Stephen Ward focuses on John Profumo, a serving cabinet minister; whose private affairs with a notorious woman named Christine Keeler became very public. The pair met through Stephen Ward, an osteopath who was then accused and tried for prostitution. Following the Profumo scandal, Ward was charged with living off the profits of immoral earnings and although the charges were eventually dropped he committed suicide by overdosing on sleeping tablets on the last day of the trial.
Don Black and Christopher Hampton have collaborated on the project with Lloyd Webber which aims to shed some light on the events and reasons behind the political scandal that rocked the Conservative government of Harold Macmillan in the 1960’s. Depending on Top Hats longevity, Lloyd Webber has revealed that he has others on his shortlist but Aldwych Theatre is his preferred choice.
A pilot of the musical took place directed by the well-respected Richard Eyre and starred seasoned West End actors such as Alexander Hansen and Hal Fowler. No word has yet surfaced as to casting but one wonders what Lord Lloyd Webber has up his sleeve to ensure repeated success of his productions.
Perhaps Lloyd Webber will consider using the Piccadilly Theatre now that theatre has become available with the announced closure of Viva Forever.