A host of acclaimed West End performers will return to Derby Theatre next month for a special charity concert celebrating the life and legacy of local performer Lewis Sewell.
A Musical Theatre Spectacular will take place on 3 May 2026, marking the first time the fundraising event has been staged at the venue where Lewis first discovered his passion for performing.
Now in its third year, the much-anticipated musical theatre concert brings the magic of London’s West End to Derby, featuring stars from some of the world’s most iconic productions.
West End talent comes to Derby
The line-up includes leading performers from internationally renowned musicals. Carolyn Maitland, known for her roles in Legally Blonde and Mamma Mia!, will appear alongside Luke McCall, who has starred in The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables.
They will be joined by Laura Pick, acclaimed for her performance as Elphaba in Wicked, Luke Suri, recognised for playing Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys, and Manon Taris, who recently starred as Christine in Love Never Dies.
Also performing is Chris Weeks, star of Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story and an internationally streamed jazz vocalist.
A meaningful homecoming at Derby Theatre
The 2026 event holds special significance as it returns to Derby Theatre – described by Lewis’s family as his “home theatre”. It was here that he developed his love for acting, performing with Derby Youth Theatre and becoming a familiar face both on stage and behind the scenes.
Lewis Sewell passed away aged 18 after being diagnosed with a malignant metastatic rhabdoid tumour, a rare and aggressive cancer.
The concert is presented by the Lewis Sewell Memorial Trust, a charity established to honour his legacy, in partnership with producer Mark Robert Petty.
Gillian Sewell, Lewis’s mother, said: “It will be an emotional night as this was his home theatre and where his heart was.
“Lewis lived and breathed Derby Theatre. From a young age, he was determined to be part of it – performing, volunteering and supporting others. This was where his dreams began.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our West End producer Mark Robert Petty, whose support makes it possible to bring such outstanding talent to Derby.”
Supporting the next generation of performers
Funds raised from the charity concert will support young people pursuing careers in the performing arts, providing training, opportunities and financial assistance.
The evening will also see the launch of the Lewis Sewell Actors Awards, developed in partnership with Derby Theatre to recognise and nurture emerging talent.
Caroline Barth, Creative Learning Director at Derby Theatre, said:
“We are honoured to host this event. It is especially meaningful as Lewis was one of our own – a young person who grew up through our youth theatre and contributed so much.
“Through our continued partnership with his legacy foundation, we can support more young people into the industry.”
Opportunities for young performers
In a unique opportunity, pupils from Embark Federation schools across Derbyshire and performers from Kristian Thomas Company will take to the stage alongside West End professionals.
Choreography for the event is led by Ben Sharpe Creative, with musical direction by Adam Pennington.
Event details and tickets
A Musical Theatre Spectacular takes place at Derby Theatre on 3 May 2026 at 7.30pm.
- Premium tickets: £67 (includes interval drink and post-show meet and greet)
- Standard tickets: £37
Tickets are available now via Derby Theatre:
https://derbytheatre.co.uk/event/a-musical-theatre-spectacular/
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