STRICTLY Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood is to replace Paul O'Grady on stage during next week's Southampton run of Annie.
Craig, who has previously performed the role of Miss Hannigan at Mayflower Theatre to much acclaim, has stepped back in to the role following the death of the comedian and presenter last month, aged 67.
Tributes were paid to 'true gentleman' and 'superb performer' Paul O'Grady who was due to continue his long-standing relationship with Mayflower Theatre where he famously retired Lily Savage in pantomime Aladdin – A Wish Come True during Christmas 2010.
READ MORE: Paul O'Grady: A Mayflower Theatre regular
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When Craig Revel-Horwood appeared in Annie in Southampton, in May 2019, we described him as 'pretty much made for the role' and 'a ten in this glitterball of a show'.
The pair were already sharing the role during the latest UK tour of Annie.
The revival of this hit musical returns to Mayflower Theatre for one week only from Monday (April 24) to Saturday (April 29).
Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan's orphanage. Her luck soon changes when she's chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks.
Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie's search for her true family.
Its Tony award-winning book and score include the unforgettable songs It's The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don't Need Anything But You and Tomorrow.
Craig Revel Horwood was overcome with emotion as he and the cast of Annie paid tribute to Paul O’Grady during their first performance following the death of their co-star.
After the final bows in Birmingham, he addressed the audience and said they would like to dedicate this and every performance to the legend Paul O’Grady.
Revel Horwood had previously admitted that he had been left 'reeling in disbelief' after news broke of the passing of his 'colleague and friend'.
O’Grady died 'unexpectedly but peacefully' at home on March 28, his husband Andre Portasio announced.
Tickets for Annie are avaialble from mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711 811.
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