VIVA FOREVER! to Close in West End this June; Producer Comments

Producer Judy Craymer has confirmed that Viva Forever! the new musical, inspired by the songs of the Spice Girls, has posted closing notices at the Piccadilly Theatre for 29 June, 2013.

In a press statement issued this morning, Ms Craymer said: "It is with a heavy heart that we've had to make this very difficult decision to post closing notices for this original show which is blessed with one of the most brilliant casts currently on the West End stage. We set out to create a contemporary story that truly reflects our time; to take a satirical look at the underbelly of a TV talent show and the chaos that ensues for a mother, her daughter and their friends, a theatrical event to embrace all generations both on and off the stage. Testament to that achievement is the standing ovation at every performance from an audience of families and friends all enjoying a great night out.

"The show has evolved since we first opened and is now brighter, lighter and funnier, but despite the wonderful audiences and extremely positive feedback we just can't make it work. I'm so proud of everyone involved in this production. VIVA FOREVER! may be taking its leave for now in the West End but the legacy of Spice Girls will never fade."

The Spice Girls said: "We want to thank the cast and all the fans for their support, and although Viva Forever won't continue in the West End we are thrilled that the thousands of people who came to the show had as much fun as we did."

VIVA FOREVER! is billed as a feel-good musical comedy with a book by Jennifer Saunders inspired by the music of the Spice Girls. Charting the trials and tribulations of wannabe girlband Eternity, the musical tells an original story as it hurls the audience headfirst into the final rounds of TV talent show Starmaker, where a panel of fame vultures passes judgment on our wannabe heroines while desperately clinging to the limelight themselves.

VIVA FOREVER! is directed by Paul Garrington and choreographed by Lynne Page. The production is designed by Peter McKintosh, with lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Bobby Aitken and musical orchestration by Martin Koch.

VIVA FOREVER! is produced by Judy Craymer in association with the Spice Girls, Simon Fuller and Universal Music.

Tickets for Viva Forever! are available until 29 June 2013.