Francesca Jackson

MDQ at West End Live

2011-06-22T20:10:00.000+01:00

OK so I know I've not posted any updates for a long time, but things have been hectic.

Here are some clips of Million Dollar Quartet at West End Live 2011.

West End Live 2011 - Million Dollar Quartet - Hound Dog

2011-06-22T20:09:00.003+01:00

West End Live 2011 - Million Dollar Quartet

2011-06-22T20:09:00.002+01:00

West End Live 2011 - Million Dollar Quartet

2011-06-22T20:08:00.001+01:00

MDQ announces extension to April 2012

2011-04-05T10:54:00.001+01:00

Million Dollar Quartet extends to 28 April 2012 Million Dollar Quartet has extended its booking period by 7 months - tickets are now on sale to 28 April 2012.

The show opened at the Noel Coward Theatre 28 Feb 2011, following previews from 8 Feb, to moderate notices from the popular press.

Million Dollar Quartet is inspired by the actual event that took place on 4 December 1956 at Sun Records in Memphis when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis came together to make music and ended up making history.

Features over 20 of the greatest rock ’n’ roll, gospel, R&B and country hits.

The musical has book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, originally conceived by Floyd Mutrux.

It is directed by Eric Schaeffer, designed by Derek McLane, lighting by Howell Binkley, sound by Kai Harada. Musical arrangements and supervision Chuck Mead Cast includes Bill Ward (Sam Phillips), Michael Malarkey (Elvis Presley), Ben Goddard (Jerry Lee Lewis), Derek Hagen (Johnny Cash).

Produced in London by Relevant Theatricals, John Cossette Productions, American Pop Anthology, John Gore, Thomas B. McGrath, James L. Nederlander, Joseph Smith and Michael McCabe.

More Reviews

2011-03-08T10:43:00.003Z

In an attempt to catch up below are further reviews from the opening (press) night of Million Dollar Quartet.

Million Dollar Quartet at the Noel Coward Theatre
Posted by Milly Kenny-Ryder in Theatre
You may have seen the bright Million Dollar Quartet sign near Leicester Square, it has been up for some time. The show celebrates the night that four of the greatest rock’n'roll legends came together: Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins under the guidance of Sam Phillips, record producer at Sun Records.
On this night in 1956 the four have an epic jam session and make music history.
This show is lots of fun, and the score will delight visitors of all ages. The production is less a musical than a tribute act, with four very talented impersonators. There is little narrative, so if you need the loo halfway through, the most you’re going to miss is a favourite Elvis number. While watching, I found many parallels with Woody Sez, the show on just round the corner showcasing folk artist Woody Guthrie’s life and music. There are also similarities with box office success Jersey Boys, particularly in the staging that favours dramatic static poses and strong silhouettes.
Of the four performers, Ben Goddard sparkles brightest, playing the cheeky Jerry Lee Lewis; he has a magnetic spirit and an irresistible charm. He is an exceptional pianist and has a voice that is full of fire. Goddard energises the score matching the original Lewis’s star quality. Robert Britton Lyons has a tricky task playing the less famous musician Carl Perkins, luckily his guitar skills make up for the slightly bland characterisation. Both Derek Hagen (Johnny Cash) and Michael Malarkey (Elvis Presley) fulfil the brief as their respective legends; it’s a pleasure to listen to their renditions of some classic numbers and they seem to love being up there. There is secure back-up too from Francesca Jackson as Presley’s squeeze Dyanne, and Bill Ward as the enthusiastic ringleader Sam Phillips.
Although Million Dollar Quartet may not be as durable as its competitors, no-one can deny the talent and fun that the show displays by the bucket-load.

Kate Kellaway
The Observer, Sunday 6 March 2011
Million Dollar Quartet focuses on 4 December 1956, when Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley and Carl Perkins were together at Sun Records, Memphis, Tennessee. This creates an opportunistic excuse for an almost non-stop performance of their hits. This jukebox musical plays so safe it ought to be dangerous, but a fresh cast, directed with pizzazz, by Eric Schaeffer, saves it. Ben Goddard, as Jerry Lee Lewis, is a sensation: manically musical. Michael Malarkey has an admirable stab at Elvis (an impossible undertaking). Robert Britton Lyons (the only cast member imported from the US) convinces as Carl Perkins. And Derek Hagen exactly catches Johnny Cash's brooding quality. The "story" is held together by record producer/narrator Sam Phillips (a capable Bill Ward). I took one of my teenage sons along. He has had no experience of blue suede shoes, great balls of fire or of hound dogs – at least, not musically speaking. "The music was great," he said.

The Million Dollar Quartet
Noel Coward Theatre, London WC2
Sunday 06 March 2011
by Dennis Poole
A Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On could be a signature tune for 1956, the year that gave us the 20th Congress of the CPSU and some notable events in Hungary, Vietnam and Suez.
And it's the concluding number in The Million Dollar Quartet, a new musical which celebrates an impromptu music session held at the Sun recording studios in Memphis, Tennessee, on December 4 that year.
The prototype supergroup of Carl Perkins (Robert Britton Lyons), Elvis Presley (Michael Malarkey), Johnny Cash (Derek Hagen) and Jerry Lee Lewis (Ben Goddard) jam their way through a couple of dozen rock'n'roll standards and the show also features the owner of Sun Records Sam Phillips (Bill Ward) and Elvis's girlfriend Dyanne (Francesca Jackson).
The sparse narrative centres on the perceived tensions between the main characters with Perkins, resentful of Presley's greater success with his own first record Blue Suede Shoes, now looking for the next big hit.
Financially strapped, Phillips had recently sold Presley's contract to RCA and is keen to sign Cash to a three-year contract extension. Cash, having already been approached by Columbia records with a lucrative offer, is torn between loyalty to Phillips and the glittering prizes.
Presley is shown to be uncomfortable with the musical and commercial directions being laid out for him by RCA and Colonel Tom Parker and he revels in the simpler pleasures of jamming with the boys, while Lewis provides the spice in the mix. Anarchic, irreverent and with an outrageous talent he is restlessly impatient for the big break.
Floyd Mutrux, who originally conceived the idea for the show, has taken considerable liberty with historical accuracy. Leaving aside the contrived relationships, only three of the songs in the show featured in the original encounter.
But what the hell, this ain't serious drama. It's a 90-minute romp through some of the early gems of rock'n'roll.
Musically the show relies heavily upon Goddard's manic piano playing and Lyons's driving lead guitar with workmanlike contributions from Malarkey and Hagen on acoustic guitar. Hagen effectively captures Cash's bass vocal tones particularly in I Walk the Line, but Malarkey is less convincing as Presley.
Unsurprisingly Lyons, who transfers from the Broadway production, gives an excellent representation as Perkins and is vocally and instrumentally spot on. The Devil, as always, has the best lines and Goddard as Jerry Lee steals the show with exuberant renditions of Great Balls of Fire and A Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On, while Francesca Jackson (Dyanna) offers a stunning version of Fever.
The front-line performers are well supported by Gez Gerrard as Perkin's brother Jay on string bass and there's efficient drum support by Adam Riley as Fluke.
If you're nostalgic for genuine rock 'n'roll go and see this show. But don't be expecting to dance in the aisles, 'cos there aren't any.

This is South Wales
Saturday, March 05, 2011, 09:00
Hopeful is one in a million
SWANSEA stage star Francesca Jackson has finally proved Andrew Lloyd Webber wrong by landing a top West End role.
Francesca made the live finals of BBC reality contest I'd Do Anything, but she was voted off meaning she didn't get to play Nancy on stage in Oliver! Three years on she has shown Lord Webber she belongs in the West End where she is now starring in hit show Million Dollar Quartet.
In an exclusive chat at the opening night, Francesca told me: "It's great to have the chance to show I'm good enough to be in the West End. It was really tough when I was voted off I'd Do Anything so getting this role has meant a lot.
"It's definitely one of the best jobs I've ever had!
"It's been such a laugh so far and I'm really enjoying it."
The show, playing at the Noel Coward Theatre, is about music legends Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis during their time at Sun Records in Memphis.
And Ystalyfera-born Francesca, 27, plays the only female part in the show, Dyanne, which opened to rave reviews this week.
She told me: "The boys are very protective over me because I'm the only girl. They all seem to want to look after me!
"It's great playing a sexy role, but in truth the curves aren't all mine — I wear padding all over. It means I sweat an awful lot on stage."

The Cast on ITV this morning 21/2/11

2011-03-05T10:45:00.000Z

Million Dollar Quartet Press Night

2011-03-05T10:17:00.002Z

Ok so I apologise for not getting these up sooner, but have been caught up with work and stuff so here goes;

THE ARTS DESK

Tuesday, 01 March 2011 00:02

Million Dollar Quartet, Noël Coward Theatre

Written by Joe Muggs

Michael Malarkey as an "easygoing" Elvis Tristram Kenton

As acting challenges go it borders on the foolhardy: impersonate not just in looks and mannerisms but in musical skill too some of the most truly iconic figures of the 20th century. And do it up close and personal with an audience who know the subjects' work inside out to boot. It seems almost impossible that a cast could manage to convincingly portray the (real) musical meeting of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins at Sam Phillips's Sun Studios in 1956, but Million Dollar Quartet has managed successful and continuing runs in Chicago and on Broadway, so they must be doing something right, mustn't they?

Well, to a degree. There's no denying that as a spectacle it is quite something to behold. The four main players' ability, singing and playing every song with only a rhythm section for back-up, to sound like their subject ranged from excellent to uncanny, and they weren't too shabby on the physical appearances either. Clearly casting this show – all bar one member were cast completely afresh in the transfer to London – must have been a long and rigorous process to say the very least. The performances mesh impressively too, not just a set of impersonations, but true ensemble work, with the musical numbers perfectly segued in and out of exposition and physical comedy.

'There was never any sense of the devil in Jerry Lee, no sense of the danger and raging fire'

And yet, and yet... while there is absolutely no danger of getting bored through the non-stop 100-minute performance, and quite a few moments of boggling accomplishment, it all too rarely provides the real thrills that something tapping into the mainline of rock'n'roll should be able to access. A key moment comes very early on with Ben Goddard's first solo song as Jerry Lee Lewis (pictured right): every tic, every flick of the curled fringe, every vamp and trick on the piano is there – it's a fantastically engaging simulacrum – but though we certainly get the sense of a belligerent young country boy wild with ambition, there is never any sense of the devil in Jerry Lee, no sense of the danger and raging fire that are visible in even the earliest available footage of the real thing.

Likewise Derek Hagan's Johnny Cash: certainly one of the best soundalikes I've ever heard, and physically not a bad resemblance – but oddly awkward in his stance, lacking the utter assurance that made The Man in Black as much as did his baritone. And rock musician Robert Britton Lyons as Carl Perkins, despite having originally created the role himself in Chicago, is very obviously not an actor: great in all the scenes involving musical interplay and fluent in his speech, but when it comes to individual expression he relies mainly on a repertoire of about six eyebrow movements.

Easily the best of the bunch, amazingly, is Michael Malarkey as Elvis (pictured with group, left): brushing away the memories of a million terrible impersonators, he homes in on Presley's easygoing charm, playing him with a lightness of touch that gives us one of the show's best moments. A flashback sequence in which Sam Phillips (a sparkily avuncular Bill Ward) recalls his first meeting with the young Presley suddenly turned electric when the enormity of what it meant to be hearing “That's All Right” performed for the first time became clear. Likewise towards the end when we see Phillips stand outside the studio with “Great Balls of Fire” being recorded inside, the sense that this is a real historical moment brings everything vividly to life for just a second.

And therein lies the problem with the show: although it might seem churlish to pick such an astoundingly executed spectacle up for not being transcendently great, it is a near impossibility not to be constantly reminded of the possibility of that greatness by what is being depicted on stage. No matter how brilliantly choreographed the action and charming the actors, they are always asking for comparison with some of the greatest or most epochal performances of all time. As a top-notch revue, as a series of genuinely great set pieces held together with just enough plot, pathos and historical accuracy to make it more than a simple jukebox show, Million Dollar Quartet is a major achievement, and it's a good night out. In theory it should be a great one – but achieving the necessary suspension of disbelief is a more difficult obstacle than you might expect

FINANCIAL TIMES

Million Dollar Quartet, Noël Coward Theatre, London

By Ian Shuttleworth

Published: March 1 2011 18:49 | Last updated: March 1 2011 18:49

On December 4 1956 in the Sun Records studio in Memphis, Tennessee, Johnny Cash (just then making a name for himself), Carl Perkins (who had already had his greatest hit with his own song “Blue Suede Shoes”), Jerry Lee Lewis (newly signed) and Elvis Presley (who by this point was definitively Elvis) held a jam session. Tapes survive of 40-odd songs. This stage musical includes only a couple of dozen, and a mere three sung during that session: “Peace in the Valley”, “Down by the Riverside” and Chuck Berry’s “Brown Eyed Handsome Man”.

There would, after all, simply be no audience for a show that brought these four talents together, even in surrogate form, only to have them faithfully tackle country and gospel numbers. Writers Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux opt for a jukebox musical. They even throw in a couple of numbers for Elvis’s girlfriend (who did not perform that day, and has moreover been renamed here).

This is far from the most perfunctory of compilation musicals; it is not simply a mock-concert in which the “acts” trot out their biggies. There is narrative: its stories of Cash and Perkins ending their Sun contracts take major liberties with chronology, but no more than having the Quartet belt out songs not written at the time. There is character interaction, especially between Perkins and Lewis.

Ben Goddard’s Lewis could not be calmed down by a truckload of tranquillisers, and he ably reproduces the Killer’s psychopathic piano-playing style (all the music in the show is played by those on stage). Robert Britton Lyons plays a mean guitar as Perkins, though his style sounds more like Link Wray. (Show me a sharecropper with a gold-top Gibson Les Paul guitar and I’ll show you a gentleman farmer.) Derek Hagen makes an efficient Johnny Cash, Michael Malarkey has the most invidious task as Elvis, and Bill Ward as producer and label owner Sam Phillips is a glorified master of ceremonies, quite unlike surviving footage of Phillips himself.

There are many worse jukebox shows around, and the legendary status of the original event gives this show a broad potential audience, which is just as well, since most of 1956’s teenagers are today’s septuagenarians.

Million Dollar Quartet doesn't throb with heart and soul

Smooth, not sultry: Michael Malarkey as Elvis Presley

By Henry Hitchings
1 Mar 2011

The success of Jersey Boys shows there's an appetite for musicals that are part jukebox extravaganza, part documentary - full of hit songs faithfully delivered, and spiced with humour and testosterone. Million Dollar Quartet, arriving in the West End after making a splash in America, is just such an exercise in upbeat nostalgia.

One day in December 1956, the studios of Sun Records in Memphis witnessed a remarkable convergence of talent, when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis combined for a jam session. That event is the inspiration for this energetic workout, conceived by Floyd Mutrux and brought to life with the help of Colin Escott.

In Eric Schaeffer's efficient production the hits come thick and fast: Great Balls of Fire, Hound Dog, I Walk the Line, Blue Suede Shoes. Presiding over matters is Sam Phillips (Bill Ward), the proprietor of Sun, whose commentary stitches the songs into a somewhat clunky narrative.

The music is recreated in an enjoyably vigorous style. The performances go beyond being impersonations, though of course they have to satisfy in that respect. Ben Goddard stands out as Lewis, with effortless technical skill, plain-spoken forwardness and brazen peculiarity.

Michael Malarkey's Elvis seems a bit understated - smooth without being sultry. Derek Hagen's Cash is credible, yet I wanted more of the real Cash's rich, rumbling pain in his interpretation. Robert Britton Lyons, the one survivor from Broadway, arguably has the hardest job as Perkins, now much less famous than the other three. But he pulls it off, playing a mean guitar.

While the ensemble work is vibrant, this is a show that doesn't exactly throb with heart and soul. When at one point we hear a crackly recording from the Fifties, it has a magnetic quality that the modern version never manages.

Despite the proficiency of the performances, there's a lack of visceral thrill here. Million Dollar Quartet is decent entertainment, yet fans of the music, even as they enjoy this account of it, are likely to find themselves hankering after their old 45s.

