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Tess hits the international airwaves

4/8/2019

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SONGS from new British musical TESS are to be featured in an international broadcast this week.
 
The show has been selected for the ‘Sampler Platter’ slot on Musical Theatre Radio, an internet-based radio station devoted to the artform. The slot is a regular feature that aims to bring new and lesser-known musicals to a wider audience.
Musical Theatre Radio, Tess The Musical
Based in Canada, the station broadcasts its Sampler Platter at noon on Wednesdays (UK time), repeated at midnight on Thursday mornings. TESS will be featured on Wednesday, August 7.
The show, which has also received airplay on Radio 2’s flagship musical theatre programme Elaine Paige on Sunday, is written by composer Michael Blore and award-winning playwright Michael Davies. A concept album recording, featuring lead vocals by Siobhan Dillon, Tam Mutu and Simon Bailey, has also been released.
Musical Theatre Radio, Tess The Musical
The full musical is available to listen to on the website www.tessthemusical.com, where followers and fans can sign up to join #TeamTess and be given free access to hear the whole album. Meanwhile, talks are under way for a UK tour in 2020.
Set in the Wessex so beloved by Hardy, TESS tells the devastating story of Tess Durbeyfield, daughter of a poor villager who fatefully discovers that they may be related to the ancient aristocratic d’Urberville family. As Tess is sent to seek respectability with her new-found relatives, she embarks on an emotional and dramatic journey that leads to love, loss and ultimate tragedy.
Read again

'How to make a musical' blogs by TESS lyricist Michael Davies on WhatsOnStage:


Part 1: From page to concept album - WhatsOnStage
Part 2: Putting it out there - WhatsOnStage
Part 3: Tiptoeing towards the stage - WhatsOnStage
Part 4: Seeing is believing - WhatsOnStage
Part 5: What to do after your workshop - WhatsOnStage
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#TeamTess back in the studio

8/4/2019

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MUSIC from the new British show TESS is to be made commercially available for the first time as the creative team go back into the recording studio.
 
Composer Michael Blore and lyricist Michael Davies are to record a new version of the heroine’s solo The Wrong Side of the Door. The song will be performed by industry newcomer Jessie-Mae Thomas, who starred as Tess in recent workshop performances at the RSC’s studio theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The single will be available for download online, and the sheet music will also go on sale when the recording is released on May 1, 2019 – timed to match the title of the musical’s opening number, The First Day of May.
Tess The Musical, Siobhan Dillon, Tam Mutu, Simon Bailey, Concept Album, Musical Theatre
CONCEPT ALBUM

A full concept album recording of 
TESS, produced by Sunim Koria, is already available to listen to at the show’s website www.tessthemusical.com and has won five-star praise from critics and fans.

​The new single – also produced by Koria – will be the first time a number from the show has had a commercial release.
THE WRONG SIDE OF THE DOOR

​Blore said: “Jessie did such a fantastic job of bringing the role to life on stage and we are thrilled that she has agreed to give us a more permanent record of her performance. Anyone who saw her at The Other Place will know just what a talent she is, and her rendition of The Wrong Side of the Door was particularly moving. We can’t wait to see what she comes up with in the studio.”
Jessie-Mae Thomas, Tess The Musical
Jessie-Mae Thomas, the first stage Tess
TESS is a new British adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s epic novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles. It has been featured on Radio 2’s Elaine Paige on Sunday programme and talks are currently under way for a full staging of the show in 2020. Meanwhile, followers and fans can sign up on the website to join #TeamTess and be given free access to hear the entire concept album, featuring lead vocals by Siobhan Dillon, Tam Mutu and Simon Bailey.
David Fawbert Photography, Night Project Theatre, Jessie-Mae Thomas, Phil John, Tess The Musical, Tess The New Musical
Jessie-Mae Thomas, as Tess, with Phil John, as Alec d'Urberville
DRAMATIC JOURNEY

​Set in the Wessex so beloved by Hardy, TESS tells the devastating story of Tess Durbeyfield, daughter of a poor villager who fatefully discovers that they may be related to the ancient aristocratic d’Urberville family. As Tess is sent to seek respectability with her new-found relatives, she embarks on an emotional and dramatic journey that leads to love, loss and ultimate tragedy.
For regular news and updates about the show and its development, follow @MusicalTess on social media.

