Alistair McGowan takes over the role of Emcee in Cabaret from 21 April 2008 at the Lyric Theatre

Alistair McGowan takes over the role of 'Emcee' in Cabaret, from 21 April 2008 at the Lyric Theatre. (He replaces Julian Clary who leaves the show 19 April)

Impressionist, comedian and actor, Alistair McGowan's recent London stage credits include "The Mikado" at the Gielgud in 2008 and "Little Shop of Horrors" at the Duke of York's and New Ambassadors in 2007.

Cabaret opened on 10 Oct 2006, following previews from 22 Sep, to excellent notices from the popular press: THE EVENING STANDARD says, "Inventive, musically vigorous production." THE INDEPENDENT says, "Rufus Norris's production of the Kander/Ebb classic is the most stunningly fresh and imaginative revival of a classic musical that I have ever seen." THE GUARDIAN says, "Forty years after its premiere, Cabaret increasingly looks like one of the defining musicals of the postwar era." THE DAILY TELEGRAPH says, "This is a strong and daring revival of a great musical that combines unforgettable songs with genuinely gripping and disturbing drama."

The current cast is: Amy Nuttall (Sally Bowles), Julian Clary (Emcee, until 19 April, also not performing for week beginning 17 March), Angela Richards (Fraulein Schneider), Barry James (Herr Schultz).

Cabaret, with book by Joe Matseroff, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb, was based on John van Druten’s play I am a Camera which in turn took its inspiration from Christopher Isherwood’s Berlin stories. The multi award-winning musical was conceived in 1966, later becoming the 1972 film with Liza Minnelli, Michael York and Joel Grey - the film was to win 8 Academy Awards.

It is directed by Rufus Norris, designed by Katrina Lindsay with choreography by Javier De Frutos. It is produced by Bill Kenwright.

Berlin of 1931 a dark and sexually charged haven of decadence, its extraordinary and morally ambiguous inhabitants determined to keep up appearances as the real world - outside the comfortable sanctuary of the cabaret - prepares for the nightmarish chaos of war. At its heart is the legendary Sally Bowles who nightly performs at the infamous Kit Kat Klub in ‘A shimmering masterpiece of a show guaranteed night after night! It’s divine decadence darling!’