A 100th birthday party was held for and at the London Palladium where The Wizard of Oz will open next February. Andrew Lloyd Webber , Danielle Hope, Bruce Forsyth, Michael Ball and a host of other celebrities associated with the Palladium were present on a Tuesday lunchtime to unveil a plaque, toast one of London’s favourite theatres, and hear Andrew Lloyd Webber talk about the planned refurbishment.
London Palladium 1910- 2010 100 years of great entertainment
Speaking to a glittering showbiz audience including Phillip Schofield, Elaine Paige, Jason Donovan, Bruce Forsyth, and Des O’Connor Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “Today’s celebration is about recognising the rich history of this wonderful theatre and the fantastic performers who have graced its stage. It is also about the beginning of the biggest programme of refurbishment and change in the Palladium’s history and I’m delighted to announce the restoration of the iconic revolving stage and plans for the complete refurbishment of the front of house areas.”
The main entrance and facade need to be repaired, a new box office area created, a new lift installed, and toilet facilities improved all before The Wizard of Oz opens in February 2011.
Danielle Hope was there of course, and spoke about her forthcoming part in the history of the London Palladium as Dorothy, leading role in The Wizard of Oz:
“Hello! and happy 100th birthday to the London Palladium. What an amazing afternoon. A wonderful group of people and such a great place to celebrate, I’m so proud that I can be a part of it. There has been such tremendous history here, so far, and hopefully I shall make some more, all good I hope. So have a look at the cake, and Happy Birthday Palladium, cheers”
