The acclaimed musical “Judy & Liza,” which honors the extraordinary careers and remarkable relationship of Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli, is gearing up for a nationwide tour this May and June. Starting at the Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester, the production will travel to several venues across the UK.
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A Journey through Hollywood Royalty
“Judy & Liza” provides a heartfelt glimpse into the intertwined lives of two Hollywood legends: Judy Garland and her daughter, Liza Minnelli. This musical encapsulates the highs and lows of their tumultuous careers, with a story set against the backdrop of their iconic 1964 concert at the London Palladium. Audiences can expect an emotional journey, reflecting on how their famous songs mirror their own personal lives.
The production is led by Bill Elms Productions and On Song Productions. It was created and written by Emma Dears, a seasoned West End performer who also takes on the role of Liza Minnelli. The musical direction is handled by Francis Goodhand, with Dears sharing the stage with Helen Sheals, who brings Judy Garland back to life.
Together, Dears and Sheals deliver captivating performances of timeless classics like “Cabaret,” “Maybe This Time,” “Over the Rainbow,” “The Trolley Song,” and more, capturing the magnetic chemistry between these two legends.
The Musical’s Background
Over the past decade, “Judy & Liza” has dazzled audiences across the UK. The show brings back the magic of Garland and Minnelli’s legendary performances, celebrating their musical and emotional legacy.
Dears and Sheals skillfully deliver the timeless music of these two stars, reflecting the essence of their unique relationship and the highs and lows of their illustrious careers.
The show provides a unique perspective on Garland and Minnelli’s tumultuous yet deeply bonded relationship. It’s a captivating and heartfelt tribute that takes the audience on a nostalgic journey through the storied careers of these two beloved performers.
Meet the Team
Emma Dears: The writer and performer, Dears began her acting career in the UK tour of “Annie” and later starred in West End hits like “Les Miserables,” “Miss Saigon,” and “Oliver.” Her television credits include “Emmerdale,” “Nice Guy Eddie,” and “Brookside.”
Helen Sheals: Known for her roles in “Coronation Street” and “Downton Abbey,” Sheals has extensive theater credits, including various Shakespearean productions. She previously played Judy Garland in the West End musical “Judy!”
Francis Goodhand: The musical director’s credits include “Jersey Boys,” “Mrs. Henderson Presents,” and “Tell Me On A Sunday.”
Bill Elms: The producer, involved with the show since its inception, is known for acclaimed productions like “Epstein – The Man Who Made The Beatles” and “Jerry Springer The Opera.”
UK Tour Dates
The musical kicks off its UK tour in Manchester before continuing to other venues:
| Date | Venue | Location |
|---|---|---|
| May 28 – June 2, 2024 | Hope Mill Theatre | Manchester |
| June 7, 2024 | Borough Theatre | Abergavenny |
| June 8, 2024 | Wales Millennium Centre | Cardiff |
| June 13, 2024 | The Brindley Theatre | Runcorn |
| June 14, 2024 | Middlesbrough Theatre | Middlesbrough |
| June 15, 2024 | Alnwick Playhouse | Alnwick |
| June 20, 2024 | Chequer Mead Theatre | East Grinstead |
| June 22, 2024 | Theatre Severn | Shrewsbury |
| June 28, 2024 | Floral Pavilion | New Brighton |
| June 29, 2024 | City Varieties Music Hall | Leeds |
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.judyandliza.co.uk.
