viewers around the world will also have the opportunity to lend their support by donating online at chimeforchange.org and fb.com/chimeforchange, and through a mobile text-to-give campaign. Partner organizations include UNICEF, UN Women, The Global Fund for Women, GEMS, Plan International, Vital Voices, CAST, Equality Now, Doctors of the World, Girl Up, PATH, KIND, Pro Mujer, and Women Deliver, to name a few.

Harvey Goldsmith: “We are thrilled that these amazing people are giving their time and support. The stature of our artists and presenters proves just how important this campaign is and we hope that the concert will galvanise the public to support the many important projects.”

Frida Giannini, Creative Director of Gucci and CHIME FOR CHANGE Co-Founder, said: “Thanks to Beyoncé and the amazing line-up of performers and presenters, the stage at Twickenham on 1 June will be filled with powerful voices of change who believe that girls and women everywhere deserve the right to be educated, healthy, safe and celebrated. This represents an important moment in the CHIME FOR CHANGE campaign, but it’s only the beginning. The funds we raise will have a major impact on the lives of thousands of girls and women around the world.”

The concert will start at 6:00pm and finish at 10:00pm and each artist will perform special sets with some exciting collaborations expected. Throughout the concert short films will be shown highlighting issues such as: 60% of children not in school are girls, 800 women die daily in pregnancy or childbirth - most of whom would live with access to proper care, and despite gains, just 21% of seats in national parliaments are held by women.

Tickets for the concert are available from:

www.chimeforchange.org

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 844-847 1693

ELTON JOHN to play Hyde Park on Friday 12th July 2013

2013-05-21T09:21:00.001+01:00

ELTON JOHN

Photo by Steve Stubbs

Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time

Hyde Park

Joined On The Great Oak Stage By Seminal British Writers Ray Davies and Elvis Costello

A Full Day of Exceptional Singer-Songwriters To Play Across 3 Stages

21 May 2013. Hyde Park, London. Friday 12^th July sees Barclaycard presents British Summer Time Hyde Park celebrate a great evening of British songwriters as three of the country’s finest take to The Great Oak Stage as AEG Live and The Royal Parks confirm the Grammy Award-winning legend ELTON JOHN and his band as the headline act. Added to the bill will be the legendary former-Kinks frontman, RAY DAVIES and the outstanding ELVIS COSTELLO performing full sets with their own bands in the run up to Sir Elton and his band. Tickets for Friday 12^th July go on general sale from 9am on Thursday 23^rd May at www.bst-hydepark.com. Barclaycard Unwind customers will be able to purchase tickets from the Barclaycard Unwind website from Tuesday 21^st May.

Across Hyde Park, the 3 other event stages will see some brilliant singer-songwriter talent play - the cream of established and younger talent from UK and the US. At The Barclaycard Unwind Theatre, fans will hear the unmistakable chords of NICK LOWE - English singer-songwriter, producer and collaborator of Elvis Costello - as well as LUCY ROSE, a former backing singer with Bombay Bicycle Club who released her first solo album to great acclaim last September and founding member of Del Amitri, JUSTIN CURRIE. American singer-songwriter, TIFT MERRIT will feature at The Village Hall alongside British folk/rock band TO KILL A KING. Finally, The Bandstand will see THEA GILMORE as headline act, described by Mojo magazine as "the most coherent, literate and charged British singer-songwriter of her generation". She is joined by Grammy and Golden Globe nominee and one time Beyonce collaborator, SCOTT McFARNON and OLIVIA SEBASTIANELLI who has recently been heralded as ‘an artist brimming with talent, originality and musical eloquence’.

On the full line-up for Final Friday, Rob Hallett, President, International Live Touring, AEG Live commented: “Hyde Park on Friday 12^th July will witness a fantastic celebration of great British and American songwriters. Imagine how many hits you are going to hear between Elton, Ray and Elvis. This one’s a real treat!”

James Russell, Head of Events, The Royal Parks said: “As our event in Hyde Park gets closer, so the temperature is hotting up as we knew it would with a fantastic series of artists set to play. Friday 12^th July is sure to be a extremely memorable night!”

Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park, a totally unique and world class event for London, will give music fans throughout the capital the chance to see many of their favourite music artists play over back-to-back weekends in ticketed events. In what heralds a totally unique event offer for London, each live music-packed weekend will be linked by a midweek programme of diverse entertainment, accessible for all to enjoy.

More headliners are still to be announced. For more information, go to www.bst-hydepark.com

From Monday to Thursday, the entire Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park site, except the main stage, will give visitors the chance to get involved with smaller, more intimate events offering film, music, literature, sport. Across Hyde Park, there will be 3 themed zones, each with its own specially designed installations and entertainment,high quality restaurants, bespoke salons, pubs, cocktail bars, cafes, bistros and independent food stalls.

Tickets for 12^th July with Sir Elton John, Ray Davies, Elvis Costello and more are on general sale from 9am on Thursday May 23^rd at www.bst-hydepark.com. Barclaycard Unwind customers will be able to purchase tickets from the Barclaycard Unwind website - barclaycardunwind.com - from Tuesday 21^st May.

Prices:

Prices:

£59.50 - £399 plus booking fee.

Backstage Bar upgrade: £25

For VIP Hospitality packages from £325, contact AEG Hospitality Team on 0207 757 7563 or hospitality@aeglive.co.uk.

