X Factor's Nathan Lewis to play Smokey Robinson at Edinburgh Playhouse
The 2016 X Factor favourite will be joined on stage by Edward Baruwa as Berry Gordy, Karis Anderson as Diana Ross and Shak Gabbidon-Williams as Marvin Gaye.
Baruwa’s previous credits include the West End production of Motown the Musical while Anderson is best known as one third of pop band Stooshe, who scored a top five single, Black Heart, in 2012. Gabbidon-William’s most recently starred as Seaweed in the UK tour of Hairspray, which also toured to the Playhouse earlier this year.
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Hide AdDirector Charles Randolph-Wright, says, “I am so thrilled that we have been able to find this incredible cast of British artists for the UK tour of Motown the Musical.
"Their talent has astounded us all, as they embody the soul of Motown and capture the energy and essence of those iconic artists.
"We are so excited to bring this show to cities across the UK and can’t wait to begin. Get ready."
With just $800 borrowed from his family, Motown founder Berry Gordy, goes from featherweight boxer to heavyweight music mogul, discovering and launching the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye and many more. Motown the Musical uncovers the true story of the legendary record label that changed music history and created the soundtrack of a generation.
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Hide AdWith music and lyrics from the Motown catalogue and book by Gordy, Randolph-Wright’s production features a live orchestra playing 50 Motown tracks including Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, I’ll Be There, Dancing In The Street, Stop! In The Name Of Love, My Girl and I Heard It through the Grapevine and tells the story behind the classic hits.
Motown the Musical received its world premiere in April 2013 in New York. The London production opened on 11 February 2016 and continues to play to standing ovations at the Shaftesbury Theatre.
Motown The Musical, The Playhouse, 20 November-8 December, £15-£85.50, 0844-871 3014