“I was asked, if I’m honest,” said Elaine Paige during her recent appearance on BBC’s The One Show, where she discussed her involvement in the upcoming concert reading of the new musical RISING.

Set to take place at the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith on April 24, 2026, RISING is a collaboration between Amy Clare Tasker and Tom James McGrath. The musical aims to reimagine the events surrounding the 1916 Dublin rebellion through the life of Patrick Pearse, a key figure in the uprising. This year marks the 110th anniversary of the rebellion, making the timing of the musical particularly poignant.

The concert reading will feature a talented cast that includes Matthew Lloyd Davies, Brian Raftery, and Robert Finlayson. The production promises to blend Irish folk music with Broadway storytelling, offering a unique portrait of revolution and its impact on the Irish identity.

In addition to the concert reading, the first single from RISING, titled “The Ireland I Dream Of,” is now available on music streaming services. All ticket proceeds from the concert will support the creatives, cast, and the Irish Cultural Centre, ensuring that the project remains sustainable and community-focused.

During her appearance on March 9, 2026, Paige also reflected on her long-standing connection to the UK, echoing sentiments expressed by fellow guest Michelle Visage, who stated, “My heart will always be in the UK – even when I’m home, my heart is here.” Visage, who filled in for Paige on BBC Radio 2, expressed a desire to relocate to the UK from California, highlighting the special bond many artists share with the country.

The recent success of Paddington The Musical, which won nine awards at the WhatsOnStage Awards on March 8, 2026, underscores the vibrant state of musical theatre in the UK. As the industry continues to thrive, productions like RISING are poised to capture the imagination of audiences and contribute to the rich tapestry of theatrical storytelling.

With the concert reading of RISING on the horizon, anticipation builds around how this new musical will resonate with audiences and reflect on a significant moment in Irish history. As the date approaches, further details about the production and its impact on the community are expected to unfold.

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