Beverley Knight returns to the West End in the world premiere of The Drifters Girl, coming to the Garrick Theatre in 2021. Based on the career of Faye Treadwell, the world’s first African-American female music manager, the jukebox musical will explore her life and career while managing The Drifters, a 1950s American doo-wop and soul vocal group.
First formed as a backing group, The Drifters were established in 1953 to accompany Clyde McPhatter. The Drifters became a global music phenomenon thanks to Faye and George Treadwell, with number one hits in the 1950s including ‘Money Honey’, ‘Honey Love’, ‘Adorable’ and ‘There Goes My Baby’.
The Drifters line-up has changed regularly, with over 60 members throughout its active years including Ben E. King, Rudy Lewis and Johnny Moore. However, one woman was at the heart of the band for over 30 years; Faye Treadwell.
Charting their hit records and sell-out tours to audiences around the world, as well as legal battles facing the band, The Drifters Girl is set to share the full story about the American vocalists and the woman who helped their careers.
Beverley Knight will play Faye Treadwell, The Drifters’ manager. Hailed as the Queen of British soul, Knight has established herself as a West End leading lady, starring as Grizabella in Cats at the London Palladium, Felicia Farrell in Memphis the Musical and Rachel Marron in The Bodyguard. Further casting for The Drifters Girl is not yet announced.
The Drifters Girl tickets are now on sale.
Please note: Beverley Knight is not scheduled to perform in The Drifters Girl from 17-22 January 2022.