The Stage

Million Dollar Quartet

Published Tuesday 1 March 2011 at 10:20 by Mark Shenton

Here’s a pop compilation concert show with a difference - it actually happened, sort of, on December 4, 1956. At the Memphis recording studios of Sun Records, four rock ‘n’ roll giants - Elvis Presley (who was originally on the label but had already decamped to RCA before becoming a movie star, too), Jerry Lee Lewis (who had just arrived on the scene), and Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash (both shown here about to defect to Columbia) - got together for an informal jamming session.

THE STAGE

Million Dollar Quartet

Published Tuesday 1 March 2011 at 10:20 by Mark Shenton

Million Dollar Quartet seeks to recreate it, and imagines some of the conversations and interactions that might have occurred between the four men and their Svengali-like record producer Sam Phillips, with Elvis’ girlfriend Dyanne - who spends most of the evening smiling sweetly - and an additional onstage bass player and drummer looking on.

All of which feels very authentic, passionate and compelling, except that it didn’t happen quite this way. Not even the playlist was the same, as over half of what they sang on the day were in fact gospel songs.

The creators of this show, originally conceived and directed by Floyd Mutrux, try to flummox us by effectively giving us a jukebox of some of their greatest hits instead, like Blue Suede Shoes (originally recorded by Perkins but then made more famous by Presley) and Great Balls of Fire (originally recorded by Jerry Lee Lewis at Sun Studios nearly a year later).

There are also plenty of covers of other songs of the era, like Fever (not recorded by Elvis until 1960, but here recreated as a song for his girlfriend to sing) and the Dean Martin hit Memories Are Made of This (which was not recorded by Cash until 1996).

Nor is the chronology accurate on the facts. It wasn’t until two years later that Cash and Perkins left for Columbia. But if you can put aside the spurious history, the show succeeds triumphantly in making you feel the joy of the music-making. On this score, in every sense, there isn’t a slicker, more polished set of impressionists in town.

The quartet here of Ben Goddard (as Jerry Lee Lewis, thumping at the keyboards with real passion and panache), Robert Britton Lyons (recreating his Broadway performance as Carl Perkins), Derek Hagen (as Johnny Cash) and Michael Malarkey (as Elvis) fully live up to the show’s Million Dollar billing of them.

The West End may already be filled with shows that draw on old pop catalogues, from Abba and Queen to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, as well as Dreamboats and Petticoats and Dirty Dancing, but the market for pop nostalgia is seemingly bottomless, and should be well satisfied by this latest accomplished entry.

The Hollywood Reporter

Million Dollar Quartet: Theater Review

3:58 PM 3/1/2011 by Ray Bennett

Tristram Kenton

The Bottom Line

Broadway’s Sun Records hit rocks London’s West End.

Venue

Noel Coward Theatre, London (Through Oct. 1)

Cast

Robert Britton Lyons, Derek Hagen, Ben Goddard, Michael Malarkey, Bill Ward, Francesca Jackson

Director

Eric Schaeffer

The production, directed by Eric Schaeffer and playing through Oct. 1 in London's Noel Coward Theatre, isn't so much a musical as it is a concert.

LONDON -- Million Dollar Quartet is a straight-forward jukebox musical, but since the music comes from Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis at Sun Records in the 1950s, it’s not your average jukebox.

Like Sunday in the Park With George, the stage show is based on a single image, and like that Stephen Sondheim classic, it attempts to flesh out how the picture came about. That’s where the comparison ends, as it’s not so much a musical as a concert.

In this case, it’s the famous photo of the four singers at a piano in Sam Phillips’ Memphis recording studio, and the book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux reveals something about what was going on in those heady days of rock ’n’ roll in its infancy — but not a whole lot.

There is, however, a whole lot of shaking going on as 23 numbers from that time are given full measure by director Eric Schaeffer, who has brought his creative team from Broadway. The show is as slick as Elvis’ hair.

American Robert Britton Lyons, who originated the role of Perkins on Broadway and has appeared in every production since, joins an otherwise British cast. He has more of the strut and presence of an early rock star than the others, although Derek Hagen as Cash, Ben Goddard as Lewis and Michael Malarkey are all terrific performers.

Malarkey more resembles Joaquin Phoenix as Cash in Walk the Line than Elvis. He’s a little too compact for the legendary performer, although he does catch Presley’s sneer in the right light, and his baritone is strong if not an echo of the original in numbers such as “That’s All Right, Mama,” “Peace in the Valley” and “Hound Dog.”

Hagen looks less like Cash than John C. Reilly playing Dewey Cox, but he has Cash’s way with a rhythm guitar, and his rich, deep voice is a match for the Man in Black on songs including “Sixteen Tons,” “I Walk the Line” and “Riders in the Sky.”

Goddard is a little chunky for the skinny Lewis, but he has his blond locks and powerful vocal delivery. He pounds out “Real Wild Child,” “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” with tremendous verve.

It’s Lyons, however, who parades the real stuff of rockabilly. Like Perkins, he’s lean with slicked-back hair and has a mean way with a lead guitar. He conveys the bitterness that Perkins had over Presley winning all the glory for “Blue Suede Shoes,” which he performs to kick off the show, but he also has the charm of a man whose compositions such as “Matchbox” and “Honey Don’t” became staples for later rock bands. The latter was not in the earlier productions but has been added to the West End show. The program makes a point of thanking Paul McCartney, who now owns the song.

Francesca Jackson is a welcome feminine presence as a girlfriend of Elvis, and she demonstrates genuine flare on “Fever” and “I Hear You Knocking.” Gez Gerrard on double bass and Adam Riley on drums remain onstage throughout and give the music the correct propulsion.

Lewis and Perkins trade insults throughout the show, which makes a break for Bill Ward as Phillips, who tells what story there is of the four artists and Sun Records before they went on to fame and riches and he just got fabulously wealthy from radio stations and Holiday Inn stock.

The evening ends with the boys in gleaming jackets as the audience rises irresistibly to the beat of some mightily impressive and infectious rockabilly.

Broadway World Review

BWW Reviews: MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, Noel Coward Theatre, Feb 28 2011

Tuesday, March 1, 2011; Posted: 06:03 PM - by Robert Gould

"Goodness gracious - great balls of fire! Not another jukebox musical!" That may well be what many people will be screaming on hearing of the opening of Million Dollar Quartet at London's Noel Coward Theatre. But it would be a mistake to dismiss this show as "yet another" anything. Even for a jukebox sceptic like me, it's a hugely entertaining show.

Inspired by an actual event on 4 December 1956 at Sun Records in Memphis, Million Dollar Quartet recreates the event masterminded by Sun Records' founder Sam Phillips when legendary stars Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis performed together for the only time in their careers. Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux's book examines the friendship, jealousies and divided loyalties of the stars in a workmanlike fashion which has some nice touches of humour. Eric Shaeffer's direction manages to hold everything together tightly and allows the songs to emerge naturally as "performance" numbers which - - unlike in many other jukebox shows - never seem forced. And the songs are all Rock'n Roll, Blues or Country classics - including "Blue Suede Shoes", "Hound Dog", "I Walk The Line", "Sixteen Tons", etc.

But what makes the show a real treat is the collection of top-drawer performances from the eight-strong cast of actors/singers/musicians. Gez Gerrard and Adam Riley are both consummate musicians in the supporting "band"; Bill Ward exudes charismatic charm as Sam Phillips; Francesca Jackson adds a touch of class as Elvis's girlfriend, Dyanne - delivering a haunting and sultry vocal of "Fever" and taking the roof off the house with "I Hear You Knocking"; Derek Hagen's Johnny Cash makes everyone in the theatre believe the real Mr. Cash is on the stage; Robert Britton Lyons (who created the role of Carl Perkins on Broadway) makes a sensational acting and singing West End debut; Michael Malarkey wears the crown of The King with total credibility and demonstrates he has the vocals to match his considerable acting talents. But even in this outstanding company, Ben Goddard succeeds in stealing the show with a highly energised, aptly off-the-wall performance as Jerry Lee Lewis which proves he not only possesses great skills as an actor but is also a truly amazing pianist and a genuine vocal powerhouse.

To answer the bottom line questions - is it high art? No. Is it great fun? Hell, yes! Does it look like a show worthy of being a West End hit? I would say it looks like a million dollars.

First Official Review from Press Night

2011-03-01T08:03:00.003Z

Well with Press Night Last Night, the first review is in from Michael Billington at the Guardian.

Michael Billington
guardian.co.uk, Monday 28 February 2011 22.15 GMT

Poignant moment … Michael Malarkey as Elvis Presley in Million Dollar Quartet. Photograph: Tristram Kenton for the Guardian
1956 was a momentous year: the Suez crisis, the Hungarian revolution, Khruschev's denuniciation of Stalin. But it was also a time of cultural upheaval, and this exuberantly nostalgic show recreates the occasion on 4 December when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins all converged on the Sun Records studio in Memphis for some impromptu music-making.
Sam Phillips, who turned an old radiatior shop into the pioneering Sun studio and who hosts the get-together, is described by one of the group as "the father of rock'n'roll"; and Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux's story records the poignant moment at which the sons abandon the father. Elvis has already been sold to RCA and become a Hollywood star, and the others now accept that it is time to move on. But, though the show pinpoints the eclipse of the Sun and the tensions within the group, such as Perkins's resentment of Presley's refashioning of Blue Suede Shoes, what we see on stage is a celebration; and, if you're of a certain generation, it's a joy to hear once again numbers such as Hound Dog, Great Balls of Fire and I Walk the Line.
Obviously, the cast have to compete with our memories of the real thing, but Ben Goddard does a particularly good job of conveying the anarchic wildness of Jerry Lee Lewis. But Michael Malarkey as Elvis, Derek Hagen as Johnny Cash and Robert Britton Lyons, the one authentic American, as Carl Perkins offer substance as well as shadows. Bill Ward as the pathfinding Phillips and Francesca Jackson as Elvis's squeeze, who offers a notably sultry, microphone-caressing version of Fever, add to the gaiety of a show that taps into all our yesterdays.

Previews - Million Dollar Quartet

2011-02-08T19:35:00.006Z

Ok, so firstly I apologise for not having updated sooner, but have been a little busy.

Tonight is the start ofpreviews for Million Dollar Quartet, before the official opening night on Feb 28th.

Here are some links to recent articles and some of the publicity shots.

Article Parade Piece

Pop Icons Article

Playbill Article

Million Dollar Quartet

2011-01-09T15:33:00.002Z

It's now all official - Fran is the lucky lady who will be playing the lead female in the West Ends new show Million Dollar Quartet which previews from Feb 8th at the Noel Coward Theatre.

For those of you who do not know what the show is about,

A smash hit in New York and Chicago, the Tony® award-winning MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET tells the electrifying story of the night ELVIS PRESLEY, JOHNNY CASH, CARL PERKINS and JERRY LEE LEWIS came together to make music, and ended up making history...

Inspired by the actual event, that took place on 4 December 1956 at Sun Records in Memphis, this ecstatic and engaging musical is a story of fame, friendship, discovery, divided loyalties, professional jealousy and incredible music as four of the music industry's most extraordinary talents, all in their creative prime, made music together for the first and only time in their careers.

The legendary meeting was masterminded by Sun Records' founder SAM PHILLIPS, who discovered all four of the musicians, and brought ELVIS PRESLEY (and his then girlfriend) back to the recording studio that launched him to stardom. Together with Sun Records' fast-rising new superstar JOHNNY CASH and CARL PERKINS, who was still chasing his next big hit after writing and recording Blue Suede Shoes, the fourth member of this impromptu "quartet" was Phillips' latest signing, JERRY LEE LEWIS.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET features over 20 classic hits from a golden era of music including: Blue Suede Shoes, Folsom Prison Blues, Fever, Memories Are Made Of This, That's All Right, Down By The Riverside, Sixteen Tons, (There Will Be) Peace In The Valley, I Walk The Line, I Hear You Knocking, Great Balls Of Fire, Hound Dog, Riders In The Sky, See You Later Alligator and Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On

Fran plays the role of Dyanne - Elvis Presley's girlfriend of the time. It has since been discovered after the show commenced on Broadway that the lady in question is one Marilyn Knowles-Riehl Formerly Evans.

Best of Luck goes to Fran and all the cast as they continue with rehearsals in preparation for next month.

Full articles on the shows casting can be seen here

London Evening Standard

Official London Theatre Announcement

Whats On Stage

Broadway.Com

UK Theatre Tickets

The Show's Official Site

Official Website

Article interviewing Marilyn Knowles-Rheil

Marilyn Knowles-Rheil Interview/span>

Maidenhead Advertiser Review

2010-08-09T21:05:00.002+01:00

Dreamboats and Petticoats - Theatre Royal Windsor

5:31pm Wed 4th Aug 10:: written by Siobhan Newman

The needle moves on the Dansette record player, there's a swish of sugar-stiffened skirts and we're off transported back to 1961.

It's the heady days when teenagers were just invented and St Mungo's youth club in an Essex town is a hotbed of hormones, rock'n'roll and Tizer-fuelled posturing.

Bobby wants to join the band but confident Norman pips him to it. Both want sexy Sue's attention and Bobby's so busy trying to get noticed he can't see how his pal's little sister Laura is falling in love with him.

Written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran (of Birds of a Feather fame), the show is much more than an excuse to string some rockin' hits together.

There are rich characters, ripe one-liners and a cracking bit of slapstick that whips into There Goes My Baby with spot-on timing. But, like the Sixties, you had to be there.

The references are fun: jubblies, Formica, milkshakes costing one and six... It's amazing how the words Vauxhall Velux can elicit a belly laugh.

The live band playing all the music is great too. Runaround Sue, Shaking All Over, Let's Twist Again, Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen had the Baby Boomers and their big brothers, sisters and descendants dancing in the aisles.

Daniella Bowen (Laura), Josh Capper (Bobby) and Jonathan Bremner (Norman) were all smash hits in the lead roles but Francesca Jackson stole the show as Sue.

The time trip of your life...

Dreamboats and Petticoats Autumn Tour

2010-08-03T16:00:00.001+01:00

Best wishes to all the touring cast including Fran as tonight kicks off the New Autumn Tour in Windsor. Anyone going be sure to send us your pictures, and thoughts on the shows in the various locations.

Fran's Adverts......

2010-08-02T18:03:00.003+01:00

Fran has been busy recording the following adverts which are currently showing on Sky's Dave and Dave Ja Vu on Fridays Between 9pm - 11:40pm an 10pm and 12:40pm respectively.

For those of you who don't have sky or would rather see them now clic on the links under the pictures to view via the Abbot Ale site.

Blessed Among Beers Master Brewer Advert - Abbots Advertising on Dave

Blessed Among Beers Melted Sand Advert - Abbots Advertising on Dave

Blessed Among Beers Nuts Advert - Abbots Advertising on Dave

Blessed Among Beers Time Advert - Abbots Advertising on Dave

Article from The Denbigh Visitor

2010-07-28T11:43:00.001+01:00

Dreamboats and Petticoats comes to Rhyl
Jul 28 2010 by Ian Hughes, Denbigh Visitor

AS auditions go, there are some that will open up a few more doors than others. TV show I’d Do Anything falls among these.

“It was definitely a very good decision,” says former contestant Francesca Jackson.

Since leaving the show she has spent two years in the employment of musical theatre impresario Bill Kenwright.

“It was the first call I received after I left,” she remembers. “I went for an audition, sat with him at his piano and it went on from there.”

Francesca is now appearing in a UK-wide tour of the hit musical Dreamboats and Petticoats. It shows at Rhyl Pavilion September 13-18.

Being inundated with job offers after a stint on TV is far from out of the ordinary.

She explains: “The musical theatre TV talent shows act as a talent pool. The only ones I know from the show not working in theatre are the ones that decided to go into training.”

The success rate when compared to X-Factor or Pop Idol is unprecedented but, according to Francesca, not that unusual.

“On X-Factor you’re chasing a recording contract, for I’d Do Anything you’re just after the chance to be part of musical theatre.

“It’s not about being a celebrity it’s just about wanting to be part of it.”

She adds: “I had worked in theatre before in Tonight’s the Night and Rent and decided that it’s definitely what I wanted to do. People enter pop TV shows almost on a whim, I suppose.”

Prior to appearing on the show, Francesca already had friends in high places.

It was the winner of 2006’s How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?, Connie Fisher, who introduced her to the idea. While appearing in Rent, cast member Denise Van Outen also pointed her in the direction of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s TV talent academy which according to Francesca is “the biggest and best audition you can possibly do”.

