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Tonight's The Night for two young singers, as Roz Laws discovers.
Jade Ewen as Dee Dee in Tonight's The Night
In the Rod Stewart musical Tonight’s The Night, Jade Ewen has a solo to The First Cut Is The Deepest.
But it might be more fitting to sing The First Dive Is The Hardest (and most painful).
The pop star and Sugababe was one of the first contestants on ITV reality show Splash! – and reveals how terrified she was.
“I couldn’t even swim when I agreed to take part,” she admits.
“I only did it so I could learn to swim, but I had sleepless nights worrying about it.
“It was really painful, the impact of the water really hurt. I wouldn’t recommend anybody do it.
“I went off the five-metre board, which I never thought I would do.
I was so chuffed that I did a dive and didn’t drown.
“It took a lot to convince me to do Splash! and I wouldn’t like to do anything else that dangerous.
“I watched a bit of the Channel 4 winter sports show The Jump and thought that was cruel. They enjoy seeing celebrities wee themselves out of fear!
“I wouldn’t even go there. Maybe I’d do something less terrifying. I love cooking, so I could maybe do Great British Bake Off or MasterChef.
“And I think Strictly Come Dancing would be cool. I don’t like exercise, I don’t like going to the gym but dancing is fun.”
Tonight’s The Night tells the story of a shy young man, Stu, who is too tongue-tied to declare his love to the girl of his dreams. One night he strikes a deal with the Devil to trade his soul for Rod Stewart’s. The story, written by Ben Elton, is told through Rod’s songs, from Maggie May to Sailing via Baby Jane and Do Ya Think I’m Sexy.
“It’s full of great feelgood songs,” says Jade, 26, who shot to fame when she was chosen to represent the UK in the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest. She performed Andrew Lloyd Webber’s It’s My Time and came fifth.
“They were released before I was born so I didn’t think it was music I knew very well. But you hear stuff subconsciously and I surprised myself by actually knowing lots of the songs.
“I play Dee Dee, the best friend of Stu’s love interest Mary. I’m really anti-him, I’m not a fan.
“My favourite Rod Stewart song is This Old Heart of Mine but one of my solos is The First Cut Is The Deepest, which is pretty emotional. It starts off completely a capello then two guitars come in on the chorus.
Tonight’s The Night comes to Birmingham’s New Alexandra Theatre from February 24 and Jade is looking forward to returning to a city she knows well.
“I’ve been to Birmingham and the Midlands a lot because my mum is from Wolverhampton and my cousins still live in the area. Plus my best friend, Carlton Sheekey, is from Birmingham. He’s a musician and actor who I met in London when he played for me.
“My mum moved to London in her twenties and met my dad. She’s lost her accent but the rest of her family haven’t. We’d go back for Christmases and so on.”
Jade still spends her free time caring for her parents, as her father Trevor is completely blind and has a guide dog, and her mother Carol is partially sighted.
Jade became the sixth member of pop band Sugababes when she replaced Keisha Buchanan. She had two Top 10 singles with Heidi Range and Amelle Berrabah.
Their last record was released four years ago but Jade insists the Sugababes haven’t officially split.
“Nothing bad has happened, we’ve not split, but the reality is that we are not recording. Amelle left to pursue a solo career two years ago. Heidi and I stayed with the management but we can’t wait around forever.
“I am in touch with the girls, though, I last spoke to Heidi on her 30th birthday.”
But as that was last May, they are perhaps not the closest of friends.
Sinead Long who stars in Tonight's The Night
Jade’s castmate Sinead Long has battled back from injury to be playing her home city. She plays Bootie in the musical, as well as understudying both Mary and Dee Dee.
The Birmingham-born 23-year-old, who grew up in Halesowen, could not perform for four months after she had an operation on a torn ligament in her ankle.
Sinead, who started dancing at the age of two at her local Timmins Academy, won a scholarship at 18 to a musical theatre course at Arts Educational Schools in London.
She left two months early when she won the part of Serena in an 18-month tour of Legally Blonde.
But one night she fell awkwardly on her ankle. She took three weeks off but insisted on returning to finish her contract, putting off having surgery until the end of the tour.
