OUT OF THE PIANO features the world premiere of 24 songs composed by 17 vibrant British composers to lyrics drawn from classical/establish texts not originally intended for such and as specifically written for 24 West End voices. 

Lyrics to be celebrated in OUT OF THE PIANO range from William Shakespeare to Noel Coward;  from Elizabeth I to Jane Austen.  Personages portrayed in song will range from Dracula and T. E. Lawrence to Maria Callas and Frances L Clayton, a woman who disguised herself in men's clothes to fight with her husband in the American Civil War. 

Among the 24 noted West End singers taking part are REBECCA CAINE (the original Cosette from 'Les Mis'), DIANNE PILKINGTON (of 'Wicked' fame, currently in 'The 39 Steps'), HELENA BLACKMAN (of BBC's 'How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?'), MARILYN CUTTS (one of the originators of 'Fascinating Aida'), LAURA PITT-PULFORD ('Sunset Boulevard's' Betty), ANTON STEPHENS (a Porgy from 'Porgy and Bess')  and NIGEL RICHARDS (a recent Phantom in 'Phantom').  The noted actress LISA DILLON (late of 'Private Lives and a NT, RSC, Almeida veteran) will make a guest appearance.

OUT OF THE PIANO is the third event in the Tim Williams Award Scheme, presented in memory of the London Shakespeare Workout's late Musical Director.  Cash awards will be presented at the evening's end in support of excellence in the composition of theatrical song.     

OUT OF THE PIANO, a Pay-What-You-Can event (£3 minimum requested) takes place on Sunday, 20 June 2010 at the Cochrane Theatre, Southampton Road (Holborn Tube) between 6.00 pm and 9.00 pm.  Reservations can be made via twa@europe.com or 020 7793 9755.