Read again

'How to make a musical' blogs by TESS lyricist Michael Davies on WhatsOnStage:


Part 1: From page to concept album - WhatsOnStage
Part 2: Putting it out there - WhatsOnStage
Part 3: Tiptoeing towards the stage - WhatsOnStage
Part 4: Seeing is believing - WhatsOnStage
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Sell-Out Workshop Production Wins Standing Ovation

18/3/2019

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The first audiences to enjoy a live presentation of new British musical TESS greeted the sell-out workshop at the RSC’s studio theatre with a standing ovation.
THE OTHER PLACE

​Two performances were staged at The Other Place in Stratford-upon-Avon in February 2019 as part of the musical’s ongoing development. Produced by Night Project Theatre, the workshop featured an ensemble of 12 cast members and a three-piece band performing new orchestrations of the score by composer Michael Blore.
Phil John, Jessie-Mae Thomas, Night Project Theatre, David Fawbert Photography, Tess The Musical
Phil John as Alec with Jessie-Mae Thomas as Tess
The show, directed by Ian Page, won rapturous reviews from audiences, with comments such as ‘spectacular’, ‘amazing’ and ‘a smash hit in the making’. The reviews were just as good, with Stagey Lady complimenting “a score of both substance and style, and an evocative libretto”, while the Stratford Herald welcomed “an incredible range of songs and emotions” and “moments to treasure”, adding: “The Other Place was certainly buzzing with the excitement of being there at the start of something.”
Composed by Michael Blore, with book and lyrics by award-winning playwright Michael Davies, TESS is a fully sung-through adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s much-loved epic Tess of the d’Urbervilles and can be heard in a concept album recording starring Siobhan Dillon, Tam Mutu and Simon Bailey, available to listen to free by signing up to join #TeamTess on the website www.tessthemusical.com/album.
Michael Blore, Jessie-Mae Thomas, Michael Davies, Tess The Musical
Creators Blore (l) and Davies (r) with the first stage Tess, Jessie-Mae Thomas
REGIONAL TOUR

​Meanwhile, Davies is blogging about the pair’s journey towards a professional production at the leading theatre website 
Whatsonstage.com under the title ‘How to Make a Musical’. Songs from TESS have already been featured on the Elaine Paige on Sunday show on Radio 2 and in a West End showcase, and talks are currently under way for a possible regional tour in 2020.
For regular news and updates about the show and its development, follow @MusicalTess on social media.

Read again

'How to make a musical' blogs by TESS lyricist Michael Davies on WhatsOnStage:


Part 1: From page to concept album - WhatsOnStage
Part 2: Putting it out there - WhatsOnStage
Part 3: Tiptoeing towards the stage - WhatsOnStage
Part 4: Seeing is believing - WhatsOnStage

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TESS TO FEATURE IN NEW LONDON SHOWCASE

5/10/2018

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New British musical TESS will feature in a special showcase evening at London’s renowned Pleasance Theatre.
 
Staged by Edward Baxter Productions, the Composure event puts the spotlight on new musicals composed by “provocative, emerging writers.”
PLEASANCE THEATRE

The showcase, in association with the Pleasance Futures, will take place in the Main House of the Pleasance Theatre at 7:30pm on Monday, October 15.
Pleasance Theatre
INNOVATIVE MUSICAL WRITING

​The producers promise an “enthralling” evening, with the opportunity to “experience the forefront of bold, innovative musical writing before anyone else”, adding: “This night is to showcase the Sondheims, Jason Robert Browns and Pasek and Pauls of tomorrow!” ​
Composure
COMPOSURE

​For TESS, it is not the first time to be involved in a Composure event, having been part of the first such showcase at the Arts Theatre in the heart of London’s West End earlier this year. 
“It’s great to have Tess back on board,” says producer Edward Baxter. “We believe such a brilliant show deserves a bigger audience.”
NIGHT PROJECT THEATRE

​Meanwhile, rehearsals are well under way for a first ever workshop performance of TESS at The Other Place in Stratford-upon-Avon early next year, with tickets going on sale very soon. For more information go to nightprojecttheatre.co.uk
SAMANTHA DORSEY

​Other shows featured at the Composure night include 
Possessed by Teresa Howard and Steven Edis, plus Obella and Tomorrow, Maybe by Stephanie Jayne Amies and Teddy Clements.
 
The role of Tess will be performed by Samantha Dorsey (right), former lead in ‘Anything Goes’ and Cosette in the West End production of  ‘Les Misérables’.
Samantha Dorsey
For more information about the showcase follow @theEdwardBaxter, where you can also find @MusicalTess, or visit www.pleasance.co.uk/event/composure  

Read again

'How to make a musical' blogs by TESS lyricist Michael Davies on WhatsOnStage:

Part 1: From page to concept album - WhatsOnStage
Part 2: Putting it out there - WhatsOnStage
Part 3: Tiptoeing towards the stage - WhatsOnStage

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TESS SHOWCASE HEADLINES LITERARY FESTIVAL

25/7/2018

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Audiences in the Midlands will get a flavour of new British musical TESS when a special showcase provides the headline attraction at a literary festival.
Songs from the show will be performed live before a Q&A with composer Michael Blore and lyricist Michael Davies as part of the Banbury Literary Live event in September.

​SHOWCASE

​Now in its sixth year, the annual festival will be held at the town’s Mill Arts Centre on Saturday, September 15. The community and family event boasts a line-up of top authors, speakers, performers and workshops and is aimed at bringing the community together and igniting a passion for literature. The 
TESS showcase at 4.15pm forms the culmination of the day, with free entry to visitors.

