New show ‘written in the stars’

Ian has been a lifelong fan of Elton John, and when the opportunity emerged for Fusion Theatre to put on the show, he was more than enthusiastic.

“One of my most prized possessions is a programme from a concert by Elton John, back in 1978, which is signed by the man himself, in his Rocket Man days.

“I have very fond memories of that concert, and I’ve followed the development of his musical career with interest. I love the music he wrote for Disney’s Aladdin, and of course the same team as wrote Aida, Elton John and Tim Rice, is responsible for the West End Hit, ‘The Lion king’.

“Aida is the tale of doomed love in ancient Egyypt, but which transcends time, to a modern ending. It’s moving and uplifting, and I guarantee that there will be tears, but also smiles, as the audience leaves.

“I can’t wait until we get into performance, which, in the words of one of the well-known numbers from the show, is ‘Written in the Stars’.“

The show features Megan McGarry as Aida, Adam Williamson as her love Radames, and Tara Greene as the Egyptian princess Amneris.

Anne McCleary, Chair of Fusion Theatre, said: “We are very excited to be putting on such a challenging musical, challenging simply because it isn’t that well known.

“However, having been at rehearsals, I can promise that it deserves to be among the ranks of the new, well-loved musicals, right up there, along with Lion King.

“The music ranges from rock to reggae, and will appeal to everyone. We also welcome Rea Campbell Hill as choreographer, who was one of our members, in Oklahoma , several years ago.

“However, I also need to acknowledge the debt owed to our supporters, such as the Lisburn Enterprise Organisation, the Lisburn Arts Advisory Committee, and particularly the Arts Council of NI (Lottery funding) , without whose financial support we would not be able to function.”

Tickets are on sale from the Box Office at 9250 9254 or online www.tickets.llisburncity.gov.uk. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more.