Tickets still available for Bon Jovi on 5 July and hospitality packages are still available for The Rolling Stones 6 and 13 July at www.bst-hydepark.com

Theatre Review: Ghost The Musical - Edinburgh Playhouse ✭✭✭✭✭

2013-05-20T16:39:00.000+01:00

Ghost the Musical

Rebecca Trehearne & Stewart Clarke
Photo by Sean Ebsworth Barnes

Edinburgh Playhouse

Review by Mhairi Greer

Ghost is a timeless love story that is known worldwide. Ghost the Musical takes the soul of the original film and brings it to heart wrenching life on stage with stunning special effects. Stewart Clarke and Rebecca Trehearn capture the love, passion and joy of Sam and Molly as they move into their new apartment overlooking the busy streets of New York. Their beautiful portrayal of the couple makes the inevitable even more upsetting.

As Sam tries to come to terms with his new existence as a spirit, Molly is left mourning the loss of her partner, which is felt in emotional songs performed exquisitely by Jenson. Although ultimately a sad love story, the interactions between Sam and Oda Mae Brown (Played at this performance by Karlene Wray) are brilliant, full of funny moments that lighten the mood of the piece. This is especially noticeable in the scenes in Oda Mae's physic shop. Wray also delivers strong vocals during I’m Outta Here.

All the cast excelled in acting and vocals, the show is also supported by the outstanding lighting, special effects and cinematic like backdrops, which helped to create the hustle and bustle of New York. Paul Kieve's illusions certainly leave the audience guessing. The scene with the subway ghost (Stevie Hutchison) fighting Sam is a particularly amazing experience and wowed the audience.

The only tiny chink in this glimmering show's armour is that although the songs complemented the show and captured the character’s emotions, they did not leave a strong impression, with the exception of the unforgettable signature song, Unchained Melody. That said, Ghost the Musical is a superb show offering a true love story that evokes the audiences’ every emotion. Sam and Molly's tearful reunion in the finale ensures there's not a dry eye in the house.

Five stars ✭✭✭✭✭

Listings Info

Tue 14 - Sat 01

MAY 2013 JUN 2013

Edinburgh Playhouse

Ghost Edinburgh

More details

Tue 02 - Sat 20

JUL 2013 JUL 2013

Opera House Manchester

Ghost Manchester

More details

Tue 27 - Sat 14

AUG 2013 SEP 2013

Bristol Hippodrome

Ghost Bristol

More details

Tue 17 - Sat 28

SEP 2013 SEP 2013

Milton Keynes Theatre

Ghost Milton Keynes

More details

Tue 01 - Sat 19

OCT 2013 OCT 2013

King's Theatre Glasgow

Ghost Glasgow

More details

Tue 12 - Sat 23

NOV 2013 NOV 2013

New Victoria Theatre

Ghost Woking

More details

Tue 26 - Sat 07

NOV 2013 DEC 2013

Sunderland Empire

Ghost Sunderland

More details

Tue 17 - Sun 05

DEC 2013 JAN 2014

New Alexandra Theatre Birmingham

Ghost Birmingham

More details

GTA & HAIM join DAVID GUETTA as support for RIHANNA on her Diamonds World Tour

2013-05-20T11:20:00.000+01:00

RIHANNA

GTA and Haim*

Join David Guetta** as support for

Rihanna’s Diamonds World Tour

*15^th & 16^th July Manchester dates only

**Cardiff, Twickenham and Sunderland shows only

With just under a month to go before Rihanna’s Diamonds World Tour hits the UK, GTA have been announced as support to the superstar for all her UK dates. Also joining Riahanna for 2 very special shows in Manchester (15th and 16th July) ONLY will be BBC Sound of 2013 winners, Haim.

Matt Toth and Julio Mejia make up the dynamic, genre defying duo of GTA. Dedicated to their music, ?they stay holed up in their bedroom studio building beats that can set off any kind of dance floor. Producers without borders, GTA’s future sound has them sought after by some of the biggest names in the dance music game. They’ve had releases on Diplo’s Mad Decent, Laidback Luke’s ?Mixmash and A-Trak’s Fool’s Gold Records. They’ve remixed various artists from all genres, including Michael Woods, Trinidad James, Deadmau5, Wolfgang Gartner, Clockwork, Laidback Luke and A-Trak. With an endless creativity, a tireless work ethic and a fierce dedication to?their craft, GTA are making serious waves on dance floors the world over.

Haim, winners of the highly coveted BBC ‘Sound of 2013’ award, hail from the San Fernando Valley and consists of “Three sisters and a mister”. The multi instrumentalists, who sing in 3 part harmony, released their critically acclaimed, three song EP titled Forever, which is also the title track on the record. It can be downloaded for free at Haimtheband.com. Haim will be joining the party at the Manchester dates on 15^th and 16^thJuly, only.

GTA and Haim join the previously announced David Guetta, who will be special guest at the Cardiff, Twickenham, and Sunderland shows.

Get set for the most epic show of the summer!

Tickets for all other available shows are on sale now.

Prices range from £35 - £75 depending on city (subject to booking fee) and are available from www.livenation.co.uk or www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Rihanna Diamonds World Tour is promoted world-wide by Live Nation Global Touring.