TESS is a fully sung-through adaptation of Thomas Hardy's much-loved epic Tess of the d'Urbervilles.

​ALBUM
Banbury Literary Live
Talks are currently under way to stage full productions of the musical later in 2018 and in 2019. Meanwhile, the whole show can be heard in a concept album recording starring Siobhan Dillon, Tam Mutu and Simon Bailey, available to listen to free by signing up to join #TeamTess at the website www.tessthemusical.com/album.
 
Banbury Literary Live co-organiser Joanne Thorne said: “We are really excited as TESS proves that classic fiction can be accessible to everyone in a really ‘live’ and exciting way.”
 
For more information about Banbury Literary Live, visit www.literarylive.co.uk. For regular news and updates about the show and its development, follow @MusicalTess on social media or visit www.tessthemusical.com.
 
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Tess selected for West End showcase

3/4/2018

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New British musical TESS has been chosen to be featured in a special showcase evening in London’s West End later this month.
Staged by Baxter & Batten Productions, the Composure event aims to shine a spotlight on new work “composed by provocative emerging writers”.
ABOVE THE ARTS

The showcase, in association with the Arts Theatre in the heart of the West End, will be hosted in the exclusive Above the Arts bar at 8pm on Wednesday, April 18.

​NEXT 'HAMILTON'
Picture
The producers promise the opportunity to “experience the forefront of bold, innovative musical writing before anyone else”, adding: “This relaxed evening is perfect for sharing a drink with friends and creative associates, and keeping your eyes peeled for the next Hamilton.”
TESS is a new adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s much-loved novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles, composed by Michael Blore with book and lyrics by award-winning playwright Michael Davies. A concept album of the show has been released and is available to listen to online at tessthemusical.com/album where you can also sign up to #TeamTess for the latest news and updates.
Picture
WHAT'S ON STAGE

Meanwhile, Davies is blogging about the pair’s journey towards a professional production at the leading theatre website whatsonstage.com under the title ‘How to Make a Musical’.
Other shows featured at the Composure night include Turning 30 by Harry Style and Amy Le Rossignol, Mess by Michael D Rasmusson and Imogen Halsey, Obella by Stephanie Jayne Amies and Teddy Clements, and Perfectly Ordinary by Joe Wilson and Matthew Rankcom.
COMPOSURE

​For more information follow @BaxterandBatten
on Twitter, where you can also find @MusicalTess,
or visit www.artstheatrewestend.co.uk 
Picture
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Tess duet gets London outing

15/3/2018

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​A love duet from new British musical TESS has been given a concert airing at a prestigious London venue.
 
'One Look of Love', taken from the musical adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s epic novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles, was featured in the Snappy Title concert at Chelsea’s Pheasantry nightspot.
'VERY WELL RECEIVED'

​The duet, performed by Nic Chiappetta and Stephanie Jörgensen, was “very well received” by a “large and appreciative audience”, according to concert organiser Peter Auker, who runs the ​
New Musicals Network.

ELAINE PAIGE ON SUNDAY
New Musicals Network
TESS, which was featured recently on Radio 2’s Elaine Paige on Sunday programme, is written by composer Michael Blore and award-winning playwright Michael Davies. A concept album recording of the show, featuring lead vocals by Siobhan Dillon, Tam Mutu and Simon Bailey, has also been released.
FREE ACCESS

​The album is available to listen to free on the website www.tessthemusical.com as part of a drive to get the show fully staged. Followers and fans can sign up to join #TeamTess and be given free access to hear the whole recording.
Set in the Wessex so beloved by Hardy, TESS tells the devastating story of Tess Durbeyfield, daughter of a poor villager who fatefully discovers that they may be related to the ancient aristocratic d’Urberville family. As Tess is sent to seek respectability with her new-found relatives, she embarks on an emotional and dramatic journey that leads to love, loss and ultimate tragedy.
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MUSICAL HEROINE TESS MAKES HER NATIONAL RADIO DEBUT

27/1/2018

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A SONG from the new British musical TESS has made its debut on national radio.
The solo In My Hand, performed by West End and Broadway star Siobhan Dillon, was featured on the ‘Elaine Paige on Sunday’ show on BBC Radio 2.
​'ICONIC'

It marks the start of a campaign to find the show a producer and take it from newly completed concept album to a fully realised stage production.
Elaine Paige
Composer Michael Blore said: "To be included on such a popular and iconic national show as ‘Elaine Paige on Sunday’ was truly an honour and an enormous thrill, giving our show the sort of publicity it will need to get it on stage.”
Tess The Musical
TESS is a sumptuous new adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s classic novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles. The concept album recording is free to listen to on the show’s website at www.tessthemusical.com and, alongside Siobhan Dillon in the title role, features Broadway and West End leading man Tam Mutu and ‘Jersey Boy’ Simon Bailey in stunning star performances.

