Saunders to write Spice Girls musical
The Spice Girls musical will get an absolutely fabulous plot – courtesy of writer Jennifer Saunders.
The comedienne will write the story for the show, called 'Viva Forever', which is based on the group’s songs, it was announced today.
The five time-Bafta winner, who rose to fame with her comedy partner Dawn French, said she was “thrilled and terrified at the same time” by the job.
She said: “It is very exciting to be writing a musical that encompasses the music and energy of the biggest girl-band of all time.
“My daughters grew up with The Spice Girls; I had to write the book for them as well as myself. It has been great fun so far.”
It emerged recently that Saunders, who wrote and starred in the BBC sitcom 'Absolutely Fabulous', has fought a successful battle with breast cancer.
Saunders, mother to three daughters, was given the all-clear in June after undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy sessions.
The 52-year-old has been married to former 'Young Ones' actor and writer Adrian Edmondson for around 25 years.
'Viva Forever' is the idea of Judy Craymer who produced the worldwide hit 'Mamma Mia!' which was made into a film in 2008 starring Pierce Brosnan and Meryl Streep.
She said: “Having Jennifer Saunders on board is the best possible start 'Viva Forever' can have.
“We are creating a new contemporary story about friendship, celebrity and fame with the music of the Spice Girls.
“Jennifer is brilliant at writing about these themes and the Spice Girls’ songs connect powerfully in a smart and moving way.”
