The team behind a new musical, which debuts in the north-east later this month, say the show will go on – despite a high-profile celebrity pulling out of the performance.
Robert Burns The Musical, which puts a modern spin on the Bard’s life, is being performed by Lossiemouth-based Rock Academy and is due to have its premiere at the Tivoli Theatre, Aberdeen, on Burn’s Night (January 25).
Although the musical is rooted in the north-east, the original idea stemmed from a place which could not be further removed from the region – Hollywood.
And the two men responsible for the initial idea were music superstar Michael Jackson and producer David Gest.
Mr Gest was such a fan of the production that he had agreed to be a part of the production, playing a cameo as Tam O’Shanter.
However, due to scheduling commitments, the former I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here star has had to cancel his appearance.
Last night, the Inverurie-born writer of the musical, who also stars in it, insisted his withdrawal would not affect the show.
Tish Tindall, who will act as narrator during the performance, said: “When he (David Gest) asked me if he could be in the show, we decided a cameo role would be the best because of his busy schedule.
“He is planning on joining us at a later date, but we have not announced any further performances as yet.
“People all over the world have asked me about the show, it will bring Robert Burns into the 21st century.
“For a wee lassie from Inverurie to be involved in taking forward something which started off as their idea is just unimaginable. I really did fight to keep the premiere in the north-east.”
Tickets for the show can be purchased by calling 01343 813 111 or by emailing diane@rockacademy.co.uk.