'VERY EXCITED'


"The road ahead to finding a producer could be a long one", added Blore. "But we are very excited about what the future may hold for Tess."
'BEAUTIFUL SONG'

Reaction to the airplay on social media was immediate, with listeners describing it as “brilliant” and “a beautiful song, beautifully sung”.
 
Meanwhile, ‘EP’ promised her audience: “I’ll let you know how it progresses.”
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FOLLOW TESS'S JOURNEY AT WHATSONSTAGE.COM

4/11/2017

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IF YOU'VE ever wondered how a new musical might come to be made, you can now get the inside track direct from one of the creatives involved.

Thanks to leading theatre website Whatsonstage.com you can follow the progress of the new British musical TESS as it makes its journey – we hope – from score to stage.
Tam Mutu in the studio with technician Conor Manning and TESS creators Michael Blore and Michael Davies
Tam Mutu in the TESS studio
ATTRACTING PRODUCERS

The website is hosting an occasional blog by the show’s lyricist Michael Davies, detailing the process of taking a musical from its initial draft out into the world, with the aim of attracting producers and ultimately giving TESS its first full production.
The first instalment of the blog, catchily entitled How to Make a Musical, is now online. 
read whatsonstage article
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FIRST PUBLIC PERFORMANCE OF A SONG FROM 'TESS'

29/8/2017

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One of the featured songs from new British musical TESS is to get a public airing for the first time in a concert performance next month.
Nikki Cross
Nikki Cross to sing 'Guardian Angel' from TESS
Actress and singer Nikki Cross will perform 'Guardian Angel' as part of an evening of musical theatre favourites entitled Nikki Sings Things.
 
Nikki is no stranger to the TESS score after singing the role of dairymaid Izzy on the forthcoming concept album recording of the show. Composer Michael Blore said: “It is fitting that Nikki should be the first person to sing one of our songs live. She is a very talented performer who is not only great fun on the album but has also been a joy to work with.”
The TESS recording is due for completion within the next couple of months and features West End and Broadway stars Siobhan Dillon, Tam Mutu and Simon Bailey in the three principal roles. 
'EXCITING'

Nikki said: “I am very much looking forward to getting my hands on a copy and was so grateful to be part of such an exciting new musical.”

Nikki Sings Things starts at 7.30pm on Thursday September 21 at The Stagey Fox in Regent Street, Leamington Spa. It forms part of a season of events at the venue throughout the autumn, including concerts, play readings and storytelling.
Nikki Cross with Matt Flint
Nikki with MD Matt Flint
​For more information, visit www.thestageyfox.com/events or www.nikkiccross.com
Read again
  • Siobhan Dillon and Tam Mutu to lead Tess cast recording - whatsonstage
  • Tim Rice backs new British musical - carnstheatrepassion
  • West End stars join the team for musical Tess - stageylady
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BBC HOST LENDS VOICE TO NEW MUSICAL

14/12/2016

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BBC radio presenter John Griff has added his voice to new British musical TESS - literally.
John Griff
John Griff in the TESS studio
‘The Grifster’, whose afternoon show airs on BBC Radio Northampton every weekday, has provided guest vocals in three of the show’s big songs, including a solo spot as a money-grabbing banker in the riotous ensemble number Pleasure City.
 
Griff recorded his studio turn earlier this month and will be heard when the album of TESS is released in 2017. He’s previously interviewed the musical’s writers, Michael Blore and Michael Davies, on his show and is following its progress with regular updates for listeners.

Lyricist Davies said: “What some of John’s audience may not know is that, as well as being a supremely talented radio broadcaster, he’s also got a terrific singing voice, and we were delighted when he picked up our challenge of getting involved in the cast recording. His characterisations are superb and he’s the ultimate professional, so we couldn’t be more thrilled that he’ll be featured on the album.”

​
TESS is a sumptuous new adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s classic novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles. Three demo tracks are already available for free online at www.tessthemusical.com and the album recording of the full show is expected to be released in the autumn of 2017.
  • Siobhan Dillon and Tam Mutu to lead Tess cast recording - whatsonstage
  • Tim Rice backs new British musical - carnstheatrepassion
  • West End stars join the team for musical Tess - stageylady 
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NEW MUSICAL TESS UNVEILS LEADING LADY

31/5/2016

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​NEW MUSICAL TESS UNVEILS LEADING LADY
The iconic title role in the forthcoming album recording of new British musical TESS is to be played by West End star Siobhan Dillon.
 
The television favourite, who first rose to fame in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hunt for a Maria in The Sound of Music, has been unveiled as the eponymous heroine in the musical adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s iconic novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles.
Written by Michael Blore and Michael Davies, the album is the culmination of two years’ work. Siobhan’s co-stars have already been revealed as Tam Mutu, playing the villainous Alec d’Urberville, and Simon Bailey as her great love Angel Clare.