RIHANNA DIAMONDS WORLD TOUR

UK ITINERARY 2013

10-June Cardiff Millennium Stadium DAVID GUETTA, GTA

12-June Manchester Manchester Arena GTA

13-June Manchester Manchester Arena GTA

15-June London Twickenham Stadium DAVID GUETTA, GTA

16-June London Twickenham Stadium DAVID GUETTA, GTA

17-June Birmingham LG Arena GTA

20-June Sunderland Stadium of Light DAVID GUETTA, GTA

15-July Manchester Manchester Arena HAIM, GTA

16-July Manchester Manchester Arena HAIM, GTA

Itinerary subject to change. For complete tour and ticket information, visit:

www.rihanna.com

MAROON 5 postpone June 2013 UK Arena tour - New dates announced for January 2014

2013-05-20T11:13:00.004+01:00

Maroon 5

Postpone UK Arena Tour

New dates announced for January 2014

Due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts, Maroon 5 have been forced to postpone their forthcoming UK arena tour.

New dates have been announced and tickets for the original dates will be valid for the new dates. Those ticket holders who wish to obtain refunds, should seek a refund from point of purchase by 30th June 2013. It was also announced that Robin Thicke would be special guest on the new dates in place of Neon Trees. PJ Morton will open all shows.

Glasgow's venue has now moved to The Hydro Arena, due to open in September 2013. Braehead Arena standing tickets are still valid for The Hydro. New seated tickets for The Hydro will be automatically posted out to current seated ticket holders after 30th June 2013. Additional tickets for The Hydro will go on sale on Thursday 23rd May 2013 10am, from www.thehydro.com and 0844 395 4000

Maroon 5’s Adam Levine says, “We are truly sorry for any inconvenience we have caused our fans and promise that when we come over in January we will put on a show to remember! We can’t wait to play in the UK again.”

Rescheduled dates are:

January 2014

Wed 8th BIRMINGHAM, LG Arena

Fri 10th LONDON, O2 Arena

Sat 11th LONDON, O2 Arena

Mon 13th MANCHESTER, Manchester Arena

Tues 14th GLASGOW, The Hydro Arena

Maroon 5 were originally scheduled to play the following five dates:

June 2013

Sat 22nd BIRMINGHAM, LG Arena

Sun 23rd LONDON, O2 Arena

Mon 24th LONDON, O2 Arena

Wed 26th MANCHESTER, Manchester Arena

Thu 27th GLASGOW, Braehead Arena

WRETCH 32 announces UK tour dates

2013-05-20T09:15:00.001+01:00

WRETCH 32

ANNOUNCES UK DATES

NEW SINGLE ‘BLACKOUT FT. SHAKKA’ OUT NOW

on Ministry of Sound/Levels Recordings

Monday 13^th May – Following the release ofhis new single ‘Blackout’, Wretch 32 today announces a string of UK dates in October/November at the following venues:

October 2013

Wednesday 30^th Norwich UEA

Thursday 31^st O2 Academy Oxford

November 2013

Friday 1^st O2 Academy Bournemouth

Saturday 2^nd O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire

Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday 17^th May priced £15 regionally and £18.50 in London (subject to booking fee) from www.ticketmaster.co.uk

‘Blackout’ is the first single to be released from Wretch 32’s forthcoming third studio album. Premiered on MistaJam’s Radio 1Xtra show, and also named Zane Lowe’s ‘hottest record’, the track was produced by emerging talent Knox Brown who hails from Birmingham and created the record in his bedroom studio. Watch the video here or listen on Soundcloud here.

Well-known for supporting new British talent, Wretch 32 was the first British grime artist to sample a peer when he used Kano’s ‘P’s and Q’s’ for his club track ‘Pop?’ earlier this year. True to form, Wretch has scouted hot up-and-coming London-based singer Shakka to feature on ‘Blackout’; his effortless resounding vocal melts over the samba drum rhythms and velvety bassline’s. Shakka has been a regular performer up and down the country for the past few years and Wretch has always kept a keen eye on his progress.

Laced with Wretch’s signature flow and discerning rhymes, ‘Blackout’ pays homage to soaring tribal vocal sounds, capturing a laid-back carnival atmosphere this perfectly sculpted track has the multi-layered depth of Wretch’s future-classic sound. The record demonstrates his willingness to try new things and his overall growth as an artist.

In 2011, Wretch 32 released his gold-certified LP ‘Black And White’ which amassed over one million record sales and had three top 5 singles including the gritty ‘Traktor’ and ‘Unorthodox ft. Example’. Crowned ‘MC of the year’ by MTV for two years in a row and as one of the focal artists for the 2012 Olympic Games, Wretch 32 has evolved his style into a seriously unique sound; chilled melodies, trademark bars and soaring choruses – all of which will be seen during his live show.

Wretch 32’s third studio album will be released later this summer. Blackout features remixes from T Williams, Bobby Tank, Petite Noir and Will And Bill.

Gig Review: McFly - Wembley Arena ✭✭✭✭✭

2013-05-19T11:17:00.003+01:00

McFly

Wembley Arena

18th May 2013: McFly formed ten years ago, at a time when boy bands were plentiful, but something about McFly stood out from the rest of them. They wrote their own material and always played live, and because of this, they have gained a huge following and a cult status in British music history.

