The upcoming North East and Cumbria tour of Fiona Ellis' new show, Frognal & Fox - A Life in Song, is set to visit Queen’s Hall Arts Centre in Hexham.

The cabaret-style performance, starting at 7.30pm on June 4 and June 5, is an invitation into a world of showbiz, full of glamour, optimism, rivalry and acceptance.

The show, directed and produced by Cinzia Hardy, in collaboration with CaroleW Productions, showcases two fading performers, Margaret Frognal and Adele Fox, played by Jane Holman and Zoe Lambert.

These performers demonstrate their singing and playing talents alongside a cynical pianist, portrayed by Declan Flannery.

The theatrical encounter comes with a dosage of underlying tension, set to intrigue the audience and leave them questioning whether it will be resolved.

Ms Hardy said: "Developing this show with Fiona and the cast has been so enjoyable.

"During the lockdowns, we dreamed up the characters together.

"Zoe and Jane have infused them with elements of their own theatrical experiences.

"Working in the theatre is hard work despite what it may look like from the outside.

"Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with Zoe and Jane many times. They have always brought a lot of laughter and fun to the rehearsal room, making the hard work very satisfying and enjoyable.

"Our team is completed by Declan Flannery as musical director and accompanist, so, in the words of Irving Berlin, ‘let’s go on with the show.’”

The lively performance will feature favourite songs from stage and screen by songwriters like Cole Porter, the Gershwins, Stephen Sondheim, and Noel Coward.

It will also include some lesser-known numbers.

Playwright Fiona Ellis said: "Since I was a child, I have sung badly and tried to tap dance without success.

"So, my only way of getting in on the act was to write a piece including many of my favourite songs and persuade some proper actors to do them for me."

Carole Wears of CaroleW Productions said: "Jane and Zoe bounce off each other wonderfully and sing so beautifully.

"Declan's dry sense of humour and incredible talent lift the whole thing."

Tickets are available at https://www.carolewproductions.com/frognal-and-fox.