Tommy Steele on Scrooge: The Musical

Leslie Bricusse's musical Scrooge began life as a film, in 1970, starring Albert Finney. It's since been adapted for the stage, however, and has become a favourite for both professional and amateur theatre groups around the world.

In the UK, a highly successful touring production has seen a swathe of actors in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, including Eastenders star Shane Richie, comedian Michael Barrymore and fifties teen idol Tommy Steele. (This author also recalls the late Anthony Newley, who wrote the lyrics to Leslie Bricusse's tunes for Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, taking on the part in the early nineties.)

Last week, Scrooge came to the Liverpool Empire. Catherine Jones of the Liverpool Echo talked to the star about his love for the city "and why Scrooge is the King Lear of musicals":

Consummate pro that [Steele] is though, even after nearly 10 years playing the cantankerous old miser of Dickens’s evergreen festive tale, the 74-year-old is determined to make sure he gives audiences the best show he can. "I love it," he enthuses.  

"The part is probably one of the best three parts I've ever had, and also it suits me because it's like an actor's King Lear isn't it?" The make-up is more Richard III of course.

Read the full article here.