With Harry Judd on drums, Dougie Poynter on Bass, Danny Jones on guitar and Tom Fletcher on guitar, piano and the famous YouTube 'Youkelele', they all share the singing for this final show on their UK Memory Lane Tour. They are joined on stage by a three piece horn section and another keyboard player, giving a fantastic huge and warm sound to their hits. Vocally they are all in splendid form, and the sound system was loud and crisp with the right balance of vocals over the instruments - well done to the sound engineers for making it just right.

The set started off with an acapella version of Memory Lane, Dougie, Danny and Tom in front of a red drape that comes crashing down to reveal a vintage style stage set, nothing too fancy, it doesn't need to be as the music does the talking. McFly are bursting with energy, giving us fantastic versions of songs such as 5 Colours in her Hair, Room on the 3rd Floor, Obviously and many more, the audience are dancing and singing along throughout. They also dress up with cowboy hat, builders hard hat, indian feathers etc... you know where this is going - yes, a version of YMCA squeezed into a mash-up of It's Alright and Don't Worry, Be Happy.

With an encore of three songs including the much loved It's About You and ending with The Heart Never Lies, the sold-out Wembley crowd went away singing the songs all the way back to the tube stop! It just goes to show that good songwriting and a fabulous live show is still here, and McFly certainly know how to do both.

Five stars ✭✭✭✭✭

McFly will be playing Royal Albert Hall on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 September 2013 for their 10th Anniversary celebrations, tickets go on sale at 9am on 25th May priced £25 - £50.

You can buy your tickets through Backstage Pass with our ticketing partner TicketMaster HERE

Big Brother’s NIKKI GRAHAME and BENEDICT GARRETT join X Factor's LLOYD DANIELS in hit naked comedy ‘Up4aMeet?’

2013-05-18T10:11:00.000+01:00

‘Up4aMeet?’

Who IS she? Who IS she? She's Nikki Grahame! Voted second most popular Big Brother contestant ever, Nikki Grahame is quite simply a legend! Nikki is extremely excited to be joining the cast of the hit naked comedy Up4aMeet. When she first read the script, she said: "Who WROTE this, who WROTE this."

Director Jeff Moody knew, the second he met her, that he wanted to cast Nikki. "She was my favourite Big Brother contestant of all time. When I watched her, I found her fascinating, and I just wanted to give her a massive cuddle. Then when I met her, she's just as adorable. And she's actually a very good actress. I can't wait to start rehearsing her, and filling our script with Nikki- isms!"

Moody, who also wrote the play, is writing a special part just for Nikki. “We met for dinner, and we talked about what she could add to the play. Between us, we came up with a brilliant character – Stacey Grainger. She’s a TV presenter who’s fallen on hard times. She’s young, sassy, with a big heart – and a bit gobby. Stacey’s going to bring a whole new element to the play. As we were thinking up story ideas, we were laughing like mad.”

Nikki says: “I can’t wait to start getting to grips with Stacey. She’s a bit like me, but more so, if you know what I mean.”

Also joining the cast along side Lloyd Daniels is Dreamboy Benedict Garrett. The ex-Big Brother contestant and porn-star is delighted to be reprising the role of Spanish naturist Carlos after playing the role to much acclaim at Waterloo East’s theatre last year.

Touring throughout July and August the play will visit London, Brighton, Birmingham, Swansea, Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

On casting, producer David Adkin said "I’m absolutely delighted with our cast. Lloyd is the perfect Scott and we’re very lucky wonderful to see Benedict return as Carlos.".

Up4aMeet is a hilarious and poignant comedy about social media. It's packed with witty observations, killer one-liners, and more gratuitous nudity than is decent. "Social media has changed so much of our lives," says writer/director Jeff Moody, "particularly the way we look for a partner. Up4aMeet has a tale to tell about the way we use smartphones and apps to find love - and the effect this has on our everyday life. There's a definite message in the play - but above all, we aim to provide a fantastic night out for gay men and their friends - a bit of music, some great gags, some loveable characters - and naked men! What more could you want!"

Production Information:
Producer: David Adkin Limited in association with Knockhardy Productions

JULY
10th – 13th The Courtyard Theatre, London 0844 477 1000 www.thecourtyard.org.uk
16th – 20th The Marlborough Theatre, Brighton 0800 411 881 www.marlboroughtheatre.org.uk
22nd – 24th The Crescent Theatre, Birmingham 0121 643 5858 www.crescent-theatre.co.uk
26th – 27th Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea 01792 602 060 www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk
29th- 1st Aug The Lantern Theatre, Liverpool 01517 030 000 www.thelanterntheatre.co.uk

AUGUST
2nd – 3rd AXM Club, Manchester www.up4ameet.ticketsource.co.uk
6th – 8th Electric Circus, Edinburgh www.theelectriccircus.biz/up4ameet
9th – 10th Oran Mor Theatre, Glasgow 08444 771 000 http://www.ticketweb.co.uk

Tickets: from £16.
Twitter - @Up4aMeetOnTour

Website – www.up4ameetontour.com

Gig Review: The Boxettes - Jazz Cafe, Camden ✭✭✭✭

2013-05-17T13:04:00.000+01:00

The Boxettes

Jazz Cafe, Camden

16th May 2013: So what happens when you get five female beatboxers together on stage, using only their mouths to produce an hour of music? Well you get a rather outstanding performance from five incredibly talented ladies, that's what!

