Ben Forster, who rose to fame by winning ITV casting show Superstar, will join Wet Wet Wet’s Marti Pellow and Argentine star Madalena Alberto in Evita when the musical opens at the Dominion Theatre later this month.
The reality TV winner, who won the opportunity to play the title role in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar, will play Agustin Magaldi, Eva Peron’s first love, in the musical also written by the famous composer/lyricist duo.
The production runs at the Dominion for a strictly limited 55 date season from 16 September, becoming the first show to play at the venue since We Will Rock You.
Speaking about his casting, Forster said: “It is a huge privilege to take on such a fantastic part and in such a brilliant show.”
Evita follows the story of Eva Peron, wife of Argentinian leader Juan Peron, from humble beginnings through her rise to iconic status. Alberto plays the title role with Pellow playing Che.
The show, which has been touring, runs at the Dominion until 1 November when it will be followed by the festive fun of White Christmas. The seasonal favourite stars TV presenter and former choirboy Aled Jones alongside Tom Chambers.