Abba star gives Birmingham drag tribute play his 'blessing'

Abba star gives Birmingham drag tribute play his 'blessing'

BBC·2023-02-23 18:00

Image source, Darren Bell Image caption,

The show tells the tale of two friends from Birmingham who form an Abba tribute band in drag

By James Bovill

BBC Midlands Today

Abba songwriter Benny Andersson has granted rare permission for one of his songs to be used in a new stage play.

The Way Old Friends Do follows two friends who form the world's first Abba tribute band in drag.

It was written by Birmingham-born actor and playwright Ian Hallard, and directed by his husband Mark Gatiss, best known for starring in The League of Gentlemen and Doctor Who.

It premiered at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre on Wednesday.

"Benny knows about it and has given it his blessing," Mr Hallard said.

"[Abba] very rarely say yes to people performing their songs. We had to seek special permission."

Image source, Darren Bell Image caption,

Ian Hallard was born in Birmingham and says the Abba star granted permission for one of his songs to be used

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