The Commitments - lead cast changes from 16 Sep 2014

Jamie Lloyd's production of The Commitments has announced new casting information for the production, which is currently running at the Palace Theatre where it is booking until 19 April 2015.

The musical, which is based on the novel by Roddy Doyle and the film of the same name, originally opened at the Palace Theatre on 8 October 2013 following previews from 21 September 2013.

From Tuesday 16 September 2014, the lead role of 'Deco' will be played by Brian Gilligan, who previously played the role of drummer Billy 'The Animal' Mooney. He said of the announcement: "It's every Dubliner's favourite story and being from the North-side of Dublin myself, it's a privilege and an honour to be bringing Deco to life on stage. He's such a brilliant character; I can't wait to get started."

Other new cast members include John Currivan who will make his West End debut in the role of 'Billy Mooney', Sam Fordham who will join the cast as 'Mickah', and Anthony Hunt as Joey 'The Lips' Fagan. Previous members of the ensemble, Natalie Hope and John McLarnon will also begin performances in their new roles of 'Natalie' and 'Outspan' respectively.

Denis Grindel will remain with the show in the lead role of 'Jimmy Rabbitte', alongside Sarah O'Connor and Jessica Cervi who will continue to play the roles of The Commitmentettes 'Imelda' and 'Bernie'.

The show has been adapted for the stage by Roddy Doyle and is directed by Jamie Lloyd. It features a score of songs from the film, including: 'Think' by Aretha Franklin, '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction' by The Rolling Stones, 'Papa Was A Rolling Stone' by The Temptations, and 'Try A Little Tenderness' by Otis Redding.