- Can't Smile Without You, Darlington Civic Theatre - Chesney Hawkes has been out of the spotlight since his 1991 smash hit, The One and Only, writing and producing music and touring with his band, and this musical, featuring 27 of Barry Manilow's songs, could be the big break he's waited all this time for. The plot involves five British lads who go to New York to audition and meet Jeff, a glitzy showbiz entrepreneur (a nice comic turn from Howard Samuels). Jeff's very taken with Chesney Hawkes' character, imaginatively named Tony Lowiman but he wants to send the rest of the band home. Following a weekend spent solo at Jeff's home, Tony strikes up a relationship with Mandy, but waiting at home is his fiancée Lucy, who's really in love with his best friend Scott. All's well in the end, of course ... The band and the vocals are excellent ... Even if you're not a fan of Manilow, he's written so many decent pop songs! Until Saturday. Box Office: 01325-486555. (The Northern Echo, 11/26/2008)
http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/leisure/3878874.Can___t_Smile_Without_You__Darlington_Civic_Theatre/
- Chesney in town to sign guitar for charity - Eighties star Chesney Hawkes is expected to visit a music store today. The singer, who is currently appearing in the Barry Manilow musical Can't Smile Without You at The Regent Theatre, will be joined by other members of the show at Academy Of Sound, in Hanley. During his trip he will be asked to sign an electric guitar which will then be auctioned-off to raise money for the Cheethams Ward at The University Hospital Of North Staffordshire. (This is Staffordshire, 11/20/2008)
http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/news/Chesney-sign-guitar/article-488832-detail/article.html
- Can't Smile Without You (Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, November 17-22) - The hit songs of Barry Manilow form the basis for this stage musical about a budding pop star whose brush with tragedy leaves him fighting for his life. His only hope lies in the power of the music he loves and his feelings for a girl he once knew named Mandy. Former chart-topper Chesney Hawkes heads the cast. Visit www.regenttheatre.co.uk or ring 0870 060 6649. (Chester Chronicle, 11/14/2008)
http://www.chesterchronicle.co.uk/entertainment-chester/whats-on-chester/2008/11/14/theatres-14-11-08-59067-22250080/
- Can't Smile Without You in Hanley - Chesney Hawkes is one of the best-loved one-hit wonders in pop and now he's making his musical mark. Despite the fact the show features more than 30 of Barry Manilow's hits, it tells the story, not of the famous singer, but of a fictional character called Tony. Played by Chesney, Tony is the frontman of an aspiring young band who, on a visit to New York, is snapped up to appear on a television reality show to find the next pop sensation. Disaster strikes however, when he is left fighting for his life. Suffering from memory loss and with his dreams in tatters, the only thing Tony appears to remember are songs from the past. Enter Barry Manilow classics such as, "Could It Be Magic," "It's A Miracle," "Mandy," and, of course, "Can't Smile Without You." "It's not quite my musical debut," says Chesney, "but it's certainly my first at this level. It's like playing live and having the crowd bouncing back at you. It's instant entertainment, right there and then, and the buzz I get from it is that it's all in your hands," he says of being on stage. While West End musical mogul Bill Kenwright offered Chesney tips on how to act, the most valuable advice he has had for his latest role has come from the man himself – Barry Manilow. He says: "My memories of Barry Manilow when I was growing up in the 1980s were through my mum, her sister and my aunt who loved him. I remember seeing a video of him playing live and it had an impact on me even then. There is something mesmerising about him on stage. Through his melodies and lyrics he connects emotionally with people. I joked to him about the amount of key changes he has in every song, and he said, 'All you need to do is listen to the lyrics you are singing and feel them, and the key changes will look after themselves'." Can't Smile Without You can be seen at The Regent Theatre in Hanley from Monday, November 17, to Saturday, November 22. Call the box office on 0870 060 6649. (This is Staffordshire, 11/14/2008)
http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/theatre/Chesney-smile-fame/article-473228-detail/article.html
