Theatre

Will to play Coward's gay stage role

Sam Lyon, London Lite
2 Jan 2007

Will Young is to make his theatrical debut in a controversial play which catapulted Noel Coward to fame.

The Pop Idol winner will play the lead in The Vortex - a scandalous sensation when it premiered in 1924.

Young, like Coward, will play troubled musician Nicky Lancaster in a play that depicts the drug-fuelled hedonism of the Bright Young Things.

There is a strong subtext of homosexuality throughout the play, which when Coward wrote and performed the play in the 1920s, was illegal. Young, 27, started rehearsing last week at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester.

It follows his film debut in Mrs Henderson Presents.

The play is expected to open on 17 January and run until 10 March.

Reader views (3)

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Wow! How brilliant is this play going to be with the super talented Mr Will Young in it, I simply can't wait ... Bring it on Will!

- Ali, Suffolk, 03/01/2007 09:48
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I have a great respect for Mr Will Young. Since he has been on the showbiz scene with his excellent singing voice, he has made me appreciate a decent song again. Apparently he always sings live - which in itself is a miracle nowadays!
I have managed to catch a couple of his concerts which were really great ( a Showman through and through), and his last 2 Albums Friday's Child and Keep On are a must. NOT your average albums - they are both super.
I look forward to seeing Mr Young's Acting ability in The Vortex. He was very good in Mrs Henderson Presents, but I believe his real credibility as an actor will hopefully come about, when he performs in the very difficult role he has in The Vortex.

- Stu, E. Sussex, UK, 02/01/2007 22:11
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I cant wait to see Will in the Vortex.. I dont live far from Manchester and have tickets for the opening night. If Will puts as much commitment and effort into this stage play as he does to everything else then Im confident he will be brilliant. Such a talented all rounder! Break a Leg Will..

- Julie, Staffs UK, 02/01/2007 17:19
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