Menopause The Musical

The Cresset, April 21

What causes women of a certain age to suffer cold sweats, hot flushes, hormones to rage like tsunamis and mood swings that make them as predictable as the British weather?

No, it’s not watching David Beckham train - it’s the menopause.

But rather than complain about it, why not turn this change-of- life experience into a fun-filled night at the theatre, one that is coming to The Cresset next week. EastEnders’ Cheryl Fergison and singer Maureen Nolan star in Menopause The Musical.

And the ladies believe sharing this fun night to be therapy for the soul. Cheryl said: “This show simply had to be made. It tells you it’s okay to talk about the subject and I’m delighted because

I’m going through the menopause myself at the moment. You see, until you do you have no idea it’s such a big thing.”

Cheryl added, grinning; “Suddenly I’m sprouting a moustache. I could do Movember.

“I’ve never been one for creams, but I’m looking at them now and thinking ‘Is this going to make me firmer? Is this going to take my beard off?’” Menopause The Musical, says Cheryl, features songs that connect with her state of mind. “There are songs about getting older and the inevitability of your body shape changing.” She looks at her body and smiles; “Yes, it’s getting rounder.

“And I love the fact this show reminds everyone that the menopause makes you emotional. I’m not an emotional person but now I am tearing up, all the time, over nothing at all.”

Maureen is just as enthusiastic about the show. “The timing is great for this show,” she maintained. “Women just seemed to be desperate for a great night out. Menopause The Musical entertains with 23 songs such as I Will Survive, but rewritten with comedy lyrics.

“And it doesn’t make light of the menopause, rather it shows you can tackle the raging hot sweats with humour and honesty. I certainly don’t mind anyone knowing I have to have fans in my dressing room, even when it’s cold.

“But what’s really great about this show is that women come up to you and say ‘thank you for making it okay to be over 50’.”

Tickets from the box office www.cresset.co.uk