The Jazz cafe in Camden is world renowned, and I can see why... Renowned for being tiny and hot in this instance, with the audience bunched together like sardines in a sweat box. But that doesn't spoil the evening you have ahead of you when The Boxettes glide down the stairs and onto the stage, picking up their microphones and getting straight into the action.

The Boxettes ooze style and talent, combining effortlessly with their lush harmonies and rattling bass noises. World Champion beatboxer Bellatrix is amazing at doing the drum kit sounds, the snare as tight as a tight thing! The ranges in vocals blend nicely together, with Alyusha Chagrin in incredible form (who I recognise from The Vocal Orchestra days). Kate Brown, Neo Joshua and Yvette Riby-Williams have huge amounts of passion with their performance, and all the girls take it in turn to do main vocals throughout the night, along with changing mics now and again to do the dirty bass! The raw vocals from all on stage are just awesome to hear.

The Boxettes write their own music, and the night was awash with various tunes like Stung Like A Nettle, a standout performance off Hattie, and even an improvised number about Charlie and a Chicken laying a little egg!

Puppet On A String is the girls new single which was released this week, you can watch the video below. If you get a chance to see them in action, do it! Miss them at your peril.

Four stars ✭✭✭✭

www.theboxettes.co.uk

THRILLER LIVE becomes longest running show at the Lyric Theatre in London's West End

2013-05-17T09:23:00.002+01:00

Thriller Live

Photo by Irina Chira

Michael Jackson smashes a new West End record!

BUY TICKETS HERE

Best available tickets £37 (was £62.50)

Lyric Theatre owner Nica Burns strikes a Michael Jackson pose with actors Ramon Mariqueo Smith and David Jordan to celebrate Thriller Live becoming the longest running show at the venue since it first opened in December 1888.

Nica, Chief Executive of Nimax Theatres, appeared on stage at the end of the 1,815th

performance to announce to the packed audience: “You are part of history being made tonight. Michael Jackson won so many amazing awards and set some impressive records in his lifetime - and he continues to do that today! This is my theatre, and I’m delighted to anounce that Thriller Live has become the longest running show in its 125-year history.”

She then presented trophies from Nimax Theatres to mark the momentous occasion to Producers Paul Walden and Derek Nicol of Flying Music, the show’s award-winning Director/Choreographer Gary Lloyd, Musical Supervisor John Maher and to Original Creator Adrian Grant, whose personal association with Michael Jackson spanned 21 years and who first came up with the concept for the show.

Gary Lloyd paid tribute to the dozens of singers and dancers who have performed in the West End production before over one million customers, and to the backstage staff, technicians, designers and crew who, he said, had all played a vital part in the success of the show, but largely go unseen by the public.

Thriller Live has shattered the previous long-standing record held by Cameron Mackintosh’s production of 5 Guys Named Moe.

“London theateregoers and visitors to the city have truly embraced Thriller Live,” said Paul Walden. “It is incredibly heartwarming that Thriller Live, now in its fifth year, is playing to some of the most enthusiastic audiences of its West End run, and it is thanks to those audiences that we have been able to smash this record. Recent sales have exceeded our expectations, telling us that the West End does not want to say goodbye to Thriller Live any time soon!” The show is currently booking to 16 March, 2014.

Producers recently enhanced the show by introducing an exciting new opening featuring new video material and graphics. Thriller Live has now thrilled more than 2.3 million people worldwide after playing in 26 countries, including Germany, Japan, Italy, Poland, Denmark, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, France, Singapore, South Africa, China, Sweden, Finland and Norway.

Thriller Live moonwalked into the West End in January 2009 after three acclaimed UK tours. It is currently also on tour in Brazil.

Unlike other West End productions, Thriller Live is not a rigid book musical with set songs, but is a constantly evolving music concert celebration. When Michael Jackson died, the Lyric Theatre became a focus for fans from all over the world, who created a massive shrine of flowers, candles, and tributes. More than 40 books of condolence were signed in the foyer then sent to the Jackson family. A year after his death, a permanent West End memorial to Michael was unveiled in the theatre foyer.

Thriller Live brings to life on stage the distinctive high-energy dancing and pulsating sound of many of pop’s greatest hits, blending eye-popping video footage and effects together with dazzling choreography. The show has regularly been updated with additional songs, new visuals and choreography.

To date, more than 30 young boys have so far sung the hits of the young MJ in the West End and around the world. The need to have six available at any one time has led the producers of Thriller Live to launch a training academy to develop boys for the role of the young Michael. The MJ Academy opened its doors for the first time on Friday 9 November, 2012. Would-be MJs get classes in singing and dancing every Friday between 5pm and 8pm, with terms lasting three months.

Ramon Mariqueo Smith, who sang the songs of the young MJ last night, was one of the first graduates of the MJ Academy.

JAMIE CULLUM to perform on the roof of Shelter on Tues 21st May - Will be streamed live from 12.30pm

2013-05-16T15:50:00.001+01:00

JAMIE CULLUM

To perform roof-top show for Shelter

Photo by Mary McCartney

Show to be streamed live online

+Special exclusive gig at the Shard London

New album ‘Momentum’ is released 20th May

Jamie Cullum has today announced he is to perform a one off show for the housing and homelessness charity Shelter. The gig will take place on the roof of the charity’s London HQ on Tuesday 21st May.