- Can't Smile Without You at The Regent Theatre in Hanley - Chesney Hawkes stars in Barry Manilow musical Can't Smile Without You at the Regent Theatre in Hanley next week, alongside How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? finalist Siobhan Dillon and I'd Do Anything hopeful Francesca Jackson. "Can't Smile Without You" is Hawkes' first foray into musical theatre after almost 20 years in show business. He says: "It's been going good. We've got great reviews and have sold out most nights. My character is a young guy, a singer-songwriter, who goes to New York on a stag weekend with his band and off the cuff they audition for a reality TV show, but the makers only want solo artists. I fall in love with a girl called Mandy, no surprises there, but I get beaten up outside a club which triggers this sequence of events. It's a good fun night out to be honest. The cast are brilliant and musically it's great. The story does work as well. Some people find the story a bit light but it's what it is - a good entertainment show." And it appears that Hawkes was the perfect choice for carrying off the Manilow songs featured in the musical. "I didn't realise, but I have a very similar voice to Barry Manilow," he says. Can't Smile Without You runs at The Regent Theatre in Hanley from Monday until Saturday, November 22. Shows start at 8pm with 2.30pm matinee performances on the Wednesday and Saturday. Tickets are £10-£28, phone 0870 060 6649 or visit www.theambassadors.com/regent. (Crewe Chronicle, 11/12/2008)
http://www.crewechronicle.co.uk/entertainment-crewe/news-reviews/
2008/11/12/nobody-he-d-rather-be-96135-22230408/
- Manilow magic at Theatre Royal - If Barry Manilow is not appearing in person at Nottingham's Theatre Royal this week then his fans can revel in the next best thing. Chesney Hawkes plays the lead role of Tony in the UK tour of Bill Kenwright's brand new musical love story Can't Smile Wihout You. He meets a girl on his New York stag night, falls for her and then loses his memory after a fight when he returns to England. That's the plot but this is really a Manilow-fest, packed with more than 30 of his songs and backed by a class band under the direction of John Maher. In support are excellent performances from 23-year-old Siobhan Dillon, who first came to the nation's attention as runner up in the BBC's hit TV show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, and Francesca Jackson, finalist from recent TV hit I'd Do Anything. Performance Times: Evenings 7.30pm. Saturday matinee 2.30pm. Ticket Prices: £12- £30.50 Box Office: 0115 989 5555. (Ilkeston Today, 11/7/2008)
http://www.ilkestonadvertiser.co.uk/9116/Manilow-magic-at-Theatre-Royal.4672237.jp
- Chesney Hawkes in Derngate musical - Pop star Chesney Hawkes will be starring in the new show Can't Smile Without You at Northampton's Derngate theatre from Monday until Saturday, November 15. The musical love story features all the timeless classics from music legend Barry Manilow. Joining Chesney as love interest Mandy is 23-year-old Siobhan Dillon, who first came to the nation's attention as runner-up in the BBC's hit TV show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? The new musical, fully endorsed by Barry Manilow, includes over 30 of Barry's hit songs including "Could it Be Magic," "It's a Miracle," "I Write the Songs," "Mandy," "I Made it Through the Rain" and, of course, "Can't Smile Without You." It tells the tale of the lead singer of an aspiring young band that gets the chance to appear on a reality TV show to find the next pop music sensation. He thinks he's about to realise his dream, but when he is caught up in a tragic sequence of events, it looks like his dream is over. Left with no memory, his only hope lies in the music he loves and his feelings for a girl he once knew, called Mandy. The show starts at 7.30pm each night, with matinees at 2.30pm on Wednesday and Saturday. Tickets are priced from £14 to £31 and can be booked by calling the box office on 01604 624811 or at www.royalandderngate.co.uk. (Northampton Chronicle & Echo, 11/7/2008)
http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news/Chesney-Hawkes-in-Derngate-musical.4672532.jp
- Review: Can't Smile Without You, Theatre Royal ... If you want a thoroughly escapist night out with some fine musicianship, top singing voices and a knowing glint in its eye, I urge you to beat a path to the Theatre Royal this week. Can't Smile Without You does exactly what it says on the tin. It's a night of pop tunesmith Manilow magic. There may be a story about a singer meeting a girl on a his stag weekend in New York, falling in love, and coming back to Blighty, only to be injured in a fight in which he loses his memory. But it's only a device to get us thinking about when the next hit will be played – and whether true love will find a way. Chesney Hawkes takes the lead role of Tony Lowiman and he is more than ably accompanied by Francesca Jackson as fiancée Lucy and Siobhan Dillon as television executive PA Mandy. The band, under the musical direction of John Maher, are extremely tight, with some of the arrangements enhancing what Manilow has already given us. The Theatre Royal audience for opening night lapped up this piece of musical theatre with many suggesting on the way out a return later in the week. It's the next best thing to a concert by the man himself! (This Is Nottingham, 11/4/2008)
http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/entertainment/Review-t-Smile-Withiut-Theatre-Royal/
article-447186-detail/article.html
- What's On: Can't Smile Without You, a musical love story featuring all the timeless hits from music legend Barry Manilow including "Could it be Magic," "It's a Miracle," "I Write the Songs," "Mandy," "I Made it Through the Rain," "Tryin' to Get the Feeling Again" and of course, "Can't Smile Without You." Edinburgh Festival Theatre, Nicolson Street, 7.30pm (Thursday and Saturday matinees, 2.30pm), £8.50-£30, 0131-529 6000 (Scotsman News, 10/31/2008)
