David Gest to star in new panto A Nightmare On Lime Street

David Gest is to make his acting debut in festive comedy-horror stage production 'A Nightmare On Lime Street'.

12 July 2012
David Gest is to make his acting debut in an adult British pantomime.

The 59-year-old star will take to the stage at the Royal Court theatre in Liverpool, North West England, later this year in comedy-horror stage production 'A Nightmare On Lime Street' and he can't wait to finally be a part of the festive tradition.

He said: "I've always loved British culture and there's no greater British tradition than panto season. I've toyed with the idea of doing panto for the last couple of years so when I was brought this role by [theatre chief ex ecutive] Kevin Fearon I couldn't refuse it because the script had me in stitches. I figure you only live once so why not do it with a bang!"

David will sing two numbers in the production - which runs for nine weeks from November 23 - and while he is excited to be getting the chance to show off his vocal abilities he is disappointed his late friends Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston are no longer around to see him perform.

He exclusively told BANG Showbiz: "I only wish that Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston were alive to see me. We always used to sing in the car together and they would always sing over me. Now I get to sing without any interruptions!"

However, many of his other friends - including Michael's mother Katherine and the King of Pop's siblings Tito and Rebbie - will see the production as the run will include a special charity gala performance on December 2 followed by a gourmet dinner with surprise musical guests and an auction featuring items from a host of stars including Michael, Whitney, Lady Gaga, The Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

And Katherine, 82, can't wait to attend the show.

She said: "I can't wait to see David perform, he's like part of my family, I've known him since he was 14.

"The other day he sang 'Ferry Across the Mersey' to me on the phone. He was truly in key, he sounded great!"

The charity performance will raise money for the Royal Court Trust, which is dedicated to safeguarding the future of the theatre.

© 2013 Bang Showbiz, NZCity