************************* For Tony Blair, being Prime Minster was only ever a back-up career plan; all he really wanted to do was rock. Who wants to be a world leader when you can be Bono or given a chance, Jesus? Now, prior to a month long residency at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, York Theatre Royal is delighted to host the première of the White Rose Theatre production of TONY! The Blair Musical from 18-21 July at 7.45pm. After a visit from a ghostly Princess Diana, Tony is left with the daunting task of bringing the music to the masses: to become the People’s Prime Minister (at least that’s how he remembers it, anyway). With special guests such as Gordon, Cherie, George W and a barbershop quartet of defeated Tory leaders and such memorable numbers as There’s no ‘me’ in ‘Tony’, a Newsnight medley and I am Evita Peron (Tony’s statement of intent to the nation), this show has it all, as it charts the many highs and lows, loves and losses of the Blair administration. Award-winning playwright, Chris Bush, joins forces with composer, Ian McCluskey, to bring you this fresh and funny satirical musical comedy. The lively score runs the gamut of musical genres, from rock-opera to Barbershop with a handful of jazz and blues thrown in for good measure. For Tony, things look far better when they’re remembered in song. The cast includes James Duckworth as Tony Blair and Edward Duncan Smith, son of former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith, in the role of Alastair Campbell. White Rose Theatre is a small and innovative company based in the North of England, specialising in engaging and accessible new writing. The production will transfer to C Venues at the Edinburg Festival from 1-27 August. Tickets for TONY! The Blair Musical are priced at £10.00 (Tickets for Under 25s and Students are £5.00) and can be purchased at the York Theatre Royal Box Office or by calling 01904 623568. Tickets are also available online at www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk **************************