http://news.scotsman.com/entertainment/What39s-on-Thursday-November-6.3671140.jp
- Manilow magic for the One and Only Chesney - It may be 18 years since Chesney Hawkes spent five weeks at the top of the charts but there's still no escaping "The One and Only." "I'm very proud of that record and as long as people want to keep hearing it I'll keep playing," he says but these days he is far more excited about his musical theatre debut in a touring production of Can't Smile Without You, a show inspired by the music of Barry Manilow. The show is the brainchild of theatrical producer and Everton chairman Bill Kenwright. "Bill loves Barry's music," says Chesney. "He's a Fan-ilow, - that's what they call them. Bill approached Barry and he said 'as long as you do a musical of mine you can do yours' - so Bill's putting his on in Broadway and this one here. Bill has always loved the music and they are great songs. As a songwriter myself, sitting down playing them on the piano, as I do in the show, I can really appreciate the craftsmanship that has gone into them." As well as the title track Can't Smile Without You features another 29 Manilow classics, including "Could It Be Magic," "I Write The Songs," "It's A Miracle" and "Mandy." "They are songs that everyone knows," says Chesney. "When I tell all my friends they all say they never realised they knew so many Barry Manilow songs. Barry and I have emailed each other, he's listened to my music, he likes my voice and has given it the thumbs up. That's all I can really ask for." Chesney believes that the time is right for a reassessment of the Manilow magic which has been perceived as sentimental and not hip. "Music goes through these cycles," says Chesney. "I guess it's something I can relate too. Even Abba weren't cool for a while. It's hard to understand why people are cynical like that but I have never bothered with that. All that's mattered to me is if I believe the music is good." (This is DerbyShire, 10/31/2008)
http://www.thisisderbyshire.co.uk/entertainment/Manilow-magic-Chesney/article-439814-detail/article.html
- The One and Only is back in town - A strange blend of die-hard Chesney Hawkes fans and devout Barry Manilow 'Fanilows' will occupy Nottingham's Theatre Royal next week, when Chesney stars in Can't Smile Without You, a new musical featuring the music of Manilow. Chesney Hawkes Hawkes is a name overshadowed by his early '90s anthem "The One and Only," released when he was just 19. Well, possibly not for much longer. Now a 37-year-old father of three he could soon find fame a second time around via musical theatre. His leading role as Tony in the new musical Can't Smile Without You - which sets all the Barry Manilow classics to a fictional storyline in the same way that Mamma Mia did with Abba - should reignite Chesney's own fanbase, plus win thousands of new fans from Barry's camp... One phenomenon meets another when Chesney steps into easy listening legend Manilow's shoes to sing greats such as "Mandy" and "Copacabana" in Can't Smile Without You, but Chesney feels he's bridged the gap. "We've had nothing but good reviews; it's all been very positive from the Press, and the crowd go nuts dancing in the aisles. It's a real feel-good night out. The Fanilows are a hard bunch to please I tell you, they are pretty devout, but I seem to have been accepted."Can't Smile Without You is at Nottingham Theatre Royal from November 3-8. (This Is Nottingham, 10/31/2008)
http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/entertainment/town/article-440433-detail/article.html
- Can't Smile Without You at the Regent Theatre - Homecoming queen Siobhan Dillon reckons she has solved a problem like a career. The Lichfield-born actress, who got a lucky break on the BBC1 talent search show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, returns to nearby Hanley to star in the Barry Manilow musical Can't Smile Without You on the Regent Theatre stage next month. Siobhon, 24, says she had always wanted to be a singer from when she was a little girl. "Initially for me it was just about singing. I remember sitting watching American Idol on telly and I thought 'I really want to do this'." Luck was on her side. Siobhon auditioned for Maria? but found herself fall just outside the final 10 places. However, finalist Emilie Alford dropped out, allowing her to take her place and prove her worth to reach the final three. Siobhon's musical theatre career has already seen her star in the West End production of Grease as Patti, while she also hopes to release a solo album next year. Her visit to the Regent, from November 17, will see her star along "The One And Only" hitman Chesney Hawkes. "The show itself is a made-up story, not really about Barry Manilow at all, and the main character of Tony has nothing to do with Barry Manilow either. It's a story built around a catalogue of his songs." Can't Smile Without You runs at the Regent Theatre from Monday, November 17, until Saturday, November 22. Shows start at 8pm with 2.30pm matinee performances on Wednesday and Saturday. Tickets are £10-£28, phone 0870 060 6649 or visit www.theambassadors.com/regent to book. (Crewe Chronicle, 10/29/2008)