'BLOWN AWAY'
 

Composer Blore and lyricist Davies said they were “absolutely blown away” that Siobhan had agreed to step into the shoes of the tragic country girl battling her fateful destiny. They added: “There was a very short shortlist for this role, and Siobhan was on it. We didn’t dare hope we might be able to secure her fantastic talent, so we are more than excited that she is so keen to support this new work".
Siobhan Dillon
Siobhan Dillon will sing
​Tess of the d'Urbervilles
SUNSET BOULEVARD
​
Siobhan’s first professional appearance was understudying Sandy in the 2007 revival of Grease (Piccadilly Theatre). She went on to tour the UK in Bill Kenwright’s Can’t Smile Without You and as Sally Bowles in Cabaret before playing the role of Vivienne in the Olivier award-winning Legally Blonde (Savoy), Claire in EX (Soho Theatre) and the leading role of Molly in Ghost The Musical (West End).
 

She recently played opposite Glenn Close in Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard at English National Opera (Coliseum) and before that appeared as Ellen in Miss Saigon (Prince Edward).
 
Workshops include Jules in Bend It Like Beckham and Karen in From Here To Eternity, and her concert appearances include performing with Paul Gambaccini and the BBC Concert Orchestra on BBC Radio 2’s Friday Night is Music Night.
 

TESS is a new, fully sung-through adaptation of the much-loved novel. Pre-production is already under way on the album, which will be produced by Sunim Koria with orchestrations by Michael Blore. Recording is scheduled for the summer of 2016.
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Broadway leading man joins TESS album

27/5/2016

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BROADWAY LEADING MAN JOINS TESS ALBUM
Broadway and West End leading man Tam Mutu has signed up as one of three headline names on an album recording of new musical TESS.
 
Tam, who made his Broadway debut last year in the title role of Dr Zhivago (“utterly perfect” - Washington Times), is to sing the role of the villainous Alec d’Urberville in the new adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s much-loved novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles.

​
Written by Michael Blore and Michael Davies, the show is to be recorded as an original album later this year, with a fully staged production expected to follow.
A multi-award-winning performer and West End favourite, Tam alternated the role of the Phantom in Love Never Dies  with Ramin Karimloo (Adelphi), starred as Anatoly in Chess (Princess of Wales Theatre, Toronto) and won a clutch of awards as Javert in Les Miserables (Queen’s), including best performance in a long-running musical and best performance of a song for “Stars”.
 
His credits also include Love’s Labour’s Lost, Anything Goes, South Pacific and The Royal Hunt of the Sun at the National Theatre and a season with the RSC, where he played Tybalt in Romeo and Juliet and Edmund in King Lear. Other leading roles include Dinos Chapman in Rupert Goold’s Dr Faustus for Headlong.
Tam Mutu
Tam Mutu will sing Alec d'Urberville
On screen, Tam has appeared in TV’s Waking the Dead, Holby City, Doctors and Footballers Wives as well as the feature film The Butcher’s Shop. He’s also no stranger to radio, having appeared on the BBC’s Friday Night is Music Night,  Masked Heroes and A Celebration of the Western.
 

'Dreamland'
​

Composer Michael Blore said: “To say it will be an honour to work with Tam is an understatement. He is dream casting and will bring not only his stunning talent but also an incredible wealth of West End and Broadway experience to the role of Alec d’Urberville. When we set out on planning an album of the show, it’s safe to say we never imagined that we could secure the services of so many truly wonderful performers. We really are in Dreamland.”
 

Two years in the writing, TESS is a fully sung-through new British musical. Recording is scheduled for the summer of 2016, with orchestrations by Blore and production by Sunim Koria. West End star Simon Bailey has already been announced to play Angel Clare, and the casting of the title role is due to be unveiled shortly.
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TESS SCOOPS WEST END STAR FOR ALBUM RECORDING

20/5/2016

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TESS SCOOPS WEST END STAR FOR ALBUM RECORDING
WEST End star and musical theatre heart-throb Simon Bailey has been named as one of three headliners for the album recording of new British musical TESS.
 
Writers Michael Blore and Michael Davies said they were “thrilled” Bailey would be starring in their musical adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s much-loved novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles playing the role of Tess’s great love, Angel Clare.
 
Currently appearing as Bob Gaudio in the West End production of Jersey Boys, Bailey has performed in some of the biggest shows in musical theatre history. He’s played Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera (Her Majesty’s), Enjolras in the 21st anniversary cast of Les Miserables (Queen’s) and Pharaoh in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (New London).
Other credits include We Will Rock You (Dominion), 
​Passion (Donmar Warehouse) and I Can’t Sing! The X-Factor Musical (Palladium). He played Officer Starnes and Tom Watson in the critically acclaimed Parade at the Southwark Playhouse, for which he was nominated in the Broadway World awards as best featured actor in a musical.
 