“It was very painful at first, but I had constant checks with the physiotherapist and swapped my heels for flats,” says Sinead, a former pupil of Hagley High School and King Edward VI College in Stourbridge.
“After the operation I was out of action for four months and it took a year to retrain myself.
“It was frustrating, but I told myself I would get back on stage.”
Then she won the job on Tonight’s The Night, where her big number, ironically, is Hot Legs.
* Tonight’s The Night plays at Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre from February 24- March 1. For tickets ring 0844 871 3011 or go to www.atgtickets.com/birmingham.
These celebrities are embarking on a gruelling training regime combining aerial and gymnastic skills. They’ll use them all to deliver breath-taking performances that you’d expect from the department that also produces Strictly Come Dancing.Rachel Ashdown, Commissioning Executive, BBC
Date: 13.06.2014 Last updated: 13.06.2014 at 16.24
Today the BBC announces the 10 celebrities who will take part in BBC One’s new Saturday night entertainment show, Tumble.
The celebrities vaulting, tumbling and flipping head-over-heels in a bid to win the public’s votes are current world boxing champion Carl Froch, Girls Aloud star Sarah Harding, fitness legend Mr Motivator, EastEnders actor John Partridge and Loose Women host Andrea McLean.
Also joining the celebrity line-up are TOWIE star Lucy Mecklenburgh, BAFTA Award-winning Wolfblood actor Bobby Lockwood, Sugababe Amelle Berrabah, Dynasty icon Emma Samms and Ian ‘H’ Watkins from Steps.
BBC Commissioning Executive, Rachel Ashdown, says: “These celebrities are embarking on a gruelling training regime combining aerial and gymnastic skills. They’ll use them all to deliver breath-taking performances that you’d expect from the department that also produces Strictly Come Dancing.”
Jane Allen, British Gymnastics Chief Executive Officer, says: “This is an exciting opportunity for our sport that will enable people to view gymnastics in a whole new entertainment light. It’s been rewarding for British Gymnastics to work with the BBC in providing technical support and we’re all looking forward to seeing the star cast enjoy the challenges of our sport.”
Kate White and Jane Rice-Bowen, Joint CEOs - National Centre for Circus Arts, say: “We’re delighted to be supporting the BBC in the development of this new show. The most exciting thing for us is that Saturday night audiences are about to be treated to some really special circus performances from some of the leading circus artists in the UK today.”
Master of ceremonies Alex Jones will preside over each show, and judging the celebrities’ performances will be world-renowned Olympic gymnast Nadia Comaneci, Strictly Come Dancing champion and London 2012 medallist Louis Smith, MBE, Commonwealth Games gymnastics champion turned sports broadcaster Craig Heap and world-renowned cirque artist/aerial performer Sebastien Stella.
The famous faces will be put through their paces by high-flying, gravity defying gymnasts from across the globe, whom they’ll be partnered with throughout the series.
All 10 celebrities will start training with professional partners and coaches in the coming weeks before the show kicks off this summer.
Tumble will be made by BBC Productions for BBC One and exact scheduling will be confirmed in due course.
Notes to Editors
Quotes from the celebrities:
Amelle Berrabah says: “I've been asked to do other shows before but this is something I genuinely wanted to do, especially because I'm so into my health and fitness. I've always loved gymnastics, I used to watch it as a kid. I'm really looking forward to the physical challenge, pushing myself and learning new skills!”
Andrea McLean says: “I’m so excited about taking part in the show! I’ve never tried gymnastics before but I love fitness so hopefully I can hold my own with the others and stay the distance. I'm also thrilled to be part of the first ever series of this new brand-new show.... I’m definitely ready to Tumble!”
Bobby Lockwood says: “This is the first time I have ever been involved in such a huge competition. I am very excited (and scared!) by this amazing opportunity to learn new skills. Bring on the handstands and backflips!”
Carl Froch says: “After a fight of such magnitude it will be great for me to get my body and mind stuck straight into a new discipline. I am excited to learn these new skills as gymnastics, backflips and somersaults are something that have always impressed me and I have wanted to be able to do."
