Two Liverpool legends, proud Scousers and former Coronation Street stars, are bringing their talents home to the Empire Theatre. Claire Sweeney takes on the role of Miss Hannigan in the classic musical Annie, a part she has long dreamed of playing. Les Dennis stars as Old Joe in the hit musical Waitress, with news he will also appear in a stage adaptation of Dinnerladies next year.
Personal Connections
Pete Price, writing for the Liverpool Echo, shares decades-long friendships with both stars. He first met Les Dennis at the Shakespeare Theatre Club when Dennis's career was beginning, and has attended all of his weddings. His friendship with Claire Sweeney began over a karaoke machine at EPA's in Southport in the 1990s, where Price hosted a successful Tuesday night karaoke event.
Two Must-See Shows
Waitress, first produced on Broadway in 2016, tells the story of Jenna, a pie maker and waitress trapped in a loveless marriage who finds courage through a pie-baking contest after an unexpected pregnancy. Les Dennis plays Joe, the elderly diner owner who encourages Jenna to believe in herself.
Annie, a beloved classic, follows the orphan Annie as she finds a home with Oliver Warbucks. Claire Sweeney portrays the delightfully cartoonish villain Miss Hannigan, the harsh, bitter manager of the orphanage. Reviews for her performance have been fantastic.
Performance Dates
Waitress runs September 7–12 at The Empire. Annie runs September 22–26 at The Empire. Both shows are described as immensely worth seeing, offering very different but equally captivating experiences.