Bailey is also a founder member of Teatro, Theatreland’s first supergroup. Teatro achieved gold status with their eponymous debut album after just three weeks, making them one of the fastest selling musical theatre acts of all time. They’ve performed across the world, as well as at the Royal Variety Performance. Simon’s solo concerts, meanwhile, have won him fans all over the UK and further afield, including Kuala Lumpur, Egypt and the US.
Simon Bailey
Simon Bailey will sing Angel Clare
Lyricist Michael Davies said: “We are thrilled and rather awed to have Simon on board. His extraordinary voice and amazing track record in the world of musical theatre will add something wonderful to the role of Angel.”
 ​
TESS is a new, fully sung-through adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s much-loved novel. Pre-production work on the album of the show is already under way, with further casting news expected over the coming weeks and recording scheduled for the summer of 2016.
 

The album will be produced by Sunim Koria, with orchestrations by Michael Blore. Casting announcements for the other two leading roles - Alec d’Urberville and Tess herself - are expected in the next few weeks.
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Latest star announced for new musical album

10/5/2016

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TESS writers Michael Blore and Michael Davies have announced the casting of another key role for the forthcoming album recording of their new British musical.
Tess’s ale-addled father John is to be played by musical theatre veteran James Dinsmore.

Recently appearing in Corbyn the Musical at the Waterloo East Theatre in London, James has worked for leading producer Bill Kenwright in productions of An Ideal Husband and Half a Sixpence. Other credits include Annie, Little Shop of Horrors, Darling of the Day, The Sound of Music, Oliver! and Chess.
He has sung with Scottish Opera in performances of La Boheme
and Wagner's Ring cycle and appeared in Die Fledermaus, 
The Mikado and The Gondoliers with the Carl Rosa Opera Company.

 
'QUALITY SINGERS' 

Lyricist Davies said: “The quality of singers who are willing to support this exciting project has been quite extraordinary. We are absolutely delighted that James, with his hugely impressive track record in musical theatre and opera, has joined our talented cast, and we’re really looking forward to working with him.”

James Dinsmore
James Dinsmore will sing
​John Durbeyfield
TESS is a fully sung-through adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s much-loved novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles. Pre-production work on the album of the show is already under way, with further casting news expected over the coming weeks and recording scheduled for the summer of 2016. 
​
The album will be produced by Sunim Koria, with orchestrations by composer Blore.
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West End star signs up for new musical album

22/4/2016

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THE first star in the final round of casting for new British musical TESS has been announced.
 
Writers Michael Blore and Michael Davies have been working on casting the five principal roles for the album recording of their adaptation of Tess of the d’Urbervilles
.
Now they have revealed that the part of Tess’s mother, Joan Durbeyfield, is to be played by West End star JACQUELINE TATE.
 
Tate has performed in shows and concerts around the world, including appearing as Bloody Mary in South Pacific (Barbican and national tour), Christmas Eve in Avenue Q (Wyndham’s, Gielgud and national tour) and Madame Giry in The Phantom of the Opera (Her Majesty’s Theatre).
 
Trained at the Royal Northern College of Music and the London School of Musical Theatre, her international credits include My Fair Lady in Singapore and Evita in Beirut for Nikolai Foster, as well as The Pirates of Penzance and The Merry Widow for the Carl Rosa Opera Company on tours of the UK, USA, Canada and South Africa.
In concert, she’s sung with the London Symphony Orchestra in the Bernstein Mass (Barbican, Marin Alsop, broadcast on BBC Radio 3), the Armenian Symphony Orchestra in a performance of Adiemus, the Israel Chamber Orchestra (Bach Mass in B Minor) and at the Bridgewater Hall under the baton of Kent Nagano (L’Enfance du Christ).

​
Composer Michael Blore said: “From a very strong field of actors we are thrilled to be working with someone of the calibre of Jacqueline. This album already promises to be something quite special and securing such an experienced professional in the role of Joan brings that promise one step closer to reality.”
Jacqueline Tate
Jacqueline Tate will sing Joan Durbeyfield
TESS is a new, fully sung-through adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s much-loved novel. Pre-production work on the album of the show is already under way, with further casting news expected over the coming weeks and recording scheduled for the summer of 2016.

​The album will be produced by Sunim Koria, with orchestrations by Michael Blore.
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Casting notice - principal roles for the album of TESS

7/3/2016

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​​CASTING NOTICE
 
TESS – THE ALBUM
 
New British writing team of Michael Blore and Michael Davies are delighted
to announce the first ever cast recording of their musical
TESS

​Posted on: March 7th , 2016
Website: www.tessthemusical.com
Album Producer: Sunim Koria
Casting Director: Anne Vosser
Email: anne@vosser-casting.co.uk
 
Auditions
March 31st & April 1st, 2016 10am – 5pm
 
Dance Attic Rehearsal Studios, 368 North End Road, Fulham, London, SW6 1LY
 
Actors are requested to prepare one song of choice that shows off their full range as well as the music from the show that is provided.