http://www.crewechronicle.co.uk/entertainment-crewe/news-reviews/2008/10/29/siobhan-dillon-say-cheese-96135-22137483/
- Northampton gets set for Manilow Musical - Singer/songwriter Chesney Hawkes will be starring in the brand new show Can’t Smile Without You, when it comes to Northampton’s Royal & Derngate from Monday 10 to Saturday 15 November. This musical love story features all the timeless classics from music legend Barry Manilow. Pop icon Hawkes is best known for his Number One Smash Hit The One and Only, which spent no less than five weeks at the top of the UK Single Charts and went on to become an international phenomenon and one of the most successful tracks of the decade. Joining Chesney as love interest Mandy is twenty-three year old Siobhan Dillon, who first came to the nation’s attention as runner up in the BBC’s hit TV show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria. The show also stars Francesca Jackson, finalist from the recent hit BBC show I’d Do Anything. This fantastic new musical, fully endorsed by Barry Manilow, includes over 30 of Barry’s hit songs including "Could it be Magic," "It's a Miracle," "I Write the Songs," "Mandy," "I Made it through the Rain" and of course "Can’t Smile Without You." It tells the tale of the lead singer of an aspiring young band that gets the chance to appear on the latest reality TV show to find the next pop music sensation. He thinks he’s about to realise his dream, but when he is caught up in a tragic sequence of events, it looks like his dream is over. Left with no memory, his only hope lies in the music he loves and his feelings for a girl he once knew called Mandy... Can’t Smile Without You takes to the Derngate stage from Monday 10 to Saturday 15 November, at 7.30pm nightly, with matinees at 2.30pm on Wednesday and Saturday. (What's On Stage, 10/27/2008)
http://www.whatsonstage.com/blogs/central/?p=105
- One and only Chesney to star - Singer-songwriter Chesney Hawkes has been cast in the prestigious lead role of 'Tony' for the forthcoming UK tour of Bill Kenwright's new musical love story Can't Smile Without You. The show features all the timeless classics from music legend Barry Manilow, and Hawkes is joined by Francesca Jackson, a finalist from recent TV hit 'I'd Do Anything' and 23-year-old Siobhan Dillon, better know as runner-up in the BBC's 'How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?,' who will play Hawkes' love interest Mandy. The story unfolds when an aspiring young band on a visit to New York and come across an opportunity to audition for the latest reality television show to find the next pop music sensation. When the television company offer lead singer, Tony, the chance to appear on the show, the other band members give him their blessing. But before Tony can realise his dream, he is caught up in a tragic sequence of events which leave him fighting for his life. Left with no memory, his dreams are shattered and his only hope lies in the power of the music he loves and his feelings for a girl he once knew - Mandy. With book by Tim Prager and based on an original idea by Bill Kenwright, this brand new musical - fully endorsed by Barry Manilow and his music executive Garry Kief - includes over 30 of Barry's hit songs including "Could It Be Magic," "It's a Miracle," "I Write The Songs," "Mandy," "I Made It Through The Rain," "Tryin' To Get The Feeling Again" and, of course, "Can't Smile Without You." The show will be running at Nottingham Theatre Royal from Monday to Saturday, November 3 to 8 - call 0115 9895555 for tickets, and Stoke's Regent Theatre from Monday to Saturday, November 17 to 22 - tickets are available by calling the box office on 0870 0606649. For further information visit the website at www.kenwright.com. (Burton Mail, 10/24/2008)
http://www.burtonmail.co.uk/burtonmail-leisure/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=360658
- Chesney Hawkes and Siobhan Dillon light up the show - Can't Smile Without You -- a musical based on the hits of Barry Manilow and starring 1990s popstar 'The One and Only' Chesney Hawks in the lead role -- follows a band who go to New York to make it big. But the record producer only wants singer Tony. He gives up his chance of fame to go back to gigs in Grimsby with the boys - but not before meeting a girl called Mandy of course. Then an attack leaves Tony unable to remember anything about himself - all he can recall is music. Manilow hits like "Could it be Magic" are woven into the plot as he tries to find himself - and his girl - again. Hawkes has the voice and charisma to win over the Manilow fans. Plus, with Siobhan Dillon, and Francesca Jackson, a runner-up in BBC's Nancy contest, the show proves that it's big on charm. King's Theatre until Saturday. Call 0870 060 6648 or visit www.kings-glasgow.co.uk. (Scotland Evening Times, 10/14/2008)
http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/display.var.2460267.0.
