An internationally-renowned group of musicians and a comedy favourite are on their way to Norwich Theatre Royal.
The BBC Big Band has confirmed a pre-Christmas date on December 1 and will perform a fun-filled programme of festive favourites with a twist of swing.
And the ever-popular Rob Beckett will be taking to the Theatre Royal stage on April 13 next year.
Both shows will go on sale to Norwich Theatre Royal Friends on Wednesday August 28 at 9.30am and then on general sale on Friday August 30 at 9.30am.
Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading and most versatile orchestras, the BBC Big Band continues to delight audiences worldwide with their performances on the radio and in person.
They are best known for their show Big Band Special on BBC Radio 2 as well as appearances on BBC Radio 3’s Jazz Line Up. It also enjoys a huge global reputation for regular broadcasts on the BBC World Service, satellite radio and over the internet.
It also gives regular live performances at venues in the UK and around the world, and their Norwich visit will see them present a programme designed to tap into the pre-Christmas city atmosphere.
Joining them on stage will be the BBC Radio presenter and internationally-acclaimed vocalist Claire Martin whose 30-plus-year career has established her as an international tour de force on the jazz scene. She has won a wealth of awards including the Best Vocalist title at the British Jazz Awards on numerous occasions, and has also been honoured with an OBE for services to the music industry.
Also performing will be Jeff Hooper who has worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment world including Dame Shirley Bassey, Sir Tom Jones, Morecambe and Wise, and Matt Monro who taught Jeff how to tie a bow tie. He is a long-time collaborator with the legendary songwriter Burt Bacharach and also fronts the Strictly Come Dancing tour band.
Meanwhile Rob Beckett is set to entertain city audiences with his brand new show next year. He started in the stand-up world back in 2009 and quickly enjoyed success winning four new comedian competitions in his first year as a comic. His success led to him being invited in perform in comedy festivals in Australia, and he made his Edinburgh Fringe Festival debut back in 2012.
Rob is a familiar face on TV as host of BBC One’s prime-time Saturday night singing show All Together Now and as team captain on Channel 4’s Eight Out Of Ten Cats. He has also appeared on the likes of Live At The Apollo, Would I Lie To You?, Mock The Week, and Celebrity Juice.
John Bultitude, of Norwich Theatre Royal, said: “We are delighted to announce these new additions to our programme. A festive feel-good atmosphere is guaranteed as the BBC Big Band kick-starts Christmas in an amazing way.
“It is also exciting to welcome Rob to the stage. A favourite with comedy fans worldwide, this will be a great chance to enjoy his distinctive brand of humour right here in the city.”
Both at the Norwich Theatre Royal, The BBC Big Band play on Sunday 1 December, 7.30pm and Rob Beckett on Monday 13 April, 8pm.
To book, log onto www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000.