 
Recording Dates 
Recording of the principal roles will take place at a studio in the London area and be carried out between August and September 2016 on dates agreed with the artist. Please see below for a guide to the number of days each role is required in the studio.
 
Synopsis
Almost two years in the making, this sumptuous new adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s classic novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles has been created by composer Michael Blore and award-winning playwright and lyricist Michael Davies and recently gained the critical praise of Sir Tim Rice.
 
TESS tells the devastating story of Tess Durbeyfield, daughter of a poor villager who fatefully discovers that they may be related to the ancient aristocratic d’Urberville family. As Tess is sent to seek respectability with her new-found relatives, she embarks on an emotional and dramatic journey that will lead her to love, loss and ultimate tragedy.

 
TESS couples Hardy’s iconic tale with a majestic score and evocative libretto. Fully sung-through, in the manner of Les Miserables or Phantom of the Opera, it offers a bold and highly expressive retelling of this ever-popular, much-loved story.
 
Roles
TESS DURBEYFIELD, 18-25, MEZZO SOPRANO/SOPRANO (range from E below middle C to G above upper C), eldest daughter of a Marlott village farming family. Beautiful-looking (and sounding!). Ability to perform with a West Country accent an advantage. Expected number of days in the studio: 8
 
ANGEL CLARE, 20s, HIGH BARITONE/TENOR (range from G below low C to A-flat above middle C), second son of a parson entertaining a certain wanderlust. Handsome with it. Expected number of days in the studio: 4
 
ALEC D’URBERVILLE, 20s to early 30s, HIGH BARITONE/TENOR (range from G below low C to A above middle C), a nouveau riche landowner. Charming and sinister. Expected number of days in the studio: 4
 
JOHN DURBEYFIELD, 50s, BASS (range from E-flat below low C to D above middle C), Tess’s father with a penchant for a drink. A farmer. A West Country accent is required. Expected number of days in the studio: 2
 
JOAN DURBEYFIELD, late 40s to early 50s, SOPRANO (range from A below middle C to G-sharp above upper C), Tess’s superstitious mother. A West Country accent is required. Expected number of days in the studio
: 2

For more details and submissions please e-mail the casting director, Anne Vosser, and write
​"TESS - The Album" in the subject line. 
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Casting announcement - Groby and Parson Tringham

3/3/2016

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​In further news from TESS creators Michael Blore and Michael Davies, it is announced that another two important roles have been cast for the album recording of the show.
Both roles – GROBY and PARSON TRINGHAM – are representative of a society that shuns women in Tess’s heart-breaking position in this new British musical adaptation of Hardy's much-loved novel Tess of the d'Urbervilles.

Hard-nosed farm manager Groby will be played by Olivier award-winning actor NATHAN DOWLING. Having trained at Mountview Academy in London, Nathan went on to perform in national tours of Anything Goes, The King and I, Annie and Tracy Beaker Gets Real. For his work on Jerry Springer: the Opera at the National Theatre he received the Olivier award for ‘Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical’.

​
Local man of the cloth Tringham, who sets in motion the pursuit of the d’Urberville name, will be AARON GIBSON. A graduate of Arts Ed in London, Aaron has enjoyed a career on both stage and screen.  From playing the titular role in Oliver! (Leicester Haymarket Theatre), his theatre credits include Goodnight Mrs Calabash (The Gatehouse Theatre, London), Edges the Musical (The Landor Theatre, London), Let’s Sing (Birmingham Symphony Hall), CBeebies’ Numberjacks (U.K. Tour), Jamie and Anna Live! (U.K. Tour), Aladdin (Belgrade Theatre, Coventry) and Mother Goose (Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds). In film he has recently featured in Zombie Apocalypse and Kaleidoscope Man. “I could not be more proud to be a part of this exciting new cast recording’, he says, adding, “What a thrilling experience to be working with this team of talented artists. The story lends itself so lovingly to musical form and promises to capture hearts nationwide. I have high hopes for the show’s success and look forward to sharing it with others who I know will adore it!”
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This concludes the second stage of casting for the album of TESS. Renowned casting director Anne Vosser will be holding auditions for the five principal roles on March 31st and April 1st at the Dance Attic in Fulham, London. More details are expected to be released later this week. 

​
Produced by Sunim Koria, work on pre-production of the album will begin in April.

Composer Michael Blore said: “It will be a privilege to work with so many artists of such a high quality.  I can’t wait! Bringing the score to life will be a dream come true with something of a dream cast.”
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Casting announcement - The Dairymaids

1/3/2016

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​TESS creators Michael Blore and Michael Davies are delighted to announce the casting of three crucial roles for the forthcoming album recording of the show - the Dairymaids.
The trio - MARIAN, IZZY and RETTY - not only provide some comic relief but also give Tess significant support as she battles with her personal tragedies in the new British musical adaptation of Hardy's much-loved novel Tess of the d'Urbervilles.
 