Jamie will be the first musician who has taken to the roof of Shelter for a show and in another first, the gig will be streamed live on http://www.shelter.org.uk/JamieCullum, from 12.30pm. Fans will be able to make real time live requests via Twitter by tagging #CullumLive.

Shelter’s chief executive Campbell Rob said,

“We’re so excited Jamie is coming to Shelter. This is the first time we’ve ever had someone perform live at our offices, let alone on our roof, and we’re delighted to be sharing this event with some of our top fundraisers from the London marathon. With more and more people struggling to stay in their homes right now, our advice and support services have never been more needed. It’s great to have Jamie’s support and we’re really looking forward to hearing the new album.”

Shelter provides advice and support to over a million people a year struggling with bad housing or homelessness - and campaigns to prevent it in the first place. In Britain there are more than 83,000 homeless children living in temporary accommodation and every 15 minutes someone in England loses their home. Shelter exists so no-one has to fight bad housing or homelessness on their own.

Jamie has also announced that he will be performing an exclusive friends and family show on the 32nd floor of the Shard, London, to mark the release of his new album ‘Momentum’. Watch out for a few more surprises on the 21st!

http://www.jamiecullum.com

https://twitter.com/jamiecullum

http://www.facebook.com/jamiecullum

THE LUMINEERS announce new single 'Stubborn Love' to be released on 24th June

2013-05-16T15:31:00.000+01:00

THE LUMINEERS

ANNOUNCE NEW SINGLE ‘STUBBORN LOVE’

RELEASED ON 24^TH JUNE

The Lumineers have announced their new single, and follow-up to the huge single ‘Ho Hey’, ‘Stubborn Love’ which will be released on 24^th June.

This release will kick-start an amazing festival season, where the band will be performing on the Other Stage at Glastonbury Festival, as well as T in the Park, Belsonic Festival Belfast, Reading and Leeds.

The band have had incredible success recently; performing at the Grammy Awards 2013, and were nominated for both “Best New Artist” and “Best Americana Album “at the legendary annual music awards.

The band’s performance and nominations cement what has been a phenomenal year for the Denver trio who in less than eight months have become the biggest DIY success story of 2012 having sold over 1 million copies of their debut self-titled album and over 3.5 million single downloads of their debut single ‘Ho Hey’ through the independent Nashville-based label, Dualtone.

New single ‘Stubborn Love’ is a gorgeously uplifting song with a huge, powerful chorus backed by strong cello and guitar. It is a live favourite for the band and you cannot help but sing along to the chorus, which gets stronger and more passionate throughout.

Here, in the UK the band’s debut album has sold over a quarter million reaching an official chart high at #8 and the cult classic single ‘Ho Hey’ is certified platinum also hitting #8 in the charts. Both the album and single have been fluctuating in the UK iTunes top 10 since release with sales increasing week on week.

Live, the demand for tickets in the UK has been astonishing; graduating from Hoxton Bar and Grill to KOKO to Shepherds Bush Empire to two consecutive nights at Brixton Academy within 5 months, followed by a sold out UK tour. November dates to be announced soon.

Upcoming UK performances:

June 2013

Fri 28th Glastonbury

July 2013

T In The Park, Glasgow

August 2013

Thurs 22nd Belsonic Festival, Belfast

Fri 23rd Leeds Festival

Sun 25th Reading Festival

Extreme flamenco heads to London Coliseum as LOS VIVANCOS perform for one night only on 9th July

2013-05-16T11:14:00.001+01:00

Los Vivancos

The West End’s temperature is set to soar this summer as seven Spanish brothers with model good looks and killer dance moves make their London stage debut.

With rippling torsos and lightning fast footwork, Los Vivancos ooze passion and macho attitude from every pore. They have fast become one of Spain’s biggest global success stories, dancing up a storm and winning standing ovations from more than a million people to date.

Now it’s London’s turn to fall under their spell as they premiere a good-versus-evil story set in the world of the paranormal and supernatural with the brothers playing angels, demons and vampires, at the London Coliseum for one night only on Tuesday July 9.

The choreography in Los Vivancos mixes fearless flamenco with ballet, martial arts, tap dance and a sprinkling of magic. The brothers have also composed the music in the show, a fusion of flamenco, rock and classical sounds. Los Vivancos play instruments on stage and are joined by seven female musicians, the Maszka Band, from Budapest. With costumes ranging from traditional to contemporary and lots of bare flesh on show, Los Vivancos is a spectacular, unforgettable production.

As young boys growing up around the world, Aaron, Cristo, Elias, Israel, Josué, Josua and Judah Vivancos learned to play instruments and created exciting acrobatic routines to show off their talents in special performances for their family. After graduating from the Professional Conservatory of Dance in Barcelona they went their separate ways to study with international dance companies, including in England, Canada, France and Holland. They reunited back in Spain in 2006 and formed Los Vivancos. Today the group has grown into an award-winning global brand that has seen the band of brothers perform in 73 cities in 34 countries. Now they have the West End in their sights!

www.losvivancos.com/english

“Los Vivancos, seven Spanish brothers... see their passion,

ardour, pride, honour. Their virility is total”

Alastair Macaulay, New York Times

“Their live performances are the apotheoses of dance, music and raw virility. Los Vivancos are today’s greatest revelation in the actual Spanish dance panorama”

