IT’S RAINING MEN… AND MICHAEL!

The world premiere production of Raining Men hits Peterborough this autumn, and marks the return to the stage of the Key Theatre’s artistic director Michael Cross.

Always a firm favourite with Peterborough audiences there was great disappointment when Michael announced he’d no longer be playing his usual role of the dame in the Key’s annual panto – something he’d firmly made his mark on over the years!

It’s fantastic to hear he’s now decided to perform again in this great new show.

Described as ‘the Full Monty meets Priscilla Queen of the Desert’, Raining Men sounds a scream and teams Michael with Patrick Kearns (who’s stepped into his high heels in the panto) and Andrew Ryan. They play characters Phil, Doug and Colin who all work together in a nightclub. When they realise there’s no act booked to perform on Halloween they decide there’s nothing else for it but to do it themselves! Expect tunes from Shirley Bassey, Barbara Streisand and Judy Garland as the boys drag it up in style.

It’s on from November 18-20 at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm matinee on Saturday 20. ESP grabbed a quick word with Michael during rehearsals…

We’re very excited to see you back on stage – what’s prompted your return to the spotlight?

“Thank you – basically I read this new play and thought – that part is just me. Fortunately the producers agreed! It’s always good to go back to the roots of what it is you do and remind yourself why you wanted to work in  the theatre in the first place!”

What are you enjoying most about this role?

“I love to make people laugh – the play has some great one-liners – when it’s going well it’s great therapy for cast and audience alike!”

What’s Raining Men all about and who will enjoy this show the most?

“Three guys work in a night club. A Halloween cabaret has been arranged and due to a problem getting an act the guys decide to do it themselves… before they realise that it’s not as easy as it looks!

“The play will appeal particularly to women – hen nights and girls night out groups will really enjoy the humour and glamour – but guys do love it too. But it is strictly adults only with strong language throughout.”

Is it extra special for you to perform in front of a Peterborough audience?

“Oh yes. The home crowd will terrify me but playing to audiences that know your work is always special and I really hope that we’ll get lots of support.”

Are we likely to see you return to the stage again?

“I never say never! Initially though this really was a one-off trip down memory lane, but I have enjoyed going out there again and so perhaps when good roles come along I’ll always be tempted!”

Tickets for Raining Men are £12 – £17.50, so get booking ASAP!

Box office: 01733 207239.