‘Book a seat at the greatest show on Earth: London’
WEST END MUSICAL STARS UNITE BEHIND #LONDONISOPEN CAMPAIGN TO BOOST CAPITAL’S ECONOMY
PIXIE LOTT, Sheridan Smith and the cast of Guys And Dolls today led the West End in backing a drive to keep London open to international talent and investment. Actors and actresses from 38 of the biggest shows in theatreland threw their support behind the #LondonIsOpen campaign by simultaneously releasing photos of themselves holding banners on stage. Beverley Knight of The Bodyguard at the Dominion, Michael Crawford in The Go-Between at the Apollo, Jenny Seagrove from How The Other Half Love at the Duke of York’s and Rebel Wilson from Guys And Dolls at the Phoenix Theatre were among the stars encouraging visitors and businesses in the wake of the EU referendum result. Other shows backing the campaign include Breakfast At Tiffany’s, Les Misérables, The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time, The Book Of Mormon, The Lion King and Wicked.
Mayor Sadiq Khan joined the cast of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane along with Jonathan Slinger, who plays Willy Wonka, and producer Caro Newling. Mr Khan said: “Few, if any, cities can rival London for arts and culture. Our shows are an enormous draw for visitors and talent from around the world.
“Together we are sending the message loud and clear that London is open. We are open to the world’s performers, to businesses, to people and ideas, and I encourage everyone to join us in reminding the world that London is the greatest cit y on Earth.” Newling, president of the Society of London Theatre, said: “London theatre has never been so vibrant, attracting audiences with the finest writers, directors, actors and producers. The industry’s spirit of cultural collaboration provides an unmatched experience.”
London can claim to be the world’s theatre capital, with the West End attracting a 14.7 million audience last year against Broadway’s 13.3 million. Theatre also raises more than £100 million in tax for the Treasury.
The #LondonIsOpen logo will be displayed at attractions and venues this summer. Jude Law, Jessie Ware, Tinchy Stryder, Sir Richard Branson, Google, Hilton and the City of London are among the campaign’s backers.