Live Aid – the star-packed gig which raised £127m for charity nearly four decades ago – is being turned into a musical.
The legendary fundraiser, organised by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, was held on 13 July 1985 in front of a 72,000-strong crowd in Wembley Stadium, raising funds for famine relief in Ethiopia.
Crowds at Wembley Stadium. Pic: AP
Tens of billions more watched it as it was streamed live on TVs across the world.
Featuring performances from stars including David Bowie, Queen, U2, and The Who, it has since been voted the most memorable gig of all time.
Now, titled Just For One Day, in a nod to David Bowie’s 1977 track Heroes, which he sang at the show, it’s going to be recreated for theatre.
The show, which will come to the Old Vic early next year, will feature songs from stars including Bowie, Bob Dylan, Elton John, Paul McCartney, The Pretenders, Status Quo, Paul Weller, Sade, The Boomtown Rats, Bryan Adams and Diana Ross.
It’s been written by John O’Farrell, who wrote Mrs Doubfire the musical, and directed by Luke Sheppard, who was director of Romeo & Juliet.
Read more:
Russell Brand being investigated by second police force
Lock Stock And Two Smoking Barrels actor dies aged 56
Geldof, who has been involved with the production throughout its development, said: “If this musical encourages just one person to have a positive impact for the better, then it will be a job well done.”
The Irish star, who famously swore during the original Live Aid broadcast, went on: “I’m looking forward to seeing it at The Old Vic… it better not be s***!'”
Click to subscribe to Backstage wherever you get your podcasts.
Ten percent from the sale of each ticket will go to The Band Aid Charitable Trust, which works across Africa to fight poverty and famine.
Select schools and community groups will also get the chance to see the show for free.
Tickets go on general sale this Friday.