review_say_cheese_for_a_snapshot_of_barry_manilow_magic.php
- Chesney on stage - Pop singer and songwriter Chesney Hawkes makes his musical stage debut next month at the Theatre Royal, Nottingham. He stars a new show featuring more than 30 of Barry Manilow's classic hits. Called Can't Smile Without You, the show runs from November 3-8 and will feature both evening and matinee performances. Tickets priced £12- £30.50 are available from the box office at 0115 989 5555. (This Is Derbyshire.co.uk, 10/8/2008)
http://www.thisisderbyshire.co.uk/entertainment/Chesney-stage/article-380821-detail/article.html
- Win Can't Smile Without You tickets - The one and only Chesney Hawkes makes his musical debut at the The King's Theatre, Glasgow, this month in a production of Can't Smile Without You. And The Milngavie and Bearsden Herald has teamed up with the organisers to offer a free pair of tickets to see the show on Monday, October 13 at 7.30pm. Singer/songwriter Chesney Hawkes has been cast in the prestigious lead role of Tony for the forthcoming UK tour of Bill Kenwright's brand new musical love story, featuring all the timeless classics from music legend Barry Manilow. The show is on from Monday, October 13 to Saturday, October 18 at 7.30pm. Make sure you get this week's Herald for full entry details! (Bearsden Herald, 10/3/2008)
http://www.bearsdenherald.co.uk/entertainment/Win-Can39t-Smilt-Without-You.4556891.jp
- Actress Siobhan Keeps Smiling in Manilow Musical - Siobhan Dillon was seven when Chesney Hawkes rocketed to pop stardom with The One And Only. So to find herself on stage with Chesney playing her leading man 17 years later is taking some getting used to. But when the pair arrive at Hull New Theatre next Monday in Can't Smile Without You, a new musical based around the songs of Barry Manilow, the romantic chemistry between the two should be well and truly coming to the boil. "It's bizarre really," says the 24-year-old. "I remember Chesney when he was first on Top Of The Pops, so to actually be in a show with him is slightly surreal. I'll admit that when I met him I was a bit nervous and star-struck but he's so personable and down-to-earth that it doesn't last that long. We're having a right laugh together now. He's actually the perfect leading man, he's got great personality, a great voice, and he really knows how to work an audience. I'm learning a lot from him about stage craft." (Hull Daily Mail, 10/2/2008)
http://www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk/environment/
Actress-Siobhan-keeps-smiling-Manilow-musical/article-363952-detail/article.html
- Review: Can't Smile Without You - You certainly don't have to be a Barry Manilow fan to enjoy Can't Smile Without You, the new Barry Manilow musical playing at the Bristol Hippodrome until September 27. The talented cast is headed by pop sensation Chesney Hawkes, ITV's I'd do Anything finalist Francesca Jackson and Siobhan Dillon, runner up in the BBC's How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? The plot tells the tale of a young British band on the search for stardom in the US with a heart warming love story and a tragic twist tied in. Thirty of Manilow's classic hits are enjoyed along the way including "Mandy," "Could it be Magic," "I [Write] the Songs" and the show stopping "Copacabana." Impressive vocals, top class acting and many laugh out loud moments make this a thoroughly enjoyable performance for all ages. The cast were given a rapturous applause as the final curtain fell with fans dancing in the aisles throughout the encore. (The Weston Mercury, 9/23/2008)
http://www.thewestonmercury.co.uk/content/twm/whatson/story.aspx?
brand=Westonmercury&category=whatsonTheatre&tBrand=westonmercury&
tCategory=zwhatson&itemid=WeED23%20Sep%202008%2009%3A41%3A38%3A443
- Bill Kenwright's production of Can't Smile Without You currently playing at the Bristol Hippodrome during the early stages of its UK tour turns out to be a very pleasant and hugely enjoyable surprise. The enjoyment is due partly to the fact that the hit songs are by Barry Manilow - a vintage songwriter whose melodies always soar and touch the right emotional buttons - and partly due to some knock-out performances by an immensely talented cast. Manilow - a megastar singer-songwriter whose career has spanned four decades, selling over 76 million records - is no stranger to the world of musical theatre, having penned the songs for the musicals Copacabana and Harmony. But the score for Can't Smile Without You merely draws from the Manilow songbook via a book by Tim Prager. The plot concerns Tony Lowiman (Man-i-low... get it?), a boy-band lead singer who, while on a stag weekend in New York, attracts the attention of an American producer and meets and falls for an American girl before returning to the UK to become the victim of a vicious attack, suffering injuries that cause him to lose his memory. Things are further complicated by the fact that his fiance, Lucy, has been having an affair with his best friend, Scott - though Tony's amnesia leaves him blissfully unaware of all this while he continues his music career and grasps at snatches of memories of the girl he met in New York, whose name- rather predictably - was Mandy. It's all incredibly cheesy but the book is tastefully tongue-in-cheek, allowing Manilow's