Dipsomaniac dairymaid Marian will be played by SALLY JOLLIFFE, whose lead roles include productions at Birmingham's Hippodrome and New Alex theatres, as well as more intimate concerts and cabarets across the UK. She said: "I'm really excited about recording this beautiful score with a very talented cast and team."
 
NIKKI CROSS takes the role of Izzy, an old hand on the farm where Tess finds work. Nikki trained with leading young people's company Playbox Theatre, and recent credits include Singin’ In The Rain, The Pajama Game and Annie (Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa), Sweeney Todd, Little Shop of Horrors, Godspell and Scrooge (The Loft), Humpty Dumpty (Talisman Theatre), The Full Monty, Boogie Nights, 
The Wedding Singer (Spa Theatre Company) and Hair (The Dream Factory, Warwick). Born in Bristol, she claims she is “very much looking forward to getting the chance to revive my native West Country accent!”   

 
The young and naive Retty will be played by PHILIPPA ROSE, currently training at Mountview
​Academy of Theatre Arts in London. A veteran of Rugby Theatre, she previously worked with composer Michael Blore on The Rise and Fall of Little Voice. Other credits include Juliet in Romeo and Juliet at the RSC in Stratford-upon-Avon, the promiscuous teenager Ivy in Total Theatre's production of Bare, and 
Lois in Mountview's production of Kiss Me Kate. After TESS, she says she is “looking forward to graduation and seeing what the professional world holds for me”.
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This is the second tranche of casting for the TESS album after the Chorus was announced earlier this month. Renowned casting director Anne Vosser will be holding auditions for five principal roles on March 31st and April 1st at the Dance Attic in Fulham, London. More details are expected to be released later this week. 
 
Produced by Sunim Koria, work on pre-production of the album will begin in April.
 
Lyricist Michael Davies said: “We are thrilled with the latest developments in casting and delighted to welcome on board so many performers of such quality and talent. It really feels that we are at the start of something rather extraordinary."
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FIRST CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR ‘TESS – THE ALBUM’

5/2/2016

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The first stage of casting has been announced for the album of new British musical TESS.
Performing in the chorus in a variety of roles will be GSA graduate and solo artist TRICIA ANDERSON, leading actor from numerous musicals such as Chess and La Cage aux Folles MICHAEL BARKER,  TV actress and performer at Northampton’s Royal and Derngate Theatre CATHY CRADDOCK, actress, director and producer at Heartbreak Productions MADDY KERR, graduate from the Birmingham School of Acting whose recent credits include The Russell Brand Effect: the morning after JANETTE SUMMERFIELD and actor and director of shows including Jesus Christ Superstar and Glorious! MARK TOLCHARD. The chorus is completed by two newcomers – SOPHIE CRADDOCK and LEXY KNIBBS, who will soon be performing as Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray at Stratford College.
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“I’m thrilled to be involved in this exciting project”, says Janette Summerfield. “I was privileged to hear and sing a couple of songs early on in the creative process and was struck by how powerful both the lyrics and the music were. I was still singing the songs a week later!”
 
Casting for the album will be conducted in three stages. The second stage will be of named supporting roles with an announcement expected at the beginning of March. The final stage will be of the principal roles and involve London casting director Anne Vosser. Auditions will take place at the beginning of April with an announcement to follow soon after.

Pre-production of the album will begin in April and be produced by Sunim Koria.

​
Having gained the critical praise of legendary lyricist Sir Tim Rice, the show is being recorded for the very first time to promote it to a bigger audience in its quest to receive a first theatrical performance. “I’m delighted to be recording this album”, adds actress Summerfield. “I know the story of Tess and can’t wait to help transfer it from page to stage.”
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    ​SELL-OUT WORKSHOP SHOWS
    NEW LONDON SHOWCASE

    BANBURY LITERARY FESTIVAL
    ​​
    TESS WEST END SHOWCASE 
    DUET GETS LONDON OUTING
    ​ELAINE PAIGE ON SUNDAY

    1ST WHAT'S ON STAGE ARTICLE
    FIRST SONG PERFORMANCE
    BBC HOST SINGS ON ALBUM
    LEADING LADY UNVEILED

    BROADWAY STAR JOINS ALBUM
    TESS SCOOPS WEST END STAR
    LATEST STAR ANNOUNCED
    WEST END STAR SIGNS UP 
    CASTING NOTICE
    CASTING GROBY & TRINGHAM
    CASTING THE DAIRYMAIDS
    FIRST CASTING FOR ALBUM
    TIM RICE BACKS TESS
    TESS ALBUM ANNOUNCEMENT
    IN CONVERSATION WITH CTP
    TESS ON THE BBC


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