Dreamboats and Petticoats was inspired by the million selling album of the same name.

“The album was used to create a very funny script.

“It’s set in the 50s and follows four kids at a youth club as they enter a singing competition.”

Francesca adds: “There are two new songs and the rest are classics – the storyline is entwined with the music.

“I didn’t realise how many of them I knew but the old numbers definitely get an audience reaction – sometimes they sing louder than we do! I like that because you know they’re enjoying it.”

She jokes: “It’s very lively compared to other stuff I’ve done – it’s been a good way to lose weight!”

Dreamboats and Petticoats is at Rhyl Pavilion September 13-18. Call 01745 330 000 for more information.

Newsflash.....

2010-07-25T21:30:00.003+01:00

Well I knew it wouldn't be long before our favourite performer had some news for us. Fran is to take her role as the feisty Sue back on the Autumn tour of Dreamboats and Petticoats.

For those who have not yet managed to see this show it is a real must and for anyone going please forward your reviews/thoughts on the shows and any pictures.

Congratulations to Fran for this latest work we will all be looking forward to your performances as and where we get to see them.

She will be reunited with Jonathan Bremner as Norman, Josh Capper as Bobby and Wayne Smith as Ray.

Thanks must go to David Preece the No Sound Engineer for the most up to date cast list.

David Preece - Dreamboats Cast List

The tour kicks off in Windsor on 3rd August.

New Autumn Tour Dates 2010
2 August - 14 August Theatre Royal Windsor (Two Weeks)
16 August - 21 August Orchard Theatre Dartford
23 August - 4 Sept Opera House Belfast (Two Weeks)
6 Sept - 11 Sept Everyman Theater Cheltenham
13 Sept - 18 Sept Pavilion Theatre Rhyl
20 Sept - 25 Sept New Theatre Hull
27 Sept - 2 Oct Charter Theatre Preston
4 Oct - 9 Oct Congress Theatre Eastbourne
11 Oct - 16 Oct Cliffs Pavilion Southend
18 Oct - 23 Oct Princess Theatre Torquay
25 Oct - 30 Oct Severn Theatre Shrewsbury
1 Nov - 6 Nov TBC
8 Nov - 13 Nov Grand Opera House York
15 Nov - 20 Nov Alhambra Theatre Bradford
22 Nov - 27 Nov Derngate Theater Northampton

Some of the Autumn dates are not currently showing up on theatre websites...

Current West End Dreamboats & Petticoats Say Goodbye

2010-07-04T21:37:00.002+01:00

Sorry it's been a while but as they say sometimes no news is good news...... and While Fran has been busy on the West End I have been busy myself so busy that Last night was the first chance I had to go and See Fran perform.

I had booked the tickets for last night a month or so ago knowing that it was potentially the last night as Fran had told me that was the date that her original contract ran to. I had seen her briefly 2 weeks ago and she was still unsure as to whether or not this would be her last night so it was a night of real anticipation.

After a very hectic day having been up since 5am due to my own Charity fundraising commitments taking place in Royal Victoria Docks that morning I eventually arrived at the theatre very tired and very hot.....with only 10 mins before the start of the show, with family and friends in tow.

We had amazing seats row G smack bang in the centre of the stage, and the show was incredible all the cast were amazing Daisy Wood-Davis who has been Playing Laura from the original tour was sensational as was Fran of course, to be honest you couldn't single out a bad performance from anyone, especially not one of the saxaphone players who managed to sit play the sax be aware of everything going on around her and still play her game of solitaire all at the same time (no joke I swear).

By the end of the show nearly all the theatre were up and dancing along and by this point I new Fran had seen me from a look she gave me which was great as it would mean I would be sure to see her after the show.

Was able to get out the side door and be at stage door within a few minutes of the show ending and waited to see Fran. In doing so discovered that it had been the last night for several of the cast members so was all the more eager to talk to Fran and find out what was going on.

Fran eventually came out and was as lovely as ever and confirmed that it was the last night for all the main roles bar 2 including herself. So we were both pleased that I had finally made it to see the show on the West End.

The Show itself will continue but without the amazing talents that have been performing those roles for 18month in the case of most of the cast which is a real shame but I am sure that they will all have plenty of new offers flooding in and will be filling other theatres before long.

As for what Fran will be up to next we will have to wait and see but I'm sure we will not be left wanting for long even though she is in line for a well deserved break having been working non-stop since she took on the role of the feisty Sue in the tour of Dreamboats and Petticoats last July.

All that remains now is to wish all of the departing cast the best of luck for whatever comes next and to say that if any of the following stars Daisy Wood-Davis, Scott Bruton, or Ben Freeman happen to appear in anything in a theatre near you be sure to go and see it as they will not dissapoint, and stay tuned for further Fran updates as they arrive.

Dreamboats & Petticoats - West End

2010-03-05T20:09:00.002Z

Further to recent articles in Formby Times I would just like to confirm that Fran is definitely appreaing on the West End at Not In Liverpool next week.

Dreamboats & Petticoats - West End

2010-02-23T18:33:00.011Z

When Fran finished A Little Night Music on Saturday we also discussed when she started in Dreamboats and Petticoats on The West End.

Fran being the busy lady she is and not wanting to waste any time, travelled back on Sunday hit rehearsals on Monday and today and opens tomorrow (Wednesday 24th) as Sue.

The production is currently booking until the end of May and Fran will be appearing for the rest of the run.

Below are a few clips to wet your appetites for this show again, and we all wish her the best of luck for tomorrow night and the whole run where she deserves to be on the West End Stage.

Shakin' All Over

Sweet Nothings

You Don't Know

Frans Backstage Pics From Paris

2010-02-23T18:25:00.005Z

Frans Main Costume of the Night

Frans Weekend in The Country Outfit

The Wonderful Dresses from the Production

Frans Final Costume of the Night

Fran Ready to Go on Stage

Fran And Leon Prepare to Dance

Paris - Final Thoughts

2010-02-23T16:45:00.009Z

Well, as you can probably guess I was unable to resist the opportunity of a weekend in Paris myself when I found out Fran was going to be performing, so I finally got to see the show on Saturday night.

Prior to the show I managed to have a chat with Frans parents Mel and Steve as they came into the theatre right behind us they were really nice as you would expect. They had been there all week and after having seen the show the first night they went back every night. Hearing this made me even more excited to see the show, as they were so enthusiastic about it.
The show was something else, the costumes were fabulous and although some o

f the singing wasn't the strongest this did not detract from the overall production, Fran on the other hand was absolutely incredible and it was noticeable at the final bow as there was a real cheer when she came on, and the cast received a well deserved standing ovation and the longest curtain call I have ever witnessed.

After the show I saw Fran's parents again, and Fran came down to say hello and was a delight as always, and we had a nice chat and she obliged with a some photos. Fran was sad that the production had come to an end as she had had an amazing time and the weeks run had just flown past.
I'm so glad I didn't miss the opportunity to go and see this show, and if Fran ever gets the chance to reprise this role and you get the opportunity to go and see it it's a real must she really does steal the show with her solo of which you can see clips of on the Culture Box link a couple of posts below.

I apologise mainly to Fran and her family for the quality of the following photo, but as they are aware my Mum had her distance lenses in and couldn't see what she was doing with the camera.

Broadway World Review of A Little Night Music

2010-02-22T22:23:00.002Z

Ok so the show ended on Saturday and below is the review for Robert Gould who was at closing night.

Review: A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, Theatre du Chatelet, Paris, February 20, 2010

Monday, February 22, 2010; Posted: 05:02 PM - by Robert Gould

It is not often that a production of a vintage piece of musical theatre overshadows the original production but that is precisely what happened during a magical new staging of the Stephen Sondheim/Hugh Wheeler musical A Little Night Music at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris last week. The musical was originally directed on Broadway in 1973 by the legendary Hal Prince and has been frequently staged at venues all over the world since then (most recently at the Menier Chocolate Factory, the Garrick Theatre and now on Broadway, directed by Trevor Nunn). But this incarnation, directed by Lee Blakely, is the most beautiful and stunning version of the show I have ever seen.

The plot of the show (set in Sweden at the turn of the 20th century) concerns lawyer Fredeik Egerman, who - frustrated in his marriage to a 17-year-old bride, still a virgin after 11 months of marriage - seeks out his old flame, actress Desiree Armfeldt, who is in the throes of a complicated relationship with a womanising Dragoon, Count Carl-Magnus, who is himself married to the long-suffering Charlotte. Other characters, including Fredrik's son, Desiree's daughter and Anne's maid, Petra, are woven into the fabric of this clever tapestry of lovers and fools. And the proceedings are insightfully observed by Desiree's mother, Madame Armfeldt, who explains that the night will smile three times - for the young, for the fools and for the old.

Full of some of Sondheim's wittiest and most poignant lyrics, which sit on top of the Grand Master of musical theatre's most ravishing score, A Little Night Music has always been one of his most crowd-pleasing and successful musicals. But this Parisian outing allowed the piece to shine brighter than ever. Lee Blakely masterfully orchestrated his actors and scenery to create a perfectly seamless progression of dramatic action, which - aided by Andrew George's choreography, Jo van Schuppen's beautiful costumes and Jenny Cane's stunning lighting - exploded into a magnificent spectacle that delighted both the eyes and ears of the audience.

And the cast were simply magnificent, singing quite beautifully throughout. In particular, Deanne Meek delivered Countess Charlotte's barbed one-liners with great comic timing, Greta Scacchi glistened with class as Desiree and performed the show's iconic song (Send In The Clowns) with the perfect balance of subtlety and pathos - while Leslie Caron's Madame Armfeldt owned the stage for every second she was on it. But, even in this great company, Francesca Jackson - whose performance as Petra was a sheer delight throughout - came close to stealing the show with her sensational rendition of the penultimate musical number, The Miller's Son.

A Little Night Music is based on the Ingmar Bergman classic film, Smiles Of A Summer Night. The smiles were particularly broad in Paris last week.

Further Reviews From Paris

2010-02-18T18:53:00.005Z

Here are three further reviews of A Little Night Music, I have pulled out some small sections from each of the reviews and pasted the link to the full review is below each one if you wish to read the full review.

Rebecca Bottone quicksilver, stunning Francesca Jackson, Nicholas Garrett, Deane Meek, Leon Lopez, David Curry as they are all amazing singers like run-of Lebeslieder Quintet.

Webthea Review

Francesca Jackson stops the show with one of Sondheim’s greatest numbers, the maid Petra’s The Miller’s Son,

Telegraph Review

Special mention to Francesca Jackson (Petra, the maid of Egerman) and Nicholas Garrett (Count Malcolm, until some ridiculous elements of the uniform) for their vocal prowess. With the complicity of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Radio France, Jonathan Stockhammer reveals the great beauties of this "Little Night Music."
Philippe Venturini, Les Echos

Les Echos Review

Kulturkompasset Review

2010-02-18T00:03:00.000Z

Well the reviews for this production are coming in from everywhere here's another one for you to enjoy.....

Kluturkompasset Review

France Today's Review

2010-02-17T18:51:00.002Z

Here is another review yet again Fran has received some well deserved praise....

France Today

the rest of the cast is equally up to par, notably Nicolas Garret as Desirée's pompous lover, Deanne Meek as his long-suffering wife and Francesca Jackson-a true Broadway belter-as the effervescent maid Petra.

Paris Vlog The Final Installment

2010-02-17T18:29:00.007Z

Here is Leon's final instalment from behind the scenes featuring Fran rehearsing her solo.

Also is a tv clip of the show again featuring Fran and her superb solo.

Culture Box Clip

Further Reviews From Paris

2010-02-17T08:37:00.006Z

Here are another couple of reviews from Paris.

Fran has been praised again for her performance as Petra by the Financial Times.

(From Left; Rebecca Bottone, Lambert Wilson and Francesca Jacson)

It is not all plain sailing with the cast, where some sing better than they can act and vice versa, highlighted here by Nicholas Garrett's Carl-Magnus and Deanne Meek's Charlotte, who can do both, magnificently. Francesca Jackson belts out a barnstorming performance as Petra the maid and David Curry copes well with Henrik's pole-vaulting tessitura.

For the full articles please see attached links;

FT.Com Review

Press Associtation Review

Review from Opening Night

2010-02-16T12:42:00.004Z

The following is a translated version of a review from Last nights Opening night written by Manuel Atreus

Le journal du Beau & du Bien-être

Fran has been singled out for her talented portrail in this production.

Last night at the Chatelet theater is playing the French premiere of the classic musical comedy in the USA: A Little Night Music by Stephen Sondheim. Virtually unknown in France, this piece, created from the Ingmar Bergman film, Smiles of a Summer Night, is one of the masterpieces of the genre across the Atlantic.

The story is somewhat complex, intersecting paths and amorous desires of 6 characters. Fredrik Egerman and Anne are married but have a significant age difference, Fredrik having a son, Henrik, age of his wife. Fredrik was once the lover of a stage actress, Desiree Armfeldt, which is now the mistress of an officer of dragoons, Carl-Magnus Malcolm, himself married to Charlotte.

What you want, simplicity is the enemy of banter, too much light often affects the parallel love affairs or cross! Around this small circle revolves 4 other characters: Petra (the right of Anne and Fredrik), Frid, butler's daughter, Desiree, Fredrika (!) And finally the mother of Desiree, an old lady who was at the believe, a life full of joy, adventure and lovers prestigious and wealthy who have inherited both the physical means to an honorable life, comfortable and rich, tender and sometimes burning memories. Memories that will used to reveal the games of love and sex to her little girl, taking at the role of guiding part in explaining a beautiful Scandinavian summer night smiles three times: once for the youth, once for fools once and for old age.

To be brief, say that none of our 6 main characters is happy in her love life and sex and all are in search of the Other, the one with which the harmony and pleasure are finally meeting you. Throughout the musical, couples will make or break, tear, reconciliation, and finally pair. Provided that with such a plot, the work is rather risky, for the creator, director and performers. A Little Night Music is a fragile flower to be beautiful, must avoid the pitfalls of vulgarity or excessive prudishness. Stephen Sondheim, who was the lyricist L. Bernstein West Side Story, created the music and dialogues full of finesse, depth and richness, a work of rare and delicate balance, and yet with great strength.

The phenomenal success he has met since its inception in 1973 has welcomed this performance. The staging of this production at the Chatelet is no less happy, Lee Blakeley was able to leverage the work of fine art director Rae Smith, light and rich scholarly Jenny Cane and elegant costumes by Jo van Schuppen. Andrew George sign the choreography that punctuate the piece dances outdated evoking the golden age. All this together creates a happy, served by the brilliant performance of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Radio France conducted by Jonathan Stockhammer.

Remained in place in this beautiful setting, the acting. And the poster is attractive, see: Greta Scacchi, Lambert Wilson and Leslie Caron headlining, supported by real opera singers or music hall, beautiful voice rich and deep. Everyone kept their roles brilliantly, Francesca Jackson standing out of the lot for her interpretation of air from the good (the Miller's son) that we probably all back on Broadway so her song was the perfect example of these voice and the dynamic signing the American musical.

The three headliners are, themselves, not professionals for the year. And answered with a blessing sometimes uneven. Leslie Caron has not always managed to slip into the role of Madame Armfeldt, even with a hole in his text. This is particularly unfortunate that this great lady, with her unique course, did not need that to stay in the firmament of great. His final still caught a lot and I would not tap this great lady who deserves my respect. Lambert Wilson it is much better out. It is very good actor, has a fine powerful baritone voice. He has already played the same work in London.

However, there is no opera singer and has suffered somewhat last night, comparison with Nicholas Garrett (excellent Carl-Magnus!) In the duet "It would have been wonderful." It has some limits in the early part, probably due to nerves. However, he camped a beautiful Fredrik, inhabiting the character and playing the man, nostalgic for his foolish youth gives way to the end to pick up the thread of his life and finally find happiness.

Greta Scacchi ... that mean? Madam, I do not want to offend you and if you're reading this, do not take my remarks as criticism, this is not one. Not sure sing! You do not have a lyric voice, and I do not know if you've just always sung yesterday. And yet, despite this very big handicap, you have camped a great Desiree. Your game, your interpretation was perfect for me. Desiree you were a woman in the twilight of his youth, who sees his illusions were shattered in the room, leaving her injured, lost, disillusioned but still saved, finding happiness with the man she loves without telling him (and without to say!) for so many years. Yes, it's true, you have not sung this beautifully fresh air that is "Send in the Clowns". But you just sang. You were playing fair. I do not know exactly how, but I like the idea that you're leaning on that weakness voice into a force to be a core on which you've built your interpretation. Ms. Scacchi, you were brilliant last night and I hope you feel how the audience (me at least!) Had been touched by your work. Because that's what I love, in the artistic work on stage.