songs to take over the show. The ensemble cast, aided by tightly paced direction by Keith Strachan and Bill Kenright, deliver highly energetic performances, giving great support to the show's four leads. Edward Handoll's Scott is slick, witty and charming; Siobhan Dillon exudes with class as Mandy; Francesca Jackson is sassy and vibrant as Lucy and - just as she did as West End Rent Remixed's Joanne - she blows everyone away with her vocals. And Chesney Hawkes is totally endearing as Tony while giving a genuine star vocal performance. Sceptics may dismiss the show as trite and lightweight, but as a piece of pure theatrical enjoyment it succeeds in engaging and entertaining its audience throughout. And after the final stunning encore ensemble rendition of the Manilow classic, "One Voice", everyone will leave the theatre feeling better than they did when they went in. (Broadway World, 9/23/2008)
http://www.broadwayworld.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=32991
- Lots to smile about - Songs by music legend Barry Manilow will take on a life of their own when Can't Smile Without You arrives at the Liverpool Empire this month. Nineties icon Chesney Hawkes will star in Bill Kenwright's musical, which features all the timeless classics from Barry Manilow. The play tells the story of Tony, played by Hawkes, the lead singer of a young band searching for stardom. Francesca Jackson, a finalist in BBC talent show I'd Do Anything, and Siobhan Dillon, a runner-up in How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, will star alongside Hawkes as his character stumbles upon the chance to appear on a reality TV show. But before Tony can realise his dream, a tragic sequence of events takes hold, leaving him fighting for his life. His only hope lies in the power of the music he loves and his feelings for a girl he once knew called Mandy... Can't Smile Without You is on at the Empire from September 15-20. Tickets are priced between £8.50 and £30.50. To book, call the box office on 0844 847 2525 or visit www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk. (Wirral News, 9/17/2008)
http://www.wirralnews.co.uk/entertainment-wirral/news-reviews/2008/09/17/lots-to-smile-about-80491-21832778/
- New Barry Manilow musical with Chesney Hawkes - Nineties pop star Chesney Hawkes pays tribute to singer Barry Manilow in a new musical at the Empire Theatre. The 36-year-old, who plays the role of rising star Tony in the latest Bill Kenwright production, arrived at the theatre with leading ladies Francesca Jackson and How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria finalist Siobhan Dillon. Hawkes had a hit with "The One And Only" at the age of 19. The song spent five weeks at the top of the charts. (Liverpool Echo, 9/16/2008)
http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-news/local-news/2008/09/16/new-barry-manilow-musical-could-be-magic-100252-21826711/
- Can't Smile Without You, The Churchill, Bromley - It's clear Chesney Hawkes - Can't Smile Without You's leading man - has been a big draw with the crowds. A ripple of excitement and cheers spread through the theatre when he walks on stage. He plays Tony, singer in a band who while on a stag-do in New York drops in auditions for a talent show with his band mates. While the band as a whole make a good impression, it's Tony and his pop star good looks the show's producers want. He ends up staying on the US for a few extra days and meeting a girl called, you guessed it, Mandy. Anyone familiar with the Barry Manilow back catalogue - which this show is dedicated to and inspired by - will have an inkling of what happens next ... Early on in the action, to prove he's not another "bubblegum" pop star, Tony takes to the piano at a New England party to perform a goose-pimple inducing rendition of "Could it be Magic." It was just lovely. Siobhan Dillon's (who played Mandy) performance of the title song is also incredible. The How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria? finalist's voice is natural but extremely beautiful. "Mandy," "I Write the Songs," the famous medley and a particularly a group performance for One Voice's were also nicely done. This light-hearted drama is a bit of fun packed with great musical performances and an absolute must for the Fanilows. Playing at The Orchard, Dartford until Sep 13. 01322 220000. (News Shopper, 9/11/2008)
http://www.newsshopper.co.uk/leisure/theatrecomedy/
display.var.2444776.0.cant_smile_without_you_the_churchill_bromley.php
- Can't Smile Without You - Billed as the Barry Manilow musical, this is a Mamma Mia!