Patrick Dupond

“So hot, they’re in danger

of setting the stage on fire”

New York Daily News

LISTINGS INFO

Los Vivancos

LONDON COLISEUM

St Martin's Lane

LONDON

WC2N 4ES

Box Office: 020 7845 9300

www.eno.org

Tuesday July 9 at 8.00pm

7.00pm - 8.00pm

Sangria Happy Hour

Tickets: £15.00 - £55.00

Full casting announced for Regent's Park Open Air Theatre 2013 season

2013-05-16T10:48:00.000+01:00

Regent’s Park

Open Air Theatre

FULL CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, THE WINTER’S TALE RE-IMAGINED AND THE SOUND OF MUSIC AT REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE

JANE ASHER WILL PLAY LADY CATHERINE DE BOURGH IN PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

OLIVIER AWARD NOMINEES CHARLOTTE WAKEFIELD AND MICHAEL XAVIER WILL PLAY THE ROLES OF MARIA RAINER AND CAPTAIN VON TRAPP IN THE SOUND OF MUSIC

Thursday 16 May 2013" As previews begin for Timothy Sheader’s production of To Kill a Mockingbird this evening, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre announce full casting for the 2013 season.

The cast for Jane Austen’s ultimate romantic comedy, Pride and Prejudice includes Jane Asher (Lady Catherine De Bourgh), Ed Birch (Mr Collins), Leah Brotherhead (Mary/Miss De Bourgh), Imogen Byron (Kitty Bennet), Sophia Capasso (Georgina), Olivia Darnley (Charlotte Lucas), Caroline Harker (Mrs Gardiner), Rob Heaps (Mr Bingley), Yolanda Kettle (Jane Bennet), Jennifer Kirby (Elizabeth Bennet), Rebecca Lacey (Mrs Bennet), Frances McNamee (Caroline Bingley), David Oakes (Mr Darcy), Barnaby Sax (Mr Wickham), Eleanor Thorn (Lydia Bennet),Timothy Walker (Mr Bennet) and David Whitworth (Sir William).

Directed by Deborah Bruce, the play is dramatised by Bristol Old Vic’s former Artistic Director, Simon Reade and will run from 20 June – 20 July.

William Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale re-imagined for ages six and over will feature Lewis Goody (Florizel), Guy Burgess (Leontes), Dean Nolan (Polixenes), Sirine Saba (Hermoine), Alexandra Maher (Paulina/Camillo) and Kezrena James (Perdita). From 29 June to 20 July, this production will use Shakespeare’s original text, as with previous productions of Pericles re-imagined, Macbeth re-imagined and The Tempest re-imagined and is especially created for younger audiences.

Laurence Olivier Award nominees Charlotte Wakefield (Maria Rainer) and Michael Xavier (Captain Von Trapp) will lead the cast of The Sound of Music alongside Kimberley Blake, Faye Brookes (Liesl) Helen Colby, Samuel Edwards, Tim Frances, Victoria Hinde, Helen Hobson (Mother Abbess), Christopher Hunt, Caroline Keiff (Elsa Schraeder), Michael Matus, Harry Morrison, Gemma Page, Laura Pick, Stuart Matthew Price, Anna Simmons, Chloe Taylor, Joshua Tonks (Rolf), and Helen Walsh.

Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, The Sound of Music will conclude the 2013 season, playing from 25 July to 7 September.

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre previously announced Robert Sean Leonard in the role of Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird, the first production of the 2013 season which begins previews this evening. The Tony award-winning American actor is best known for playing Dr. James Wilson in the Fox television series House and Neil Perry in the 1989 movie Dead Poets Society. Having frequently performed on and off Broadway since 1986, To Kill a Mockingbird will mark Robert’s return to the London stage for the first time in 22 years.

Full casting includes Michele Austin (Calpurnia), Richie Campbell (Tom Robinson), Christopher Ettridge (Mr Walter Cunningham/Judge Taylor), Tom Godwin (Nathan Radley/Mr Gilmer), Simon Gregor (Bob Ewell), Stephen Kennedy (Heck Tate), Phil King (Link Deas), Hattie Ladbury (Ms Maude Atkinson), Julie Legrand (Stephanie Crawford/Mrs Dubose), Rona Morison (Mayella Ewell), Joe Speare (Reverend Sykes) and Daniel Tuite (Boo Radley). Eleanor Worthington-Cox, Lucy Hutchinson and Izzy Lee share the role of Scout, whilst Harry Bennett, Sebastian Clifford and Ewan Harris share the role of Dill, and Gus Barry, Callum Henderson and Adam Scotland share the role of Jem.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre 2013 season:

Box Office: 0844 826 4242

Online Bookings: www.openairtheatre.com

To Kill a Mockingbird
Directed by Timothy Sheader
16 May – 15 June 2013
First Preview: 16 May
Press night: 22 May (7.45pm)
Performances: Mon – Sat (7.45pm); matinees Weds, Thurs and Sats (2.15pm). No matinees on 16,18, 22 or 23 May.
Tickets
Standard price: £25 - £45; Premium Seats £55 (including glass of wine and programme)
Previews: £2 off Standard Prices
Schools rates: available
Group rates: available
Please note: tickets prices are the same for Pride and Prejudice and The Sound of Music

Pride and Prejudice
Directed by Deborah Bruce
Dramatised by Simon Reade
20 June – 20 July 2013
First preview: 20 June
Press night: 25 June (7.45pm)
Performances: Mon – Sat (7.45pm); matinees Thurs and Sat (2.15pm). No matinees on 20, 22 or 27 June.