This risk taking. This acceptance of his own limitations. The work of the artist who will rely on both the strengths but also its shortcomings to climb, perhaps with pain or fear, to a level of play that makes a room is just a game, but the fact that a song is just a piece of music but the cry of the heart. I always have great admiration for those artists who can rely on the humanity with what she has beauty and weakness to tell us the world and life. A Little Night Music is a great work, beautiful and fragile as a whisper that the slightest cry extinguish. Yesterday evening, however, the murmur has covered the clamor of our daily vanity to take us, a few hours in a happy and a little magical about the intersection of Mozart and Shakespeare. Thanks to the genius of Stephen Sondheim and smile so beautiful and human Greta Scacchi. Hats off to the artists!

A Little Night Music Paris

2010-02-15T18:13:00.005Z

Well tonights the night A Little Night Music opens in Paris tonight and runs until Saturday.

The following links show some press shots for the production along with a radio show featuring several numbers for the show.

Unfortunately I can not translate for you as I'm no good at French.

Finally I'm sure you'll all join me in wishing Fran and the rest of the cast the best of luck for tonight and the rest of this week.

Musical Avenue

Radio France

Radio France Video

A Little Night Music Rehersals Part 2

2010-02-06T14:46:00.003Z

Here is the follow up Vlog from Paris with a behind the scenes look at rehersals for A Little Night Music.

Thanks go to all the cast for the insight and especially to Leon for his hard work in putting this together for us to all enjoy.

The show will be on in just over a week From Monday 15th to Saturday 20th February.

Fran & Leon in Paris Part 1

2010-01-16T20:21:00.007Z

Ok guys heres a little treat from Fran and Leon. The video shows the start of there Journey for A Little Night Music in Paris.

Leon Lopez Adventures In Paris "A Little Night Music"

They are having lots of fun so far and the show sounds as if it will be absolutely amazing.

Welcome to 2010 - And What a Start to The Year

2010-01-01T00:01:00.004Z

Well welcome to the New Year everyone, and what A year 2010 is shaping up to be already for Fran.

To see the new year in She has been performing with the legendary Darren Hayes at his intimate New Years Eve Party at Londons Club Colosseum, Below is a short clip from rehearsals.

Fran will be jetting off to Paris next week (Jan 6th) to rehearsals for A Little Night Music, which will be on at the Theatre du Chatelet 15th - 20th February the show will also feature Leon Lopez, Lambert Wilson, Leslie Caron and Greta Scacchi who replaces the injured Kristin Scott Thomas.

Following on from that Fran will be rushing back to reprise her role as the flirtatious Sue in Dreamboats and Petticoats on the West End.... Exact start date to be confirmed.

Lets hope that the year continues as well as it starts and we have lots more to report as the year goes on.

Christmas Wishes

2009-12-22T21:44:00.005Z

Well another year has passed and this year seems to have had many successes for Fran and things look set to continue as She will be backing Darren Hayes at His intimate New Years Eve gig in Vauxhall this year, then A Little Night Music in Paris in February. Lets hope that 2010 will be as successful throughout the year as the beginning promises to be.

Please be sure to leave your Christmas Messages to Fran here.

And let me also thank all of you for supporting this site and your continued support for Fran as she continues to amaze us with her talent.

Merry Christmas and A Happy 2010 to you All.

The Sheffield Star Review

2009-12-04T09:44:00.000Z

REVIEW: Dreamboats and Petticoats, The LyceumPremium Article
Published Date: 02 December 2009

This musical, named after the best selling album, could easily have been trite and contrived; a loose story of 60's youngsters, complete with teenage angst, falling in and out of love and entering a song writing competition, the whole show linked by all the songs from the 60's you remember.
But from the opening number of Let's Dance (Chris Montez had the orginal hit ) the show rocks. Each member of the young cast exudes talent and committment as they sing and dance their way, with superb timing, through songs that their parents sang and everyone can sing along too.

Forty years on and countless replays later, most know the words to most of the songs, a tribute no doubt to the art of telling a story in under three minutes.

If you can remember the E type Jag unveiled and Danny Blanchflower refusing to appear on This is Your Life; Rod Laver winning Wimbledon and the contraceptive pill going on sale that's the era in which Bobby competes with Norman for the affection of sweet Sue, growing up in the 60's, all set to over 40 timeless songs.

Bobby, played by Josh Capper, is ideally cast at the geeky teenager, growing into a man. Song writing schoogirl Laura (Lauren Hood) perfectly cast as a sweet innocent and Norman (Jonathan Bremner) as the cocky, know it all, Jack the Lad, older than his years who produces a performance of comedy and pathos, epitomising the ego maniacal character with charm and Elvis-like curling lip and hip swivelling gyrations.

The young cast belt out impressive performances with gusto, the band rocking out songs like The Wanderer, Da Do Ron Ron, Poetry in Motion, Do You Wanna dance etc etc. And a day at the seaside helps to create the type of nostalgia that really does make you feel good.

Bobby's voice reaches the Lyceum roof on Only the Lonely, while Laura's Teenager in Love is achingly heartfelt.

The whole cast certainly work together in unison, their ability and obvious enjoyment is transmitted to the audience.

The quality of the performance is simply staggering and from the last few numbers starting with Let's Twist Again; the whole Lyceum audience was on its feet, singing, clapping and dancing.

If this feelgood musical doesn't do what is says on the tin then really you must have died!

So many classic songs from the late 50's and 60's - nostalgia really doesn't get any better than this.

This show and cast deserves to run and run ....

Sheffield Telegraph Review

2009-12-04T09:40:00.001Z

REVIEW: Dreamboats and Petticoats, Lyceum TheatrePremium Article Published Date: 03 December 2009
By Sean Bruce

AFTER a highly successful run in the West End, there is always the fear that a show won't travel well to the provinces.
However, Dreamboats and Petticoats was both breathtaking at times and hilarious at others and gave a chance to marvel at some amazing songs from the golden era of rock n roll.

Set in 1961, when Kennedy became US president and the E type Jag was born, nostalgia may have drawn many of the mainly middle-aged audience but it definitely entertained the younger elements too.

Inspired by the million-selling albums of the same name, Dreamboats and Petticoats was made into a musical by Laurence Marks and Mark Gran of Goodbye Sweetheart and Birds Of a Feather fame.

The songs used are classic tracks from the likes of Orbison, Cochran, The Shadows and countless others.

The mix of humour and selection of songs to tell the story is a near-perfect fit and has the capacity audience singing and clapping along after the first few ice-breakers until nearly everyone is on their feet dancing at the finale.

The role of Norman is played by Jonathan Bremner of X Factor fame, whose impressive singing took the eye among an excellent cast.

One of many highlights is an interweaving of two songs, Runaway and Who's Sorry Now, sung at the same time with alternate lines, which sounds unlikely but works a treat. Why venture to London when Sheffield can draw shows of this quality ?

Sheffield's Top 10 this Week

2009-12-01T14:07:00.005Z

Below is a link to the Sheffield Telegraphs top 10 for the week and funnily enough Dreamboats and Petticoats has maded it at Number 3 Just behind Ricky Gervais and the Lady Boys of Bangkok.

Sheffield Telegraph

So all in the Sheffield Area make sure you try and get along to see the final week of this years tour. And good luck to the cast hope your last week goes with a bang and then you can all enjoy a well deserved rest you've been fabulous.

Milton Keynes Review

2009-11-18T22:32:00.005Z

The link below is to the review from Milton Keynes that appeared in the Oxford Times.

Milton Keynes Review

Review Catch Up

2009-11-15T18:59:00.006Z

Have just found the below Brighton review, Fran again shines as we all expect.

There is superb singing throughout, with knockout performances from Jonathan Bremner and Francesca Jackson as the band’s arrogant lead singer and the “Little Town Flirt”.

Brighton Review

Also Milton Keynes article - Milton Keynes is almost a sell out already so much so that they are putting on an extra matinee both here and in Sheffield. (Fran is the official source on this) so thats 9 shows for each of those locations.

Milton Keynes Article

Keep up the good work all the cast your all doing a wonderful job as the latest rumor of further tour dates and a new run on the west end are due to commence early 2010.

Some New Pics From Dreamboats and Petticoats

2009-11-11T19:00:00.006Z

The Below are all care of Fran, and include all the fabulous cast, hope you all enjoy and for those of you who have seen the show hope they bring back some great memories from the show for you.

Sue & Norman

I Don't Know

Fran proving She can dance

Sue & Norman

Jezebel

Southend Pier

Sue falls under Normans Spell.....

Laura

The Southend Slugger

The Cast

Bromley Article

2009-11-11T18:41:00.006Z

Below is a link to an announcement about Dreamboats and Petticoats

Bromley Article

Fan Review - From Stoke

2009-11-11T18:29:00.005Z

Emily Hambleton November 6

On Thursday 16th October I went to see Dreamboats & petticoats at the Regent Theatre, Stoke. We were sat 4 rows from the front and when we first got there 60’s music was playing.

At first I wasn’t sure this would be my type of show but then I thought Fran’s in it so it has to be amazing!

The show started of with Old bobby telling his granddaughter about when he was younger and in love. Soon after
when the lights went down and the screen came up we were all dazzled by 60’s style costumes and red lipstick. Fran was on the stage almost immediately and her dancing was brilliant all the way through. The show is set mainly at a youth club and Fran plays Sue & we soon find out that she is a huge hit with the boys there. The first song sung was ‘Lets Dance’ by Bobby who appears to like Sue a lot but she’s not interested at all. Throughout this song people were already starting to clap along and dance even though the show had only been on for 5 minutes!!
The first time we hear Fran’s amazing voice is when she sung ’Shakin all over’ with Norman. Sue is obviously trying to impress Norman so she try’s everything to win him over. Another cast member who had an equally amazing voice was Laura who was played by Lauren Hood she belted out song after song which left most of the audience with goose bumps as the voice which came out of her was not expected what so ever.
Even though I didn’t realy know any of the songs they were all very catchy and I found my self dancing along too! By the end of act one lots of people were up on there feet and dancing in the aisles.
Fran didn’t have many solo’s in the show but she had plenty of opportunities to show of her voice and wow the audience, which she did. Two of my favourite songs were Shakin all over and You don’t know.
Towards the end of the show, no one was sitting down everyone was dancing and having a good time and when the curtain came down for the final time the dancing didn’t stop there! Everyone was singing as they were going out and they could still be heard on the streets. It was an atmosphere I will not forget for a long time!
After the show I headed to the stage door to Meet Fran again and after about 15minutes she appeared and came straight over. We had a picture and I told her how much I enjoyed the show and she said get well soon to me as my voice had almost gone. Overall an amazing show and must be seen by all ages! I’m 15 and didn’t think that sort of music would of appealed to me. But it just shows all ages can have a brilliant night out and end up enjoying different music!

Dreamboats and Petticoats, Regent Theatre, Hanley

2009-10-14T19:32:00.004+01:00

Dreamboats And Petticoats Regent Theatre

THE lights went down, the curtain raised and there were quiffs, red lipstick-coated pouts, polka dots and rock 'n' roll gyrating hips galore. In no time at all pensioners were up in the aisles doing the twist.
Yes, Dreamboats And Petticoats, the celebration of the smash hit albums of the same name, has finally made it to the Regent Theatre, Hanley.

Set in 1961 the story is simple, a flashback of adolescent romance with a mix of rock 'n' roll. Most of the action takes place at St Mungo's youth club, with Bobby (Josh Capper) and Norman (Jonathan Bremner) competing to win a national song writing competition and the hearts of female fans.

Written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, the team behind Goodnight Sweetheart and Birds Of A Feather, the production has a comedic element that perfectly suits its audience. And quips such as "There's no point living beyond your means. If everybody did that the country would be bankrupt" can be appreciated by all in wake of the recession.

However, the plot is entirely predictable and the dialogue acts as a series of song cues. This production is definitely a celebration of music rather than a writing masterpiece, and the vibrant backdrop and energetic and vocally talented cast are what bring it to life as opposed to the script.

Dreamboats And Petticoats provides an easy, undemanding and fantastically upbeat night out at the theatre, and the music of Roy Orbison, The Shadows and Billy Fury among many others comes thick and fast in 43 classic numbers.

Those who were teenagers back in 1961 dominated the audience, and the unashamed singing and dancing in the stalls showed these songs are still clearly imprinted on their minds.

But it doesn't matter what age you are, Dreamboats And Petticoats is feel good nostalgia at its best. If you're not dancing in the aisles by the end, you'll no doubt be smiling along with those who are.

Dreamboats And Petticoats runs at the Regent Theatre until Saturday. 0844 871 7649 for details.

Claire Walker

Newspaper Stories about Dreamboats

2009-10-14T18:34:00.002+01:00

The following two links are the announcements for Dreamboats and Petticoats in Grimsby and Crewe.

Chester Chronicle Article

Grimsby Article

Nottingham Fan Review

2009-10-10T14:00:00.002+01:00

Below is Abbie's review from Dreamboats and Petticoats, (although the picture is from CSWY last year.)

On Monday 5th October I went to watch Dreamboats and Petticoats the musical at the Nottingham Theatre Royal. This Brand new musical, which is inspired by the million selling compliation series ' Dreamboats and Petticoats' is performed by a very strong and talented cast of 17 who all shine in their own way throughout the entire show.

Set in 1961 the show tells the story of two young musicians Norman and Bobby who go on to compete in a national song writing competition and more importantly strive to seek the attention of the beautiful Sue! However, Bobby soon realises that the shy and reserved Laura is more than what she seems to be and that her passion for playing piano could help him to find love and rock and roll fame!

From the moment the curtains opened at the begining of Act one I instantly knew that this musical was going to be one I would never forget. The performers were full of energy and gave their all to make each character believable.

Francesca Jackson shone beautifully in her role as the gorgeous Sue. I was taken back by her performance of the song " You don't know" in Act 2 and the passion she put into the song was truly breath taking. Clare Ivory who played Donna did her role justice and her beautiful vocals certainly complimented Francesca's.

The supremley talented Lauren Hood stole the show in her role as Laura. Her outstanding vocals and ability to make her characters niaevety and timidness seem realistic made her stand out from the other members of the cast.

Young actor Josh Capper and former X factor contestant Jonathon Bremner both portrayed their characters very well and gave an excellent performance.

All in all this was an exceptional show which was well worth both the time and the money!

Dreamboats Review - Ilkeston Advertiser

2009-10-09T19:35:00.001+01:00

Yet another good review for the touring cast of Dreamboats and Petticoats.

It's a joy to watch

submitted picture
A DREAM OF A SHOW: Dreamboats And Petticoats.

Published Date: 08 October 2009

By John Shawcroft

Would-be pop star Bobby has two ambitions at St Mungo's Youth Club in Essex – to make the big time and impress the local siren, the gorgeous Sue.

The first is nipped in the bud by the arrival of Norman, not the best choice of names for a teen idol but one which nevertheless gives rise to the group Norman and the Conquests.

Then, when the flash newcomer moves in on Sue, Bobby's tale of woe seems complete.

But waiting in the wings is his best mate's 15-year-old sister Laura, plain, bespectacled – and a songwriter who shows every promise of becoming the 1961 version of Cathy Dennis.

The pair team up to enter a national songwriting competition and so the tale of Dreamboats and Petticoats unfolds at Nottingham's Theatre Royal this week.

This jukebox musical by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran is based on the best-selling albums Dreamboats and Petticoats and if the plot is slight it is an absolute joy of a show with more than 40 numbers from the pre-Beatles era performed live.

They are given a fresh lease of life by this talented cast and the uncertainties, fun and misunderstandings of being a teenager in that innocent age are brilliantly captured.

Dreamboats and Petticoats is showing at the Theatre Royal until Saturday.

Last Updated: 08 October 2009 4:33 PM
Source: Ilkeston Advertiser

Review - By urieleyes

2009-10-08T18:09:00.000+01:00

Found the following review which thought you might all like......

