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The Lord of the Rings swaps Middle-Earth for West End 28 May 2003

The Lord of the Rings fever that has gripped the world over the last couple of years continues with the announcement of the first stage musical adaptation of the epic story. The £8 million production is set to receive its World Premiere in the West End in Spring 2005, to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the publication of the complete trilogy.
JRR Tolkien’s classic novels, which are consistently voted among the most popular books in the country, have been thrust into the limelight recently with the film adaptation of the trilogy starring Sir Ian McKellen. The plot follows the adventures of Frodo Baggins and the Fellowship of the Ring as they strive to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-Earth from certain destruction at the hands of the evil wizard Saruman and Sauron, the Lord of the Rings.

The production has lyrics and book by Shaun McKenna and music by Stephen Keeling and Bernd Stromberger. McKenna and Keeling have previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed musical Maddie. Also on board is award-winning director Matthew Warchus directed current West End hits Tell Me On A Sunday and Our House.

The list of high profile names associated with this production continues with the producers Kevin Wallace and Saul Zaentz. Wallace’s West End productions include the Lloyd Webber musicals Whistle Down The Wind, Jesus Christ Superstar and Sunset Boulevard in addition to the critically acclaimed Gagarin Way and Eden. Zaentz is a legend among the film community with credits which include One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, Amadeus and The English Patient. He was awarded the Academy Fellowship at this year’s BAFTA Awards. Venue and casting information for the production are yet to be announced.