Get ready for a performance which promises electrifying and dazzling showmanship as two of Northern Ireland’s most sensational stage exports, Aaron Kavanagh and Johanna Johnston, reunite with their long-term mentor and inspiration, the illustrious Peter Corry, MBE in the much-anticipated tour of ‘The Showman is Coming’ which opens at the Theatre at the Mill on the 9th September.
Our very own ‘Showman’ Peter Corry who created the show, promises an enchanting concert which, along with host of other talented performers, will set the stage ablaze captivating audiences far and wide. After their Northern Irish debut, the show will embark on a journey to the Netherlands, gracing theatres across the region until the end of October. This extraordinary production promises an exhilarating fusion of the passion of Moulin Rouge, the grandeur of Barnum, and the enchantment of The Greatest Showman.
Aaron Kavanagh and Johanna Johnston, two phenomenally talented individuals, both found their footing in the world of musical theatre under the guidance of Peter Corry and have blossomed into exceptional performers. Their journey began over a decade ago when they took part in a youth production of Les Misérables, meticulously directed by Peter himself. This experience ignited their passion for the stage and set them on a trajectory towards professional excellence and stardom. Peter says;
“I am absolutely thrilled and delighted to be working alongside the immensely talented Aaron Kavanagh and Johanna Johnston once again. Watching their journey from their early days in the youth production of Les Misérables to the incredible performers they’ve become today has been a source of immense pride and joy. The chemistry and artistry they bring to the stage is truly remarkable, and I can’t wait for audiences to witness their brilliance in ‘The Showman is Coming’.”
Aaron Kavanagh, a graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland’s Musical Theatre program, enjoys a glittering career, Aaron has graced stages worldwide, leaving an indelible mark with his versatile roles. From the seductive allure of Frank ‘n’ Furter in ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ to a captivating portrayal of Young Ben in Burt Bacharach’s ‘Some Lovers’, Aaron’s stage presence is nothing short of mesmerizing. Aaron also commands the spotlight with his solo show, ‘Beyond the Yellow Brick Road’, a jubilant celebration of Sir Elton John’s timeless music. Despite the widespread fame, he says there is nothing quite like performing on home soil;
“Coming back to Northern Ireland to perform is like a homecoming filled with electric energy and warm embraces. The connection to my roots, the familiar faces, and the incredible audience here create an atmosphere unlike any other. Every time I step onto a Northern Irish stage, I’m reminded of where my journey began, and it’s a feeling of pure exhilaration. I’m beyond excited to share the magic of ‘The Showman is Coming’ with my home crowd and these incredible performers, many of whom I have literally grown up with.”
Johanna Johnston, a beacon of talent hailing from Larne, has garnered acclaim across London’s theatrical landscape. Having honed her skills at the prestigious Urdang Academy, Johanna’s journey has been punctuated by remarkable achievements. Her credits, ranging from Sarah in ‘Our House’ to Hannah Adams in ‘Hope Street’, underscore her exceptional versatility and strong magnetic stage presence. Now returning home to Northern Ireland, Johanna is also set to dazzle as Rapunzel in this year’s eagerly anticipated panto at the Waterfront Hall. She says;
“Having lived and worked in London for over six years now I am so excited to be able to return to Northern Ireland and also to continue to work in theatre, opportunities are out there and these next few months for me are going to be so very busy. I’m looking forward to sharing the stage with the phenomenal Peter Corry and my dear friend Aaron Kavanagh, this is an absolute dream come true.
“Peter has been a guiding light in my journey, igniting the spark of passion that led me to this moment. Aaron and my paths have crossed many times over the years, and I always enjoy being on stage with him, the hard work at rehearsals is really a lot of fun and we are all like one big crazy circus family – it’s going to be a great show and a wonderful celebration of some of my absolute favourite songs of all time.”
The synergy between these two luminous stars and their mentor Peter Corry is a testament to the lasting impact of mentorship and shared dreams. Their bond, forged during their youth production, has grown stronger over the years, transcending professional collaboration and blossoming into a wonderful friendship. As Johanna reflects, “It feels like a full-circle moment…beginning all those years ago at the Theatre at the Mill as young kids and now here we are performing on the same stage again with Peter, all of us equal, and in a professional capacity.”
Aaron echoes this sentiment, “Peter’s constant, positive, and inspiring presence in my life is definitely here to stay, working at home in Northern Ireland, there is always a lovely welcoming and supportive environment.”
The talented duo’s shared excitement for the show is palpable, as they anticipate the moment their hard work and passion culminate in a truly unforgettable performance. Audiences will be transported into a world of spectacle, song, and dance, as ‘The Showman is Coming’ promises an evening of sheer entertainment magic. The show will showcase a whirlwind of dynamic dancers, mesmerizing singers, and awe-inspiring circus performers. With high-energy entertainment and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this is a night out you won’t want to miss.
So, mark your calendars for September 9th as Aaron, Johanna, Peter and co. join forces to light up the Theatre at the Mill. It’s a celebration of talent, friendship, and the enduring power of dreams. Let the show begin!
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