Dreamboats and Petticoats – 07.10.09

October 7, 2009

Bobby – Josh Capper
Norman – Jonathan Bremner
Laura – Lauren Hood
Sue – Francesca Jackson
Ray – Wayne Smith
Donna – Claire Ivory
Phil/Older Bobby – Peter Gerald

Sat in the Theatre Royal Nottingham for the first time on a Wednesday matinee surrounded by the older members of the population who had turned out in force (the theatre seemed to be packed to the rim) I wondered what I had let myself in for. The main reason I was there was to see Francesca Jackson, but came out surprised as to how much I’d enjoyed the show in general. Ok so the plot isn’t exactly groundbreaking and they really do try to cram in as many numbers as possible, but it was harmless heartwarming fun. I hadn’t heard many of the songs before (not really my generation … 30 years to early really!) but they are so catchy and easy to listen to it doesn’t really matter, in fact I think that aided my enjoyment because they actually seemed to fit into the plot rather well. I really liked the way they integrated the ‘band’ into the story, and how the ensemble girls switched between being exactly that and playing their instruments.
I thought the cast was great, I was relieved to enjoy Francesca’s performance as much as I thought I would … that voice is just so so easy on the ears! I also really liked Lauren Hood, again beautiful voice. I wasn’t so so keen on the male leads but that didn’t really matter.
I did refrain from getting up and dancing for the sort of finale numbers, but a lot of the audience did and seemed to be having a ball. Overall I think it’s definitely worth seeing, you won’t be blown away, but its a nice, fun way to pass an afternoon or evening, worth it if only to see Francesca Jackson shine :]

Nottingham Press Review

2009-10-06T20:08:00.000+01:00

Hi Guys below is a link to the review in "This is Nottingham".

Thought I'd highlight the last paragraph for you......

TV fans may recognise X-Factor finalist Jonathan Bremner in the part of Norman, and I'd Do Anything finalist Francesca Jackson as Sue. Both make the up-tempo rockers and haunting ballads sound remarkably fresh, as do the rest of the young and energetic company.

Nottingham Press Review

Fran Interview for Nottingham Paper

2009-10-02T19:34:00.000+01:00

Hi guys, below is the interview featured in todays/yesterdays paper in Nottingham with Fran about Dreamboats and Petticoats that will hit Nottingham on Monday.

Why Dreamboat's Francesca still has the Oom-pah-pah

Friday, October 02, 2009, 08:00

Busy girl: Highly talented Francesca Jackson.

IT was obvious from a few weeks into their respective competitions that Connie Fisher would play Maria in The Sound of Music and Lee Mead would be Joseph. Andrew Lloyd Webber's How Do You Solve A Problem shows turned out to be not that much of a problem after all.

But the whittling-down process for Cameron MacIntosh's Nancy (for the West End production of Oliver!) proved far more taxing for Saturday night TV audiences.

We could have had a tall Nancy, a short Nancy, a young, innocent Nancy, a saucy nymph of a Nancy and even an Irish or Welsh Nancy.

We ended up with brash, ballsy Blackpool lass Jodie Prenger, whose run in the West End show continues to this day.

But, like the other 11 bonnet-flinging hussies, Francesca Jackson has emerged from the show's bursting-at-the-seams talent pool to prove they were anything but also-rans.

"I think we're all working now, apart from Keisha, who is studying at the moment," she says. "I suppose it goes to prove that making it through to that final round can only be a positive thing."

The Nancy contestants remain close friends and go and support each other's shows. They went en masse to see Jodie's opening night – "She was amazing!" said Francesca – and also her understudy, Sarah, who appeared on the show.

Despite the viewers' feelings that I'd Do Anything was an open contest, Francesca had a feeling Jodie might be odds-on favourite.

"Halfway through, I thought, 'Jodie's going to win it. She's got everything you'd expect in a Nancy'," she says.

Francesca, the fourth to be voted off, brands herself the "young, naive-looking Nancy".

That may have been true at the time but it's certainly anything but the case in her latest on-stage incarnation in Dreamboats and Petticoats, which arrives at Nottingham's Theatre Royal next week.

The show is based on the music of a 1950s compilation album which proved a surprise chart hit two years ago. It is scripted by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran – the partnership behind TV comedies Goodnight Sweetheart and Birds of a Feather – and produced by Bill Kenwright. It has been running as a successful West End production since July.

"My character is the kind of ... what's the nice word for it?... the more tarty girl who wants to be the one everybody fancies," explains Francesca. "She dresses provocatively in little pencil skirts and busty tops. There's a lot of chest on display!"

The show contains around 40 songs from the '50s and '60s, including Great Pretender, Only Sixteen and Let's Twist Again.

Since Francesca's character is aptly named Sue and one of her love interests is called Bobby, it means there's plenty of name-dropping going on in the singing too.

"I'm Runaround Sue and also the Little Town Flirt – another character wants to be Bobby's Girl," explains Francesca.

Sue's rival for Bobby's affections is Teenager In Love, Laura. Eventually all the love tangles are resolved and the cast come together in the only original composition, Dreamboats and Petticoats (a Jason Donovan hit last year).

"Some of the songs are just sung in snippets but the audience love it," confirms Francesca. "When Laura sings Teenager In Love you can hardly hear her because the audience are singing along so loudly. It's brilliant."

Dreamboats and Petticoats is at the Theatre Royal from Monday to Saturday. Tickets are priced from £11. Tel: 0115 989 5555.

Belfast Fan Review

2009-09-30T19:13:00.000+01:00

Dreamboats and Petticoats Is in Belfast this week, and this gave those in Northern Ireland a chance to see Fran perform, David who runs Rachel's Wonderful Blog went to see the show last night and has been kind enough to send us his review of the show.

Our 'Dreamboats and Petticoats' tickets were purchased some time ago as a birthday treat for my daughter -- when I heard subsequently that Fran would be in the cast, it was a massive bonus.

All I knew of the show was that it featured myriad musical numbers from the 50s and 60s and although this was before my time, I was surprised just how many I recognised.

'Dreamboats' is basically a parade of feelgood songs linked together by a heart-warming plot. Rose-tinted nostalgia is the order of the day -- the female leads are Laura, Donna and Sue, handy for slipping in a few name-checking songs no?

Fran plays the part of the vampish Sue, the girl with a reputation who deep down just wants to be loved. I'm not exaggerating in any way when I say that she stole the show.

Whilst Sue is onstage in most acts, she only has one solo and a couple of duets, my personal favourite being 'Shakin' All Over'. It's a demanding role and having only seen Fran on IDA, I really had no idea what to expect.

All I'm going to say is that certain TV shows can become more of a popularity than a talent contest. And Fran has talent in spades. You'd have sworn she'd been in this part for years.

She is the complete package -- a superb dancer, an actor with boundless enthusiasm who injected tremendous fun into the part and above all an astonishingly soulful voice that deserves to be heard much more than it was tonight.

'Dreamboats' is a slick, highly enjoyable show with a really great cast. I'd recommend it to anyone with even a passing love of the rock & roll years, but I'd particularly recommend it if a certain Fran Jackson is in the cast. She was fantastic tonight and on the basis of this showing I've absolutely no doubt she would have made an excellent Nancy.

Go and see 'Dreamboats' and judge for yourself.

Thanks for a wonderful review David and were all glad you enjoyed the show lets hope you get to see Fran perform in more shows in the future.

Belfast Review - The Ulster Star

2009-09-29T18:00:00.000+01:00

Dreamboats and Petticoats takes Belfast back to the swinging sixties

Published Date:
29 September 2009
By Stacey Heaney

COME on everybody! Belfast went back to the swinging sixties last night (Monday) as Dreamboats and Petticoats began its run in the Grand Opera House.
Going back to the golden era of music, when British teens were influenced by the Rock 'n' Roll produced by Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly and when Billy Fury was sending people Halfway to Paradise, Dreamboats and Petticoats combines music and comedy to produce one of the best shows around.

The cast of Dreamboats and Petticoats take the audience back to the swinging sixties at the Grand Opera House.

Filled with hit after hit played and sung live on stage, which had the audience singing and clapping along, Dreamboats and Petticoats was full of genuinely laugh-out-loud moments and the sweetness of youth when being in a 'group' and falling in love were all that mattered.

Beginning in a dusty attic, we find an older Bobby (Peter Gerald) and his granddaughter going through long forgotten belongings, when Bobby finds his precious Fender electric guitar and we learn of his fifteen minutes of fame when he was the lead singer in a group.

Stepping back into 1961, we see a younger Bobby (Josh Capper) belting out Let's Dance as he auditions at St. Mungo's Church of England Youth Club for a place in the group. His fifteen minutes of fame are soon over however, when he is quickly upstaged by the older, brasher Norman (Jonathan Bremner) who takes over the group, quickly renamed Norman and the Conquests, with his performance of The Wanderer.

Bobby and Norman are soon competing again, however, as Norman sets his sights on Sue (Francesca Jackson), the girl of Bobby's dreams. And when a songwriting competition is announced Bobby teams up with Laura (Lauren Hood), the little sister of his best friend Ray (Wayne Smith), to win the dream prize and capture Sue's heart.

However, his plan quickly changes as he develops feelings for Laura along the way, and young Bobby agonises over just how to tell Laura he loves her.

Written by Marks and Gran, the team behind Goodnight Sweetheart and Birds Of A Feather, plenty of laughs were guaranteed, and Josh Capper, who graduated from Liverpool Theatre School in 2006 receiving the award for Most Promising Graduate, delivered not only a stunning vocal performance but he showed a fine acting talent, shining as the likeable Bobby.

Each member of the talented cast delivered fantastic performances, with Lauren Hood (Carousel), Wayne Smith (Grease is the Word), Francesca Jackson (I'd Do Anything), Jonathan Bremner (X Factor) and the members of the Conquests, many of whom starred in the Buddy Holly Story, delivering wonderful vocal performances and showing their superb musical ability.

With hits such as Bobby's Girl, Runaway, It's Only Make Believe, Do You Wanna Dance?, Dream Lover, Only The Lonely, Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen and Dreamboats and Petticoats, written by Jason Donovan, Dreamboats and Petticoats is a show not to be missed. Feel-good and toe-tapping, it is perfect for the whole family and you'll come out of the theatre wanting to sing and dance the night away.

Dreamboats and Petticoats continues at the Grand Opera House until Saturday (October 3). For further information please visit www.goh.co.uk.

Coventry - Dreamboats and Petticoats Review

2009-09-20T13:33:00.000+01:00

Well I decided that it wouldn't be right to go through the first week of Frans new tour without a Fan review which found me dragging myself on a 3 hr Journey to Coventry on Friday for you all..... Well that's the excuse I intend to use anyway.

For those of you who don't know what the show is about in very broad terms so as not to give anything away; Old Bobby telling his granddaughter about his youth and the story of Girl Loves Boy who thinks He loves another Girl who in fact loves someone else, you can imagine the many places this story is sure to go.....Set in a Youth club with its own band, a day trip to Southend and a song writing competition.

I arrived in Coventry around 6:15 and following a little wonder to stretch the legs went into the theatre to grab a cup of coffee as not knowing the area and not wanting to get lost......

As I made my way to the only empty table who should I spy in the corner but Fran, who wasted no time in coming over to say hello.

Fran proceeded to tell me how much of a week it had been, the show had only been fully cast a fortnight beforehand, the main characters not being cast until then were the leading men, making rehearsals difficult, this resulted in only 6 days of full rehearsals and the Opening Night on Monday was also there dress rehearsal things had been that tight. They were unaware they were being reviewed on Monday and frankly by the sound of things it had been so hectic they wouldn't have needed the added pressure of knowing. It also makes the review in the Coventry Telegraph more glowing when you take these circumstances into account.

Fran and I then arranged to meet after the show and she went off to get ready. The audience had a right mix of ages and I believe the show really appealed to everyone there.

The show starts and the energy starts, the cast all incredibly talented were full of energy there are some great songs and some great performances Fran as always shines brightly and the difference with this production is that most of the cast are on stage throughout the show whether they are actively involved in the current piece going on or there in the background.

Fran of course is playing Sue the youth clubs "top tottie" I suppose is the only way to describe her character its a great piece really over the top and Fran plays it to perfection as you would expect her to. Her real shining glory number is deep in the second act with "You Don't Know" which I would be surprised if you don't get shivers listening to.

The whole show is up beat and you get to see Fran doing a lot of 'dancing' in this role, of course this is in tune with the whole setting of the show and the dance routines I believe are true to the period but I can not guarantee this for you.

Norman played by Ex-X-factor contestant Jonathan Bremner with his bold as brass everybody loves me act banters well with Fran and the two pull of a very convincing act as a pair.

And Donna Sue's best friend is played by Clare Ivory who's vocals beautifully compliment Frans.

Then there's Laura played by Lauren Hood who's character is as quiet as Frans Sue is bold, is beautifully played with some wonderful vocals.

Well before the end of the show the audience are all up dancing and clapping there way through the last 2 songs.

Although Fran doesn't have many solos in the show there are a lot of great company numbers which allow her to show of her powerful voice.

Whilst there I was speaking to other members of the audience, well you have to when your on your own, and everyone asked me to pass on there thanks for a wonderful show, however the best compliment for Fran which I had delight in passing on was from someone who had seen the production with the previous cast already but felt that the Sue in this production was much better, and this comment was made before the person knew I knew Fran.

After the show I went out to see Fran and pass on mine and many other members of the audiences congratulations on the show it was well worth the long trip. I asked her which show she preferred and before I even had the question out my mouth she was telling me it was this one she said "......it's such a fun role to play as it's just so out there.....".

All that was left now was the 3 hour journey home.

Anyway I hope that hasn't bored you or put you off going to see the show. I'm sure that as the tour goes on the show will continue to gain momentum and can only get better as the cast settle further into their roles.

A final note - trying to get reviews or at least pictures from the whole tour however with the locations and where my sources are bassed this is proving more tricky than I anticipated, locations covered so far are Belfast, Stoke, Bromley and possibly Nottingham anyone going to see the show please let us have your thoughts and copies of any pictures whether its at the lease locations or more especially at any of the other locations.

Sara

First Review of The New Tour

2009-09-16T19:02:00.003+01:00

Below is a link to the first review of the tour

A reasonable review but my favourite paragraph is below;

Francesca Jackson, a finalist in the BBC’s I’d Do Anything, captures the era in her role as the vampish Sue and is given plenty of opportunities to show off her powerful voice.

Looking good for those going to see the production

Coventry Telegraph Review

Dreamboats And Petticoats Full Cast List

2009-09-11T09:58:00.003+01:00

Cast

In order of appearance

Older Bobby/Phil Peter Gerald
Daisy/Brenda Bethany Compson-Bradford
Andy Mark Stanford
Richard Oliver Seymour Marsh
Colin Christopher Redmond
Barry Daniel Graham
Derek David Botham
Bobby Josh Capper
Ray Wayne Smith
Laura Lauren Hood
Sue Francesca Jackson
Donna Clare Ivory
Norman Jonathan Bremner
Frank Matthew Woodyatt
Eric Glen Joseph
Jeremy Michael Paver
Babs Lauren Storer

Other characters played by members of the Company

Breaking News !!!

2009-08-31T10:44:00.007+01:00

Fran has confirmed that she has accepted a new touring role. As of tomorrow She starts work on preparing for the role of Sue in the No1 UK Autumn tour of Dreamboats And Petticoats.

The tour kicks of in Coventry on 14th September, and runs until 5th December.

THE GREATEST DAYS OF YOUR LIFE!
Inspired by the smash hit million selling albums DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS ONE, TWO and THREE, comes the sell out sensationDREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS THE MUSICAL, direct from the Savoy Theatre in London's West End, featuring some of the greatest hit songs of the Rock 'n' Roll era.
Written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, the team behind Goodnight Sweetheart, Birds of a Feather, The New Statesmen and Shine On Harvey Moon, this new feel-good musical production will give you 'the greatest time of your life', taking you back to a time when each passing week brought another classic track.
In 1961 emotions run high as young musicians Norman and Bobby compete to win a national song writing competition – and, more importantly, the attention of the gorgeous Sue! But when Bobby discovers that shy Laura is no slouch on the piano, love and rock 'n' roll fame beckons...
Featuring classic tracks from Roy Orbison, The Shadows, Eddie Cochran, Billy Fury, and many more, including Let's Dance, To Know Him Is To Love Him, Shaking All Over, Bobby's Girl, Three Steps To Heaven, Little Town Flirt, Only Sixteen, Runaround Sue, Happy Birthday Sweet 16, Let It Be Me, Great Pretender, C'mon Everybody, Let's Twist Again and many more hits from music's golden era!