Emma Samms says: “Well who hasn't watched Cirque Du Soleil and not wanted to join in?! I am very excited to be part of this despite the fact I have never done gymnastics before!”
Ian 'H' Watkins says: “I don't know what I'm more nervous for - the training or having to wear the lycra! Whatever happens, I'm up for the challenge and actually can't wait to get going…"
John Partridge says: “I can't wait to get started on Tumble. I'm always up for a new physical challenge and, as I've had no former gymnastics experience, this will definitely be one. Plus what better way to get killer abs in time for the summer!”
Lucy Mecklenburgh says: “I'm scared, nervous and more excited than I can describe about Tumble! To have the opportunity to learn a new skill is a dream come true for me. Although I'm sure I'll be falling over a lot before then!"
Mr Motivator says: “As I rise to this new challenge I am going to stretch, ache, smile and have a great time. I will gravitate to my dominant thought which is right now, I am fabulous, fit, and soon to be an accomplished gymnast.”
Sarah Harding says: “I'm really excited but a bit nervous about what it is going to be like doing Tumble! I'm really looking forward, but also a little bit scared, about all the training I'll be doing ... but at least it beats going to the gym!"
About British Gymnastics
British Gymnastics is proud to be the UK Governing Body for the sport of gymnastics. It exists to support, lead and inspire all those involved or interested in gymnastics. British Gymnastics provides the national direction and structure for the sport; from grass roots to delivering international success on the world stage.
British Gymnastics has worked with the BBC in providing technical support to see the star cast enjoy the challenges of the sport. You can take part in gymnastics at any age or ability and to find out more go to www.british-gymnastics.org
About National Centre of Circus Arts
Founded in 1989 as 'Circus Space', the National Centre for Circus Arts is one of the best circus schools in the world and it is at the heart of a network of circus organisations that are leading the renaissance of circus in the UK. The organisation champions and supports excellence in circus arts in the UK and around the world.
It is helping to change the perception of circus in the UK by providing an unparalleled launch-pad for present and future performers, with over 40 circus companies accessing studio time and funding through the National Centre for Circus Arts. For more information go to www.nationalcircus.org.uk
PUBLISHED: 15:55, 13 June 2014 | UPDATED: 18:12, 13 June 2014
Sarah Harding and Lucy Mecklenburgh will compete on brand new BBC gymnastics show, Tumble.
The former Girls Aloud singer and the ex-TOWIE star are among a host of celebrities set to try their hands at a new skill at BBC One's new Saturday night entertainment show.
Each of the 10 famous faces will be partnered with a professional gymnast, who will put them through their paces to perform demanding routines, and each week they'll face a panel of judges and a public vote.
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Let's get ready to Tumble! Sarah Harding and Lucy Mecklenburgh will compete on brand new BBC gymnastics show, Tumble
BBC Commissioning Executive Rachel Ashdown said: 'These celebrities are embarking on a gruelling training regime combining aerial and gymnastic skills.
'They'll use them all to deliver breathtaking performances that you'd expect from the department that also produces Strictly Come Dancing.'
Sarah, 32, and Lucy, 22, will come up against champion boxer Carl Froch, EastEnders actor John Partridge, Loose Women host Andrea McLean, Wolfblood actor Bobby Lockwood, Sugababe Amelle Berrabah, Dynasty's Emma Samms, Ian 'H' Watkins from Steps and fitness legend Mr. Motivator.
A new challenge: Champion boxer Carl Froch will swap the boxing ring for the gymnastics studio in the show
He's definitely Motivated! Fitness legend Mr. Motivator is part of the stellar line-up of celebrities on the inaugural season of Tumble
The One Show's Alex Jones will take on the role of host while Strictly Come Dancing champion and London 2012 medallist Louis Smith, Olympic gymnast Nadia Comaneci, sports broadcaster Craig Heap and world-renowned cirque artist and aerial performer Sebastian Stella will sit in the judges' seats.
The celebrities are to begin training with their professional partners and coaches in the coming weeks while the show is scheduled to begin later this summer.
