By Michelle Norris
Get ready to Rock with Laughter this weekend as comedy legends Cannon and Ball return to the stage for a hilarious evening of classic comedy, combined with only the best Blues music for an unforgettable evening of entertainment!
That’s right, Tommy Cannon and Bobby Ball are back, and will be bringing the house down at the Palace Theatre in Southend tomorrow night (Fri) performing along side the iconic cult band The Blues Brothers in the form of Jake and Elwood.
Famed for their hilarious comedy routines throughout the 70’s and 80’s, as well as appearances on TV, including ITV’s reality show I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here in 2005, this duo have seen it all!
However, like any friendship Tommy and Bobby have had their ups and downs and reportedly even went through stages where they didn’t speak to one another.
However, when I caught up with Tommy Cannon last week, he was quick to defend their professional relationship.
“Most double acts in the business will have problems and we do have our ups and downs,” admits the 74-year-old. “We’re a bit like an old married couple really! But we’re great friends and are getting along really well now.”
Indeed, after spending most of their lives together, the pair just keep getting better, which is clear when you see them on stage. But after spending so much time in the public eye, what would Tommy say their best moment has been so far?
“In 46 years there have been so many highlights!” he chuckles. “Meeting Eamonn Andrews on This is Your Life was a really emotional roller coaster for me. But the real highlight was knowing that every night you were making people laugh and helping them to forget their troubles.”
So, with a show full of laughs ready to explode tomorrow night, what can audiences expect from Rock With Laughter Summer 2010?
“Bobby and I will be on the stage for the first half of the show and the second half belongs to the Blues Brothers,” says Tommy, who is a self-confessed fan of Blues music. “But Bobby and I will be coming back on stage at the end for three songs – although I won’t be telling you what we’ll be wearing.”
So, it looks like it will be surprises all round and a show not to be missed! Rock With Laughter Summer 2010 will open at the Palace Theatre in Southend on Friday 13 August at 8pm.
For tickets, call the Box Office on 01702 351135 or visit www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk for more information.