November dates

Eastbourne gets the high life as Cole Porter’s High Society comes to town this November.

Starring Call the Midwife’s Helen George alongside Freddie Fox and Julian Ovenden, the new production promises a “star-studded cast and a sparkling score” at the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne from November 10-14.

A spokesman said: “Champagne, scandal, romance and some of Cole Porter’s greatest songs come to Eastbourne this November as High Society arrives at the Congress Theatre, starring Call the Midwife favourite Helen George as Tracy Lord.

“Following her acclaimed performance as Anna in The King and I, Helen George returns to the stage in this sumptuous new production of Porter’s classic musical comedy, bringing a touch of Hollywood glamour to Eastbourne.

“Joining Helen George are stars of stage and screen including Freddie Fox (Slow Horses, House of the Dragon), making his musical theatre debut as the charismatic and unpredictable Mike Connor, and Julian Ovenden (Bridgerton, Downton Abbey, The Crown) as the suave and sophisticated Dexter Haven. They are joined by Nigel Lindsay (MobLand, The Capture) as Uncle Willie and Malcolm Sinclair (Pie in the Sky) as Seth Lord.

“Based on Philip Barry’s The Philadelphia Story, High Society follows glamorous socialite Tracy Lord as preparations for her society wedding descend into chaos when her charismatic former husband, Dexter Haven, reappears on the scene. With a pair of sharp-eyed journalists determined to uncover scandal, old flames, new romances and family secrets collide in a glittering world of wealth, wit and high society.

“The production features a dazzling score of Cole Porter classics, including True Love, Just One of Those Things, I Love Paris, Let’s Misbehave, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?, You’re Sensational and Well, Did You Evah? Audiences can expect an evening of romance, comedy, dazzling dance and glorious live music.

“Direct from its summer season at London’s Barbican Theatre, this major new production is brought to life by a multi-award-winning creative team. Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, the production features choreography by Anthony Van Laast (Mamma Mia!, Kiss Me, Kate) and musical supervision by Stephen Ridley (The King and I, Anything Goes), with a full orchestra helping to recreate the rich sound and glamour of the Golden Age of musical theatre.

“With its irresistible combination of glamour, razor-sharp wit, romance and unforgettable music, High Society promises a glorious dose of Golden Age musical theatre escapism and the perfect night out this November.”

For tickets visit eastbournetheatres.co.uk.