High Society returns to theatres

Adapted from the hit 1956 film starring screen legends Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra, High Society fizzes with a host of beautiful ballads including True Love, You’re Sensational and the unforgettable Well, Did You Evah! This uplifting, sparkling show proves Porter’s classic musical style and effervescent wit will never go out of fashion.

Wealthy socialite Tracy Lord (Sophie Bould, Royal & Derngate’s The Go-Between) is in the middle of planning a lavish summer wedding when her ex-husband, jazz musician Dexter Haven arrives to disrupt the proceedings in an attempt to try and win her back. In a further twist, charming reporter Mike Connor, sent to cover the wedding, falls instantly for Tracy, and she for him. As the nuptials draw closer, Tracy must choose between her three very different suitors.

The role of Haven (played by Bing Crosby in the movie) is taken by former TV heartthrob Michael Praed (Robin of Sherwood and The Secret Adventures of Jules Verne). Daniel Boys, of Any Dream Will Do fame, plays Mike Connor, and founder member of Fascinating Aïda, Marilyn Cutts, is Tracy’s mother Margaret Lord. The high-class cast also includes West End favourites Teddy Kempner, Craig Pinder, Kieron Crook and Alex Young.

Royal & Derngate is staging a themed evening of vintage Hollywood glamour for the show’s first night in Northampton on Tuesday. Audiences are encouraged to look their most de-lovely for the red carpet, and a special cocktail has been devised for the show’s run by the theatre’s café,

High Society runs until April 13. For tickets call the box office on 01604 624811 or online at www.royalandderngate.co.uk.

If you miss it the show will be returning to the area to play the Wycombe Swan in June.