Sarah said of the challenge: 'I'm really looking forward, but also a little bit scared, about all the training I'll be doing - but at least it beats going to the gym.'
Mounting nerves: Sugababe Amelle Berrabah and Dynasty's Emma Samms are also trying their hand at a spot of gymnastics for the show
New challenge: TV star Andrea McLean is also taking on the gymnastics arena
Lucy added: 'I'm scared, nervous and more excited than I can describe about Tumble! To have the opportunity to learn a new skill is a dream come true for me.
'Although I'm sure I'll be falling over a lot before then!'
The competitors will train with experienced gymnasts to prepare them for the sporting challenge.
Jane Allen, the chief executive officer of British Gymnastics, said: 'This is an exciting opportunity for our sport that will enable people to view gymnastics in a whole new entertainment light.'
Stars of the small screen! EastEnders actor John Partridge and WolfBlood actor Bobby Lockwood will also compete
A Step in the right direction: Steps singer Ian 'H' Watkins will try his hand at learning the new skill
PUBLISHED: 10:55, 11 June 2014 | UPDATED: 14:18, 11 June 2014
She has been linked to numerous lucky men over the years.
But it seems Ashley Roberts has finally found a keeper – fellow pop star Ryan Fletcher from Lawson.
The pair made their debut as a couple as they attended Justin Timberlake’s O2 show on Tuesday evening in London.
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Going public: Ashley Roberts and Ryan Fletcher attended Justin Timberlake's gig at the 02 together on Tuesday evening
A source told MailOnline: ‘There were really affectionate throughout the gig and flirting loads. He kept putting his arm round her and kissing her on the forehead.’
Ashley certainly seemed to be in good spirits while enjoying a pina colada in the Malibu Rum suite.
The former Pussycat Doll looked cool for the occasion wearing a pair of high-waisted grey trousers and a matching crop top with ankle boots.
Good spirits: Ashley enjoyed a Pina Colada in the Malibu Rum suite during the gig
Pleased to see you: Ashley had a giggle with her former band mate Kimberley Wyatt
Ryan meanwhile showed off his tattoos in a grey vest top, while wearing a green headband to push his hair off his face.
Taking to Twitter before her night out, Ashley tweeted: ‘Bringin sexy back!!! Yesssss @jtimberlake Who's excited?!’
She was also joined for the occasion by her former bandmate Kimberly Wyatt, who wore a white trouser suit for the occasion with a pink T-shirt.
Blondes have more fun: Ashley made no secret of the fact she is a big Justin Timberlake fan
Gig attire: Ashley wore tight grey trousers and a crop top while Kimberley wore a white suit
Othe guests in the suite included former Sugababe Amelle Berrebah and Lilah Parsons.
The Wanted’s Max George was also in attendance and a source told MailOnline that he could be heard talking about his future.
The source said: ‘He said he will be getting to work in the studio soon. He made it clear he didn’t have any set plans but he expects he will have sessions with and without other the wanted band members.
‘He was keen to talk about any future in acting though, saying he didn’t want to shoot himself in the foot.’
Star studded: Amelle Berrebah, Kimberley Wyatt, Ashley Roberts, Lilah Parsons and Max George hung out in the suite together
Pour it up: Max George wasted no time in helping make drinks in the suite
Strike a pose: Kimberley enjoyed a drink while posing for a picture
Toned: Amelle showed off her tight abs in a crop top and pencil skirt
Let's dance: Kimberly couldn't resist busting out some moves
Suit and Tie: Justin Timberlake delighted fans as he took to the stage
Mover and shaker: Justin, who is known for his ability to dance, pulled off some shapes
Max also opened about Justin Bieber, who shares his manager Scooter Braun, according to our source.
‘Max said he didn’t know what's going on with Justin but he has good people around him, in particular he seemed sure that Scooter would help him with any issues he had.’
The show concluded Justin’s final European show and clearly excited about it, he tweeted: ‘Who's ready to close out this Euro leg of #JT2020Tour with me and @THETNKIDS?!!! LET'S GO LONDON!!!!!!!!’
A spokesperson for Ashley and Ryan have been contacted for comment.
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