-type show jam-packed with all the veteran pop star's hits. To be exact - 27 of them. It's a must for Manilow's fans and an entertaining night for others. More than that, if, as hoped, it transfers into the West End, it is an assured career boost for Chesney Hawkes. The story concerns a five-piece band from London arriving at a New York audition seeking fame, a contract and fortune. Hawkes as Tony is the lead singer about to marry Lucy, but having his doubts. She is played by Francesca Jackson, owner of a really belting voice, who also wants out as she has fallen for Scott, the band's No 2. That's Edward Handell, another powerful singer. Blonde No 2 is Siobhan Dillon, a New York PR named Mandy, of course, who is romantically drawn towards Tony. On her stiletto heels, she has the figure and face to win any man, and a voice that carried her into the final week of BBC1's How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria? contest, plus a Lloyd Webber record contract. With plenty of songs and complications along the way, the framework is there for a switch of love partners. While the quartet are sorting themselves out, Howard Samuels as a cheapskate American showbiz manager/agent/whatever-pays-the dollar windbag is putting on a show-stealing performance. Whether singing, dancing, or dispensing one-liners, he is a natural joy - a rogue with an eye for the main chance and a percentage. In keeping with an essentially musical production, there is a first class band, nine strong at times, under the command of keyboard player John Maher. It helps that Chesney Hawkes, Manilow-style and looking not unlike him, can sing to his own piano accompaniment. With as many script lines as lyrics, he is making demands on his vocal chords. But with a break like this hopefully his voice will hold out. Run sheet:
- Churchill Bromley - August 28-September 6
- Orchard Dartford - September 8-13
- Empire Liverpool - September 15-20
- Hippodrome Bristol - September 22-27
- Palace Manchester - September 29-October 4
- New Hull - October 6-11
- King's Glasgow - October 13-18
- Festival Edinburgh - October 20-25
- Theatre Royal Nottingham - November 3- 8
- Derngate, Royal & Derngate Northampton - November 10-15
- Regent Stoke-On-Trent - November 17-22
- Civic Darlington - November 24-29
Book by Tim Prager. Management: Bill Kenwright and Churchill Bromley. Cast: Chesney Hawkes, Siobhan Dillon, Francesca Jackson. Director: Keith Strachan and Bill Kenwright. Design: Andy Walmsley. Lighting: Ben Cracknell. Choreography: Carole Todd. Musical direction: John Maher. Production information can change over the run of the show. (The Stage, 9/8/2008)
http://www.thestage.co.uk/reviews/review.php/21695/cant-smile-without-you
- Former TV hopeful Francesca Jackson has landed a starring role in the new Barry Manilow musical. She shares the stage with 1990's pop heart-throb Chesney Hawkes in Can't Smile Without You. The show, about a reality TV contestant who loses his memory, is the first major role Ystalyfera-raised Francesca has bagged since featuring on BBC show I'd Do Anything. Francesca's mum Mel is more than proud, and can't wait to see her daughter, who has previously appeared in the West End, back in the limelight. She said: "It's a great opportunity for her. The show opened on August 28, and Fran has really been enjoying performing. Can't Smile Without You, produced by Blood Brothers Bill Kenwright, runs until Saturday, November 29, and takes in 11 UK venues. (Red Orbit, 9/7/2008)
http://www.redorbit.com/news/entertainment/1546124/smiling_frans_musical_delight/
- Chesney's All Smiles - Theatre impresario Bill Kenwright's new musical love story Can't Smile Without You, running November 24-29 at Darlington Civic Theatre, has opted for singer/songwriter Chesney Hawkes in the lead role of Tony. With book by Tim Prager, the production is based on an original idea by Kenwright, and features hits from Barry Manilow. The story centres on a band visiting New York who hear of a reality TV show, but only the lead singer Tony is offered a chance to appear, which leads to tragedy. "Could It Be Magic," "It's A Miracle," "I Write The Songs," "Mandy," "I Made It Through The Rain," "Tryin' To Get The Feeling" and the title track are among 30 Manilow songs included in the show. Joining Hawkes as his love interest, Mandy, is 23-year-old Siobhan Dillon, who was runnerup in BBC1's How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? The show is aiming for a West End run. (Red Orbit, 9/6/2008)
http://www.redorbit.com/news/entertainment/1545756/theatre__chesneys_all_smiles/
- Chesney Hawkes: The one and only - You can't beat a bit of Barry," laughs Chesney Hawkes. The star of Bill Kenwright's love story Can't Smile Without You is referring to Barry Manilow, the inspiration behind the new show at the Liverpool Empire. "Barry is a guilty pleasure for me. Before I did this show I had no idea how much I liked his music. Those songs are amazing. There's a million key changes, so they work well theatrically. It's the first time I've ever done anything like this, and I love it." Chesney is playing the leading man. "It's a new story, bullet-pointed by Barry Manilow songs, based on Tony, who is a struggling singer," he says. The story follows an aspiring young band on a visit to New York who come across auditions for the latest reality TV show. When the TV company offers lead singer Tony a chance to appear on the show, the other band members give him their unconditional blessing. But before Tony can realise his dream, he is caught up in a sequence of events which leave him fighting for his life. Left with no memory his dreams are all but shattered, except his feelings for a girl he once knew called Mandy. "The songs are great. I love 'Ready To Take A Chance Again.' Each one is so well crafted. But I'm a little bit afraid. [Barry's] are big shoes to fill. There are going to be a lot of Fanilows! Barry's fans. They really do love him. He's like a god." Chesney is clearly looking forward to playing at the Empire. "Liverpool is my favourite place to play. I've played the Empire loads of times, and I've had a great time every night. You're guaranteed a good laugh with a Liverpool audience." Can't Smile Without You plays at the Empire Theatre from 15-20 September 2008, 7.30 pm, Wed and Sat 2.30 pm matinee. Tickets £8.50 - £30.50. For details see www.liverpoolempire.org.uk. (Liverpool Echo, 9/5/2008)