The Winter’s Tale re-imagined for everyone aged six and over
Directed by Ria Parry
29 June – 20 July
Press from: 5 July – no formal press performance
Performances: Mon, Tues, Weds, Fri (1.30pm); Sat (9.45am); Sun (10am and 1.30pm).
Tickets
All tickets £15.00
School rates: available
Family tickets: available (4 tickets, including 1 adult, at £50.00)

The Sound of Music
Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh
25 July – 7 September 2013
First preview: 25 July
Press night: 5 August (7.45pm)

Performances: Mon – Sat (7.45pm); matinees Thurs and Sats (2.15pm); no matinee 25 July.

A full performance schedule will be available from www.openairtheatre.com

BON JOVI arrive in Europe - 2 months of Stadium and Festival shows ahead + new photos

2013-05-15T13:05:00.002+01:00

BON JOVI

Photo by David Bergman

BECAUSE WE CAN – THE TOUR HITS EUROPE

UK DATES IN JUNE AND JULY

Bon Jovi arrived in Europe this week, opening 2 months of huge stadium shows in style with a brand new never before seen production and stage.

Now the top tour in North America hits Europe with sold out stadium shows in Sofia, Bulgaria and in Vienna, Austria, finishing the week on Sunday at Munich's giant Olympic Stadium. They continue throughout the continent, heading to the UK in June and July for 7 dates, including 2 festival headline performances.

The essential live rock band recently added WHAT ABOUT NOW, their blockbuster 12th studio album, into the their huge arsenal of hits, anointing new fan favourites at every tour date.

Bringing rock n roll back to the people, Bon Jovi have led the way once again, offering accessible ticket prices and adding new technology to enhance the fan experience. In the UK, tickets were available from just £12.50. Bon Jovi introduced ‘friends price’ in Spain to make sure as many of their fans as possible could come and see them - the fans responded by selling out Madrid’s Estadio Vincente Calderon.

Photo by David Bergman

FANS will experience an incredible roster of global hits, including 'Livin' On A Prayer', 'You Give Love A Bad Name', 'Who Says You Can't Go Home', 'It's My Life' and many more.

The latest album went top 5 in over 60 countries, including debuting at #1 in 5 countries. New single and title track ‘What About Now’, already has half a million views on YouTube in just two weeks.

First single, ‘Because We Can’, landed Top 5 on iTunes in 24 countries, reached #1 in 12 and even started a fire under Bon Jovi’s all-time classic 1986 hit, ‘Livin' On A Prayer’, catapulting the song to over 3 million sales in the US alone.

The album cover for WHAT ABOUT NOW unleashes an exciting and unprecedented interactive experience for fans via the free Bon Jovi App.

This mobile application is at the heart of WHAT ABOUT NOW and “BON JOVI Because We Can - The Tour”—tying together the latest content with cutting edge Augmented Reality, an image recognition technology for smartphones and tablets that creates an interactive “wow” experience and brings content to life anytime/anywhere.

Open the Bon Jovi app, click on Augmented Reality and point your phone at the WHAT ABOUT NOW artwork wherever it appears, and see the album artwork come to life in front of your eyes. This is something you have never seen before!

Bon Jovi have performed more that 2,700 concerts in over 50 countries for more than 35 million fans, earning #1 grossing worldwide tour twice in just 3 years.

UK Tour Dates:

June 2013

8th - Manchester Etihad Stadium

9th - Birmingham Villa Park

12th - Cardiff City Stadium

13th - Sunderland Stadium of Light

Tickets from Ticketmaster

July 2013

3rd - Glasgow Hampden Park

Plus:

Barclaycard British Summer Time:

Friday July 5^th – Bon Jovi headline

Tickets available from

www.bst-hydepark.com

Isle Of Wight Festival:

Sunday June 16 - Bon Jovi headline

Tickets available from

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

For more information on all things Bon Jovi, visit www.BonJovi.com.

We need your help to create The Ultimate FAST & FURIOUS 6 Drive Time Playlist

2013-05-15T11:15:00.001+01:00

Fast & Furious 6

Ultimate Drive Time Playlist

#Fast6Playlist

THE PLAYLIST IS READY!!!!

You came, you saw, you tweeted your favourite tunes.
They will be on BACKSTAGE PASS RADIO from around 3pm every day for an hour.

Here at Backstage Pass HQ we need your help in putting together the Ultimate Fast & Furious 6 Drive Time playlist.

Which songs make you want to roll down your car windows and sing at the top of your voice?
Which songs are ideal for when driving in the countryside?
Which tracks are great for when you want to go crashing a tank through London?

Let us know on our Twitter and Facebook, using the #Fast6Playlist hashtag on Twitter, and we will put together your suggestions and play them on our new radio station - Backstage Pass Radio - from Friday 17th May when Fast & Furious 6 is released in cinemas nationwide. You have until 4pm May 16th to get your favourite songs in.

Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast of all-stars as the global blockbuster franchise built on speed races to its next continent in Fast & Furious 6.

You can read our review HERE