Check out the link below for further tour details, pictures from West End and booking tickets.

Dreamboats & Petticoats Official Site

Remember anyone going to see this reviews and fan pics always wanted.

Ponty's Big Weekend

2009-08-29T20:23:00.005+01:00

We have managed to obtain some wonderful pictures of Fran performing at the Ponty's Big Weekend last month. Enjoy.....

Happy First Birthday

2009-08-03T20:14:00.005+01:00

Well Frans Blog is 1 year old today and boy has Fran been busy this year,

Concerts in Wales,

A UK tour of Can't Smile Without You,

Recording a TV Pilot,

Backing Singing for Sam Taylor,

Rehearsed Readings,

Landing a role in the Paris run of A Little Night Music .

I'm sure this next year will be just as eventful if not more so lets keep the support going.

Calling All Fans in the South Wales Area

2009-07-18T12:17:00.005+01:00

Sorry I know this is really Short Notice guys but only just received this info;

Fran has Just confirmed that she will be performing at the following event tomorrow,

Thats Sunday 19th July

Ponty's Big Weekend

Ynysangharad War Memorial Park

Pontypridd

South Wales

Other Performers include All Men Allowed, John Owen Jones, and Sian Cothi.

All those that can make it be sure to go along and show Fran your support.

Thanks Guys

Article about A Little Night Music Paris

2009-07-07T14:14:00.003+01:00

Theater News
Kristin Scott Thomas, Leslie Caron, Lambert Wilson, et al. to Star in Paris A Little Night Music
By: Brian Scott Lipton · Jul 6, 2009 · New York

Kristin Scott Thomas will play Desiree Armfeldt, Leslie Caron will play Madame Armfeldt, and Lambert Wilson will play Frederik Egerman in Jonathan Stockhammer's production of Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler's A Little Night Music, to play Paris' Théâtre du Châtelet February 15-20, 2010, according to the theater's website.

The cast will also feature David Curry as Henrik Egerman, Rebecca Bottone as Anne Egerman, Francesca Jackson as Petra, Nicholas Garrett as Count Carl-Magnus Malclom, Deanne Meek as Countess Charlotte Malcolm, Celeste de Veazey as Fredrika Armfeldt, Damian Thantrey as Mr. Lindquist, Kate Valentine as Mrs. Nordstrom, James Edwards as Mr. Erlanson, and Daphné Touchais as Mrs. Segstrom.

The musical, which .is inspired by Ingmar Bergman's film Smiles of a Summer Night, debuted on Broadway in 1973, and is scheduled to be revived on the Great White Way this season by Trevor Nunn. His current production of the show is playing at London's Garrick Theatre through July 25.

Exciting News

2009-06-16T21:28:00.008+01:00

Hi All

I have just received some great news from Fran. She has been a very busy lady recently, long may it continue.

Not only was she preparing for what I have heard were two great concerts on Sunday she has also been recording a new pilot for TV with Leon Lopez one of her fabulous Rent co stars and Hollyoaks In The City fame.

Here are a few photos from filming

Now girls who wouldn't give anything to be Fran in this Shot?

Fran Has also been rewarded with the role of Petra in the Paris (yes I said Paris) run of A Little Night Music in February 2010 alongside Kristen Scott Thomas who will be playing Desiree, other cast members;

Anne Egerman - Rebecca Bottone

Fredrik Egerman - Lambert Wilson

Count Carl-Magnus - Malcom Nicholas Garrett

Contess Charlotte Malcom - Deanne Meek

Fredrika Armfeldt - Celeste de Veazey

Madame Armfeldt - Leslie Caron

Mr Lindquist - Damian Thantrey

Ms Nordstrom - Kate Valentine

Mr Erlanson - James Edwards

Ms Segstrom - Daphné Touchais

Below is a translated version of the article published in "sortiraparis"

English actress Kristin Scott Thomas will join next season, the programming of the Théâtre du Châtelet with A Little Night Music by Stephen Sondheim.
Kristin Scott Thomas is incredible. It is one of the few actresses to pursue a career both in film and theater, one day triumph on Broadway for the next day be acclaimed in London and eventually to be ovationnée Paris. While the star is currently on view of dream wedding to the film and it stands on the boards of Broadway role in The Seagull by Anton Chekhov, we have to learn the future of the current Parisian actress.
Next spring, the Théâtre du Châtelet present A Little Night Music by Stephen Sondheim, music in which Kristin Scott Thomas is glad to share the stage with Lambert Wilson, Leslie Caron, David Curry, Rebecca Bottone, Francesca Jackson, Nicholas Garrett, Deanne Meek, Celeste of Veazey, Damian Thantrey, Kate Valentine, James Edwards and soprano Daphne Touchais.
, Directed by Lee Blakeley, under the musical direction by Jonathan Stockhammer, this production will be fully interpreted in English but will be considered as an opera, therefore too many problems on the horizon for those who have difficulty with the language of Shakespeare.
This multi-musical award in the United States and England is directly inspired by the Ingmar Bergman film and we dove into the love lives of several couples in Sweden.
We bet that once again the only reason why Kristin Scott Thomas will have nothing to be ashamed to do with his artistic choices, but will instead be caused by the applause of the Parisian public.

For those of you who don't know the story to A Little Night Music check out the link below.

So Congratulations Must go to Fran on this great opportunity and good luck with the TV Pilot which I'm sure will be a great success.

As I get more news on both of the above I will let you know. Also we will shortly be receiving a few Fan reviews from the Shrewsbury Concerts so keep checking in.

Sara

A Little Night Music

West End Live - Shrewsbury

2009-06-13T22:23:00.003+01:00

For all those going to Shrewsbury tomorrow, have a great time I'm sure Fran and Co will give you a great concert.

Please be sure to provide us poor souls who can't male it some great reviews and pictures.

Sara

Ticket Hotline

2009-05-01T14:19:00.002+01:00

For tickets for West End Live please use the following Hotline Number

07907 686 400

Stop Press

2009-04-29T19:26:00.003+01:00

Please note there has been a change of Date and Venue -

Maybe because to many of us said we would be out of the country.

Concert is now to take place on

Sunday 14th June

New Venue

The Maidment Concert Hall - Shrewsbury

Time

3pm and 7pm

Tickets remain £10.00 each.

Hope this doesn't cause anyone any problems and maybe more of you can make it.

Tickets For Shrewsbury on Sale Now - Hurry Don't Miss this Oppurtunity

2009-04-27T18:55:00.002+01:00

The Ashton Theatre, Shrewsbury School, Shrewsbury.
Performances at 3pm and 6pm. 21st June 2009
Tickets £10.

Due to limited seating NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD ON THE DOOR so book early to avoid disappointment.

To book tickets please email westendlive@hotmail.co.uk and request how many tickets you require and for which performance (3pm or 6pm) and we'll get back to you with details of where to send payment.

We shall be performing songs from Les Miserables, Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, The Wild Party, Cats, The Little Shop of Horrors, Rent, The Last Five Years, Aspects of Love and many more...

See you there!

Graham, Fran, Gemma and Joel.

West End Live Update -

2009-04-25T20:04:00.003+01:00

For anyone wanting tickets for this event in Shrewsbury on June 21st please contact

Westendlive@hotmail.co.uk

Phone number to follow as soon as I have it.

Hot Off The Press.... Or Direct From Fran Anyway

2009-04-24T20:33:00.004+01:00

Hi Guys,

Something we've all been waiting for some Fran news. For June 21st.

In order to ensure the event goes ahead On June 21st Fran has to sell 250 tickets to each performance so make sure you all book fast. More details as I get them guys.

The following four stars from The West End will be performing in Shrewsbury to present an evening of current and classic musical theatre.

Graham Newell (Footloose, White Christmas, Babes In Arms, Grease.)

Francesca Jackson (Cant' Smile Without You, Finalist in the BBC show I'd Do Anything, Rent with Denise Van Outen, Tonights The Night.)

Joel Elferink (Les Miserables, Imagine This, Cosi, Into The Woods, Home And Away.)

Gemma O'Duffy (We Will Rock You, Footloose , Voice of Musical Theatre 2006, currently appearing in Spring Awakening.)

There will be two performances at 3pm and 6pm at The Ashton Theatre at Shrewsbury School (to be confirmed). All tickets will be £10.

If you are interested in tickets drop me a message or send me an email...graham_a_newell.com More info to follow shortly.

Sorry It's Been A While

2009-04-07T19:12:00.007+01:00

Sorry it's been so long since the last up date - unfortunately there's not any news as yet but as the saying goes no news is good news.

But while we wait a few new pics and the link to Sam Taylor preforming with Fran and Kyra Simone doing backing vocals back in February/March.

Fran Supporting Sam Taylor

Fran With Sarah Lark @ Oliver

Fran & Sam Relaxing

Fran supporting Sam Taylor

Fran & Kyra Simone

Fran & Kyra Simone Supporting Sam Taylor

Fran with Amy Nicole Jones

Fran @ Oliver Opening Night

2009-01-23T14:24:00.006Z

There are another couple of images along with all the other arrivals at the Oliver official Opening Night on the link below

Oliver Opening Night Pics

New Year - New Opportunities

2009-01-07T21:45:00.004Z

Hi All

Hope everyone has had a good festive season. I have no new news yet for you but hopefully this year will be full of exciting opportunities not only for Fran but for all the I'd Do Anything Girls.

Also to remind you all that Fran will be involved in the Workshop Of Willkie Collins Classic - The Woman in White on Sunday 18th January @ Kings Head Theatre - Highbury/Islington

This will now be on at 8pm and not 7:30pm as previously advertised.

I was hoping to attend this but due to problems with the trains meaing it will take me and additional 21/2-3hrs to get home on a Sunday when I have to be at work on Monday morning it's just not going to be possible so if anyone wants to go and can't get tickets I have 2 tickets available.

Anyone who is going a review would be greatly appreciated and any Fran meetings again reviews stories, pictures.

Hopefully we'll have more news soon.

Sara

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year

2008-12-22T16:46:00.004Z

As the big day approaches thought it would be nice to post a Christmas Message not only to Fran but to everyone who has been supporting her on her journey.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and New year and may 2009 brings you all health wealth and exciting opportunities.

Best of Luck to you Fran in the New Year and May there be many Great Opportunites for you in 2009.

(be sure to post any personal Christmas Messages in the comments).

Love & Best Wishes to you All
Sara
xx

Message From Fran

2008-12-15T11:30:00.004Z

Hi All Sorry for the delay in posting this message, this is due to technical difficulties ........ (a broken wireless mouse!) and also trying to find a new image but have to settle for a good old one for now as I think I've found all there are at the moment.

I recevied the following message from Fran last week after she received all her Birthday messages and flowers.

babe the flowers are absolutely amazing!!!! it was the most lovely suprise please please say a massive thankyou to everyone!!!!! and i was so touched by the cards and all the messages, i was lost for words!!thankyou so so much!!! xxx

AS you can see Fran is still as greatful as ever for all the support so be sure to keep supporting her here.

Fran News For the New Year

2008-12-08T18:29:00.003Z

Good News - we don't have to wait an age for news of what's next

Fran will be involved in the following event on Sunday January 18th at "Kings Head Theatre" Islington/Highbury.

Primavera presents a one-off performance of one of the most popular thrillers of all time - The Woman in White. In his own time, novelist Wilkie Collins was as well known as a playwright as he was as the writer of The Moonstone and The Woman in White. His most enduringly popular novel has been adapted for the big and small screens, and even as a musical, but nothing proves as spine-tingling and haunting as Collins's own adaptation for the stage...

An exciting cast including Joanna Christie (Jill opposite Daniel Radcliffe in Equus), Francesca Jackson (Rent), and Anthony Howell (Foyle's War), present the LAST of Primavera's 'Forgotten Classics' rehearsed readings at the King's Head this year.

You can book tickets in advance from just £5 concessions (including Equity and students) and only £7 full price. Come along for what will be a fun night - the cast and audience always stick around for a drink in the theatre afterwards. The King's Head is easy to get to by bus or tube.

Facebook Page for The Woman In White

More Details Can Also Be Found @ the following link.

Kings Head Theatre Website

Fran's Birthday

2008-12-06T00:01:00.001Z

Happy Birthday Comments

As It's Fran's Day Today Just wanted to wish her Many Happy Returns from all of us here at the Blog. We all hope you have a wonderful time and enjoy your special day.

Radio Interview With Fran

2008-11-27T20:13:00.006Z

Just found this little gem a radio interview for Radio Teesdale with our Fran

Hope you enjoy it.

Frans Radio Interview Radio Teesdale

Another Old Article

2008-11-27T18:20:00.004Z

And Another Old Press Article By our Fran.

Press Article By Fran

I'd Do Anything star Francesca lands her dream job - About CSWY

2008-11-27T18:06:00.002Z

I know this is an old article but I have only Just come across it one of Frans first interviews when she got the role of Lucy in Can't Smile Without You.

Published Date: 17 October 2008 By LIAM RUDDEN
Arts and Entertainment Editor

TO borrow a line from her leading man, it appears Francesca Jackson was the one and only when West End supremo Bill Kenwright began his search for an actress to play Lucy in his new musical, Can't Smile Without You.
"I came out of the Nancy house on the Sunday and on the Monday was in his office singing songs for him to see if I was suitable for this job," smiles the 24-year-old, who got her big break when she was selected to appear as a contestant in I'd Do AnyADVERTISEMENT

thing, the BBC talent search to find a Nancy for Cameron Macintosh's new West End production of Oliver!

Jackson discovered that Bill Kenwright, who had been a judge on the BBC's second talent search, Any Dream Will Do, had been an avid viewer of I'd Do Anything and two weeks after she left the show, while the other girls were still battling it out, Jackson was signed up to her first national tour, which calls in at the Festival theatre next week.

"It was lovely. I just had to make sure that he was happy with me, and he was, and I was offered the part," she says happily.

All's well that ends well they say, but it could have been very different as Jackson was already an established West End performer when she opted to take the TV route.

"I'd done a three-year degree at Mountview drama school and had been in the ensemble for Tonight's The Night," she explains. "I'd also played my first lead in the West End, which was Joanne in Rent. From that I went straight into the Nancy house. So I was scared of the risks.

"What was going through my mind was the fact that if I was absolutely awful it could end my career. But at the same time it is the biggest and best audition you'll ever get. You'll never again get the chance for that many people to get to see and know you."

Although Jackson took advice from her friend Connie Fisher, who won How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, she admits that the show wasn't quite what she had expected.

"My friend Connie won the first one so she'd kind of let me know what it was all about. However, I think I'd Do Anything was very different to How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? because the BBC had worked out how to do it. They filled our days with more and more missions and knew what they wanted in interviews. They knew what questions to ask.
"It was a hell of an experience. It was terrifying and brilliant all at the same time. Very scary."

Luckily it paid off and next week Jackson shares the Festival Theatre stage with Chesney Hawkes as the 90s pop icon makes his musical debut in the show, which features more than 30 of legendary singer/songwriter Barry Manilow's best known hits.

"He is the nicest, down-to- earth person I have ever worked with. He has no airs and graces. He doesn't stress about anything. Just goes on relaxed, comes off relaxed, never changes," says Jackson of her co-star.

"When my mum said, 'It's Chesney Hawkes', I said, 'I don't know who that is'. When she said, 'You know, The One And Only,' I thought, brilliant."

Can't Smile Without You finds 37-year-old Hawkes playing Tony, the lead singer of an aspiring band on a visit to New York where they stumble across the latest TV auditions to find the next pop sensation. When Tony is offered a chance to perform, the other band members give him their blessing.

But before he can realise his dream, he is caught up in a tragic sequence of events which leave him fighting for his life. Left with no memory, his dreams are shattered. His only hope lies in the power of the music he loves and his feelings for a girl called Mandy – enter 23-year-old Siobhan Dillon, another How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? graduate, as Tony's love interest.