http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/views/liverpool-columnists/echo-columnists/
2008/09/05/chesney-hawkes-the-one-and-only-100252-21679083/
- Chesney Hawkes smiling at the Bristol Hippodrome - The one and only Chesney Hawkes will star in the brand new musical Can't Smile Without You at the Bristol Hippodrome. The new musical by Bill Kenwright is a love story which features all the timeless classics from music legend Barry Manilow. Pop icon Hawkes has been cast as the lead role of Tony. Chesney is best known for his number one smash hit, "The One and Only," which spent five weeks at the top of the UK single charts and became one of the most successful tracks of the '90s. Joining Chesney as his love interest, Mandy, is Siobhan Dillon who first came to the nation's attention as runner-up in the BBC's hit TV show, How Do you Solve A Problem Like Maria? Since the show Siobhan made her West End debut in Grease at the Piccadilly theatre and co-wrote and recorded an album with Polydor for Universal. Can't Smile Without You, to be staged at the Bristol theatre from September 22-27, is fully endorsed by Barry Manilow. The show includes over 30 of Barry's hit songs including "Could It Be Magic," "It's A Miracle," "I Write The Songs" and "Mandy." Tickets, priced from £10, are available from Ticketmaster on 0844 847 2341 or via www.bristolhippodrome.org.uk. (Weston & Somerset Mercury, 9/3/2008)
http://www.thewestonmercury.co.uk/content/twm/competitions/story.aspx?
brand=Westonmercury&category=competitions&tBrand=westonmercury&tCategory=
zcompetitions&itemid=WeED03%20Sep%202008%2012%3A25%3A29%3A247
- Can't Smile Without You premieres 01 September at Bromley's Churchill Theatre - Francesca Jackson is the latest Nancy finalist from TV's I'd Do Anything to land a starring stage role. She joins pop singer Chesney Hawkes and another reality TV contestant, Siobhan Dillon from How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?, in Barry Manilow's Can't Smile Without You. The new compilation musical premieres on 1 September 2008 (previews from 28 August) at Bromley's Churchill Theatre ahead of a three-month regional tour and planned West End transfer next year. Can't Smile Without You revolves around an aspiring young band who, on a visit to New York, come across an opportunity not to be missed - auditions for the latest reality TV show to find the next pop sensation. When the TV company offers lead singer Tony (Hawkes) a chance to appear on the show, the other band members give him their blessing. But before Tony can realise his dream, he's caught up in a tragic sequence of events which leaves him fighting for his life. Left with no memory, his dreams are all but shattered. His only hope lies in the power of the music he loves and his feelings for a girl he once knew called Mandy (Dillon). Can't Smile Without You has a book by Tim Prager based on an original idea by Bill Kenwright, who also produces the show and co-directs it with Keith Strachan. The production is designed by Andy Walmsley with lighting by Ben Cracknel, choreography by Carole Todd and musical direction by John Maher. American singer-songwriter Barry Manilow has sold more than 75 million records worldwide. At the height of his success in the late 1970s, he had five albums on the best-seller charts in the US. His many easy-listening singles "I Write the Songs", "Mandy", "Looks Like We Made It", "Weekend in New England", "Ready to Take a Chance Again", "I Made It Through the Rain", "Can't Smile Without You" and "Copacabana". The new musical features more than 30 Manilow songs and is endorsed by Manilow and his music executive Garry Kief. Following Bromley, Can't Smile Without You tours to Liverpool, Bristol, Manchester, Hull, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Northampton, Stoke and Newcastle, with further dates to be announced. A London venue and dates have not yet been confirmed. (What's On Stage, 8/26/2008)
http://www.whatsonstage.com/index.php?pg=207&story=E8821219752594&title=
Cast%3A+Polycarpou+Imagines%2C+IDA+Francesca+Smiles
- Musical theatre is featured at the Festival Theatre where the one and only Chesney Hawkes makes his musical debut as Tony in Can't Smile Without You (Oct 20-25), featuring the timeless classics of Barry Manilow. Playing Tony's love interest – yes, you've guessed it, Mandy – will be 23-year-old Siobhan Dillon, runner up in How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? Fully endorsed by Manilow, the show features 30 of his hits including "Could It Be Magic," "It's A Miracle," "I Write The Songs," "Mandy," "I Made It Through The Rain" and, of course, "Can't Smile Without You." Festival Theatre, Nicolson Street, 0131-529 6000 www.eft.co.uk (Evening News (Edinburgh), 8/29/2008)
http://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/features/Poppins-to-theatre-this-autumn.4439589.jp
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