Ex-EastEnder channels Sammy in Rat Pack treat (From Gazette)

West Cliff Theatre’s tribute night to kings of swing

7:00pm Wednesday 15th August 2012 in Theatre By Neil D'Arcy-Jones

THE original Rat Pack may be long gone, but a top tribute act will bring some of their magic to Clacton.

Fifty years since Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr and Dean Martin enjoyed their dazzling heyday, the Rat Pack is Back show recreates their glamour and charm as they perform some of their best-loved hits.

First produced back in 1997, it’s the longest-running UK tribute show to the famous Rat Pack kings of swing and now stars former EastEnder Des Coleman as Sammy.

Des has also appeared in TV shows Casualty and Doctors, but it perhaps best known for his four-year stint playing lovable rogue Lenny Wallace in EastEnders.

Since leaving the soap, Des has also played lead roles in many West End productions, from Miss Saigon to Rent and Sir Trevor Nunn’s production of Porgy and Bes.

Alongside Des is David Alacey, who found fame in the BBC drama Lovejoy, as Sinatra, and BBC Musician of the Year, Paul Drakeley, who takes the role of Dean Martin.

The trio are used to performing all over the world, with tour dates in Monte Carlo, Dubai and Italy among others.

Most recently, the show has been performed in London’s Leicester Square Theatre and the 02 Arena.

Featuring classics such as My Way, Amore and Mr Bojangles, the cast will be joined by the Don Hunt Orchestra, the musical director for Sir Bruce Forsyth and the Flamingo Showgirls.

Rat Pack is Back, West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton.
September 15. 7.30pm.
£18.50 and £17.50 for concessions.  01255 433344