CATHERINE Tyldesley’s new play has been brutally axed just weeks after launching.
The ex-Coronation Street actor was set to star in Bonnie and Clyde The Musical for its UK and Ireland tour until October.
However, the play is being axed “with immediate effect” – leaving fans devastated.
Catherine and her co-stars including Alex James-Hatton were meant to perform in Southend’s Cliffs Pavillion this evening for a five-day run.
Despite many theatre-goers having arranged transport and accomodation, the show has been cancelled at the eleventh hour.
A spokesman for the musical said: “Bonnie & Clyde The Musical will conclude its UK & Ireland tour with immediate effect.
“We would like to thank the extremely hard working and endlessly talented cast and company that have entertained thousands of audience members across the country with this production.
“Ticket holders will be contacted by their point of purchase shortly with further information.”
A fan replied: “A disgraceful decision to do this half way through a tour & just hours before a show in which people have travelled for.
“Just play out the rest of the shows, pay your talented cast and call it a loss then. Your producers shouldn’t be allowed to lead any show or tour again.”
Someone else added: “I like MANY am very sorry to hear this and send love and best wishes to all cast and crew.
“I saw the original production in London twice and booked again for Leicester on the back of that. It didn’t disappoint. A wonderfully acted and sung show that deserves better. Big hugs X.”
Another said: “You used the word ‘conclude’ when you should be using ‘cancelled’.
“A disgraceful decision just a few hours before a run of shows in Southend which people have already travelled to.
“Well done to your producers for ruining a great show with a cult following that’ll now be lost.”
Someone else said: “Aw sad news, was due to see it in September and was really looking forward to seeing the show.”
Catherine is best known for playing Eva Price on the cobbles until 2018.
Since then she’s found success on Channel 5 detective series The Good Ship Murder.
The Sun recently revealed Catherine – alongside her former Corrie co-star Shayne Ward – will be heading back out to sea for two more series of the hit show.
The duo, who once appeared together on Corrie, play a first officer and cabaret singer who are forced to turn detective as a string of deaths rock the boat.
