JONATHAN REDHEAD Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney is to perform at the country's most easterly theatre, it has been revealed. In a major coup for Lowestoft, the actor who became famous for starring in 50 silent movies in the late 1920s and early 1930s, appear at the town's Edwardian Marina Theatre in the summer.

JONATHAN REDHEAD

Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney is to perform at the country's most easterly theatre, it has been revealed.

In a major coup for Lowestoft, the actor who became famous for starring in 50 silent movies in the late 1920s and early 1930s, appear at the town's Edwardian Marina Theatre in the summer.

Rooney, first appeared on stage aged just 15 months and has spent more than 80 years in Hollywood appearing in famous films like National Velvet and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, when his fame was at a peak during the Second World War.

He starred in his own television show in the 1950s, picked up an Oscar in 1983 for “Lifetime Achievement” and is currently filming “Night at the Museum” alongside Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Ricky Gervais and Dick Van Dyke.

The 85-year-old will perform his autobiographical musical “Let's Put On A Show” alongside wife Jan Rooney at the Marina on June 8.

The show is highlighted with film clips, humour and anecdotal memories and features a tribute to Rooney's famous co-star from his early days, Judy Garland.

Bosses at the theatre have also announced that a member of the Rat Pack will be performing at the 750-seat Marina in April.

Singer Buddy Greco found fame in the 1950s and 1960s alongside contemporaries Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, after his first live album, which contained hits like “The Lady is a Tramp” rocketed him to stardom.

He will be singing hits from the Rat Pack era in Lowestoft on Thursday April 13 alongside the National Youth Jazz Orchestra.

Announcing the news, Martin Halliday, venues manager at Waveney District Council, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to secure these terrific performers for the Marina.

“Both entertainers are only in the UK for a short time and the Marina is one of the smallest venues they will play.”

Stephen Ardley, the council's portfolio holder for operations and facilities, said: “We have one of the most diverse programmes of any civic theatre in the country.

“Once again our Marina has attracted top stars from across the world and I am sure other towns would be delighted to have had this kind of opportunity.”

Tickets for both shows go on sale tomorrow. Call the box office on 01502 533200 for more information or to book seats.