Roundup of theatre shows in South Cheshire and the surrounding area

Aug 18 2010 by Will Harris, Crewe Chronicle

UNCLE ERIC’S ITALIAN JOB (New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, until August 28)

UNCLE Eric’s Italian Job promises to “blow the bloody doors off” the New Vic at Newcastle-under-Lyme on Tuesday. The hilarious story-telling antics of Uncle Eric have been a huge hit around the country and this latest show brings to life the iconic sights and sounds of the 1960s. A theatre spokesman said: “The show sees Eric, Madge and the rest of the gang in beautiful Rome, in a world of fast cars, crime and hot money.” For tickets, priced £12.50-£17.50, phone the box office on 01782 717962 or log on to www.newvictheatre.org.uk.

DANGER MOUSE (Victoria Hall, Hanley, August 26)

THE world’s top secret agent is back and is joined by the whole team, from Colonel K and trusty sidekick Penfold to arch enemies Baron Silas Greenback, Nero and Stiletto. Theatre spokesman Dave Bradbury said: “This nostalgic eighties character show is ideal for children from five to 105. So why not bring yourself, your kids, your mother and even your granny to see what promises to be an afternoon of hilarious, side-splitting family entertainment.” The show starts at 2pm. Tickets are priced £12.50, to book phone the box office on 0871 871 7649.

STOKE’S TOP TALENT (Regent Theatre, Hanley, August 31 - September 4)

THE cream of South Cheshire and North Staffordshire talent battle it out in the Britain’s Got Talent-style competition. It was introduced by Potteries favourite Jonathan Wilkes in 2008, taking a similar format to the ITV show to unearth the hottest local act. The winner will once again bag a place in this year’s panto Robinson Crusoe. To book tickets and for more details of acts visit www.ambassadortickets.com/Regent-Theatre or phone 0871 871 7649.

HAIRSPRAY (Empire Theatre, Liverpool, August 17 - September 4)

AN ALL-Liverpool affair stars Michael Starke as larger than life Edna, with Les Dennis returning to the Empire as mild mannered dad Wilbur. The film version was originally a 70s hit starring Debbie Harry and a young Ricki Lake, but was more recently updated in the 2007 sensation starring John Travolta and Michelle Pfeiffer. Tickets are priced £24-£47, to book phone the box office on 0844 847 2525.

LES MISERABLES (The Lowry, Salford Quays, August 10-21)

THE exciting new 25th anniversary production of the show is headed by Broadway and West End icon John Owen Jones and fellow West End stars Earl Carpenter and Gareth Gates. The legendary score includes the songs I Dreamed A Dream, On My Own, Bring Him Home and Do You Hear The People Sing?. The show runs from August 10-21. Tickets are priced £22.50-£48.50, to book phone 0843 208 6000 or visit www.thelowry.com

PAUL CARRACK (MEN Arena, Manchester, August 25)

THE former Mike & The Mechanics frontman and Squeeze member performs with a band in a special concert supporting the Help For Heroes charity. The show starts at 8pm and tickets are £27.25-£32.25, to book phone 0844 847 2277.