It will be directed by the Lyric's artistic director, Sean Holmes, and choreographed by Drew McOnie. According to press materials, this will mark the U.K.'s first professional stage production of the show in over a decade.
In a press statement, Parker commented, "I've always loved that Bugsy Malone is performed so often as a play in schools but, to be honest, I never ever liked the previous professional on-stage versions. In fact, in recent years, I have actively discouraged professional productions. However, meeting a few times with Sean Holmes of the Lyric and listening to his excellent ideas, I decided to give a stage production my blessing. I wish Sean and everyone involved well."
Bugsy Malone is set in Prohibition era New York "with rival gangsters Fat Sam and Dandy Dan at logger heads. As custard pies fly and Dan's destructive 'splurge guns' wreak havoc, Bugsy Malone, a penniless ex boxer and all round nice guy, falls for Blousey Brown, an aspiring singer. Will Bugsy be able to resist seductive songstress Tallulah, Fat Sam's moll and Bugsy's old flame, and stay out of trouble while helping Fat Sam to defend his business?"
Work is currently being completed on the creation of a new two-story extension called the Reuben Foundation Wing, which will house a wide-range of new facilities, including a dance studio, a TV studio, recording studios, screening cinema and a digital play space.
In a press statement, Jessica Hepburn, executive director of the Lyric Hammersmith, commented, "I can’t wait for people to come and see what we’ve done to the Lyric. I think they’re going to be amazed. The project has taken years of planning and fundraising and two years of construction work on site, but next year we’re going to unveil something really special. There isn’t going to be another producing theatre in London quite like it and there will be no better place for young people and emerging artists to develop their creative talent. Bugsy Malone is the perfect production to open the Lyric’s new chapter." The production will be designed by Jon Bausor, with lighting by James Farncombe and sound by Ben Harrison. The musical director is Phil Bateman, and casting is by Will Burton, with children's casting by Jessica Ronane.
To book tickets, contact the box office on 020 8741 6850, or visit www.bugsymalonetheshow.co.uk.
