HIT musical Evita is coming to Blackpool and bringing with it a true lover of the resort.

Marti Webb, one of Britain's most talented and popular musical stars, is taking the lead in Andrew Lloyd Webber's West End success which has been given a two-week run at the Grand Theatre in June.

Marti wowed Blackpool audiences when she appeared in Cats in 1989, and fell in love with the resort, hoping to return some time in the future.

She will share the stage with Christopher Corcoran and Duncan Smith, themselves established musical stars who have appearances in the likes of Chess, Phantom and Copacabana under their belts.

Evita is the highlight of the Grand's big-name summer line-up which general manager Danny Moar is proclaiming as the best for many years.

He commented: "We are delighted to welcome such an international hit musical to the stage of the Grand, particularly as it stars one of Britain's most talented stars."

The programme also features Cannon and Ball who are returning to the resort to headline in the four-month summer spectacular Rock With Laughter, sharing the limelight with Sheila Ferguson who gives her own tribute to the Three Degrees.

In addition, funnyman Ken Dodd takes to the stage each Sunday throughout the season, while last year's stars The Grumbleweeds and The Hollies will make an appearance.

The Grand has also pulled off a number of coups with many dance and drama companies visiting the theatre as their only North West date.

Dance lovers can even enjoy a world premiere from Siobbhan Davies Dance Company, while the Grand is also keen to establish itself as a main part of the community with a new and exciting education programme designed for young and old alike.

Youngsters are not left out either, with a day in the life of Noddy lined up for May.

Danny Moar feels the Grand has found the perfect mix and said: "We want to show people the Grand really has something for everyone from high quality drama to plays from the West End.

"It is an exciting time for us as we continue to grow and develop into one of the region's finest presenting venues."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.