"I play Lucy, Tony's fiancee," says Jackson, before explaining the apparent conflict in roles. "She is Tony's fiancee but she is cheating on him with his best friend. When Tony gets back from New York he gets in a fight and loses his memory. He can't remember that he's marrying her, so when she asks him if they can split up so that she can start seeing his best friend, he says yes.

"She does get nicer as the show goes on but I do get some boos when there are Chesney fans in, which makes it a brilliant part to play because I never know how the audience are going to take me."

With the book by Tim Prager and based on an original idea by Bill Kenwright, this new musical, which comes with Manilow's blessing, includes classic numbers such as I Write The Songs, Mandy, I Made It Through The Rain, Can't Smile Without You and of course, Could It Be Magic.
"I was a bit of a fan of Barry Manilow when I was a kid. He was on my i-pod already when I got this part," beams the actress. "Still, it was surprising when I got into rehearsal to discover how many songs of his I actually knew. Songs I heard but never realised were his. His writes incredible pop songs.

"We've been told that he's trying to come to see us. He phoned Bill Kenwright during a notes session after one of our previews and spoke to Chesney. He also wants us all to come and see him at the O2."

Although the viewing public only became aware of Jackson earlier this year, the Welsh-born actress – she originally comes from the village of Ystradgynlais – had already appeared in numerous stage productions, starting with the role of Percy the Polar Bear in a nursery school production.

Later she would join the Swansea Amateur Dramatic Society where she was noticed, and at 13 played Bet, Nancy's side-kick, in the London production of Oliver!

Roles in the National Youth Musical Theatre productions of Whistle Down The Wind and Bugsy! followed, as did Rod Stewart's Tonight's the Night and Rent.

She still has her ambitions however. "I'd love to play Linda in Blood Brothers, Fantine in Les Mis, Ellen in Miss Saigon, Elphaba in Wicked . . . there are so many musical theatre roles I'd like to do, but I'd also like to get into television and do some straight acting, without the singing for a bit."

And as for the role of Nancy? "I would still love to play Nancy," she admits. "If that show lasts on the West End for a few years then I would love to go back and audition in the normal way to see if I could get the job. Absolutely. So you never know, you might see me there yet."
And that would be magic.

• Can't Smile Without You, Festival Theatre, Nicolson Street, Monday-Saturday, 7.30pm (Thursday/ Saturday matinees 2.30pm), £8.50-£30, 0131-529 6000

It's all in the stars

FRANCESCA JACKSON admits that she lives by Cosmic Ordering, 'an art' she discovered while still a struggling actress working in a call centre to make ends meet.

"When I was out of work before getting a part in Rent, I was working in a call centre and waitressing," she says. "I worked at the call centre for just under a year. There were so many out-of-work actors there. It was so depressing because I was doing a 9am-6pm job and trying to see a light at the end of the tunnel and hoping to get an audition. My mum told me she'd found this Noel Edmonds' book about cosmic ordering and I started to read it. That's what I used to help me get through that tough time."

So how does cosmic ordering work? Well, every night, after a hard day's song and dance, Jackson pops a note under her pillow, hoping her dreams will come true. So far it seems to be working.

Steve Burbridge Can Smile Without The Show

2008-11-27T09:45:00.005Z

A review thats about as welcome as a skunk at a lawn party, from Steve, reads like he was as happy as a fish in the desert

But hey for those fans of the show and the cast it's worth reading (as long as you take it with a pinch of salt) to make you laugh especially at how seriously Steve took the show instead of the way it was intended to be taken -

I'm sure the cast would like to see him up doing the show......... Then they could get there own back

Anyone got any tomatos they want to through I suggest Steve for the stocks.

Steve Burbridge Review (if you can call it That more like a Rant

Apologise to the cast but as I say it's worth a reading for a laugh....... Fran and co We love you and love the show unlike Steve

Darlington First Review

2008-11-26T12:17:00.002Z

Can’t Smile Without You, Darlington Civic Theatre
11:46am Wednesday 26th November 2008

CHESNEY Hawkes has been out of the spotlight since his 1991 smash hit, The One and Only, writing and producing music and touring with his band, and this musical, featuring 27 of Barry Manilow’s songs, could be the big break he’s waited all this time for.

The plot involves five British lads who go to New York to audition and meet Jeff, a glitzy showbiz entrepreneur (a nice comic turn from Howard Samuels). Jeff’s very taken with Chesney Hawkes’ character, imaginatively named Tony Lowiman (geddit?) but he wants to send the rest of the band home. Following a weekend spent solo at Jeff’s home, Tony strikes up a relationship with Mandy, but waiting at home is his fiancée Lucy, who’s really in love with his best friend Scott.
All’s well in the end, of course, and there are frequent breaks for Barry Manilow’s polished, schmaltzy pop. The band and the vocals are excellent, although I was a little concerned that Hawkes’ voice might not hold up. Manilow’s range is considerable and Hawkes is nearing the end of the tour and it shows. If Bill Kenwright takes Can’t Smile Without You into the West End as planned, Hawkes is going to have to look after those vocal chords.

Even if you’re not a fan of Manilow, he’s written so many decent pop songs it’s hard not to like at least some of them.

Hawkes lacks the charisma required for a romantic lead, but he’s a likeable chap and he sings well.

■ Until Saturday. Box Office: 01325-486555

A Couple More Pics Unearthed

2008-11-25T19:43:00.002Z

Press Shot From Liverpool

Fran And Ashley From Daily Mail Before Fran's Controversial Exit

Another CSWY Review

2008-11-25T19:39:00.003Z

I've just stumbled across this review today that I thought you might like, along with a few different pics including Siobhan and Chesney, Edward Handoll, Howard Samuels and Our Fran.

Can't Smile Without You

Take two or three popular ingredients, including one of the world's favourite singer songwriters, the phenomenally favourite medium of the TV reality shows, two reality-TV show contestants, a 90's Popstar and Bill Kenwright's ideas, directorial and production skillsand what is the result? In this case we get "Can't Smile Without You", the new Barry Manilow Musical.

Based very loosely on one UK bands attempt to enter a reality TV show in the USA. Tony Lowiman (Chesney Hawkes) and the members of his band whilst on a stag weekend in LA blag an audition for a TV show, but Jeff (Howard Samuels) wants a solo artist and that would be Tony. Jeff's PA Amanda (Siobhan Dillon) dislikes Tony at first but his new song 'Mandy' melts her heart, this instant mutual attraction is shattered by Tony's return to the UK. Tony's fiancé Lucy (Francesca Jackson) believing the wedding may be off turns to Scott (Edward Handoll), band member and Tony's best man, for comfort. Returning to the UK Tony is attacked after the band's first gig, leaving him critically injured with a total loss of memory. His ability to play music and memory for most songs is however not affected.

How will Tony, Lucy, Scott and Mandy progress? Will Tony's memory return? To which lovely lady will he say 'Can't Smile Without You'!

Chesney Hawkes, himself a singer songwriter is still touring with his own band. Probably most remembered for the pop song 'The One and Only' I had the pleasure of seeing him in the musical 'MacGregor's Trap' during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 1995. He makes a very handsome and musically talented Tony.

Leading ladies Siobhan Dillon and Francesca Jackson both experienced the buzz and hard work associated with Reality TV shows. Siobhan, in 'How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?' and Francesca, in the recent 'I'd Do Anything'. I had to ask both ladies what it is like to be ever associated with the set of the show they are working on having the dreaded bilateral stairs. After watching them sing live week after week there is no doubt both these ladies are superbly talented.

Edward Handoll as Scott has previously visited Edinburgh, like Chesney, whilst performing in the Fringe Festival. His tall dark good looks and dreamy voice are a perfect foil for Mr Hawkes, who needs to watch out for his co-star. Edward not only sings, he plays guitar and piano.

Howard Samuels as Jeff, provides most of the comedy, one scene in particular to look out for is The European Music Awards where they do a pastiche on 'Copacabana'.

The other members of 'The Romantics' are Michael Kantola as Dougie, Gavin Stenhouse as Flynn and Robin Johnson as Pat. Hats off to these ultra talented young men who along with Edward Handoll not only play live on stage they move up and join the band on guitars and drums. The other members of the band are MD, John Maher, AMD, John Rutledge, Matt Tubman, Rosie Nicholl, Mark Ferrell and Matt French.

The other performing members of the company are Reuven Gershon, Sam Palladio, Kate Ray, Jade Steele and Richard Taylor Woods.

'Can't Smile Without You' is a great fun musical enjoyable whether you like Barry Manilow or not. The superbly talented cast are well worth watching from an aesthetic point of view and also to enjoy brilliant musicality. For further information see www.kenwright.com for information on 'Can't Smile Without You' and all other current Bill Kenwright productions.

Congratulations To Jessie on Her Opening

2008-11-24T08:50:00.001Z

For Fan Reviews and Further reviews of A Little Night Music be sure to check out the Jessie Buckley Blog.

Stephen Sondheim: A Little Night Music

Menier Chocolate Factory

London, 24 November 2008

Like many a great romantic comedy before it, from A Midsummer Night's Dream to The Marriage of Figaro, the sexual entanglements in Stephen Sondheim's A Little Night Music work themselves out as the characters go out into the garden. And as the sun sets on Trevor Nunn's elegiac new production for the Menier Chocolate Factory, I for one couldn't resist being moved by the resolution of the plot when the six main characters finally pair off into the right couples and dance the 'Last Waltz'.

If some of Nunn's large-scale productions of musicals in recent years have seemed unfocussed, here he seems to revel in the intimacy of the Chocolate Factory. It's extraordinary to experience such a vocally demanding piece so close to the performers, who, incidentally, make a highly-calibre ensemble. There again, the spatial limitation of the venue is very much to the benefit of retaining the domesticity of the work, which could seem overblown and less intense in a large theatre. Here, Nunn makes intensity the motivation for everything that goes on in the show – mostly the sexual frustration felt by the main characters, none of whom can have the person best suited to them in the beginning, but the inner tension of the young man Henrik and the tension caused by the repression of the Countess by her husband are no less important.
Nunn responds musically to the piece, too, understanding the waltz as the key signifier in the musical working out of the plotline. Lynne Page's choreography comes into play here with as hypnotic a staging of the opening tableau as one could hope for, in which she's helped by Hartley T A Kemp's imaginative and utterly outstanding lighting design. Though the main set is sparse, consisting of semi-mirrored doors that open out in Act 2 to reveal the garden, David Farley's designs use props efficiently to make the transitions between scenes, and the period costumes are exquisite. Some of the walls open outwards to create new divisions, too, for instance for the Egerman house, and items such as trees, a chaise longue and a bed enhance the sense of place, but for me Kemp's lighting was the cornerstone of the visual element of the production.
It was considered controversial to cast Hannah Waddingham as Desirée Armfeldt, but Nunn explains in the programme that the decision stems from Bergman's film Smiles of a Summer Night, on which the musical is based and in which the actress Armfeldt 'sees her fortieth birthday on the horizon and realises that the time has come for her to take all important life decisions concerning the future of herself and her child'. The tradition of casting someone closer to 50 than 40 in the role is therefore not necessarily true to the text, and by bringing down the average age of the cast Nunn has added energy to the sexuality that infuses the story.
It really works. Waddingham is totally glamorous in the part, a blonde vision in a creamy dress, but anyone worrying that she's too young need not fear. This Desirée still has her eye on the passing years, but the emphasis here is on transition rather than arrival at middle age. The connection between Desirée and her lover, Fredrik, is white-hot from the very beginning, and it provides the line that runs through the show. Waddingham's achievement is in creating the artificial veneer of charm and then allowing the cracks in her composure to show. At this performance, tears streamed down her face during a touching rendition of 'Send in the Clowns': the words come to the fore rather than the voice, and it's deeply moving.

Opposite her, Alexander Hanson is an ideal Fredrik: masculine, with a wonderfully firm baritone and the ability to be emotionally expressive throughout. Alistair Robins is brilliantly buffoonish as the stupid Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm, again a fine singer, but it's Kelly Price who stands out, as his wife, Countess Charlotte. Price ensures that Charlotte comes to the fore as the instigator or controller of several subplots yet always leaves one with the knowledge that deep down she just wants her husband to notice her. Maureen Lipman gave a scene-stealing turn as Madame Armfeldt – I'd gladly see the show again just for her comic timing – and in spite of some strain during 'Later', Gabriel Vick generated just the right amount of intensity as Henrik. Making her professional debut as Anne, Jessie Buckley (who came second in the BBC's I'd Do Anything competition) shows her prowess as an actress and gives a mature performance that belies her years; however, I sense that the high-lying tessitura causes her problems in places.

Jeremy Finch is a serviceable Frid, enjoying the chance to sing a number that was cut from the Broadway production: 'Silly People', in which the servant observes the overcomplicated sexual behaviour of his masters (more interesting for the incisive lyric than the music). Kaisa Hammarlund is excellent as Petra, the confidante of Anne Egerman and lover to both Frid and Henrik, but for me her rendition of 'The Miller's Son' at this performance just stopped short of making the impact it could; Grace Link was the surprisingly confident child actor playing Fredrika Armfeldt at the show I saw. Excellent support comes from the large-voiced Mr Lindquist of Lynden Edwards and Nicola Sloane's sharply-characterised Mrs Segstrom, and the rest of the ensemble – John Addison, Charlotte Page, Laura Armstrong and Florence Andrews – are equally talented.

I had worried in advance about how successfully Jason Carr would be able to reduce the orchestration for just seven instruments (piano, harp, violin, cello, double bass, woodwind and bassoon), because it's usually a string-heavy show that is favoured by symphony orchestras. But in fact he's done a great job: the orchestral passages sound perfectly full, and most of the detail of the originals is still present. Just occasionally there was poor coordination between stage and band, but on the whole Caroline Humphris's tempi were well judged at this performance.
In short, there are no major weaknesses about the Menier's production of this perennially appealing show, which runs until March. Don't miss it.

By Dominic McHugh

Chesney Article About CSWY - Darlington

2008-11-20T21:17:00.002Z

Although the following article doesn't mention Fran it's still quite a nice article that I thought people might enjoy

Northern Echo Can't Smile Without You Article

Stoke Review of Can't Smile Without You

2008-11-18T13:55:00.003Z

Theatre Review: Can't Smile Without You – The Regent, Hanley (PICTURES)
Tuesday, November 18, 2008, 09:20

THE thought of one-hit wonder Chesney Hawkes starring in a show based upon the music of Barry Manilow could be either a dream come true or the worst nightmare – depending on taste.
Thankfully, Bill Kenwright's production ensured Can't Smile Without You enjoyed a hugely successful first night at the Regent Theatre.

Chesney Hawkes as Tony With Siobhan Dillon and Jade Steele in Can’t Smile Without You at The Regent Theatre.

The story follows the fortunes of Tony Lowiman, played by Hawkes, and his band, the Romantics.

Their search for fame takes them to the U.S. where Tony falls for the conveniently named Mandy (Siobhan Dillon), but remains true to his fiancée Lucy (Francesca Jackson), who is meanwhile enjoying an illicit romance with Tony's best friend Steve. This love tangle is given a twist when Tony acquires a head injury and forgets about his romantic interests – both old and new.

The script is very much written around the music, resulting in an amusing, tongue-in-cheek introduction to the songs. For example, on their return to the U.S., the Romantics are faced with a crisis as cabaret singer Lola had ran off with Rico leaving the club Copacabana
in a bit of a fix.

Performances, all supported with a live orchestra, were consistently strong. Mandy (Dillon) sang with clear harmony throughout the show, including a poignant version of Could It Be Magic.
Hawkes also showcased his talents well as a solo artist in, for example, I Write The Songs, and as a band member in upbeat numbers such as New York Rhythm. Howard Samuels's portrayal of loud-mouthed talent-show host Jeff also stood out as he delivered an alternative version of the title song relating to lost profits rather than romance.

This contrast of styles provides diversity and a fresh edge to Manilow classics. However the production stopped short of being hilariously funny or as fully credible as a romantic drama. This was of little consequence as the audience clearly loved it.

Cheerful and cheesy, Can't Smile Without You provides a night of pure escapism, and is not just for Manilow fans. The show runs until Saturday. Call the box office on 0870 060 6649.

Fern Basnett

A Couple More Pics Unearthed

2008-11-11T22:26:00.006Z

Fran - Acting or Giving The Other Contestants What For?

