Benidorm Writer Derren Litten To Join The Stars Of The Solana Hotel Live On Stage

The cast of Benidorm Live are packing their suitcases in preparation for a sun-soaked seasonal adventure when they fly in to Birmingham's New Alexandra Theatre for a four-week run this Christmas. But there's an added gift for fans of the show as it's today announced that the show's writer Derren Litten will make a special appearance in the stage show as he takes over the role of Derek for the festive period. Benidorm Live will bring sunshine and smiles to the city from the 3 - 29th December.

Benidorm - Live will be the stage debut production of the hugely popular TV show, and of his starring role, writer Derren Litten says: 'I am so excited to be joining the cast of Benidorm on stage in Birmingham this Christmas. It's been 25 years since I've been on a stage, so I guess you could say I'm back by popular demand. I won't lie, I'm pretty scared at the prospect of acting and singing in such an amazing theatre but if I get nervous and forget my lines I'll just say it was a last-minute re-write!"

After leaving school in Hull in the late 1980's Derren Litten spent a year working as a professional magician whilst auditioning for drama schools. He won a place on the 3-year acting course at the prestigious Central School of Speech and Drama where he met fellow student Catherine Tate. After 10 years of working as an actor, Derren was asked by Catherine to write for her newly commissioned TV sketch show, The Catherine Tate Show; in which he also appeared in many of the sketches.

After co-writing and appearing in two series and a Christmas Special, Derren was given a script commission by legendary comedy producer Geoffrey Perkins, "just write anything you want as long as it's funny" he said; that show turned out to be ITV's BAFTA nominated hit comedy Benidorm. Derren's hobbies include drinking and karaoke, usually in that order. He splits his time equally between homes in London and Spain.

Litten has written an all new set of Alicante escapades for the previously announced, much-loved cast members, including Jake Canuso (Mateo), Janine Duvitski (Jacqueline), Adam Gillen (Liam), Sherrie Hewson (Joyce Temple-Savage), Shelley Longworth (Sam), and Tony Maudsley (Kenneth) along with the Neptune's very own Asa Elliott, as they swap sangria for the stage after a quick spruce at the Blow 'n' Go!

Completing the cast are Will Breckin, Kevin Brewis, Deborah Bundy, Bradley Clarkson, Selina Giacomini, Will Jennings, Ben Redfern and Tricia Adele Turner.

ITV's smash-hit comedy this year celebrated its tenth series of all-inclusive hilarity, having followed the ensemble cast of holiday makers and staff since it first broadcast in 2007.

Critically acclaimed, Benidorm has received two National Television Awards a TV Quick Award and nominations at the British Comedy Awards and BAFTAs.

The show will be produced for the stage by Michael Harrison and David Ian.

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