News: Arinzé Kene to star as Bob Marley in new West End musical Get Up, Stand Up!

Arinzé Kene (Girl from the North Country, Death of a Salesman at The Old Vic) stars as Bob Marley in the world premiere of brand new musical Get Up, Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical, which begins performances at the West End’s Lyric Theatre on 28 May 2021. Press night is scheduled to be 16 June.

Taking inspiration from Marley’s visionary lyrics, Get Up, Stand Up! tells the extraordinary true story of his personal life, combined with stunning mixes of his hits played live. The musical is produced by Playful Productions, Stage Play and Cedella Marley.

With unlimited access to the singer’s platinum-selling back catalogue, the musical is brought to the stage by multi-award winning writer Lee Hall and and director Clint Dyer. Further creative team includes choreographer Shelley Maxwell, with musical direction from Sean Green, musical supervision from Phil Bateman, set design by Chloe Lamford, lighting design by Charles Balfour, sound design by Tony Gayle, costume design by Lisa Duncan and video design by Tal Yarden.

Casting direction is from Pippa Ailion CDG.

‘It’s not all that glitters is gold, half the story has never been told…’

Celebrate the true story of Jamaica’s global star Bob Marley in this astonishing new production Get Up, Stand Up!.

Armed with his talent and beliefs, Marley was determined to achieve international acclaim with his message of gospel and unity. Capture his rebellious spirit as this euphoric company of performers fuse his amazing music with a triumphant tale of passion and political unrest.

Experience songs such as “Exodus”, “No Woman No Cry”, “Waiting in Vain”, “Three Little Birds”, “I Shot the Sheriff”, “Could You Be Loved”, “Redemption Song” and many, many more.

Cedella Marley said: “Our father’s music has for so long been an inspiration to so many people. We are proud that audiences will be able to sit in his company for a little while and, we hope, feel better about themselves, and the world. The wonderful team bringing this story to the stage will create a special evening in honour of our father.”

Clint Dyer, director, said: “At long last! We have been waiting too long for this moment. It is a dream come true to be part of this project and I cannot wait to get into the rehearsal room to start work with Arinzé and the whole team to bring Bob’s music and story to life. What better way to soothe our souls after this troublesome year than with the music and spirit of one of the world’s great prophets.”

Arinzé Kene said: “It is Time. For. Bob. I am honoured and blessed to be taking on this role. Nothing feels more right, more hopeful than to be stepping into his shoes. I plan to immerse myself in his healing vibes and I hope very much we will be able to do justice to the great man.”

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