Fran Outside Bristol Hippodrome

Fran with Siobhan and Chesney

New Poll

2008-11-11T18:49:00.004Z

With the end of the first leg of Can't Smile Without You Tour is fast approaching, decided it was high time we had a poll for what other roles you would like to see Fran in.

If there is a role you think Fran would be great in and it isn't in the list no fear, add it in the comments or email me.

Multiple votes are allowed but please try not to select everything I know it may be difficult to decide as Fran would be good at anything.

Further Pics

2008-11-09T19:11:00.004Z

It turns out that the last lot of IDA photos were care of Rachel Tucker Herself so many thanks Rachel for some great pictures.

Rachel & Fran Looking A Little Nervous

Fran Meeting Laura Wells After a Performance of CSWY

Fran With Abbie Tabberer In Nottingham after CSWY

Guys keep the fan pics and reviews coming.

Manilow Magic @ Theatre Royal

2008-11-07T12:13:00.003Z

Published Date: 07 November 2008
If Barry Manilow is not appearing in person at Nottingham's Theatre Royal this week then his fans can revel in the next best thing.

Chesney Hawkes plays the lead role of Tony in the UK tour of Bill Kenwright's brand new musical love story Can't Smile Wihout You.

He meets a girl on his New York stag night, falls for her and then loses his memory after a fight when he returns to England.That's the plot but this is really a Manilow-fest, packed with more than 30 of his songs and backed by a class band under the direction of John Maher.

In support are excellent performances from 23-year-old Siobhan Dillon, who first came to the nation's attention as runner up in the BBC's hit TV show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, and Francesca Jackson,finalist from recent TV hit I'd Do Anything.

Performance Times: Evenings 7.30pm. Saturday matinee 2.30pmTicket Prices: £12- £30.50 Box Office: 0115 989 5555.

New Pics

2008-11-05T22:11:00.006Z

I know most of you have probably seen most of the Nancy images on the other blogs but for those of you who haven't enjoy - Also be sure to check out some of the new shots from the What's on Stage outing to Rent Remixed Last November.

Denise & Fran @ Londons Rent Remixed Press Night

The Nancies Have a PJ Party !!

The Girls Looking Glam - I think this was from the Final Stage of Audtions looking at the outfits

The Girls

Fran Hiding In the Back

All Dressed Up - Fran Hiding Round the Back Again

The Nancies give there feathers a test run

The Cast of Rent Remixed

Nottingham Review - This Time It's Good News

2008-11-04T17:07:00.002Z

Review: Can't Smile Without You, Theatre Royal
Tuesday, November 04, 2008, 06:51

MAMMA Mia has a lot to answer for. Take a band's back catalogue, throw in a perfunctory story and stir. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't (Shang A Lang anyone?).

If you adopt the same thinking to Barry Manilow songs, just how far up the cheese-ometer will it go? Thankfully, not that far, because if you want a thoroughly escapist night out with some fine musicianship, top singing voices and a knowing glint in its eye, I urge you to beat a path to the Theatre Royal this week.
Can't Smile Without You, does exactly what it says on the tin. It's a night of pop tunesmith Manilow magic.
There may be a story about a singer meeting a girl on a his stag weekend in New York, falling in love, and coming back to Blighty, only to be injured in a fight in which he loses his memory.
But it's only a device to get us thinking about when the next hit will be played – and whether true love will find a way.

Chesney Hawkes takes the lead role of Tony Lowiman (crossword fans should be able to work that one out!) and he is more than ably accompanied by Francesca Jackson as fiancée Lucy and Siobhan Dillon as television executive PA Mandy (cue for a song perhaps?)
The band, under the musical direction of John Maher, are extremely tight, with some of the arrangements enhancing what Manilow has already given us.
The Theatre Royal audience for opening night lapped up this piece of musical theatre with many suggesting on the way out a return later in the week.
It's the next best thing to a concert by the man himself. What better endorsement do you need?

Comments (1)
It was as corny as a Kansas wheatfield - but I loved every minute of it!Chesney Hawkes' voice is PERFECTLY suited to the songs and there was some very fine comic acting by Howard Samuels.The supporting cast were all 100% believeable despite it being decidedly 'tongue in cheek' and the band were just wonderful. The rendition of 'Sweet Heaven' alongside another song was worthy of the closing act of Les Miserables.I thoroughly enjoyed it and quite frankly, if I weren't 46 years old, I'd have Chesney Hawkes' babies!Well done to all concerned.
Yvette, Mansfield Woodhouse

2 New Pics

2008-11-01T19:19:00.004Z

When the Nancies performed live at the Wicked Matinee during the competition avid theater fan Laura Allenby was on hand to get the following great shots that she has been kind enough to share with us.

Northampton

2008-10-30T21:36:00.005Z

Below is the Whats on stage announcement for Northampton's showing of Can't Smile Without You.

Whats On Stage Northampton Article

Some New CSWY Pics

2008-10-30T21:31:00.006Z

Official CSWY Pics of Fran

Been A While

2008-10-29T20:18:00.006Z

Finally there was a review posted on line from Edinburgh - Again it's not the most pleasant of reviews, but if the person responsible can't even get the character names right when posting an article in the newspaper....... At least they got Fran's name right and again she has come off well.

See the article for yourself

The Edinburgh Journal Review

Fan Review - What A Star She Is

2008-10-16T17:00:00.001+01:00

“Can’t Smile Without You Review”.

I went to see “Can’t Smile Without You” on Wednesday 1st October at the Palace Theatre in Manchester. I was there visiting my friend Rachel who’s recently gone to study Drama at the nearby University, & it had always been our intention to go and see Francesca in the show; ever since we found out she was doing it.
We arrived at the theatre at about 7:15 on the evening, only to find, to our delight, that our seats had been upgraded – we were no longer in the upper circle but the grand circle, with a perfect view to the stage. I didn’t know many Barry Manilow songs prior to the show, so I wasn’t really sure of what to expect; other than an amazing performance from Fran... which obviously I got!
It took a while at the beginning to develop the storyline, but when it started to build up I really enjoyed it. It must’ve taken Fran at least 15 minutes to come on, & I remember nudging Rachel every time somebody came on – just hoping it would be her. The story was about a man called Tony, played by Chesney Hawkes, going to New York with his band in order to make it big in the music business.
The audience were given the impression during the climax to Fran’s entrance that Tony was falling in love on his travels with a girl called Mandy (ironically I thought!), played by Siobhan Dillon. So at this point I’d started to feel sorry for Tony’s girlfriend Lucy, played by Fran, as she had no idea what was going on. However, when she appeared on stage snogging the face off Tony’s best mate Scott; I laughed. It was exactly the kind of character I imagined her to play, & she suited the role brilliantly. Rachel and I must have been the only teenagers there, as when I looked around the theatre I could see mostly older couples; not forgetting of course the mad group of Chesney fans sitting about 4 rows in front of us. They were clapping and waving excitedly to every song he sang, however slow! It really added to the cheerful atmosphere generated from the audience in the theatre. During the interval we spotted two empty seats even nearer to the stage at the front of the grand circle, so, seizing the opportunity, moved straight away – at the time we were yet to realise how loud the Chesney fans actually were, LOL!
A performance I particularly enjoyed was “Copacabana”, where Fran appeared in dazzling gold; & obviously the bright yellow feather made her stand out even more. I also liked the songs “Looks Like We Made It” and “Who Needs To Dream”; they really made me think back to the time all those months ago when I first heard her sing. Those four weeks repeatedly dialling her number, hoping my votes would be enough – it made me truly believe how worthwhile that was.
After two standing ovations & most of the audience on their feet in appreciation of the amazing actors and actresses that had taken part, the show finished. As soon as the lights came back on, we hurried downstairs & straight to the stage door – I don’t think I could have bared the thought of not meeting Fran; I’d have been devastated! Rachel & I had only been waiting a matter of seconds before she appeared. I literally couldn’t speak for about a minute I was so star struck, but told myself I needed to get a grip else she’d soon go. She seemed in a bit of a rush, so I asked her if she had to leave. She said that she had to catch the 10:20 pm train & it was ten past as it was! She asked my friend where Oxford Street station was, & all three of us found it amusing when Rachel pointed across the road to a huge sign indicating the station was right there. Even so, she stayed to have a picture with each of us, & then I suggested one of us all together. After that had been taken, she made us check it to see if it was alright; saying she was happy to have another one. Just before she made a dash across the road I asked her to sign my programme, where she wrote “To Claire, With Love Francesca J xxx”. Then, telling us she had to love & leave us, she left. I was so happy I’d met her that I shed a few tears; I just couldn’t believe I’d met her. I’ve waited at stage doors at a few shows before to see the cast, but I was determined that night, & I have to say I’ve never met anybody as genuinely nice & appreciative of support from her fans as Francesca. She had to catch a train in 10 minutes, but took the time to chat to until then at least.
I’m hoping to go & see the show again in mid-November when it is on in Stoke, & hopefully I’ll see Francesca again too. She is such a talented woman, & I can guarantee that I’ll continue to follow & support her in whatever she chooses to do in the future. Francesca Jackson is a true inspiration.

Claire Dorricott.

Glasgow Review

2008-10-14T18:08:00.012+01:00

Don't be alarmed by the title the cast come off well.

REVIEW: Say cheese for a snapshot of Barry Manilow magic

by Sarah Swain

YOU would expect a musical based on the hits of Barry Manilow and starring 1990s popstar The One and Only' Chesney Hawkes in the lead role to be cheesy.

But Can't Smile Without You is mozzarella with extra parmesan.

It follows a band who go to New York to make it big. But the record producer only wants singer Tony.

He gives up his chance of fame to go back to gigs in Grimsby with the boys - but not before meeting a girl called Mandy of course.

Then an attack leaves Tony unable to remember anything about himself - all he can recall is music.

Manilow hits like Could it be Magic are woven into the plot as he tries to find himself - and his girl - again.

Hawkes has the voice and charisma to win over the Manilow fans. Plus, with Siobhan Dillon, and Francesca Jackson, a runner-up in BBC's Nancy contest, the show proves that though it is heavy on cheese, it's big on charm.

King's Theatre until Saturday. Call 0870 060 6648 or visit www.kings-glasgow.co.uk

Publication date 14/10/08

Message From Fran

2008-10-12T21:26:00.003+01:00

Hi Guys

Just received a message from Fran to pass on to everyone especially those of you who gave me messages to pass on to her.

I just want to say how AMAZING all of the presents were and especially the messages so many people left me!!!! made me cry when i opened it all in the car on way home!

please please say the biggest thankyou to everyone for me!!!! It really takes my breath away that people actually care that much!!

I think you can all see how overwhelmed Fran was but as we all know she deserves all the support she gets and much much more. I did say the intention wasn't to make her cry.

Keep the support coming and any more messages let me have them as I will hopefully be seeing Fran again at the end of the month.

Jessie News

2008-10-10T23:03:00.007+01:00

Huge Congratulations must go to Jessie on landing her first London role, looks like all the girls are doing well since the show. For full details of Jessie's great news be sure to check out her blog.

Roles So Far

Fran - Staring in No 1 Tour of Can't Smile Without You

Rachel - We Will Rock You - London's West End - Meat - Scaramouch for Nov 3rd to 15th

Sarah - Several recent or upcoming events followed by Oliver ensemble and 1st Cover Nancy

Sam - Sally in Cabaret Tour

Jessie - Just been announced in A Little Night Music as Anne

Amy - After all Bob's Women went into Sound of Music

Niamh - Only the Brave at Edinburgh Fringe, Will be doing Panto in Eastbourne (Snow White)

Keisha - Scholarship to postgrad MT course at Mountview

Tara - Narrator in Joseph Tour

Jodie - Ensemble in Les Mis whilst waiting on Oliver Rehersals

Cleo - Ensemble for Dirty Dancing

That Leaves Ashley - If anyone knows let me know and I'll update

Congratulations to all the girls and I'm sure this is the start of a wonderful journey and career for them all

Poll Time Again

2008-10-08T21:17:00.002+01:00

Decided it was high time we had a new poll on the site to try and gage the current site usage, to work out which Fans are visiting the site.

It will also be interesting to see for how long some fans have been following Fran.

Get voting.

Another Great Fan Review - Manchester

2008-10-06T20:54:00.006+01:00

‘Me, my mum and my nana arrived at the Palace Theatre at 1:30, an hour before the show, so after having a picture in front of one of the many posters outside and sitting in the bar we took to our seats and awaited the lifting of the curtains. I was sooooo nervous and I know this might sound silly but it was in case I didn’t get Fran’s autograph lol.

Anyway, the show started and I sat impatiently waiting for Fran to appear. Suddenly my mum started nudging me and pointing over at the left hand side of the stage and then I realised Fran was on stage but in disguise… I stifled a little scream. When Fran came on as Lucy, she blew me away with her singing, acting, everything! Her chemistry with ‘Scott’ was brilliant. She totally showed what she could do in this show, but I already knew that anyway! Her voice is so strong and captivating, I’m sure she looked at me during a song and smiled back at me, but I’ve a feeling she might not have been able to see anyway because of the lights, but I was only on the third row in the Stalls lol, who knows! Most of the time she was situated on the left on side of the stage (as you look at it), right in front of where I was! The show had its equal balance of seriousness and humour, an example of which would be ‘Copacabana’ which had the whole audience in stitches, including me; one of the only teenagers in the audience, if not the only one. I love Fran’s outfit/costume in Copacabana, it brings back memories of ‘I’d Do Anything’ and I’m so glad she took part!

This review would not be full without a mention of Howard Samuels; he is amazingly funny and makes the part of Jeff his own, just like the rest of the cast, though especially during Copacabana. Also, Siobhan Dillon is amazing, her singing and acting are brilliant and the rest of the cast and ensemble work really well together and are also brilliant, the show would not be complete without them! Humour was also added by reference to certain song titles and the ‘bus’ scene which was hilarious! Now, I have to admit to not being a huge fan of Barry Manilow, having only been to see the musical because of Fran, but those journeys home from school on the bus listening to his music persuaded my mind that he is actually quite good. ‘Can’t Smile Without You’ obviously played a bigger part in twisting me to like his music, sung by amazing singers and actors/actresses in the show!

The audience participated a lot throughout, many of them being avid Chesney fans and this added to the enjoyment of the evening. After two standing ovations, it finished L.

We made our way to the stage door and waited. Chesney came out first, I asked for a picture and an autograph- blue pen on the blue front cover of the programme… Then Edward came out (plays Scott) and I had a picture with him. After about 20 minutes Fran came out and I didn’t realise at first. I screamed and she said hello, quite shocked at my reaction I think. I asked if for a picture with her and she did, she is so nice! I actually had a full conversation with her, she signed my programme in my other black pen on the page with her ‘credits’ included it reads, “To Emily, Millions of love Francesca Jackson xxxxx”!!! It’s going to go in a frame alongside my Lee Mead autograph, who cropped into the conversation and Fran agreed he is good-looking! We talked about various things, singing lessons, auditions and Can’t Smile Without You, but we let her go so she could presumably have her tea before the next show at half 7, the last show in Manchester. She wished me good luck with my future (hopefully musical theatre) and we wished her good luck and said we would look out for her in the future!

She is so pretty and amazing and such a genuine person! I mean, she didn’t have to stay and talk or say good luck to me but she did. Because she’s phenomenal and I will always remember it!

Emily xxxxx’

Many thanks to Emily for the great review and lovely picture.

Win More Tickets for CSWY

2008-10-03T19:13:00.003+01:00

For all of those up in Scotland or near the border it's your chance to try and win tickets to see Fran and Co

Check out the link below and Good Luck

Win CSWY Tickets Glasgow

Some Fun Pics From Bristol

2008-10-02T22:13:00.007+01:00

When I was waiting to speak to Fran in Bristol on Saturday She was asked if she would mind having her photo taken with a small rubber duck, to which she showed no hesitation. After having her photo taken she did actually ask why?

It turns out that Brian the Duck Travels all over the world and had been photographed with numerous famous people and in some great locations, these pictures can be seen on Brian's very own facebook page.

Thanks to Michelle Plowman and Elizabeth Banks the 2 photographers, here are the pictures of Fran posing with Brian.

Michelle's Pic

Elizabeth's Pic

As you can see Fran looks like she's enjoying posing with Brian. So if anyone else has any other ideas get out there and try it - Siobhan and Chesney were also good sports and posed with Brian Check out his facebook page below for those pictures.

Brian The Duck's Facebook Page