The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
It’s rock-tacular!
Rock for Heroes the laugh-a-minute “rocktacular” experience is coming to Peterborough’s New Theatre on June 16. Featuring a superb sevenpiece band, with world class musicians and singers, the show breathes new life into the music of Guns ‘N’ Roses, Bon Jovi, Prince, Meat Loaf, Queen and more.
It is a show for all the family and a must see for any rock fan – and raises money for Help For Heroes at the same time.
We caught up with Philip Hawkins, producer, front man and managing director of One Entertainment before the show…
What awaits audiences at the New Theatre?
Imagine driving down the east coast highway of America, sun, convertible car and the anthems of the greatest Rock legends playing as you take in the views. This is what Rock for Heroes delivers….
Delivered how only Rock for Heroes can, by inviting the audience to become part of the stage and the show via comedy and entertainment as it should be done. You will not see a dodgy wig here, as we are not a tribute, we simply pay tribute to amazing artists.
How did the production come about?
I was sat in my shed office in Leigh on Sea, always wanting to work with a military charity and put together Rock for Heroes. After a lovely conversation with Help for Heroes, I had the approval to fundraise in support of Help for Heroes and the rest is history. Rock for Heroes has raised tens of thousands for Help for Heroes.
How did you choose the songs for Rock for Heroes?
At first, we picked the biggest rock anthems to perform for audiences. However as the show has grown, we have requests from audience members which we have now integrated into the show.
Theatre audience members have donated to the charity for inclusion of their chosen song to be included. Some of the stories we receive about these songs are so humbling, we cant help but include them.
Tell us about Help for Heroes?
Having military connections in my family, I have always wanted to raise money for military personnel. Working with Help for Heroes and the amazing Carole Groves, our regional fundraising manager in the southeast, we raise via bucket collection after each show. Help for Heroes works in the community with serving and ex-serving men and women to help rehabilitate them through injury and or mental wellbeing. It’s a privilege.
Who is your favourite artist?
One of my favourites is The
Eagles. The musicianship is like no other. The harmonies are something that I pride myself on being able to do as a performer of 20 years with the inspiration coming from the Eagles as well as my other favourite band, The
Beach Boys.
A final word for everyone coming along to see you perform
If you love Rock music and want to escape for a few hours and laugh out loud, sing loud and proud to the biggest Rock anthems of a generation, then come down and join for what will be one unbelievable party.
Tickets for the show are available online at: www. newtheatre-peterborough.com