PREVIEW: Fat Friends The Musical to premiere at Leeds Grand Theatre

Based on Mellor’s hit television series, Fat Friends, this brand-new stage show reunites our favourite foodie friends in an original musical bulging with hopes, humour and heart.

Produced by Joshua Andrews and Adam Spiegel, with original music and songs composed by Nicholas Lloyd Webber, Fat Friends The Musical will star Jodie Prenger, Sam Bailey, Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff, Natalie Anderson, Natasha Hamilton and Kevin Kennedy.

Kay Mellor said: “About once or twice a week I get asked if Fat Friends is going to come back to television. I’m always flattered that people loved the characters and premise… I always secretly thought there could be a musical using those characters and looking at weight - it’s such a topical subject matter, more so today that ever.

“The musical is funny and sad with a big story and some meaty, memorable songs.

“I’m absolutely delighted and thrilled for the premiere of Fat Friends The Musical to be held at Leeds Grand Theatre. Not only is Leeds my home town but its where I set the television series and the stage musical.

“I love Leeds with a passion and the people of Leeds inspire me every day. It fills me with pride to know that the musical will be seen in Leeds before anywhere else.”

Fat Friends hit television screens in October 2000, following the lives of a group of overweight friends as they struggle with the absurdities of modern dieting.

Entertaining millions of viewers for five years on ITV, the show starred Alison Steadman, Gaynor Faye and Lisa Riley, and launched the careers of James Corden and Ruth Jones. It was nominated for multiple awards, including the BAFTA for Best Drama Series.

Fat Friends The Musical is at Leeds Grand Theatre from Tuesday, November 7 to Saturday, December 2, 2017

BUY TICKETS: Tickets are priced from £20 (RV) to £50. Prices include a £3 booking fee. Postage charge £1 where applicable. Buy in person, book online at leedsgrandtheatre.com or call the Box Office on 0844 848 2700.